abduction child safety

The Chilling Abduction of Eva Tembo: Unearthing Complex Dynamics

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The heartwrenching case of sixyearold Eva Tembo’s abduction in Johannesburg has sent shockwaves through the community. On July 1st, a family friend, Carlos Rebelo, took her away under troubling circumstances, after showing a seemingly caring interest in her life. Susana Kennedy, Rebelo’s estranged daughter, bravely shared her fears about her father’s history of abuse, urging the public to stay vigilant. This tragic story highlights how dangerous situations can lurk behind familiar faces, reminding us all to protect our children and stand together in times of crisis.

south africa university rankings

South Africa’s Academic Excellence: A Closer Look at University Rankings

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South Africa’s University of Cape Town has been ranked the leading university in Africa by US News & World Report’s latest ranking system. However, the ranking system only considers academic reputation, research output, and student satisfaction, and does not fully capture the larger impact of a university’s work, such as their contribution to society by shaping policy, fostering informed discourse, stimulating scientific advances, and promoting democracy and human rights. Other ranking systems, such as the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, offer a different perspective by considering alignment with global sustainability objectives. Nevertheless, the true value of universities lies in their overall contribution to society beyond their rank.

uct scandal

A Glimmering Reputation Tarnished: UCT’s Mounting Controversy

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The prestigious reputation of the University of Cape Town (UCT) has been tarnished by a controversy involving an associate professor and an alleged act of arson. While two investigations failed to link the professor to the fire, a former head of UCT’s Social Development Department accused the university of shielding him, leading to calls for a new investigation by the Department of Higher Education and Training. The allegations continue to attract significant public attention, and the final resolution remains uncertain.

uct historical justice

A Century-Old Injustice: The Story of the Sutherland Nine

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The Sutherland Nine were Khoi and San individuals whose remains were stolen and used as scientific specimens at the University of Cape Town in the early 1900s. In 2017, their remains were discovered and returned to their rightful place after an extensive audit revealed their unethical acquisition. UCT worked with the Sutherland community and descendants to restore the dignity of the nine individuals, reburied them in Sutherland, and conducted a comprehensive scientific research that revealed their individuality. This event serves as an enlightening and invaluable lesson in historical justice and cultural understanding.

gerco van deventer abduction

The Captivity of Gerco van Deventer

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For almost six years, South African paramedic Gerco van Deventer has been held captive by a splinter AlQaeda group in Mali. The story of his abduction is a tale of tragedy, resilience, and hope. It is also a story about the complexities of negotiating for the release of hostages in a world where violence and extremism continue to threaten the lives and liberties of innocent people.