Latest news with #NBTs
Scoop
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Gene-Edited Foods Could Hit Shelves Without Labels Under New Trans-Tasman Proposal
Organics Aotearoa NZ is warning that a new proposal from Trans-Tasman food regulator, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) would allow genetically modified foods created using new gene editing methods to enter our food system without labelling, safety checks, or traceability. The proposal could make Australia the first country globally to deregulate both plants and animals without oversight, with New Zealand expected to follow. The proposal, known as P1055, would exclude foods produced using New Breeding Techniques (NBTs) from GM classification, despite involving artificial genetic modification. Research indicates potential risks, including unintended genetic changes and unknown long-term health and environmental effects, yet consumers would have no way to identify these products on supermarket shelves. Brendan Hoare, GE spokesperson for Organics Aotearoa NZ, said: 'FSANZ is pushing through changes without any economic, business or trade impact analysis that could fundamentally alter what's on our dinner plates, without proper consultation or safety testing. The science is clear: while NBTs may not always introduce novel DNA, they still alter the cell's biochemistry, and things can go wrong through omissions, rearrangements, or unintended effects. New Zealanders deserve the right to know what's in their food. What gives regulators the confidence to think otherwise? OANZ says FSANZ concluded gene-edited foods pose no new risks without providing supporting evidence or allowing meaningful industry response to their findings. This isn't happening in isolation, it's part of a coordinated shift toward GM foods in our region, happening while consumers are kept in the dark. OANZ is calling for an immediate pause on P1055 until independent trade impact and cost-benefit analyses are completed, and full labelling requirements are restored. OANZ is now seeking urgent meetings with New Zealand Ministers Andrew Hoggard and Casey Costello, and is working alongside Australian Organics Ltd and allied groups to mobilise opposition to the proposal. Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is the national body representing New Zealand's organic sector. Established in 2006, OANZ was created to unite the country's organic organisations and provide a strong, collective voice to policymakers and the public. Our mission is to accelerate the transition to organic regenerative food and farming systems, supporting and advocating for the organic sector across Aotearoa New Zealand.
IOL News
23-04-2025
- General
- IOL News
2026 University Applications Now Open
Applications for the 2026 academic year are now officially open at most universities—start your journey today! Applications for the 2026 academic year are now officially open at most universities — and if you're planning to start your studies next year, the time to act is now. Applying early not only gives you a better chance of securing a place in your chosen programme, but also allows you enough time to prepare for funding, accommodation and everything else that comes with the transition to university life. Here's what you need to know about the 2026 application season: Applications Are Already Underway Several major universities, including the University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch University, and the University of Johannesburg, have already opened applications for 2026. Some institutions, such as the University of Cape Town (UCT), also have earlier closing dates for specific programmes. Closing dates vary, with some universities accepting applications until as late as October 2025, while others — particularly for competitive courses like Medicine and Law — require submissions by mid-year. It is critical to check the specific deadlines for each university and programme. Prepare Your Documents Early When applying, you will need: A certified copy of your ID or passport Your final Grade 11 results or latest academic transcript Proof of residence A completed application form (submitted online or manually) Proof of application fee payment (where applicable) Some programmes may also require additional documents, such as a portfolio, audition or entrance exam results like the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). Starting this process early will ensure that your application is complete and ready when you submit it. Application Fees and Financial Planning While several universities offer free online applications, others charge fees ranging from R100 to R500 depending on the institution and whether the application is local or international. It's important to factor these costs into your budget if you plan on applying to multiple universities. Incomplete or unpaid applications will not be processed. Funding Applications Are Just as Important Applying for university is only the first step. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid, bursaries and scholarships at the same time. NSFAS applications, for instance, are expected to open later this year, but many private bursary programmes open much earlier. Universities also have internal bursary applications that often close alongside academic applications. Students needing additional support can also explore educational finance solutions through Fundi, which offers study loans, device loans, and other financial products to help cover the costs of tertiary education. For more study, career and funding advice, visit or email [email protected]. Facebook: @fundiconnectSA or X: @fundi_connect
