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Jacob Holt scores 23 to help Sacramento State beat Stanislaus State 98-47A designated disability minister will be appointed to each Government department to “champion disability inclusion and accessibility”, the Government has announced. Work and pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms said the move aims to drive “real improvements” for disabled people, whom the ministers will be encouraged to engage with on a regular basis. He told the Commons: “I am very pleased to be able to announce today the appointment of new lead ministers for disability in each Government department, they will represent the interests of disabled people, champion disability inclusion and accessibility within their departments. “I’m going to chair regular meetings with them and will encourage them to engage directly with disabled people and their representative organisations, as they take forward their departmental priorities. “And I look forward to this new group of lead ministers for disability together driving real improvements across Government for disabled people.” This came during an adjournment debate on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, where Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling raised concerns about “floating bus stops”, which have a cycle lane between the stop and the pavement. Intervening, the MP for Torbay, who is registered blind, said: “The Government needs to ban floating bus stops.” Sir Stephen said: “I do think this issue about floating bus stops is an important issue which we need to work across Government to reflect on.” Labour MP Debbie Abrahams, who led the debate, had earlier criticised the lack of accessibility for disabled people on trains. The Oldham East and Saddleworth MP said: “Our train network does not have level access, and we heard Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson from the other place make this plea back in the summer, absolutely outrageous what she was put through. “But I was absolutely shocked to find, when I had a presentation of the TransPennine route upgrade, that the rolling stock yet to be commissioned is not going to provide that level access. “It’s absolute nonsense, it’s not even in the design of that procurement, so we must do better than this.”
President Joe Biden has said the US will try to bring home one of the longest-held American hostages following the sudden collapse of the Syrian government. Speaking at the White House, Biden said the US must first pinpoint the location of Austin Tice, with Syria in chaos. Mr Tice, a freelance journalist, is thought to have been taken captive close to Damascus on 14 August 2012 while he was covering the country's civil war. On Sunday, rebel fighters seized the Syrian capital in the culmination of a lightning offensive launched two weeks ago. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country. Biden said Assad's exit was a "fundamental act of justice" after decades of repression, but also "a moment of risk and uncertainty" for the Middle East. "We are mindful that there are Americans in Syria," Biden said on Sunday, "including those who reside there, as well as Austin Tice, who was take captive more than 12 years ago. "We remain committed to returning him to his family." On his way out of the room, Biden turned to answer a question from the media about Tice. "We believe he's alive," said the president. "We think we can get him back, but we have no direct evidence of that yet." The president added: "We have to identify where he is." Mr Tice, 43, was last seen in a video, blindfolded and in apparent distress, posted online weeks after his capture. While no government or group claimed responsibility for his disappearance, US officials soon said they believed that the former US Marine was being held by the Syrian government. Mr Tice's sister, Abigail Edaburn, told the BBC on Friday they believe he is still in Syria. "We don't know the exact circumstances of the place that he's being held, but we do know it is in Syria and that he is healthy and well," she said. "I don't know how much I can say, but there have been independent, trusted sources that have been able to verify this information," she added. The US has about 900 troops in Syria, and Biden said on Sunday he planned for those forces to remain. The president also said US forces had conducted "dozens" of what he called "precision air strikes" on Sunday against Islamic State group camps and operations in eastern Syria. President-elect Donald Trump said on Saturday that the US should not intervene militarily in Syria. "THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT," he wrote on social media. The Syrian opposition that brought down Assad is led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has been designated a terrorist group by the Biden administration. The US, UK, UN and others consider HTS as an al-Qaeda affiliate, though HTS says it broke off ties with the Sunni Islamist organisation years ago.None
Christmas traditions bring joy and togetherness. People decorate trees and exchange gifts. Caroling and nativity scenes are popular. Families share festive meals. Stockings and candy canes add to the fun. Modern traditions include ugly sweaters. Celebrations vary worldwide. Christmas creates lasting memories and strengthens bonds. Christmas is a season rich in traditions, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. From decorating Christmas trees to exchanging gifts, these customs embody the spirit of the holiday, fostering joy, togetherness, and goodwill across the world. The Christmas Tree One of the most iconic symbols of Christmas, the tradition of decorating a tree dates back to 16th-century Germany. Evergreen trees were adorned with candles and ornaments to symbolize life and light during the dark winter months. Today, Christmas trees are decorated with twinkling lights, baubles, and tinsel, serving as a centerpiece for festive gatherings. Exchanging Gifts The practice of exchanging gifts during Christmas is rooted in the biblical story of the Magi, who brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus. Over time, this evolved into a broader tradition