August 2025 News Highlights – Education, Sports, Entertainment & Policy

Welcome to the August roundup. We’ve gathered the biggest stories that mattered across Africa and beyond last month. From a fresh wave of student loans in Kenya to a heated parking fee debate in Lagos, plus a reality TV reunion and a hot MLS derby, there’s a lot to catch up on.

Kenya’s HELB Loan Disbursements Kick Off

In August, Kenya’s Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) started sending out fresh loans to first‑year university students after the government added a Sh5 billion boost. The new funding aims to support over 200,000 new university students and more than 237,000 TVET trainees. Applications stay open until the end of the month, giving hopeful learners a chance to secure the cash they need to get into class without a hitch.

Lagos Introduces N80,000 Annual Parking Fee

The Lagos State government rolled out a controversial policy that charges vehicle owners N80,000 a year per parking slot, plus a N50,000 processing fee. Managed by LASPA, the move is meant to curb traffic, but many motorists see it as a cash grab. Fees can climb to N100,000 in prime locations, sparking legal challenges and heated social media debates. Drivers are now weighing the cost against the convenience of a guaranteed spot.

Love Island USA Season 7 Reunion Gets Mixed Reactions

The Love Island USA reunion aired on August 26, and it certainly got people talking. Production upgrades were obvious compared to last year’s lackluster special, and podcasters Kirsten McKinnus and Brian Scally praised the smoother format. Still, fans on social media voiced both excitement and frustration, pointing out lingering issues with the show’s pacing. The buzz shows the series still has a strong, if divided, fan base.

Florida Derby: Orlando City vs Inter Miami

August 10 brought the Florida Derby to life as Orlando City took on Inter Miami in a must‑win MLS clash. Both teams needed the three points to stay in playoff contention, and the atmosphere at Inter&Co Stadium was electric. Fans could stream the match on Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass or tune into FOX Sports Radio Orlando for live commentary. The game delivered high‑stakes drama, with line‑ups that kept supporters on the edge of their seats.

That’s the lowdown on August 2025. Whether you’re a student, a driver, a reality‑TV fan, or a soccer enthusiast, these stories shaped the month and will likely influence what’s coming next.