Universities on a Knife-Edge
Almost a year after the #feesmustfall campaign brought campuses to their knees, universities have again braced against student backlash, violent protests and nationwide campus chaos. After a 2016 fee hike freeze, this week Minister Blade Nzimande announced universities should individually determine their fee increases—capped at eight percent for 2017. Carte Blanche investigates the future of South African universities and meets brave students determined to complete degrees while living hand-to-mouth.
Producer: Liz Fish
Presenter: John Webb
Researcher: Chwayitisa Futshane
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Phosphate Mining and the Famous Flowers
Mining rights have been granted to the Elandsfontein mine, located on a private reserve bordering the West Coast National Park. Carte Blanche asks: Was a proper Environmental Impact Assessment done and could the looming shadow of phosphate mining spell disaster for the Langebaan lagoon and its fragile biosphere—including South Africa’s world famous West Coast flowers?
Producer: Kate Barry
Presenter: Claire Mawisa
Researcher: Tony Beamish
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Paralympic Heroes
They’ve returned home from the Rio Games with a total of 17 medals, having excelled in events as varied as swimming, shot-put, running, long jump, javelin and more. Carte Blanche meets the heroic Paralympic athletes who have overcome seemingly insurmountable personal and professional odds to do the nation proud.
Producer: Carol Albertyn and Nicky Troll
Presenter: Claire Mawisa
Researcher: Laura Byrne
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The Internet of Things
Our physical world is fast becoming a single, great interconnected information system. From smartphones to smart cars and smart cities, the possibilities seem limitless. Carte Blanche asks: what sort of risks are we facing in a world controlled by devices that increasingly monitor and connect our every move?
Producer: Sasha Schwendenwein
Presenter: Claire Mawisa
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Line-ups are subject to change. Stories can be viewed at www.carteblanche.co.za