of giving to loved ones as a symbol of love and generosity. Santa Claus, inspired by the legend of Saint Nicholas, has become the modern-day figure associated with Christmas gift-giving. Caroling and Christmas Music Singing carols is a cherished tradition that dates back to medieval times. Songs like Silent Night , Jingle Bells , and O Holy Night evoke the joy and reverence of the season. Caroling often brings communities together as groups go door-to-door sharing festive cheer through song. Advent and the Nativity Scene The Advent season, observed in the weeks leading up to Christmas, involves lighting candles on an Advent wreath to symbolize hope, peace, joy, and love. The Nativity scene, depicting the birth of Jesus in a manger, serves as a reminder of the holiday's religious significance and is displayed in churches and homes worldwide. Christmas Dinner Sharing a festive meal is a cornerstone of Christmas celebrations. Traditional dishes vary across cultures—from roasted turkey in the United States to panettone in Italy and nochebuena feasts in Latin America. The meal often includes family favorites and seasonal treats, bringing loved ones together around the table. Stockings and Candy Canes Hanging stockings by the fireplace is a beloved tradition believed to have originated from tales of Saint Nicholas. Candy canes, shaped like shepherds’ crooks, are a sweet reminder of the Nativity story and have become a favorite treat during the holiday season. Modern Traditions: Ugly Sweaters and Elf on the Shelf In recent years, new traditions like wearing Christmas-themed sweaters and the Elf on the Shelf have gained popularity. These playful customs add a touch of humor and creativity to the holiday season, particularly for families with young children. Celebrating Around the World Christmas traditions differ widely across countries. In Mexico, Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, while in Japan, enjoying a meal at KFC has become a popular modern custom. In Sweden, the Yule Goat is a centuries-old symbol of Christmas, and in Australia, beach barbecues often replace snowy festivities. The Spirit of Christmas While the specifics of Christmas traditions vary, the underlying themes of love, generosity, and community remain universal. These customs, passed down through generations, serve to bring people together, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds. This holiday season, whether you're hanging ornaments on a tree, sharing a meal, or singing carols, take a moment to reflect on the traditions that make Christmas a time of joy and connection.PM directs implementation as IT ministry presents action plan on $25bln IT exportsNone
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WASHINGTON, Dec 4 (Reuters) - President-elect Donald Trump asked a Georgia Appeals Court on Wednesday to end the criminal case against him in that state for attempting to overturn his 2020 election loss. Lawyers for Trump argued that his continued prosecution by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who has also charged several of Trump's allies, would violate the U.S. Constitution as he prepares to return to the White House next month. They urged the appeals court to remove Trump from the proceedings and to order a lower court judge to dismiss the case against Trump in its entirety. A spokesperson for Willis did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Federal prosecutors have already dropped two criminal cases against Trump based on a Justice Department policy against prosecuting a sitting president. Trump's sentencing on charges in New York involving hush money paid to a porn star was put on hold indefinitely following Trump's election victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump's lawyers renewed their attempts to dismiss that prosecution on Tuesday. In Georgia, Trump and 14 others face racketeering and other charges for allegedly forming a criminal conspiracy to reverse Trump's narrow defeat in the battleground state in the 2020 election. Trump has pleaded not guilty and has argued that the case, and others he has faced, were politically motivated attempts to damage his campaign. Trump as president will not have the authority to end the Georgia case, but his lawyers argued that continuing to prosecute him would undermine his ability to govern. Trump and eight of his co-defendants have asked the appeals court to disqualify Willis from prosecuting the case, arguing that a romantic relationship she had with a former deputy tainted the proceedings. The case has been paused since June because of the appeal. Oral arguments were scheduled for Thursday, but were postponed by the court last month without explanation. Trump's filing applies only to his case. The other co-defendants can continue to press their appeal if Trump is removed from the case. Sign up here. Reporting by Andrew Goudsward; Editing by Stephen Coates Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tabQ. I recently retired as a customer service specialist in the healthcare industry. I loved my work, the connection to people and feeling I made a difference. I have been slow to look for volunteer work. When I finally decided to do so, I could not find the right fit. Any suggestions? L.G Great news, you made the decision to volunteer. In addition to doing good for individuals or organizations, volunteering in later life has many personal benefits, and that’s for the volunteer. Here are a few reasons to volunteer: Promotes physical and mental health. We know aging ultimately is a declining and gradual process. Volunteering can counter the risk of decline of one’s physical health, reducing risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and even mortality. That’s according to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine . The National Institute on Aging reports that volunteering also can affect cognitive aging by keeping the brain engaged, thereby lowering the risk of dementia. Prevents loneliness. Social isolation is a major challenge for many older adults and is considered a public health crisis , according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Volunteering can be part of the solution by providing