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By Oscar Mosiane, communication manager and writer, NWU. Visit North West University press office The North-West University (NWU) conferred an honorary doctorate on renowned choral music composer and teacher Kgotlaetsile Henderson Pule during the autumn graduation ceremony at the Mahikeng Campus on 8 May 2026. The graduation ceremony was attended by Dr Anna Mokgokong, NWU chancellor, alongside Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis, senior deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, and Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research, innovation and community engagement, post-graduate studies with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus. Dr Joe Molete, graduation host and deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture, welcomed graduates and guests to the Mahikeng Campus. Also in attendance were Tutu Kgobane, president of the NWU Convocation, and Relation Seobela, president of the Students’ Representative Council. The prestigious honour recognised Pule’s immense contribution to choral music, music education and the development of South African cultural heritage through his decades-long commitment to composing and teaching music. In his acceptance speech, Pule described the recognition as both humbling and deeply meaningful, particularly because it came from a university in his home province. “I never imagined that the work I started many years ago through teaching and composing music would receive this kind of recognition. I accept this honour not only for myself, but also for the many choirs, teachers, musicians and communities who have walked this journey with me,” said Pule. Addressing the graduates, Prof Tyobeka reflected on the important role of higher education in addressing South Africa’s socio-economic challenges. “Our country continues to face serious challenges such as unemployment, poverty, inequality, food insecurity, pressure on healthcare services, government failures and rapid technological change. Therefore, higher education carries a national responsibility,” he said. Prof Tyobeka emphasised the strategic importance of post-graduate education in advancing national development. “Research continues to show that post-graduate education contributes directly to economic growth, innovation, research productivity and institutional development. According to our Department of Higher Education and Training, less than 7% of South Africans between the ages of 25 and 64 hold post-graduate qualifications,” he said. “Further studies continue to demonstrate that countries with strong post-graduate and doctoral output are better positioned to drive innovation, economic competitiveness, scientific advancement and institutional development.” He added that South Africa’s current doctoral output remains significantly below the level needed to meet the developmental aspirations of the country. “South Africa currently produces approximately 3 500 doctoral graduates annually, which remains far below the levels required for a developing economy of our size and ambition. This means those graduating with master’s degree and PhD qualifications today form part of a critical national asset,” said Prof Tyobeka. Addressing the master’s degree and doctoral graduates, Dr Mokgokong reminded graduates that graduation ceremonies should not be viewed only as endings, but as the beginning of a new chapter filled with responsibility and opportunity. “Graduation ceremonies are often viewed as conclusions, but in reality, they are beginnings, as a degree is one of the foundations on which a future is built,” she said. “It provides structure, knowledge and credibility, yet a post-graduate qualification carries a deeper meaning. A master’s degree is not simply another step forward, but an elevator, and the PhD takes you higher.” Dr Mokgokong further emphasised the growing need for ethical and courageous leadership in an increasingly complex world. “The world does not simply need qualified people; it needs thoughtful people, ethical and authentic leaders. It needs researchers, innovators and professionals who are prepared to confront complexity with courage and intelligence,” she said. The conferral of the honorary doctorate on Pule formed one of the highlights of the graduation ceremony, celebrating both academic excellence and the important role of arts and culture in society. The NWU continues to recognise individuals whose work has made a significant impact nationally and internationally, reflecting the commitment of the institution to excellence, innovation and societal transformation.

The call comes ahead of concerts Ye, who has repeatedly made anti-Semitic remarks and publicly praised Hitler, is scheduled to give in Arnhem

Our old picture this week features St John's Church in Pinetown.

