Stay informed in just a few minutes with News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa’s top stories.
In today’s episode, there was a collective sigh of relief across the country as matriculants recorded the highest pass rate in history. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube officially announced an 88 percent pass rate, with KwaZulu-Natal overtaking the Free State as the best-performing province. While the department has welcomed an increase in pupils taking gateway subjects such as maths and physical science, concerns have been raised about a drop in performance in those subjects. The minister has also confirmed a renewed focus on factors affecting boy children at school level.
Pressure is mounting in Gauteng, where over three thousand pupils are still awaiting placement as schools reopen. Education officials say there is a backlog across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, but have assured parents that all Grade 1 learners will be placed by the end of the week.
In the Eastern Cape, the family of Linomtha Skeyi is demanding justice after the 16-year-old was found murdered in Makhanda on Christmas Day. Community anger erupted outside the local magistrates' court after the man believed to be responsible was not charged, with police saying further investigation is required before the case can be re-enrolled.
Western Cape authorities have issued a stark warning that Knysna could run out of water within 10 days unless levels at the Akkerkloof Dam improve. Dam levels across the province have dropped sharply, prompting concerns that a national disaster declaration may be requested over combined fire damage and water shortages.
In Gqeberha, 21 fishermen have been rescued from a burning boat after their trawler caught fire at sea. All crew members were brought safely ashore without injuries.
Internationally, the UK has launched a formal probe into social media platform X after its Grok chatbot generated sexually explicit deepfake images, raising questions about online safety and regulation.
We’re also keeping an eye on:
• Reports that over 100 children have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire was declared in October.
• Greenland is pushing back against renewed pressure from the US over Arctic security.
• DA leader John Steenhuisen cleared of abusing the party credit card, though an internal probe into party conduct continues.
SPORTS
Defending SA20 champions MI Cape Town suffered a 53-run defeat to the Pretoria Capitals, leaving their playoff hopes in jeopardy. In football, Liverpool advanced in the FA Cup with a 4–1 win over Barnsley, while Real Madrid appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as the new coach following the sacking of Xabi Alonso.
That is your News Bite for 13 January 2026. For developments on these stories and more, keep an eye on enca.com and DStv Channel 403.