opportunities to socialize and even make best friends. It can support those suffering from depression. Those who volunteer report their depression is shorter compared to those who do not volunteer, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service . Provides a feeling of purpose. For many, retirement can be a period of relief and at the same time, uncertainty about one’s purpose. In the workplace, purpose typically is well defined. In retirement, not so much. Volunteering can be a reason to get up in the morning, to make a difference or have an opportunity to learn something new. It can help a person feel recharged and needed. Reduces the rate of aging. Individuals age at different rates. According to a study by Associate Professor Cal Halverson at Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, even a small amount of volunteering is linked to slowing the acceleration of biological aging among retirees, even more than for working folks. Volunteers in the study just aged a bit slower. Bridges the generation gap. Interacting with younger generations provides older adults the opportunity to share life lessons. At the same time, younger generations can offer older adults a new way of looking at life that incudes technology. Respect and affirmation are most often shared by both. Here are a few resources that promote intergenerational relationships. CoGenerate, a nonprofit organization, features new multigenerational initiatives and research. See https://cogenerate.org/ . Then there is Sages and Seekers that connects young people with vetted older mentors for weekly virtual conversations. Eldera is a global virtual village where generations come together to connect, learn from each other, have fun and at the same time, create a better future. Now ask yourself a few questions. What do I love to do? Is it working with older adults, children or those with challenges? Do I prefer an outdoor volunteer experience as opposed to spending time in an office, workroom or even remotely. Do I want a hands-on experience or working at a board or policy level?? How many hours a week or days do I want? Am I comfortable making a commitment? Most communities are rich with volunteer resources. One example is the South Bay, Harbor and Long Beach Volunteer Center. It connects volunteers to over 20 organizations that need and welcome volunteers in areas of gardening, education, those with special needs, history and the arts. Also check out Volunteer Match with opportunities linked to your geographic area. AmeriCorps Seniors , a network of volunteer programs for Americans 55 years and older, is another option. Volunteers work in their community and are engaged in academic tutoring and mentoring, elder care, disaster relief, and more. They also are the umbrella organization for the Foster Grandparent Program, RSVP and Senior Companion Program. And don’t forget to check volunteer opportunities at your local hospital, library, school district, botanical gardens as well as art museums. Use your network. If you know someone who has an interesting volunteer position or experience, meet with that individual and learn about possibilities. Finding the right volunteer position takes research, networking and more than that, it involves taking a risk. Know you have nothing to lose. One thing is clear, whatever you chose, you are bringing your life experience and knowledge with you. So, before you even begin, you are an asset. Stay well, enjoy the holiday season and know, “No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of others.” ~ Joseph Addison, English poet, playwright and politician. (1672-1719). Helen Dennis is a nationally recognized leader on issues of aging and the new retirement with academic, corporate and nonprofit experience. Contact Helen with your questions and comments at Helendenn@gmail.com . Visit Helen at HelenMdennis.com and follow her on facebook.com/SuccessfulAgingCommunityAfter-hours movers: SentinelOne, Synopsys, PVH Corp, Verint Systems, American Eagle
Nonehttps://arab.news/52mt3 LONDON: Prime Minister Keir Starmer will set out plans on Thursday to deliver on his priorities to raise living standards and rebuild Britain in a speech he hopes will draw a line under what even some of his supporters say has been a bumpy start to government. Five months since his Labour Party swept back to power with a landslide win, Starmer wants to turn the page on criticism of his government on everything from its use of campaign donations to a tax-raising budget which prompted an outcry from businesses and farmers. He will use Thursday’s speech to plot out when Britain can expect to start seeing progress his government has promised in a range of areas, including hospital backlogs, increasing police numbers, improving education and securing home-grown energy. Called the government’s ‘plan for change’, he is expected to set out a reform program for Britain’s overly stretched public services to try to restore trust in politics, eroded by years of chaos and scandal under the Conservatives and further deepened by Labour’s missteps in its first few months in power. “My government was elected to deliver change, and today marks the next step. People are tired of being promised the world, but short-term sticking plaster politics letting them down,” Starmer will say, according to excerpts of his speech provided by his office. “My mission-led government will deliver.” Labour campaigned before the July 4 election on five missions — boosting economic growth, accelerating steps toward reaching net zero, reducing waiting times in the state-run health service, tackling crime and improving education. His first measures on Thursday will include a move to give communities a named, contactable police officer to deal with local issues, his office said, part of a pledge to add a further 13,000 police in neighborhood roles. “This marks a return to the founding principles of British policing — where officers are part of the communities they serve,” interior minister Yvette Cooper said in a statement. “Through this visible, responsive police presence in every neighborhood, we will restore the trust and partnership that lies at the heart of keeping our communities safe.”
