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On December 10, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission announced that it has sent warning letters to 21 companies that market or generate leads for healthcare plans. The letters were sent as open enrollment season for healthcare plans is ongoing. They provide guidance and provide about deceptive or unfair claims that likely violate laws enforced by the FTC. The letters were sent to companies that provide marketing or advertising, including lead generation, related to Affordable Care Act Marketplace health insurance and healthcare-related products, such as limited benefit plans and medical discount programs. “It is critical for consumers’ health and financial well-being that marketers of health plans be honest about the plans they and their partners are offering,” said FTC attorney Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “The FTC has been watching this important sector closely, especially during open enrollment season, and these warning letters put companies on notice that unlawfully marketing or advertising health plans to consumers can result in serious legal consequences.” Based on information collected by FTC staff and the agency’s enforcement experience in this area, the types of claims FTC staff has warned about include those that may: misrepresent the benefits included in a healthcare plan, including any insurance benefits; misrepresent that a healthcare plan is major or comprehensive medical health insurance or the equivalent of such health insurance; misrepresent the costs of healthcare plan; and falsely claim that consumers who enroll in a healthcare plan will receive free offers, cash rewards, rebates, or other incentives. Consult with a season FTC compliance attorney if you are a lead generator or marketer of health insurance leads in order to minimize risk of government scrutiny. If you have received a warning letter, seasoned FTC compliance counsel may be able to assist with the implementation of preventative measures designed to limit liability exposure and protect your interests in the event of a formal investigation or enforcement proceeding. The letters provide examples of prior relevant FTC actions against marketers and lead generators that operate in this field, including Simple Health , Benefytt Technologies, Partners in Healthcare Association , and Consumer Health Benefits Association . While the letters do not allege any wrongdoing by any of the recipients, they encourage the companies to conduct a thorough review of their advertisements to ensure they are complying with applicable laws and rules, and the letters note that the FTC is closely monitoring this marketplace for unlawful conduct that is harming consumers.
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The role of Bushra Bibi and the PTI's desperate tactics The recent debacle of the PTI during its so-called ‘Final Call’ protests has left the party scrambling for a way out of its growing political humiliation. Amid dwindling public support and mounting political pressure, the PTI has resorted to increasingly dubious tactics in an attempt to recover its lost ground, with founder Chairman Bushra Bibi now at the heart of the party’s desperate efforts. When the PTI first launched the ‘Final Call’ campaign, it attempted to create a narrative of an unstoppable movement led by its fearless leadership. The idea was to showcase a show of strength, with PTI leaders standing defiantly at D-Chowk, braving the might of law enforcement agencies. The party attempted to portray its leadership as unyielding in the face of adversity, hoping to rally its base around a narrative of sacrifice and resistance. However, as the protest unfolded, reality quickly shattered this carefully curated image. Neither Bushra Bibi nor key PTI figures like Ali Amin Gandapur were anywhere near the protest site. Bushra Bibi, who has been a key behind-the-scenes figure in PTI’s strategy, was nowhere to be seen, and her absence at the protest was conspicuously ignored by party leaders, who quickly shifted focus to more sensational claims. In an attempt to salvage the situation and whip up sympathy, PTI’s social media machinery began spreading a claim that more than 30 protesters had been shot dead by Rangers, allegedly in a crackdown. The claim seemed designed to create a dramatic narrative of PTI’s martyrdom, positioning the party as the victim of an oppressive state. However, once again, PTI’s narrative fell apart under scrutiny. No evidence emerged to substantiate these claims. In fact, reports and investigations into the incident revealed that the supposed casualties were either exaggerated or completely fabricated, with no bodies or hospital records to back up the story. The hoax backfired, leaving the PTI with even less credibility. But the party, desperate for a way to turn the narrative in its favor, resorted to yet another bold move this time involving Bushra Bibi’s sister, Mariam Riaz Wattoo. Appearing on a popular talk show, Wattoo claimed that Bushra Bibi had been mysteriously moved from one location to another under circumstances that were unclear, even insinuating that the former First Lady’s safety might be in jeopardy. The timing of this statement raised eyebrows. It was as if the PTI was preparing the public for possibility of a sensational new story, one that would paint Bushra as a victim of some grand political conspiracy, or worse, a potential target of political elimination. The narrative being spun around Bushra Bibi’s supposed disappearance or mysterious relocation is a desperate attempt by PTI to shift focus away from the party’s glaring failures. The PTI is clearly hoping to make Bushra Bibi the central figure in its ongoing political drama, framing her as a symbol of victimhood and martyrdom in the face of an oppressive establishment. But this tactic, like the others, is as shallow as it is transparent. It’s also worth noting the glaring contradictions in PTI’s narrative. Just a few weeks ago, Bushra Bibi was lauded as a pillar of strength within the party, known for her political influence and her supposed