South African businessman Solomon “Solly” Madibela, better known as MySol, has once again sent social media into overdrive after he hosted one of the most extravagant housewarming celebrations the country has seen in years. The CEO of MySol Holdings & Logistics threw a lavish multi-day party in May 2026 to celebrate his newly acquired R220 million mansion on Cape Town’s exclusive Nettleton Road in Clifton. The luxury property sits on the famous “Billionaire’s Road”, home to some of South Africa’s wealthiest residents. Videos and photos from the celebration quickly went viral online. They showed an endless stream of celebrities, luxury vehicles, champagne towers and live performances. All of this took place inside the ultra-modern mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The star-studded entertainment lineup featured some of South Africa’s biggest names in music, including DJ Tira, Kwesta, Mlindo the Vocalist, Babalwa M, Blaq Diamond, Sjava, Fistaz Mixwell, and DJ PH. One particular unforgettable moment came during the Sunday sunset party. At that time, a well-known local saxophonist led a live jam session by the infinity pool. Meanwhile, models in designer swimwear served champagne to guests in crystal glasses. As the sun dipped below the Atlantic, fireworks lit up the Clifton sky. Headliner DJ Tira also surprised the crowd with an unannounced set. This kept celebrities and VIPs dancing late into the night. The combination of live music, breathtaking views and seamless luxury left guests in awe. As a result, it set a new bar for exclusive Cape Town events. One of the biggest talking points of the weekend was MySol’s customised Rolls-Royce Cullinan Brabus by Race. This impressive vehicle greeted guests upon arrival at the mansion. View this post on Instagram A post shared by PH (@iam_ph) According to the dealership, the luxury SUV features the Brabus Widestar Carbo Series II package. The package is complete with a redesigned Widestar front fitted with LED lights. Additionally, it has carbon front fenders built for oversized Brabus Monoblock wheels, carbon door elements and a striking Brabus rear diffuser. The customised vehicle, reportedly worth close to R30 million, added another layer of spectacle to the already extravagant affair. Furthermore, social media users were quick to compare the celebration to celebrity mansion parties often associated with international billionaires and entertainment moguls. Who is MySol? Businessman Solly “MySol” Madibela speaks at the funeral service of actor Presley Chweneyagae at Akasia Community Hall on 7 June 2025, in Pretoria, South Africa. The renowned actor who was affectionately known as Cobrizi or Mokwepa died at the age of 40. Picture: Gallo Images/Frennie Shivambu. MySol, originally from Brits in the North West, is the founder and CEO of MySol Holdings & Logistics. The company specialises in mining and logistics services. Over the past few years, he has built a reputation for showcasing an ultra-luxurious lifestyle. His life is filled with exotic cars, designer fashion, and multimillion-rand properties. Last year, he also made headlines after unveiling a Brabus-tuned Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6, reportedly valued at around R20 million. The viral Clifton housewarming, organised by MonniM Events, has now firmly positioned him among South Africa’s most talked-about businessmen and luxury lifestyle figures.

Taxi boss Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni has denied any involvement after his initial appearance in court over a multimillion-rand extortion case. Sibanyoni appeared on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the Kwaggafontein Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga alongside co-accused Mvimbi Daniel Masilela and Philemon Msiza. The trio faces charges of extortion and two counts of money laundering after being arrested by members of the South African Police Service (Saps) a day earlier. It is alleged that the accused extorted money, reportedly R2 million, from a businessman over a prolonged period, prompting the victim to open a case at the Kwaggafontein police station in 2025. The police are still pursuing a fourth suspect believed to be connected to the matter. Joe Sibanyoni maintains innocence Addressing the media from inside the courtroom, Sibanyoni appeared calm after spending the night in custody. “I’m feeling alright. We preach you know? I am now preaching in prison,” he said. “I’m not involved with this case. For now, I am preaching because there are prisoners in jail and in court. “We are continuing with the word of God. It’s just time for me to preach in jail. That’s it,” the taxi boss continued. When pressed on whether he maintains his innocence, Sibiyanoni responded: “I am a man of God.” State seeks postponement The state requested a postponement instead of proceeding with the bail application. “It would be in the interests of justice for this matter to be given a seven day postponement so that we can gather the necessary and sufficient evidence to assist the court during these proceedings,” the prosecutor told the court during Wednesday’s proceedings. However, Sibanyoni’s legal representative, former national director of public prosecutions (NDPP) Shaun Abrahams, opposed the delay, stating that the defence was ready to proceed with bail. The case is continuing. Prior to the hearing, Abrahams criticised the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), accusing it of failing to engage with the defence legal team. “They have ignored our telephone calls, the investigating officer switched off his telephone, and the Director of Public Prosecutions didn’t come back to us. “We are not happy with the game they are playing,” he told reporters outside the court. He further described the situation as “unacceptable” from a “professional and collegial perspective”. “The NPA has been completely quiet; completely silent,” Abrahams remarked. Attempted hit Sibanyoni, a prominent figure in the taxi industry, has been mentioned several times at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. He has also been linked to alleged underworld figures, including tenderpreneur Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, said to be associated with the so-called “Big Five” cartel. Matlala, who is currently in custody, is facing an attempted murder charge related to a 10 August 2022 shooting incident in Centurion, in which Sibanyoni was reportedly targeted. According to reports, the taxi boss sustained two gunshot wounds to the stomach after shots were fired from a white BMW at the Centurion Golf and Country Club estate.