President Biden provides remarks during a presser on the situation in Syria after rebels topple the regime of Bashar al-Assad. President Biden said during a Sunday afternoon press conference that the U.S. will support Syria's neighboring nations and help bolster stability in the region after dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country amid an ongoing civil war. "At long last, the Assad regime has fallen. This regime brutalized and tortured and killed literally hundreds of thousands of innocent Syrians. A fall of the regime is a fundamental act of justice. It's a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria to build a better future for their proud country. It's also a moment of risk and uncertainty," Biden said Sunday during a press conference from the White House. Biden detailed that following Assad's departure in the face of rebel forces, the U.S. will support Syria's neighboring countries – such as Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Israel – "should any threat arise from Syria during this period of transition." Biden said this effort will include senior administration officials meeting with world leaders, and the president also speaking directly with leaders in the neighboring nations. "Second, we will help stability, ensure stability in eastern Syria. Protecting any personnel, our personnel, against any threats, and will remain our mission against ISIS will be maintained, including security of detention facilities where ISIS fighters are being held as prisoners," Biden continued of the U.S. plan of action after the collapse of the Assad regime. ".... Third, we will engage with all Syrian groups, including within the process led by the United Nations to establish a transition away from the Assad regime toward an independent sovereign" Syria. ASSAD ARRIVES IN MOSCOW, IS GRANTED ASYLUM BY RUSSIA President Biden speaks about the situation in Syria in the Roosevelt Room at the White House on Dec. 8, 2024. (Chris Kleponis/AFP via Getty Images) Bashar al-Assad fled Syria after rebels stormed the capital city of Damascus on Saturday. Assad, whose government used chemical weapons repeatedly on its residents, reportedly fled with his wife and children. Biden said the U.S. did not have confirmation on Assad's whereabouts, noting that "there's word that he's in Moscow." Syria has been in the midst of a nearly 14-year civil war as Islamist rebels attempted to overthrow Assad and his family's dynasty, which had ruled the country for the last 50 years. "The United States will do whatever we can to support [Syrians], including through humanitarian relief, to help restore Syria after more than a decade of war and generations of brutality by the Assad family," Biden said. "And finally, we will remain vigilant. Make no mistake, some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human rights abuses. We've taken note of statements by the leaders of these rebel groups in recent days. And they're saying the right things now, but as they take on greater responsibility, we will assess not just their words, but their actions," Biden continued Sunday. Trump and Assad (Getty Images) The president noted that the U.S. will also continue efforts to secure American journalist Austin Tice, who has been missing in Syria for more than a decade. "We are mindful that there are Americans in Syria, including those who reside there, as well as Austin Tice, who was taken captive more than 12 years ago. We remain committed to returning him to his family," Biden said. Ahead of reports of Assad fleeing, President-elect Trump warned that the U.S. should not get involved in the civil war. TRUMP RESPONDS AFTER REBELS OVERTAKE SYRIA, OUSTING LONGTIME DICTATOR: ‘ASSAD IS GONE’ "Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!" he wrote. Trump added on Truth Social early Sunday morning: "Assad is gone. He has fled his country. His protector, Russia, Russia, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was not interested in protecting him any longer. There was no reason for Russia to be there in the first place. They lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine, where close to 600,000 Russian soldiers lay wounded or dead, in a war that should never have started, and could go on forever." President-elect Trump warned that the U.S. should not get involved in the Syrian civil war. (Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC) "Russia and Iran are in a weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success," his post continued. "Likewise, Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin." SYRIAN INSURGENTS REACH GATES OF DAMASCUS, THREATENING DECADES-LONG ASSAD REGIME President Bashar al-Assad on May 3, 2023, in Damascus, Syria. (Borna News/Matin Ghasemi/Aksonline ATPImages/Getty Images) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu touted the fall of Assad's regime on Sunday, saying it was a "direct result" of Israel's attacks on Iran and Hezbollah, while noting the situation overall is "fraught with significant dangers." Israel is in the midst of a more than year-long war after Hamas launched attacks on the nation on Oct. 7, 2023. TRUMP URGES US TO STAY OUT OF SYRIAN CIVIL WAR, BLAMING OBAMA FOR FAILURE AS ISLAMISTS CLOSE IN ON CAPITAL "This is a historic day for the Middle East. The collapse of the Assad regime, the tyranny in Damascus, offers great opportunity but also is fraught with significant dangers. This collapse is the direct result of our forceful action against Hezbollah and Iran, Assad's main supporters. It set off a chain reaction of all those who want to free themselves from this tyranny and its oppression," Netanyahu said Sunday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a televised statement on Nov. 26 in Jerusalem. (Israeli Government Press Office via AP) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "We send a hand of peace to all those beyond our border in Syria: to the Druze, to the Kurds, to the Christians, and to the Muslims who want to live in peace with Israel. We're going to follow events very carefully. If we can establish neighborly relations and peaceful relations with the new forces emerging in Syria, that's our desire. But if we do not, we will do whatever it takes to defend the State of Israel and the border of Israel," Netanyahu added. Fox News Digital's Michael Lee and Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report.Browns get 497-yard performance from QB Jameis Winston and lose anyway in season long gone sour