behind-the-scenes role in shaping PTI’s strategy. Yet now, she is being presented as a helpless victim, someone who is allegedly being moved around in secret, as if she’s being hunted by the state. If Bushra Bibi is truly as powerful and politically savvy as PTI portrays her, why would she suddenly become a target of such a nefarious plot? Why is she being treated as a pawn in the party’s narrative, rather than as a capable and strong leader in her own right? Furthermore, PTI’s reliance on Mariam Riaz Wattoo, an individual with zero real political standing of her own, to make such grave allegations about her sister’s well-being only adds to the absurdity of the situation. Ms Wattoo’s appearance on national television, telling sensational stories about Bushra Bibi’s supposed plight, feels like an orchestrated effort to gain sympathy for the party and its embattled leadership, rather than a genuine account of concern. If PTI was truly concerned about Bushra Bibi’s safety, why not take direct action through formal channels instead of relying on speculative media appearances to drum up public sentiment? The bottom line is that PTI’s attempts to resurrect the ‘Final Call’ protest and frame Bushra Bibi as a political martyr are little more than a poorly executed publicity stunt. The absence of leadership at the protest site, the discredited claims of civilian casualties, and the overblown rhetoric surrounding Bushra Bibi’s alleged mysterious relocation all serve as evidence that the PTI is floundering in its efforts to maintain relevance in the face of public disillusionment. Rather than focusing on exaggerated claims and desperate tactics, PTI would be better served by addressing real issues at hand: the party’s failure to govern, its internal divisions, and loss of public trust. Instead of manipulating the narrative with increasingly outlandish claims about Bushra Bibi, PTI should take a hard look at the reasons for its downfall and focus on rebuilding its political credibility, rather than relying on hoaxes and theatrics to stay in the public eye. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );WACO, Texas (AP) — Sawyer Robertson threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns as Baylor won its sixth straight to keep alive its slim hopes for a berth in the Big 12 championship game, beating Kansas 45-17 on Saturday. The Bears (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the first half to take a 21-7 lead, then found the end zone on all three of their drives in the third quarter. Bryson Washington ran for 192 yards on 27 carries that included a 10-yard TD run and punching in from the 1 in the second half for Baylor. Kansas (5-7, 4-5) entered on a three-game winning streak — all against ranked teams — to be in position for bowl eligibility with a win. But the Jayhawks had no answers for Baylor’s offensive. Baylor, which started 0-3 in league play, had to wait for the outcomes of games later Saturday. Arizona had to beat Arizona State, Kansas State had to beat Iowa State and Houston had to beat BYU for the Bears to get into next week's conference title game. Robertson was 23-for-31 passing, with TDs of 36- and 39-yards to Monaray Baldwin in the first quarter before a 14-yard score to Josh Cameron in the second. Baldwin caught seven passes for 119 yards, and Cameron added eight receptions for 102. Devin Neal ran for 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for Kansas. Jalon Daniels was 12-of-23 passing for 280 yards passing, and had two passes intercepted by Baylor safety Devyn Bobby. Kansas: The Jayhawks rarely had issues moving the ball in the first half. Despite trailing 21-10 at intermission, the Jayhawks had outgained Baylor 301-283. Their problems came with holding onto the ball and scoring when they had the chance. Tabor Allen missed a 38-yard field goal to end the Jayhawks’ first possession, and they had promising drives end on a Daniels interception and Tevita Noa fumble after a 39-yard reception. Baylor: The Bears made a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the season. They began the year with coach Dave Aranda’s future considered tenuous at best, and a 2-4 start only made calls for him to be replaced louder. But Aranda and Baylor haven’t lost since Oct. 5 against Iowa State. Kansas’ season is over. Baylor had to wait to see when and where it will play its next game. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballHAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Nov. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AmpliTech Group, Inc. AMPG AMPGW)) (the "Company"), a designer, developer, and manufacturer of state-of-the-art signal processing components for satellite, Public and Private 5G, and other communications networks, including the design of complete 5G/6G systems and a global distributor of packages and lids for integrated circuits assembly, today announced it has closed on its previously announced registered direct offering for the sale of 1,603,259 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) ("the Securities") at an offering price of $0.92 per share. The gross proceeds to the Company from the registered direct offering were approximately $1,475,000 before deducting the placement agent's fees and other offering expenses. Maxim Group LLC acted as the sole placement agent in connection with the offering. The Securities were offered pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-278657), which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on April 24, 2024. The offering was made only by means of a prospectus supplement that forms a part of such registration statement. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of these Securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. A prospectus supplement relating to the Securities offered in the registered direct offering was filed by the Company with the SEC. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or from Maxim Group LLC, 300 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or via email at syndicate@maximgrp.com or telephone at (212) 895-3500. About AmpliTech Group AmpliTech Group, Inc., comprising five divisions—AmpliTech Inc., Specialty Microwave, Spectrum Semiconductors Materials, AmpliTech Group Microwave Design Center, and AmpliTech Group True G Speed Services is a leading designer, developer, manufacturer, and distributor of cutting-edge radio frequency (RF) microwave components and 5G network solutions. Serving global markets, including satellite communications, telecommunications (5G & IoT), space exploration, defense, and quantum computing, AmpliTech Group is committed to advancing technology and innovation. Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are "forward-looking statements" including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, statements regarding the Company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. Such forward statements include, but are not limited to, that the booking of orders and anticipation of booking of orders, including LNB and 5G products and Fujitsu Spain, will lead to sales of products, These statements reflect management's current views with respect to future events based on information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, including risks related to market conditions, and other risks described in the Company's filings with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Contacts: Corporate Social Media Twitter: @AmpliTechAMPG Instagram: @AmpliTechAMPG Facebook: AmpliTechInc Linked In: AmpliTech Group Inc Investor Social Media Twitter: @AMPG_IR StockTwits: @AMPG_IR Company Contact: Jorge Flores Tel: 631-521-7831 Investors@amplitechgroup.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Kiwis are in for an early dose of later this week - with temperatures pushing past 30C in parts of the country. MetService is forecasting highs of 28C, 31C and 29C for Napier, Hastings and Gisborne respectively on Thursday. “That’s well above average for this time of year – but we’re of course knocking on the door of summer,” MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said. That warmth will be felt in most regions: Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Whangārei are likely to experience highs in the early to mid-20s over the remainder of the week. Further south tomorrow, the mercury is likely to rise as high as 27C in Christchurch – well past its November average of 19C – while Timaru is in for a toasty maximum of 26C. “Those day-time temperatures are certainly on the warm side, but some of the overnight temperatures also don’t dip too low,” Makgabutlane said. Aucklanders were in for balmy lows of 16C and 17C over the next few nights, with high humidity likely to hamper sleep across the city. “But even parts of Southland have minimum temperatures in the mid-teens, which is fairly warm.” Makgabutlane said the heat was coming with a ridge of high pressure meeting a northwesterly air flow – drawing warm, moist air over New Zealand. On Thursday, a frontal system was also forecast to begin bringing rain and wind to the South Island, with the wettest weather expected in the west. But little of that was likely to reach parched northeastern areas like Hawke’s Bay. “If we’re lucky, there may be a little bit of rain from that, but there’s nothing substantial on the cards.” The dry and hot conditions are , months away from the peak of summer. Fire and Emergency New Zealand Hawke’s Bay district manager Glen Varcoe confirmed fire-risk indices were late last week elevated to high across the Ahuriri and Heretaunga districts, including Napier and Hastings and coastal regions north to Wairoa. Last Thursday, police said both fire safety officers and police had been investigating five bush and scrub fires in Northern Hawke’s Bay, in some cases suspected deliberately lit. are likely to be warmer than average through to January, with frequent northwesterly winds leading to more days above 25C. Also raising the odds for hot summer weather was the potential for marine heatwave conditions – already occurring in seas to the east of New Zealand – to expand and intensify.Among elites across the ideological spectrum, there's one point of unifying agreement: Americans are bitterly divided. What if that's wrong? What if elites are the ones who are bitterly divided while most Americans are fairly unified? History rarely lines up perfectly with the calendar (the "sixties" didn't really start until the decade was almost over). But politically, the 21st century neatly began in 2000, when the election ended in a tie and the color coding of electoral maps became enshrined as a kind of permanent tribal color war of "red vs. blue." Elite understanding of politics has been stuck in this framework ever since. Politicians and voters have leaned into this alleged political reality, making it seem all the more real in the process. I loathe the phrase "perception is reality," but in politics it has the reifying power of self-fulfilling prophecy. Like rival noble families in medieval Europe, elites have been vying for power and dominance on the arrogant assumption that their subjects share their concern for who rules rather than what the rulers can deliver. In 2018, the group More in Common published a massive report on the "hidden tribes" of American politics. The wealthiest and whitest groups were "devoted conservatives" (6%) and "progressive activists" (8%). These tribes dominate the media, the parties and higher education, and they dictate the competing narratives of red vs. blue, particularly on cable news and social media. Meanwhile, the overwhelming majority of Americans resided in, or were adjacent to, the "exhausted majority." These people, however, "have no narrative," as David Brooks wrote at the time. "They have no coherent philosophic worldview to organize their thinking and compel action." Lacking a narrative might seem like a very postmodern problem, but in a postmodern elite culture, postmodern problems are real problems. It's worth noting that red vs. blue America didn't emerge ex nihilo. The 1990s were a time when the economy and government seemed to be working, at home and abroad. As a result, elites leaned into the narcissism of small differences to gain political and cultural advantage. They