Heart meets Fish

Maryam Fish, from Lansdowne in Cape Town, has made a discovery that makes us, and our hearts, jump with joy.

Maryam has discovered a mutation of the CDH2 gene, which exists in all of us. The mutation causes a genetic disorder, called arrythmogenic right ventricle cardiomyopathy (ARVC). I didn't read that either – much prefer ARVC. But this disorder is responsible for as many as five fatalities in under-35s in South Africa every single day.

This discovery means that early detection of the ARVC disorder is now possible via diagnostic screening. Maryam and her team acknowledged that screening would not be accessible in the public sector yet, but that their discovery is a step in the right direction.

It's inspiring to see a passion for science result in a win for mankind! If this kind of thing gets you going, have a look at our posts on studying medicine or going into a chemistry degree.

Wait... I'm under 35?

Two stomps this time

South Africa’s Cotton Eyed Josie is making magic happen in the most unlikely of places...
 
In the summer heat, last Saturday, road users were entertained by groovy dance moves from their local traffic officer as she directed traffic on the corner of Cedar & Witkoppen in Johannesburg. The unknown dancing queen has been a favourite on social media for her enthusiasm and beaming smile as she manages traffic flow that would otherwise be handled by a robot. Not calling other traffic officers robots. Please don't arrest me.
 
She's a proudly South African bundle of joy, but according to one Facebook user, she's not to be messed with. So, please, yield to the right, sliiiide to the left.

If you’re feeling inspired or have always been interested in a career as a traffic officer, dance your way to this.

Go. Go, Josie. Go. Go. Go, Josie

The TVET turnaround

Be prepared: this is a serious turn. We’re talking 180 degrees here...

In a recent statement issued by our dear, ol' Department of Higher Education and Training, TVET colleges are back on track after taking a little trip to crisis-ville.  

‘What crisis?’, you may ask. Well, in summary, TVETs failed to issue graduates with certificates. Not an ideal situation all round.   But it didn’t end there: TVETs continued to shake the cage by delaying the release of last year’s exam results. The drama, yo.

In an impressive plot twist, the department has managed to get it together and are resolving the issues. New systems are in place and nothing but praise is falling on TVETs of late. Even our Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has had his two cents. He believes TVETs are becoming a valuable asset in educating our youth.

It’s only March but TVET colleges may be the ‘Comeback Kid of the Year’. For more info on TVETs, have a look through the popular TVET college institution pack.

What crisis? Ezzactly.