In a continent brimming with potential yet burdened by governance challenges, the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is bent on transforming the public sector in Africa. Through its AIG Public Leaders Programme, AIG PLP, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that they exemplify this commitment by equipping public sector leaders with the skills and tools needed to tackle complex challenges, drive reforms, and create lasting impact across their respective organisations and communities At the heart of the mission of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation is the belief that effective leadership is key to transforming public service delivery and enhancing the lives of citizens. The special purpose vehicle for this was by instituting AIG Public Leaders Programme (AIG PLP). Founded by Aigboje and Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, this flagship initiative has been equipping public sector leaders with the necessary tools and skills they need to tackle any challenge, while driving reforms, and creating lasting impact in their various organisations and communities. Commitment to Public Sector Excellence The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, a public sector-focused philanthropic organisation is dedicated to improving lives through transformed public service and better access to primary healthcare. Collaborating with governments, academic institutions, civil society, and private sector organisations, the foundation has made significant strides in strengthening public sector reform initiatives, providing capacity-building programmes, and supporting healthcare access. One of its central goals is to foster public sector leadership development, recognising the critical role that ethical, competent, and reform-minded leaders play in driving good governance. The Foundation has trained over 700 public servants to date, each one serving as a change agent within their ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The AIG Public Leaders Programme Launched in partnership with the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government, the AIG PLP is an executive leadership programme tailored to senior public servants across Africa. Now in its fourth year, the programme is a testament to the Foundation’s dedication to building a critical mass of ethical and skilled leaders who are empowered to address the unique challenges of the African public sector. With a six-month curriculum that combines online and in-person learning, participants engage in discussions, simulations, and practical exercises designed to enhance their leadership capabilities. A distinctive feature of the programme is its emphasis on capstone projects—real-world reform initiatives that participants develop to tackle pressing challenges within their organisations. These projects ensure that learning translates into actionable solutions, creating ripple effects of positive change. The latest cohort, which began in November 2024, comprises 68 public servants from across Africa. Participants will convene for an intensive residential week starting 18th November, where they will collaborate on group work, develop their capstone projects, and share insights with like-minded leaders. Filling the Gaps in Leadership Development Many public servants excel in technical expertise but lack the leadership competencies necessary for impactful decision-making. The AIG PLP bridges this gap by focusing on strategic thinking, problem-solving, and high-stakes decision-making. Alumni leave the programme as well-rounded leaders capable of driving responsive, citizen-centred governance. This focus has already borne fruit, with alumni spearheading transformative reforms in diverse sectors. For instance, Abraham Oludolapo’s project on combating sexual harassment within the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has provided a framework that ensures the safety of over 400,000 corps members annually. His work underscores the AIG PLP’s emphasis on ethical leadership and accountability, which are cornerstones of effective governance. Networking and Collaboration Public sector challenges are rarely confined to individual MDAs. Recognising this, the AIG PLP fosters collaboration among participants from different countries and sectors. By creating a space for knowledge-sharing and peer learning, the programme helps leaders develop innovative solutions to shared problems. This collaborative approach is key to ensuring more efficient and effective service delivery across the continent. Driving Policy and Social Impact The exposure to world-class training and best practices from developed countries equips AIG PLP alumni with the tools to drive policy innovation and systemic reforms. Dr Ibiwunmi Olokun’s reform project at the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, which reduced patient wait times from 70 to 30 minutes, is a testament to the programme’s impact. By improving operational efficiency, her initiative has enhanced healthcare delivery for thousands of patients while setting a benchmark for other primary healthcare centres. Similarly, Mohammed Ahmed’s efforts to combat financial crimes in Nigeria through improved intelligence-sharing and regulatory compliance illustrate the transformative power of strategic leadership. His work has strengthened financial integrity and accountability, vital components of a robust economic system. PLP as a Catalyst for Change The achievements of AIG PLP alumni speak volumes about the programme’s transformative potential. From Arc Joy Osaretin Baderin’s implementation of a performance management system in Nigeria’s Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to Dr Chidinma Ogbonnaya’s health database upgrade at the Nigeria Immigration Service, each success story highlights the tangible benefits of investing in leadership development. Notably, the programme’s reach extends beyond Nigeria. Caroline Kendagor, a High Court Judge in