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Future of IPPs in PakistanThe upcoming week promises to be relatively quiet on the earnings front, with no major companies scheduled to release their financial results. The stock market will be closed on January 1st in observance of the New Year. This pause offers a chance to reflect on the past year and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. After the S&P 500 hovered above 6,000 in mid-December, major banks, including Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, have forecast that the benchmark index will reach 6,500 in 2025. The optimism is supported by confidence in ongoing earnings growth and a favorable monetary policy environment, key drivers of market performance. Read what the experts expect to see from the stock market in 2025. How high will the price of Bitcoin go in 2025? 2024 has been nothing short of monumental for the cryptocurrency industry. Bitcoin began the year hovering around $40,000, only to surge past $100,000 in December. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be another transformative year. With President-elect Donald Trump coming into office after a pro-crypto campaign, a new era of policy and innovation may be on the horizon. Adding to the excitement in the crypto community is the influential role of Trump ally Elon Musk . Read what experts have to say about Bitcoin’s price in 2025. Key trends that will shape retail in 2025 The retail industry is undergoing a rapid transformation that’s being driven by evolving consumer expectations and new economic realities . As 2025 approaches, retailers will need to adapt to shifting dynamics . Change is on the horizon , whether it’s the slowing growth of discount stores, the rise of tech-powered dining, or the growing demand for convenience. Retailers that are willing to rethink their strategies may be the ones to thrive . Retail in 2025 will require striking a balance between tradition and innovation to capture the attention, loyalty, and wallets of the modern shopper . According to a new report from foot traffics analytics firm Placer.ai, there are some key trends that will shape retail’s 2025 playbook. You can read about those trends here. — Francisco Velasquez contributed to this article 📬 Sign up for the Daily Brief Our free, fast, and fun briefing on the global economy, delivered every weekday morning.
EDUCATION | GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS When Massachusetts voters decided to ditch the state's standardized tests as a high school graduation requirement on Election Day, they joined a trend that has steadily chipped away at the use of high-stakes tests over the past two decades. The vote on the ballot question leaves only seven states with mandatory graduation exams, a number that could soon shrink further. A backlash to standardized tests has been fueled by complaints they take up too much classroom time and questions about how well they measure readiness for college or careers. It gained steam in recent years with concerns about equity and learning setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Massachusetts, a teachers union led the campaign against the graduation requirement, arguing it was keeping too many students from receiving a diploma and weighing too heavily on choices about school curriculum. The other side received backing from prominent business leaders including former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and state officials including Gov. Maura Healey, a Democrat. "We shouldn't have different expectations for students depending on which ZIP code they live in," Healey said. "We should have a uniformity to our expectations and they should be high for our students and our families." The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System tests are given in mathematics, science and technology, and English. The ballot question didn't end the tests, which are also used for assessing student progress. But passing them will no longer be required for a diploma. About 1% of high school seniors in Massachusetts, roughly 700 students, are denied a diploma each year because they failed the MCAS despite meeting other requirements. Most are English language learners or students with disabilities. In the mid-2000s, a high of 27 states required students to pass an exam to graduate, according to the National Education Association, the nation's largest teachers union. The states that still have them, for now, are New York, Florida, Louisiana, Ohio, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia. In New York, state officials this month proposed a timeline to phase out exit exam requirements as part of an overhaul of graduation standards. Students would still take Regents exams in math, English, science and social studies, but beginning in the 202728 school year, passing scores would no longer be required for a diploma. The plan would give students alternatives like community service or capstone projects to demonstrate proficiency. Earlier this year, the Florida Senate passed a bill that would remove testing requirements for high school graduation, but the push stalled in the House. In New Jersey, a bill to end the state's graduation exam passed the state Assembly last year but then failed to pass the Senate. In Ohio, students must pass tests in reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies to graduate. Louisiana also requires students to pass a test and is the only state without an appeals process. In Texas, students must pass end-of-course assessments in algebra, English, biology and U.S. history. Harry Feder, executive director of FairTest, which opposes the use of tests as graduation requirements, said it makes sense to shift away from the tests he calls a "cheap and easy way" to conduct education. "What we want out of high school grads isn't measured very well by a standardized test," he said, including whether students are critical thinkers, problem solvers or able to collaborate. Critics say easing the graduation requirement will result in lower standards. "The vote against the MCAS is yet another sign of the overwhelming power of the teachers unions in blue states, and will turn Massachusetts diplomas into nothing but participation trophies," said Michael Petrilli, president of the right-leaning Fordham Institute. Financial support for the elimination of the Massachusetts test requirement largely came from teachers unions, including the Massachusetts Teachers Association, which contributed millions in direct and in-kind donations, and the NEA, which donated at least $500,000. On the other side, Bloomberg contributed $2.5 million to the campaign in favor of keeping the requirement. Massachusetts Teachers Association President Max Page and Vice President Deb McCarthy said teachers have been speaking out against the requirement for more than a decade. "Students who were passing their courses were being denied diplomas because of this requirement," they said. "Educators were forced to narrow the curriculum in order to teach to the high-stakes test." Ultimately, Massachusetts voters approved getting rid of the MCAS as a graduation requirement by a margin of 59% to 41%.