Ronwen Williams will lead Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But, who will replace him in the future? Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams will captain South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, at 34, he will not be the SA skipper forever. So, let’s take a look at the leading candidates to take over the national captaincy in the future. A couple of Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates stars are in line. LEADING CANDIDATES TO REPLACE RONWEN WILLIAMS AS BAFANA BAFANA CAPTAIN In Williams’ absence, Themba Zwane (36) has stepped up to captain Bafana. However, given his age, he is also well past his prime. Meaning, he is in the same boat as Williams. So, let’s take a look at the men with leadership experience who have the potential to step up and lead the national side in the future – for many years to come. ALSO READ: ORLANDO PIRATES MIDFIELDER ATTRACTS INTEREST FROM PSL RIVALS 1) NKOSINATHI SIBISI (ORLANDO PIRATES) Sibisi is the current captain of Orlando Pirates. Over the past few seasons, he has become a regular part of Hugo Broos’ plans and the Bafana set up. At 30, he is experienced enough to lead out the team, whilst simultaneously also offering many more years as a player. He has leadership experience and has led the Bucs to domestic silverware with Nedbank Cup and MTN8 triumphs. Meanwhile, he has also played in the CAF Champions League. Now, he is on the brink of leading Orlando Pirates to their first Betway Premiership trophy in over 14 years. He plays with his heart on his shirt and leads with his performances on the pitch. Thus, making the Bucs skipper a strong candidate to replace Williams in the future. 2) BRANDON PETERSON (KAIZER CHIEFS) This may surprise a few people given the fact that he has not been a part of Hugo Broos’ recent Bafana squads. Given the fact that he is just 31, he will no doubt become an option when Williams decides to retire from international football. Furthermore, as Amakhosi captain, he has leadership experience. More importantly, he has let his actions speak. The Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper has been in excellent form when the heat was on. Peterson produced a Man of the Match display again against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby. Thereafter, he made two crucial saves against Mamelodi Sundowns to hold the defending champions to a draw at Loftus. Thus, giving the Bucs the advantage. His 96th minute save may very well contribute to Orlando Pirates ending a 14-year run since they last won the PSL. WHO DO YOU THINK SHOULD BE THE NEXT BAFANA BAFANA CAPTAIN AFTER RONWEN WILLIAMS? Let us know in the comments section below.

Orlando Pirates experienced midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula could hang up his boots at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old is on the verge of winning his first-ever league title, having joined the Sea Robbers in 2023 and already collecting five trophies during his time at the Soweto giants. Earlier this year, Makhaula hinted that he could retire if Orlando Pirates go on to win the league title this season. Following Sihle Ndluli’s injury late last year, Makhaula found himself with increased game time and became a regular under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Orlando Pirates midfielder might retire “I think the young guys always want to challenge me each and every time, even during training. When I try to take things easy, they always come hard at me,” Makhaula said. With his 37th birthday approaching, the Pirates midfielder admits that lifting the league trophy could be the perfect way to end his career. “Only God knows. I’m always praying because my wish is the league. We will see, maybe this season it can happen,” he said. “It would be a dream come true. When you go to other teams, they don’t even try to fight for the league, but with big teams you must always compete for trophies. Big teams are always fighting for something,” the Pirates midfielder added. Pirates now need just a win from their remaining league fixtures to be crowned champions. The 36-year-old could announce his retirement this weekend should the Buccaneers get over the line. Will Makhaula retire?

Much of today's enterprise AI spend is Fomo dressed up as strategy, The Up&Up Group's Jason Harrison argues.

Canal+ has formally confirmed it will conduct a secondary listing on the main board of the JSE on Wednesday, 3 June.