Kenya and an alumnus of the third cohort, credits the AIG PLP for preparing her to navigate the demands of judicial leadership. Her story underscores the programme’s role in fostering ethical governance and strategic decision-making across Africa. Promoting Ethical Leadership and Accountability At its core, the AIG PLP champions ethical leadership and accountability. By nurturing leaders committed to transparency and integrity, the programme helps build public trust and reduce corruption. Alumni are trained to recognise and mitigate biases, fostering a culture of fairness and accountability within their institutions. Vision for Africa’s Future The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation’s long-term vision is ambitious yet achievable: to empower over 3,000 public sector leaders across Africa within the next decade. By aligning its initiatives with national civil service reform strategies, such as Nigeria’s Federal Civil Service Strategy Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), the Foundation ensures its efforts are both relevant and impactful. The AIG PLP is not just a programme; it is a movement towards a better future for Africa. By cultivating a network of change agents equipped with innovative approaches to governance, the programme is laying the groundwork for systemic transformation that will benefit millions of citizens. The Call to Action As the AIG PLP continues to expand its impact, the need for partnerships with private sector and philanthropic organisations has never been greater. Collaboration is essential to scaling these initiatives and ensuring that the gains made in leadership development translate into widespread improvements in public service delivery. For policymakers, donors, and citizens alike, the message is clear: investing in leadership development is not a luxury but a necessity. The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation’s efforts demonstrate that with the right training and support, public servants can rise to the occasion, delivering the transformative change that Africa so urgently needs. Undoubtedly, the AIG Public Leaders Programme exemplifies the power of leadership in driving systemic change. By equipping public servants with the skills, tools, and networks they need, the programme is building a future where public institutions work for the people they serve. As alumni continue to implement reforms and rise to positions of greater influence, the ripple effects of the AIG PLP will be felt across the continent, improving lives and shaping a brighter future for all. Quote The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation’s long-term vision is ambitious yet achievable: to empower over 3,000 public sector leaders across Africa within the next decade... The AIG PLP is not just a programme; it is a movement towards a better future for Africa. By cultivating a network of change agents equipped with innovative approaches to governance, the programme is laying the groundwork for systemic transformation that will benefit millions of citizens Caption Participants of the Cohort 4 AIG Public Leaders Programme with Head of the Civil Service, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON; Chairman of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR; and Executive Vice Chair, Mrs. Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, in Abuja for the Residential Week of the AIG PLP programme...recentlyChristmas candy is flying off shelves at Dollar Tree with $1.25 price tag – it’s similar to Target but over 80% cheaper
Regulated entities such as banks and financial services companies are evaluating options like having backup service providers and tightening their data-sharing norms with technology service companies in the wake of a massive data leak that impacted Signzy . Bengaluru-based Signzy is a regulatory technology firm which offers digital customer onboarding technology to banks, financial services companies and other businesses. It helps in customer identity verification, processing electronic signatures, bank statement analysis and offersother such services. Its platform is used in account opening, credit disbursal, processing investments and also in the insurance industry. The firm suffered a massive data breach a week ago, resulting in hundreds of gigabytes of data of customers of mutual fund firms, banks and credit card companies getting leaked in multiple hacker forums. A few of the impacted financial institutions have started enquiring for new partnership opportunities, three senior industry executives told ET on condition of anonymity. “Usually, banks work with multiple service providers, but they typically have one vendor for their savings product, one for the credit card product and so on. Now they are evaluating if they can diversify their partnership base further in the wake of the Signzy episode,” said one of the executives. 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He said banks need to ensure that customer details are stored only at their end, adding that perhaps they also need to have stricter security protocols for companies which are integrated into their systems. Discover the stories of your interest Blockchain 5 Stories Cyber-safety 7 Stories Fintech 9 Stories E-comm 9 Stories ML 8 Stories Edtech 6 Stories Last week, a Signzy spokesperson told ET, “We have been informed about a security incident recently and we are in the process of investigation. We value the importance of cybersecurity. We are taking utmost care of the same.” When ET reached out to Signzy cofounder Ankit Ratan with queries on some banks stopping working with the company after the breach, a company spokesperson said that the information was incorrect. “In fact, we had proactively informed all our clients immediately after the cybersecurity incident and took swift action and immediate steps to secure all our clients. On the contrary to your question, our clients appreciated our cyber resilience practices and transparency,” the spokesperson said. Anatomy of the fraud Signzy works with some of the largest financial players in the country including State Bank of India , ICICI Bank and Aditya Birla Financial Services, as per details on its website. A cybersecurity researcher who has