remain obsessed with competing, often apocalyptic, narratives. That leaves out most Americans. The gladiatorial combatants of cable news, editorial pages and academia, and their superfan spectators, can afford these fights. Members of the exhausted majority are more interested in mere competence. I think that's the hidden unity elites are missing. This is why we keep throwing incumbent parties out of power: They get elected promising competence but get derailed -- or seduced -- by fan service to, or trolling of, the elites who dominate the national conversation. There's a difference between competence and expertise. One of the most profound political changes in recent years has been the separation of notions of credentialed expertise from real-world competence. This isn't a new theme in American life, but the pandemic and the lurch toward identity politics amplified distrust of experts in unprecedented ways. This is a particular problem for the left because it is far more invested in credentialism than the right. Indeed, some progressives are suddenly realizing they invested too much in the authority of experts and too little in the ability of experts to provide what people want from government, such as affordable housing, decent education and low crime. The New York Times' Ezra Klein says he's tired of defending the authority of government institutions. Rather, "I want them to work." One of the reasons progressives find Trump so offensive is his absolute inability to speak the language of expertise -- which is full of coded elite shibboleths. But Trump veritably shouts the language of competence. I don't mean he is actually competent at governing. But he is effectively blunt about calling leaders, experts and elites -- of both parties -- stupid, ineffective, weak and incompetent. He lost in 2020 because voters didn't believe he was actually good at governing. He won in 2024 because the exhausted majority concluded the Biden administration was bad at it. Nostalgia for the low-inflation pre-pandemic economy was enough to convince voters that Trumpian drama is the tolerable price to pay for a good economy. About 3 out of 4 Americans who experienced "severe hardship" because of inflation voted for Trump. The genius of Trump's most effective ad -- "Kamala is for they/them, President Trump is for you" -- was that it was simultaneously culture-war red meat and an argument that Harris was more concerned about boutique elite concerns than everyday ones. If Trump can actually deliver competent government, he could make the Republican Party the majority party for a generation. For myriad reasons, that's an if so big it's visible from space. But the opportunity is there -- and has been there all along.
— Recommendations are independently chosen by our editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. Black Friday 2024 delivered some stellar sales from big box retailers like Amazon , Walmart , Target , Wayfair and too many more. If you're looking to shop off the beaten path, Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to support your favorite local shops and discover unique products with exclusive deals. Today, November 30 , small businesses across the country are offering special sales to encourage customers to shop local and support their community and thriving brands. Below, I've highlighted our team's favorite Small Business Saturday shopping recommendations from beauty and fashion to jewelry and CBD . Small Business Saturday shopping recommendations Beauty Alleyoop : Save up to 40% on multi-purpose, travel-friendly Alleyoop makeup with coupon code BFCM . 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From tinctures and gummies to skincare and pet-friendly products , CBDfx offers high-quality, lab-tested CBD solutions for your wellness needs. More ways to support small businesses today: Etsy : If you're shopping for unique or handcrafted items, Etsy is a must-shop this Small Business Saturday. You can find discounts across various shops and creators. From custom jewelry to home décor, Etsy offers a vast selection of one-of-a-kind products created by talented artisans. Goldbelly : We all have to eat. On Small Business Saturday, try supporting your local restaurants, grocery stores and shops with help from Goldbelly. Whether you're craving a classic New York bagel or a Texas BBQ feast, Goldbelly can deliver culinary delights right to your doorstep. Right now, use code BELLYJOY20 to save 20% on your next order. How did Small Business Saturday start? Small Business Saturday was established by American Express in 2010 and plays a crucial role in promoting the shopping season for small, thriving businesses. As consumers eagerly anticipate holiday deals and promotions, such as those seen on Black Friday 2024, Small Business Saturday offers a unique opportunity to highlight local community-driven shops. With an increasing emphasis on personalized service and unique products, this day encourages shoppers to explore and invest in local businesses. By participating, you can help contribute to the local economy while still enjoying exclusive deals and discounts. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday (December 21, 2024) allocated portfolios to his council of ministers, retaining the crucial Home department with him. Mr. Fadnavis will also handle Energy, Law and Judiciary, General Administration Department and Information and Publicity departments, an official statement said here. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has been allocated Urban Development, Housing and Public Works Department (public enterprises). Ajit Pawar, another deputy CM, got Finance and Planning, State Excise. The portfolios were allocated after the weeklong winter session of the state Legislature ended earlier in the day. As many as 39 ministers had been sworn in on December 15, before the start of the session, while Mr. Fadnavis and his two deputies had taken the oath of office on December 5. The Mahayuti alliance of the BJP, NCP and Shiv Sena swept the November 20 assembly elections, winning 230 of 288 seats. Portfolios allocated to BJP ministers are -- Chandrashekhar Bawankule (Revenue), Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil (Water Resources- Krishna and Godavari Valley Development corporation), Chandrakant Patil (Higher and Technical Education, Parliamentary affairs), Girish Mahajan (Water Resources- Vidarbha , Tapi, Konkan Development Corporation and Disaster Management). Ganesh Naik has been given Forests, Mangal Prabhat Lodha Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation; Jaykumar Raval Marketing and Protocol, Pankaja Munde Environment and Climate Change, Animal Husbandry; Atul Save OBC Welfare, Dairy Development and Renewable Energy. Ashok Uike has been given Tribal Development, Ashish Shelar Cultural Affairs and Information Technology, Shivendrasinh Bhosale Public Works. Jaykumar Gore has been given Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Sanjay Savkare Textiles, Nitesh Rane Fisheries and Ports, Akash Fundkar Labour. Shiv Sena Ministers' portfolios: Gulabrao Patil Water Supply and Sanitation, Dadaji Bhuse School Education, Sanjay Rathod Soil and Water Conservation, Uday Samant Industries and Marathi language, Shambhuraj Desai Tourism, Mining, Ex-servicemen Welfare, Sanjay Shirsat Social Justice, Pratap Sarnaik Transport, Bharat Gogawale Employment Guarantee, Horticulture, Salt Pan Lands Development; Prakash Abitkar Public Health and Family Welfare. NCP ministers' portfolios: Hasan Mushrif Medical Education, Dhananjay Munde Food and Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection, Dattatrey Bharne Sports ,Youth welfare and Minority Development and Aukaf, Aditi Tatkare Women and Child Development , Manikrao Kokate Agriculture. Narhari Zirwal has been given Food and Drug Administration, Special assistance. Makrand Patil has been given Relief and Rehabilitation, while Babasaheb Patil was allocated Cooperation. Among Ministers of States, Shiv Sena's Ashish Jaiswal has been given Finance and Planning, Agriculture, Relief and Rehabilitation, Law and Judiciary and Labour. BJP's Madhuri Misal has been given Urban Development, Transport, Social Justice, Medical Education, Minorities Development and Aukaf. Pankaj Bhoyar, also of BJP has got Home (Rural), Housing, School Education, Cooperation and Mining. BJP 's Meghana Bordikar has got Public Health and Family Welfare, Water Supply and Sanitation, Energy, Women and Child Development, Public Works (Public Enterprises). Published - December 21, 2024 10:21 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Maharashtra / Mumbai
This morning, I read an article about polytechnic universities in Myanmar in the state-owned newspapers. The name piqued my interest quite a bit because I had never known them, so I decided to research and learn more about them to share my findings with readers. Polytechnic education plays a vital role in preparing skilled professionals who contribute to the technological and economic growth of a nation. In an ever-evolving global landscape, the need for a robust polytechnic system has become more apparent, as it serves as a foundation for practical learning and innovation. Myanmar’s polytechnic universities, while striving to meet the growing demands of industrial and technological advancements, often face challenges in competing with their counterparts in Asia and Europe. Let us delve into the current state of polytechnic education in Myanmar, comparing its structure, curriculum, and outcomes with institutions in neighbouring Asian countries and leading European nations to identify opportunities for growth and collaboration. Polytechnic education in Myanmar has its roots in the nation’s efforts to equip its youth with practical skills and technical knowledge. Emerging as a vital component of the country’s educational landscape, polytechnic universities have been instrumental in fostering a skilled workforce to support industrial and economic development. Among the prominent institutions are Naypyitaw State Polytechnic University, which serves as a central hub for technical education, and regional universities such as Kengtung, Panglong, Myeik, Dawei, and Maubin, which cater to students from various parts of the country. These institutions offer a range of diploma and certificate programmes aimed at providing hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in essential fields. The curriculum emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, reflecting the global demand for professionals in these areas. While the primary focus remains on technical education, programmes also include components of soft skills and entrepreneurship, preparing students for diverse career paths in both local and international industries. However, despite these strengths, Myanmar’s polytechnic universities face challenges in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving global educational standards, necessitating a closer look at practices in Asia and Europe for potential enhancements. Polytechnic education in Asia has seen significant growth, driven by a commitment to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industrial needs. Countries such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and India have established robust systems that prioritize both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern industries. Prominent institutions like Singapore Polytechnic, Tokyo Polytechnic University, Korea Polytechnic University, and the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have set benchmarks in technical and vocational education. These universities offer a diverse range of programmes, with a curriculum structure that includes foundational courses, advanced technical modules, and interdisciplinary studies. Specializations are tailored to emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, robotics, and biotechnology, aligning with global trends. One defining feature of polytechnic education in Asia is its emphasis on research and industry collaboration. For instance, Singapore Polytechnic partners with leading corporations to provide internship opportunities, while Japan’s Tokyo Polytechnic University focuses on integrating cutting-edge research into its academic framework. Similarly, Korea