1. British Man Survives Air India Crash in Ahmedabad

Latest News – A British national, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, was the sole survivor of an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on 12 June. The aircraft, en route to London Gatwick, crashed into a residential area, resulting in 241 fatalities among passengers and crew, and at least 24 additional deaths on the ground. Ramesh, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was seated in the emergency exit row and managed to escape the wreckage. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with authorities from India, the UK, and Boeing involved. Read More.

2. New COVID-19 Variant Raises Vaccine Access Concerns

Latest News – South Africa is closely monitoring the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which has been associated with increased cases in certain regions of Asia. As of 10 June, the variant has not been detected in South Africa. Health experts, including Prof. Shabir Madhi from Wits University, have expressed concerns over the lack of locally licensed vaccines targeting this variant. They urge the government to expedite the licensing process to protect high-risk individuals. Read More.

3. NSFAS Announces June 2025 Allowance Payment Dates

Latest News – The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has released the payment schedule for June 2025 allowances. Students are advised to ensure their banking details are up to date to facilitate timely disbursement. Read More.

4. Volkswagen Recalls 150 Vehicles Over Airbag Defect

Latest News – Volkswagen Group South Africa has initiated a recall of 150 vehicles, including 142 Polo and 8 Taigo models, due to a defect in the front passenger airbag module. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) issued the recall after discovering that the airbag inflator may rupture during deployment, posing a safety risk to occupants. Affected vehicle owners are urged to contact their nearest dealership for inspection and necessary repairs. Read More.

5. Ten Accused in R260 Million SASSA Fraud Case Granted Bail

Latest News – Ten of the eleven individuals accused in a R260 million fraud case involving the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) have been granted bail ranging from R10,000 to R30,000. The accused, including eight SASSA officials, face multiple charges, including cybercrime, fraud, and theft. They are alleged to have orchestrated a scheme involving the creation of fake profiles to facilitate fraudulent transactions. Read More.