looked at the datasets that were leaked said there was data including customer identification documents, addresses and contact numbers. ET has seen a snapshot of the data that was leaked. It showed that the data being put up for sale had video recordings of customers holding their identity documents beside them as well as recordings of video calls with employees. This was part of the process of conducting a video know-your-customer confirmation as laid out in regulatory guidelines. The banker quoted earlier said that many financial institutions outsource a number of their processes to fintechs and such breaches show how vulnerable such arrangements are. Industry impact One of the industry executives cited earlier, who is close to the development, said that the incident had shaken the entire regtech sector. The sophistication of the attack and the size showed that any company sitting on personal data was not safe and it needed to invest heavily in its data security systems, he said. A founder of a rival regtech firm told ET that the company was relooking into its own systems to ensure there was no such vulnerability. He added that the firm’s partner banks had also raised questions on whether the security systems around their datasets were sound. “We are keen to understand how all this happened so we can also take precautions,” he said. While banks and other regulated entities might be operating within strict regulatory guardrails, the executives quoted earlier said that rapid digitisation had made them open up their systems to multiple third-party service providers, many of whom are not regulated entities. Additionally, being startups themselves, how much they were investing in setting up serious security protocols would now be under scrutiny, one of them said. “Many new-age tech firms are undertaking a data mapping exercise to understand where their data is flowing or getting shared. This will be very important in terms of a plugging perspective, especially once the DPDP ( Digital Personal Data Protection ) Act gets notified,” said one of the executives cited earlier. Perhaps financial institutions need to embark on a similar journey to ensure that their customer data is safe across platforms, said the executive.The world stands at the dawn of a “third nuclear age” in which Britain is threatened by multiple dilemmas, the head of the armed forces has warned. But alongside his stark warning of the threats facing Britain and its allies, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said there would be only a “remote chance” Russia would directly attack or invade the UK if the two countries were at war. The Chief of the Defence Staff laid out the landscape of British defence in a wide-ranging speech, after a minister warned the Army would be wiped out in as little as six months if forced to fight a war on the scale of the Ukraine conflict. The admiral cast doubt on the possibility as he gave a speech at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) defence think tank in London. He told the audience Britain needed to be “clear-eyed in our assessment” of the threats it faces, adding: “That includes recognising that there is only a remote chance of a significant direct attack or invasion by Russia on the United Kingdom, and that’s the same for the whole of Nato.” Moscow “knows the response will be overwhelming”, he added, but warned the nuclear deterrent needed to be “kept strong and strengthened”. Sir Tony added: “We are at the dawn of a third nuclear age, which is altogether more complex. It is defined by multiple and concurrent dilemmas, proliferating nuclear and disruptive technologies and the almost total absence of the security architectures that went before.” The first nuclear age was the Cold War, while the second was “governed by disarmament efforts and counter proliferation”, the armed forces chief said. He listed the “wild threats of tactical nuclear use” by Russia, China building up its weapon stocks, Iran’s failure to co-operate with a nuclear deal, and North Korea’s “erratic behaviour” among the threats faced by the West. But Sir Tony said the UK’s nuclear arsenal is “the one part of our inventory of which Russia is most aware and has more impact on (President Vladimir) Putin than anything else”. Successive British governments had invested “substantial sums of money” in renewing nuclear submarines and warheads because of this, he added. The admiral described the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers on Ukraine’s border alongside Russian forces as the year’s “most extraordinary development”. He also signalled further deployments were possible, speaking of “tens of thousands more to follow as part of a new security pact with Russia”. Defence minister Alistair Carns earlier said a rate of casualties similar to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine would lead to the army being “expended” within six to 12 months. He said it illustrated the need to “generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis”. In comments reported by Sky News, Mr Carns, a former Royal Marines colonel, said Russia was suffering losses of around 1,500 soldiers killed or injured a day. “In a war of scale – not a limited intervention, but one similar to Ukraine – our Army for example, on the current casualty rates, would be expended – as part of a broader multinational coalition – in six months to a year,” Mr Carns said in a speech at Rusi. He added: “That doesn’t mean we need a bigger Army, but it does mean you need to generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis.” Official figures show the Army had 109,245 personnel on October 1, including 25,814 volunteer reservists. Mr Carns, the minister for veterans and people, said the UK needed to “catch up with Nato allies” to place greater emphasis on the reserves. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said Defence Secretary John Healey had previously spoken about “the state of the armed forces that were inherited from the previous government”. The spokesman said: “It’s why the Budget invested billions of pounds into defence, it’s why we’re undertaking a strategic defence review to ensure that we have the capabilities and the investment needed to defend this country.”