Polytechnic University works closely with industrial sectors to align its training programs with market requirements, and India’s IITs are globally recognized for their contributions to engineering and technological innovation. This strong focus on industry collaboration and practical research not only enhances students’ employability but also ensures that these institutions remain at the forefront of technological advancements in Asia. Polytechnic education in Europe is renowned for its integration of applied sciences and vocational training, aiming to equip students with practical skills and theoretical expertise. Countries such as Germany, Finland, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands have developed highly regarded polytechnic systems that contribute significantly to their industrial and technological advancements. Notable institutions include the Technical University of Munich (Germany), which excels in engineering and technology disciplines, and the Metropolia University of Applied Sciences (Finland), known for its innovative programmes in healthcare, business, and ICT. In the United Kingdom, the University of the West of Scotland focuses on applied learning and industry-relevant research, while the Delft University of Technology (the Netherlands) stands out as a leader in engineering, design, and sustainable development. The curriculum in European polytechnic universities is designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical application. Courses are often structured to include internships, cooperative education, and project-based learning, allowing students to gain hands-on experience. Specializations in fields such as renewable energy, digital technologies, biomedical engineering, and sustainable urban planning reflect Europe’s focus on addressing global challenges through education. A distinctive feature of European polytechnic education is its alignment with vocational training and applied sciences. Institutions collaborate closely with industries, research centres, and government bodies to ensure that programmes remain relevant to evolving market needs. This approach not only enhances employability but also fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning European polytechnics as global leaders in technical education. Polytechnic universities in Myanmar and Asia share a common emphasis on practical skills and hands-on training, with both systems aiming to produce job-ready graduates for technical fields. However, a key distinction lies in the extent of industry partnerships and internship opportunities. Asian institutions, such as Singapore Polytechnic and Korea Polytechnic University, collaborate extensively with industries, offering students practical experience through structured internships and real-world projects. In contrast, Myanmar’s polytechnic universities face limitations in establishing similar large-scale industry partnerships, which can hinder students’ exposure to modern workplace practices. Additionally, research and innovation are central to many Asian polytechnic institutions. Universities in countries like Japan and India actively engage in cutting-edge research and integrate it into their curriculum, fostering a culture of creativity and technological advancement. Myanmar, however, is still developing its capacity for research and innovation, with its polytechnic institutions focusing more on foundational technical education than on contributing to global technological progress. When compared to European polytechnic universities, Myanmar’s institutions show significant differences in their approach to vocational training and applied sciences. European universities, such as the Technical University of Munich and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, emphasize a strong connection between academia and industry through extensive vocational programmes and applied research. These programmes are deeply integrated with their respective industries, ensuring that students gain practical knowledge and develop skills that directly align with job market demands. Myanmar’s polytechnics, while focused on technical education, might, perhaps, lack the same level of applied research and tailored vocational training. Teaching methodologies and student assessment might also differ. European institutions emphasize student-centred learning approaches, problem-solving tasks, and continuous assessments, while Myanmar’s polytechnics often rely on traditional teaching methods and final examinations. Furthermore, European polytechnics promote international collaboration and exchange programmes, allowing students to gain global exposure and cross-cultural competencies. Myanmar’s polytechnic system, however, has limited access to such international opportunities, making it challenging for students to engage in global academic and professional networks. These comparisons highlight the potential areas for Myanmar’s polytechnic institutions to grow by adopting best practices from their Asian and European counterparts. Industry collaboration is a cornerstone of polytechnic education, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application. By partnering with industries, polytechnic institutions provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and enhance their employability. Internships, cooperative education programmes, and research projects aligned with industry needs are crucial in preparing students for the dynamic job market. Such collaborations also enable universities to stay updated with technological advancements and tailor their curricula to meet industry standards. In Myanmar, industry collaboration and internship opportunities are still in their nascent stages. While some polytechnic institutions partner with local industries, the scale and scope of these collaborations are often limited. As a result, students might have fewer opportunities for hands-on training in modern industrial settings. In contrast, Asian polytechnic universities, such as Singapore Polytechnic and Korea Polytechnic University, excel in fostering strong partnerships with industries. These institutions