CLEVELAND – For the second time in three games since the team acquired Mike Williams, wide receiver Scotty Miller was deemed a gameday inactive by the Pittsburgh Steelers for Thursday night’s game at the Cleveland Browns. A six-year veteran who won a Super Bowl ring playing with Tom Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, Miller generally has served as the WR4 during his first season with the Steelers. But the Nov. 5 trade for Williams made him expendable. The Steelers instead have chosen to deploy Ben Skowronek, mostly for his special-teams prowess. Miller played seven snaps during Sunday’s win against the Baltimore Ravens. He has two catches on four targets for 31 yards this season. The Steelers announced Wednesday that outside linebacker Alex Highsmith would miss a second consecutive game because of an ankle injury suffered 10 days prior late in a win at the Washington Commanders. Highsmith was the only player on the active roster who was unavailable because of injury. Veteran running back Jonathan Ward and interior offensive lineman Max Scharping were healthy scratches. As usual, Kyle Allen served as the “emergency” No. 3 quarterback. Ifedi at LT for Browns With Jedrick Wills out because of a knee injury, veteran German Ifedi made his first start of the season with the Browns. Ifedi is in his first year with Cleveland but was a starter in the NFL from 2016-22. The only other player on Cleveland’s active roster who could not play Thursday because of injury was reserve tight end Geoff Swaim. Veteran running back D’Onta Foreman and reserve cornerback Chigozie Anusiem were healthy inactives for the Browns. Veteran Bailey Zappe, who beat the Steelers as a starter for New England less than a year ago, was designated the No. 3 QB.None
MICHELLE Keegan has announced she is pregnant with her first baby with husband and former Towie alum Mark Wright. Brassic star Michelle , 37, has been hiding any signs that she is expecting a child. Before announcing her pregnancy news on Instagram tonight, Michelle was seen showing tell tale signs that she is a blossoming mum-to-be. The star has been covering up her blooming figure over the past few months, teaming comfy trousers with sensible Ugg boots . The former Corrie star has been keeping her growing bump under wraps in oversized coats and thick winter jumpers. The Fool Me Once actress has also been spotted sporting an array of slouchy clothes including beanies, hoodies, trainers and jogging bottoms. Read more in Showbiz Michelle, who usually keeps fans well-updated on social media, has shared far fewer Instagram posts recently as she navigates the first few months of the pregnancy. The brunette bombshell, who has recently been alcohol-free, admitted that she prefers nesting at home in favour of being out and about. Once a fan of late-night dinners in the early days of their romance, the star explained that she now favours an early night. She said: “I am happy to have a night on the sofa with our dogs watching TV and relaxing, but we do still like getting dressed up and go out for dinner.” Most read in Celebrity The pregnant actress - who told fans over Christmas that she 'couldn't stop' eating - added: “In the old days we’d go out for dinner and drinks until the early hours. "But now after dinner, I’ll look at my watch and say, 'Its 9.30pm, we’d better get back home for bedtime'. "It’s a bit more boring now.” The married pair have been busy designing and building their forever home - just in time for their growing family. In 2021, the TV duo purchased a £3.5 m baby-friendly five-bedroom house, with a cinema room and an outdoor pool . Last August the couple threw a housewarming party to celebrate the completion of the project - which boasts plenty of space for a nursery. She told the Guardian: "It still gets me emotional. Because we’ve worked really hard for it. We’ve had to make a lot of sacrifices. "I missed lots of milestones in my life due to work. Mark went to LA and we spent months apart, which was hard. But, it’s worth it." Michelle said previously about wanting to settle down and have security in her life. "I missed lots of milestones in my life due to work. Mark went to LA and we spent months apart, which was hard. But, it’s worth it." Michelle went on to say that the house was also "about security" as "you never know when all this is going to end". The couple first met behind-the-scenes on The X Factor before subsequently bumping into each other at numerous other events after. A year later, the former TOWIE star asked Michelle out on a date which led to things becoming official in 2012. READ MORE SUN STORIES Mark popped the question to Michelle the following year during a romantic holiday in Dubai and they went on to marry in 2015. The couple married at St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmunds in 2015, followed by a lavish reception at the Tudor mansion Hengrave Hall.QNA DOHA: University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has announced the launch of seven new programs for Fall 2025, ranging from bachelor's to master's degrees, all focused on hands-on learning and practical applications. These programs are the result of strategic partnerships with key national