In your everyday life, time and space know how to behave. A kilometre is a kilometre, and an hour is an hour – no matter how late you are running. Perception is not reality. Einstein showed space and time were one thing, and it bends and warps. A decade ago, astronomers for the first time observed gravitational waves: universe-spanning ripples that move through space-time – and through us. This discovery proved to be only part of the story. Astronomers are finding our universe is so permeated by gravitational waves, the fabric of reality is constantly in flux. Australian astronomers have created the most detailed maps of gravitational waves across the universe to date. Credit: Carl Knox / OzGrav / Swinburne University of Technology / South African Radio Astronomy Observatory The picture that is coming into focus, says astronomer Dr Matt Miles, is one that shows the universe as a vast ocean, dark and powerful. “The Earth is really just a ship, being bounced across the waves. The universe is constantly changing size. Time is constantly changing. The Earth is just riding that wave.” In a series of papers published last week in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society , a group of Australian astronomers reveal the strongest evidence yet for what they call the “gravitational wave background”: the constant rippling of space-time. Einstein imagined space like a piece of stretched fabric, with stars and planets and black holes scattered across it. Their mass bends and curves the fabric. The moon orbits the Earth because it is trapped in the depression in space-time created by the Earth’s mass – it spins like a coin in a funnel. Now, on the stretched fabric of space, introduce a very heavy spinning object: a pair of super-massive black holes orbiting each other. University of Sydney researcher Dr Sean Farrell was part of an international team of astronomers which observed a star that had strayed too close to a super-massive black hole being torn apart. Credit: Ute Kraus These spinning objects create ripples that spread through the sheet: gravitational waves. As these waves pass through us, space is distorted just slightly. The Earth – and everyone on it – widens and then shrinks. Why don’t we notice? Because a fish that lives in the ocean does not notice the waves. “Waves and currents pass through the literal fabric they live in,” says Rowina Nathan, an astronomer at Monash University who co-wrote one of the papers. “It’s the same for us.” Scientists have been spotting single waves passing through Earth since 2015. The new papers show waves are rippling throughout the entire universe. The LIGO interferometer in Livingston, Louisiana, which is used to detect gravitational waves. The team took observations of pulsars, rapidly spinning remains of supernovas, which emit bursts of radiation with such regularity they can be used as cosmic lighthouses. Over almost five years, the team used the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa to measure the distance between Earth and 83 pulsars. They watched as the distances widened and shrank – by up to the size of a tennis court – revealing what Miles describes as a “cacophony of noise” from the many waves they could see. With this information, they have created the most detailed maps of gravitational waves across the universe to date. Exotic explanations The next question to answer: what is causing these waves? The simple answer, if you can call it that, is super-massive black hole pairs. We know they produce single waves; it is likely there are enough of them out there to set the fabric of reality constantly in motion. But there are other more exotic explanations. “The physics is a little wild,” admits Miles, an astronomer with OzGrav at Swinburne University who led two of the papers. The first is known as “cosmological phase transition”. In the moments after the Big Bang, the universe was so hot the physical forces, like electromagnetism, that govern our reality had not yet formed. Eventually, parts of the universe cooled enough for basic physics to start functioning. But – in theory – this did not happen everywhere at once. This produced regions within the early universe operating on different physical laws. As these regions – or bubbles – came into contact with each other, the different physics collapsed into symmetry, releasing huge amounts of energy – and, possibly, gravitational waves. The gravitational wave background may be the leftover ripples from the bursting of those bubbles. If that theory is not exotic enough, there’s a second: cosmic strings. When the regions of the early universe came into contact, rather than bursting, they may have created long fractures – imperfections in the fabric of space-time. “They get frozen in when the universe cooled from its very hot state. And you can’t get rid of them,” says Professor Eric Thrane, an astrophysicist at Monash University. As these long fractures move, they could also generate gravitational waves. “People really believe in these. We don’t know if we’ll ever be able to prove it,” says Miles. Gravitational waves further tell us the universe is a strange and wonderful thing. “The universe is this very exciting cosmic dance,” says Miles. “And the Earth is going along with the motions.” The Examine newsletter explains and analyses science with a rigorous focus on the evidence. Sign up to get it each week .