offer extensive internship programmes, where students work with leading corporations, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities. For instance, Singapore Polytechnic collaborates with multinational companies like Siemens and Rolls-Royce, enabling students to work on cutting-edge projects. A notable example from Asia is Singapore Polytechnic’s partnership with Dyson, where students participate in designing and developing new consumer technologies. These internships often lead to employment opportunities and contribute to the student’s professional growth. In Europe, the partnership between the Technical University of Munich and Siemens demonstrates the power of collaboration. Students working on joint research projects in automation and renewable energy have developed industry-relevant solutions, earning accolades and job offers from top-tier companies. These success stories highlight the transformative impact of industry collaboration on polytechnic education. By adopting similar approaches, Myanmar’s polytechnic universities can strengthen their ties with local and international industries, providing students with the practical skills and global exposure necessary to thrive in competitive job markets. Research and innovation are integral to polytechnic education, driving technological advancements and practical solutions to societal challenges. In Asia, institutions like India’s IITs and Singapore Polytechnic focus on applied research in AI and renewable energy, while Europe’s Technical University of Munich leads in robotics and sustainable technologies. These advancements are supported by substantial funding and industry partnerships, enabling groundbreaking projects. Myanmar can enhance its research capacity by fostering collaborations, increasing government support, and modernizing facilities to match global standards. Myanmar’s polytechnic universities face challenges such as limited funding, outdated infrastructure, and rigid curricula. These issues will a little hinder their ability to compete with international standards. However, growth opportunities include fostering international partnerships, securing government support, and updating curriculum frameworks to align with global trends. Learning from Asian and European models, Myanmar could integrate industry collaborations, enhance research programmes, and adopt modern teaching methodologies. By addressing these challenges strategically, Myanmar’s polytechnics surely have the potential to become key contributors to the nation’s industrial and technological progress. Polytechnic education plays a vital role in preparing skilled professionals for modern industries. Comparing Myanmar’s institutions with those in Asia and Europe highlights gaps in industry collaboration, research, and curriculum. However, by adopting best practices such as fostering partnerships, modernizing infrastructure, and embracing innovative teaching methods, Myanmar’s polytechnics have vibrantly immense potential to grow and contribute significantly to national development. Reference: The Global New Light of Myanmar 22 November 2024.
Lil Wayne, GloRilla, Camila Cabello to perform at College Football National ChampionshipThe OnePlus Watch 3 is rumoured to be launched on January 7 for the global markets. The device will be launched along with OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R. Even though there is no word about the launch of the new OnePlus watch, the rumours have suggested that the watch will be featuring a rotating crown, reported smartprix. The render of the OnePlus Watch 3 also offer a rotating crown. The source has also claimed that the OnePlus Watch 3 will have two colour options. The device will also get a heart rate sensor as well as ECG. Speaking about the ECG function, it will be limited to selected markets only. Other specifications of the OnePlus Watch 3 are rumoured to offer Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 SoC, 2GB RAM along with 32GB of storage. The device is expected to run Watch OS 5 and RTOS. Battery on the OnePlus Watch 3 is expected to offer 500+ mAh battery under the hood. It is also expected to get LTE connectivity. The OnePlus Watch 3 got a TENAA certification in June along with a 500 mAh battery. The model code of the watch is OPWW234 and it did offer a support for LTE connectivity. Well, the design seemed different from the render. On the other hand, the OnePlus Watch 3 with model designation OPWWE251 was seen in FCC certification. It gets a 648 mAh battery.
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Investment to establish over 3,000 charging stations and a manufacturing plant, supporting Pakistan’s green energy transition Chinese enterprise ADM Group has announced a $350 million investment in Pakistan’s electric vehicle (EV) sector, backed by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), according to Radio Pakistan. The initiative aims to develop the EV ecosystem, reduce carbon emissions, and decrease reliance on traditional fuels. As part of this investment, 3,000 EV charging stations will be established nationwide. The deployment will see 1,000 stations in Sindh, 1,500 in Punjab, and 750 across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Additionally, ADM Group has allocated $250 million to set up an EV manufacturing plant, while another $90 million will be invested in building charging infrastructure. The new EVs will feature a range of up to 300 kilometers per charge, marking a significant step toward affordable and sustainable transportation. This move aligns with Pakistan’s policy goal of achieving 30% eco-friendly car sales by 2030, as part of its broader green energy transition. The initiative builds upon ADM Group’s earlier announcement of a $250 million EV investment, with plans to integrate global resources and manufacturing technologies for locally produced vehicles. ADM also envisions exporting EVs to Middle Eastern and Asian markets, with potential annual revenue of $900 million. ADM Group CEO Yasir Bhambhani previously highlighted the two-phase approach: establishing a nationwide EV charging network, followed by the manufacturing of vehicles. The plant is expected to produce 72,000 units annually, ranging from economical hatchbacks to luxury sedans and commercial vans. This latest investment underscores ADM’s commitment to Pakistan’s EV sector, supporting government initiatives to cut carbon emissions and promote green energy solutions. While the EV market continues to grow globally—with sales exceeding 10 million units in 2022—Pakistan’s proactive approach could position it as a competitive player in the region. ADM’s strategic efforts complement Pakistan’s broader push for sustainability, enhancing connectivity through EV charging networks and fostering economic growth in the renewable energy sector. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );Big Australian names David Warner and Steve Smith may have gone unsold on the second day of the Indian Premier League auction, but there were no such concerns for 13-year-old left-handed batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The youngster, who made his debut in India’s domestic Ranji Trophy at 12, was sold for $200,000 to Rajasthan Royals after a bidding war with the Delhi Capitals at the auction in Saudi Arabia. Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Suryavanshi hit a 58-ball hundred in the youth Test against Australia under-19s in October, but made one and three in his other innings in the two-match series. He is the youngest player to be selected at the auction. The previous youngest was Prayas Ray Barman, signed five years ago by Royal Challengers Bangalore. It was groundhog day for Warner as he again went unsold at the auction, likely ending a lucrative, run-laden connection with the blockbuster Twenty20 competition. The explosive opener has scored 6565 runs at a strike rate of 140 and has an average above 40 in the IPL, but as on the first day, none of the 10 franchises were prepared to invest in the 38-year-old left-hander. Smith also went unsold having set his stall out at the same base price of two crore ($365,000). Despite pairing with Ricky Ponting as Washington Freedom’s captain and coach to win Major League Cricket in the US, Ponting wasn’t keen on taking another punt on Smith. Instead he packed his new Punjab Kings team with other Aussies, signing Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie and Xavier Bartlett to join Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, who were acquired on day one. Nor was there any interest in English bowling veteran James Anderson. Seeking to make an IPL debut at the age of 42, he did not even come up in the bidding. The biggest-earning Australian on day two was Tim David, the big-hitting all-rounder joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru for $550,000. Close behind was Spencer Johnson. He was a Ponting target but Kings were outbid by Kolkata Knight Riders who offered $510,000. However, Ponting did then land Hardie for $225,000 and, after missing out on Nathan Ellis (who went to Super Kings for $365,000), signed Bartlett, the top wicket-taker in BBL last summer, for $145,000. Ponting had begun by signing the only one of the three Aussie keepers on the market to be sold. Alex Carey may be Australia’s Test wicketkeeper but Inglis has the gloves in the white-ball game and it showed as he went for $475,000. Carey and another gloveman, Josh Philippe, would later go unsold. There were also no bids for Jason Behrendorff, Matt Short and Lance Morris while other Australians who had put themselves forward did not even make the bidding stage. There is hope, though, for them and for the likes of Warner and Smith as between now and March players will inevitably be injured or, for personal reasons, pull out, creating late vacancies. The biggest signing of the day was Bhuvneshwar Kumar who joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru for $2 million. AAP News, results and expert analysis from the weekend of sport are sent every Monday. Sign up for our Sport newsletter .
ESPN's latest FPI has dropped into Week 14, the final week of the regular season and a month before the College Football Playoff tournament begins. Despite moving up to No. 22 in Sunday's AP Poll, the Illini are now No. 12 in the Big Ten in the FPI. While this would likely be good for most teams in an expanded conference, it should shock those who have followed the team from the start. For one, its three losses are all in the conference, including to the fourth-best and top-rated teams (Penn State and Oregon). It also lost to bowl-eligible Minnesota, which has had a respectable season under coach P.J. Fleck. Illinois has been ranked in the AP poll for nine weeks and has victories against three then-ranked teams (Michigan, Nebraska, and Kansas). It is one win away from clinching its best season since 2007, where it finished 9-4. Even crazier, even with Illinois' struggles, it still has an outside chance of making the College Football Playoff. Although the chances of that happening are under one percent, coach Bret Bielema said Monday he is fully aware of how the Illini could impact the College Football Playoff even if they aren't directly involved. According to Action Network , if all goes as expected, Illinois will likely face Alabama in the Citrus Bowl on New Year's Eve in Orlando, Fla. Bret Bielema is in favor of a 12-team College Football Playoff Bielema is focused on knocking off coach David Braun and the Northwestern Wildcats on Saturday at Wrigley Field. The game aside, Bielema said he fully supports an expanded College Football Playoff and the parity it brings to the sport. "Going into the Minnesota game, we were at a certain point," Bielema said. "Unfortunately, we weren't able to win that game but didn't know, at that point, there would be a narrative about three-loss teams being in the CFP. I thought we'd have a chance to earn our way back into the rankings...I got dialogue from other coaches, right? I watch that stuff." Illinois-Northwestern kicks off at noon ET from Wrigley Field on Big Ten Network.Bioremediation Market Insights and Growth Drivers Shaping the Market in 2024 To 2031 |Patriots' Rooting Guide for 2025 NFL Draft Implications of Week 13