and international entities, including local and international organizations in the aviation industry. Admissions for these programs will open in January 2025 for the academic year 2025-2026. At the College of Engineering and Technology, the new programs include Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering (BSc AeroE) and Master of Science in Telecommunication and Network Engineering (MSc TNE), the university said in a press release on Sunday. The College of Business, will be offering Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management (BSc AM); a program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in both business management and aviation-specific knowledge, preparing them for leadership roles in the dynamic aviation industry, UDST added. In the College of Computing and Information Technology the Master of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MSc DSAI), has been introduced. At the College of General Education the new programs include Bachelor of Science in Teaching STEM, which combines interdisciplinary teaching strategies with hands-on learning, this program prepares graduates to create dynamic educational experiences, and the Master of Science in Teaching STEM; a bilingual (English and Arabic), two-year graduate program combining cutting-edge research with practical teaching methodologies, empowering educators to create transformative learning experiences. Graduates will be prepared to shape the future of education, equipping students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. Moreover, the College of General Education will also be Master of Science in STEM Education and TVET, a comprehensive two-year program designed for qualified teachers who wish to advance their expertise in both STEM education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Commenting on the announcement, President of UDST Dr Salem Al Naemi said: "The University is proud to introduce these new programs, developed after extensive consultation with industry experts, academic leaders, and our strategic partners. Our goal is to equip students with not only the skills needed for today's workforce but also the foresight to thrive in tomorrow's ever-evolving job market. We are seeing an increasing recognition from both students and their families of the value of applied education. At UDST, our students engage in hands-on learning in real-world environments, benefiting from the vast network of professional connections that our partnerships provide. This approach ensures that our graduates are not just educated but prepared to succeed and make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields." These new programs are aligned with UDST's mission to provide innovative and high-quality education that meets the evolving needs of Qatar's rapidly developing economy. Copy 29/12/2024 10Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login The inauguration of Donald Trump as president of the US will take place on January 20 — the same day as the opening of the World Economic Forum in Davos. Since the end of the Cold War, the annual Davos meeting — which brings together business and political leaders from all over the world — has become a symbol of elite-driven globalisation. Financial Times Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you. Fetching latest articlesThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed a fake list of ambassadorial nominees currently making rounds on social media, urging the public to disregard the misinformation. In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, it was made clear that no ambassadorial appointments have been announced. The ministry also reminded the public that such appointments remain the exclusive responsibility of the President of Nigeria. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the general public to kindly disregard the fake list of ambassadorial nominees which is currently in circulation on some social media platforms,” the statement read. Read also: Chelsea come from two-goal down to beat Spurs in thriller The ministry further emphasized, “The ministry wishes to state unequivocally that the appointment of ambassadors is the prerogative of Mr. President, and no such appointments have been made in that regard. The purported list should, therefore, be discountenanced.” This clarification comes in response to the circulation of unverified claims about ambassadorial appointments, which the ministry has categorically debunked. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged citizens to rely only on official announcements and verified sources for information regarding such matters. Opinions Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs. As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake. If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause. Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development. Donate Now
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Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. (NYSE:FDP) Shares Acquired by Franklin Resources Inc.Regional training camp on Socio-Economic, PLFS, and ASUSE surveys held at SgrArista Networks (NYSE:ANET) Stock Price Down 2.3% – What’s Next?
