Tragic Deaths of Two Young Children in Verulam Highlight Safety Concerns

Tragic Deaths of Two Young Children in Verulam Highlight Safety Concerns

A nine-month-old baby boy tragically died on his first day at a crèche in the Zwelisha area near Verulam on Tuesday. Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) responded after a caregiver found the infant unresponsive around 4 PM. Medics discovered the child wrapped in a blanket with no signs of life. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, which occurred roughly four hours after the baby had fallen asleep during lunch.

In a separate incident on Monday, four-year-old Fazira Aina was electrocuted in Canelands, Verulam, after coming into contact with an illegal electricity connection. Residents alerted RUSA around 1:14 PM, and while the child was quickly transported to Osindisweni Government Hospital, she was pronounced deceased upon arrival. Reports indicate that Fazira had been at her uncle’s home for lunch and accidentally touched the live connection along a fence.

Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) Graduate Programme 2026 – Applications Open

Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), a subsidiary of global mining leader Rio Tinto, is inviting applications from unemployed South African graduates for its Graduate Programme 2026. Based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, this initiative is designed to help ambitious graduates kickstart their careers in one of the world’s leading mining and minerals companies.


About the RBM Graduate Programme

The RBM Graduate Programme is a structured development platform that offers graduates hands-on experience, industry exposure, and the chance to work on innovative projects. Participants will collaborate with experts in a dynamic and supportive environment, gaining practical insights into world-class mining operations.

Beyond a standard graduate placement, this programme provides long-term professional growth opportunities and potential international career pathways through RBM’s parent company, Rio Tinto.


Fields of Study

Graduates completing their studies between 2024 and March 2026 are encouraged to apply in the following disciplines:

  • Accounting
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Electronics Engineering
  • Extractive Metallurgy Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Qualifications: Completed or final-year Bachelor’s degree and/or Honours in one of the listed fields
  • Graduation Timeline: Completion of studies in 2024, 2025, or by March 2026
  • Citizenship: South African citizen
  • Work Experience: No prior work experience required
  • Programme Status: Must not be currently enrolled in or have previously participated in another graduate programme

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

  • Full academic record (from first year of study)
  • Certified copy of South African ID
  • Certified copy of valid Driver’s Licence
  • Certified copies of all relevant qualifications

Note: Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, including women and people with disabilities, where representation is currently lacking.


About Richards Bay Minerals (RBM)

RBM is the largest producer of mineral sands in South Africa and a global leader in heavy mineral sands extraction and refining. Key products include ilmenite, rutile, and zircon, used in products such as paint, sunscreen, and smartphones.

As part of the Rio Tinto group, RBM offers graduates access to global expertise, international career pathways, and opportunities to contribute to innovative projects shaping the future of the mining and minerals industry.


How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via the official Rio Tinto Careers portal:

Apply for the RBM Graduate Programme 2026


Conclusion

The RBM Graduate Programme 2026 provides an outstanding opportunity for graduates to enter the mining and minerals sector, develop valuable skills, and gain exposure to international expertise. This programme is ideal for graduates ready to make a meaningful impact in the mining industry while building a solid foundation for long-term career growth.

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