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As South Africa battles a third wave of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), the country’s mass vaccination programme is expanding to include more categories of people.

South Africans between the ages of 50 and 59 are expected to start receiving vaccines from 15 July.

“The [vaccination] programme has picked up significant momentum, with key milestones being achieved as we move forward,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The first phase of the vaccination programme focused on healthcare workers, while the second phase targeted the age group of 60 and above.

The Department  of Social Development calls on parents to play an active role in their children’s lives.

The absence of one parent could have a negative impact on children, as they face an increased risk of developing behavioural challenges.

This is according to the Department of Social Development, which adds that many children in South Africa live without their parents’ support, which compromises their rights to protection and care.

Crafters across the country have the opportunity to be recognised and rewarded for their work during the upcoming fifth Innibos National Craft Awards.

The competition, which is supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), highlights the vibrant craft sector in the country.

The awards are organised by John-Anthony Boerma and Jan Bhuda of ArtAid Africa.

“From the start, it was our intention to create a platform for crafters to highlight their work and to show the world just how much talent there is in South Africa.

Midrand resident Zinhle T. Matthews (37) has written a children’s book, My Family of Superheroes, that focuses on how positive phrases can help children realise their inner strength and potential.

The book tells the story of Precious who, inspired by her mother, uses positive affirmation to overcome her insecurities and doubts.

My Family of Superheroes is meant to be read by a parent or caregiver to a child. The book features images of Precious, her parents, baby sibling and the family cat dressed as the heroes and heroines of their own story.

World Hepatitis Day  raises awareness of viral hepatitis so that people can get treatment.

This year’s theme for World Hepatitis Day on 28 July – ‘hepatitis can’t wait’ – aims to highlight the need to speed up hepatitis elimination efforts, especially during the Coronavirus Disease pandemic.

Hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver, is often caused by a virus. There are five types of hepatitis – A to E – which can cause a variety of health problems.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has called on Grade 12 learners interested in pursuing qualifications related to the water sector to apply for its bursaries.

“Bursary applications for students with an interest in science and engineering disciplines are currently open.

“We urge Grade 12 learners particularly to apply, as we are in dire need of young and innovative minds to join the sector,” says the department’s spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau.

Applications opened on 1 June 2021 and will close on 31 October 2021.

An information and community technology (ICT) multimedia centre has been launched by government and the MTN SA Foundation to assist learners with e-learning, including those who are visually impaired. 

An organic food  farm is supporting the needy and bringing together a community, while also generating an interest in agriculture.

Mawande Sigwinta (29) is on a quest to restore ubuntu and promote self-reliance in his small community of Strand in the Western Cape.

Sigwinta, who is originally from Sibangweni in the Eastern Cape, established organic food farm I-Afrikayam to provide fresh, nutritious vegetable soup to patients at the local clinic while they wait to collect their medication.

A young entrepreneur  is creating an affordable, entry-level laptop for South Africans.

Mpumelelo Mahlangu (27) is taking on international laptop brands as he prepares to launch the first entry-level South African-made laptop.

Born and bred in Soshanguve in Gauteng, Mahlangu started working on his prototype laptop, called Dot Connect, during the hard lockdown in 2020.

With no formal qualification, but ample experience in telecoms, electronics and information technology, Mahlangu says he wants to create a laptop that will make a difference in people’s lives.