Global reaction to the fall of Assad ranges from jubilation to alarm
NoneSmith's career-high 205 yards rushing carries San Diego past Morehead State 37-14Panchkula: Two snatchers riding an Activa scooter without a number plate snatched a woman’s purse and fled after injuring her on the dividing road of Panchkula’s Sector 15.The victim has been admitted to Sector 6 civil hospital for treatment. As per the police, Kanta Devi, an elderly woman and resident of Sector 10, had gone to the vegetable market in Sector 14 on Saturday night. At around 9.35 pm, two youths riding an Activa scooter snatched her purse and fled. The purse contained Rs 12,000 and a mobile phone. When the police inquired on the spot, it was found that two youths had come riding a black Activa and the vehicle did not have a number plate. The police have registered a case against unknown accused and started investigation. tnn We also published the following articles recently Woman injured after being dragged for 30m in purse-snatching bid In Lucknow's Vikasnagar, a shocking incident unfolded as a police officer's daughter, Reena Chauhan, was dragged 30 meters by motorcycle-borne thieves who snatched her purse. The purse contained jewelry, cash, and important documents. A disturbing video of the incident circulated on social media, showing the woman being dragged by the fleeing criminals. 2 arrested after encounter in purse-snatching case Two suspects were apprehended in Lucknow following a dramatic encounter with police. The arrests are linked to a November 29th purse-snatching where a police officer's wife was dragged by her assailants. Recovered items include the stolen jewelry, cash, and the motorcycle used in the crime. 2 arrested after encounter in purse-snatching case Two suspects were apprehended in Lucknow following a dramatic encounter with police, linked to a purse-snatching incident involving a police officer's wife on November 29, 2024. The suspects, identified as Snehil Srivastava and Apoorv, were cornered at separate locations. During the recovery operation, a shootout ensued when one suspect opened fire, resulting in minor injuries. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .
Bashar al-Assad’s quarter century in power PARIS: AFP looks back at almost a quarter century of rule by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since he was propelled to power following the death of his father Hafez in 2000. 2000: takes over from father On July 17, 2000, Assad becomes Syria ́s new head of state, after the death of his father, aged 69, who ruled Syria with an iron grip for 30 years. He won a referendum with more than 97 percent of the vote at which he was the only candidate. On June 10, 2000, the day of Hafez ́s death, parliament had amended the constitution to lower the minimum age required to become president -- a tailor-made change for Bashar who was born in 1965. 2000: ‘Damascus Spring’ In September that year, 100 intellectuals call for the lifting of martial law, in place since 1963, more freedom and political pluralism. This becomes known as the “Damascus Spring”. An ensuing period of apparent openness is short-lived. Assad ́s government cracks down on dissent and arrests 10 opponents in July 2001. 2005: withdrawal from Lebanon In February 2005, former Lebanese prime minister Rafik Hariri is assassinated in a massive Beirut bombing. Major Western powers and Lebanese opposition blame Syria, which has a strong military presence in Lebanon, and call for the withdrawal of its troops. Damascus denies responsibility.In April, the last of tens of thousands of Syrian troops leave Lebanon, ending 29 years of military and political domination. 2005: ‘Damascus Declaration’ In October 2005, opposition parties unite to launch a joint “Damascus Declaration” calling for radical and democratic change, and criticising “a totalitarian-style and sectarian regime”. 2011: rebellion leads to war In March 2011, in the turmoil of the Arab Spring that sees people rise up against autocratic rulers, protests break out in Syria calling for civil liberties and the release of political prisoners. In 2012, the regime uses heavy weapons against the rebels, including airstrikes. It will be accused on numerous occasions of using chemical weapons, charges it denies. Assad clings on to power with massive military backing from Russia and Iran and Tehran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, managing to win back most of the territory his regime lost. A truce is declared in March 2020 after an accord between Russia and Turkey, but the country is dogged by bombardments and sporadic jihadist attacks. The war has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced half the country ́s pre-war population and makes Assad a global pariah. 2021: fourth term On May 26, 2021, Assad is re-elected as expected for a fourth term, with 95.1 percent of the vote. 2023: Return to the Arab diplomatic scene Syria had been expelled in 2011 in response to its crackdown on the popular uprising. 2023: international arrest warrant In November 2023, France issues an international arrest warrant for Assad, suspected of complicity in crimes against humanity for chemical attacks in 2013 in Syria blamed on his regime.