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Nani, a seasoned footballer with a successful career that includes stints at top clubs such as Manchester United, Fenerbahçe, and Valencia, returned to Sporting CP in 2018 after more than a decade away from the club. His return was met with great excitement and anticipation from Sporting fans, who welcomed back one of their own with open arms.
In the world of football, sacrifices are often made in pursuit of glory. Real Madrid, one of the most successful clubs in the history of the sport, recently made a monumental decision that has captured the attention of fans around the globe. In a bid to save their season and salvage their hopes of success in the European competitions, the team announced that they would be making an unprecedented move - returning to the pitch 10 days earlier than planned.
As the sun began to set on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the parade ground, a sense of camaraderie and camaraderie filled the air. The new soldiers were ready to embark on their journey to new battlefronts, guided by the values instilled in them by their families and mentors. And for the parents who had witnessed this momentous occasion, it was a memory they would cherish forever - a memory of their children's military "coming of age."In the end, Zhejiang's victory over Guangzhou was a testament to the brilliance of Wu Qian and his ability to elevate his team to new heights. His 12 three-pointers, 6 assists, and 5 steals were not just impressive statistics but a reflection of his all-around excellence and unwavering commitment to success. With Wu Qian leading the charge, the Zhejiang Lions look poised to continue their winning ways and make a statement in the league.
Prof. Moyo Blasts SA Govt Statement Over Mozambique ViolenceFurthermore, the strong performance of the U.S. stock market in recent days also provided a tailwind for the Hong Kong market, as investors looked to capitalize on the positive momentum in international markets. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite both closed at record highs yesterday, and this bullish sentiment spilled over into Asian markets today.
In a world often characterized by hustle and bustle, it is moments like these that remind us of the profound impact a simple act of kindness can have. And as we reflect on Mrs. May's unexpected journey home, let us also take a cue from Mr. Lee's example and strive to be beacons of compassion and support for those in need in our own communities.Keanu Reeves has expressed mixed feelings about the possibility of returning for John Wick Chapter 5 . Reeves has cited physical reason as a pivotal factor. ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for As per People magazine, in a recent interview to promote his role as the villain Shadow in 'Sonic the Hedgehog 3', the 60-year-old actor was asked whether he would consider returning for another 'John Wick' film. The Hollywood star replied that while his heart may be willing, his body, specifically his knees, might not be up for the challenge, ANI reported. His response was candid, revealing the physical toll that playing the iconic assassin has taken over the years. Despite this, Reeves remains involved in the 'John Wick' universe. He will reprise his role as the legendary hitman in a cameo for the upcoming spinoff 'From the World of John Wick: Ballerina', which is set to hit theatres on June 6. In the 'Ballerina' film, Reeves' character will appear briefly alongside a new cast, including Cisely Saldivar and Ana de Armas. 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View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Mastering Full Stack Development: From Frontend to Backend Excellence By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy i.e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By - CA Rahul Gupta, CA with 10+ years of experience and Accounting Educator View Program Data Science SQL Server Bootcamp 2024: Transform from Beginner to Pro By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program The 'John Wick' franchise, which began with the 2014 film, has become one of the most successful action series of all time. The first film introduced Reeves as a retired hitman seeking revenge for the death of his beloved dog, and it quickly garnered a loyal fanbase. "John Wick: Chapter 2" was released in 2017, "John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum" was premiered in 2019, and John Wick: Chapter 4 hit the theatres in 2023. The franchise as a whole has grossed over USD 1 billion worldwide, according to People magazine. Along with the films, the 'John Wick' universe has expanded to include a prequel series, "The Continental", as well as video games and comic books. FAQs Q1. What are 'John Wick' films? A1. 'John Wick' franchise, which began with the 2014 film. "John Wick: Chapter 2" was released in 2017, "John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum" was premiered in 2019, and John Wick: Chapter 4 hit the theatres in 2023. The franchise as a whole has grossed over USD 1 billion worldwide. Q2. What are 'John Wick' prequel, sequel films? A2. 'John Wick' prequel, sequel films include 'Ballerina' and "The Continental". 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CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals took care of business and won three straight games for the first time this season. Cincinnati is playing its best football, but it might be too late to sneak into the playoffs, with five teams battling for the two remaining AFC postseason spots. At 7-8, the Bengals are on the bubble along with two other teams that have the same record, the Colts and Dolphins. To have a chance, the Bengals will need to beat the visiting Denver Broncos (9-6) on Saturday, then try to take down the Steelers (10-5) at Pittsburgh in the regular-season finale. They'll need some help from other teams, too. The rub for the Bengals is that they have yet to beat a team with a winning record this season. Now with some momentum for the first time, the Bengals will have to clear that hurdle. “It’s just what it’s supposed to feel like for us. This is our expectation," coach Zac Taylor said after the Bengals beat the Cleveland Browns 24-6 on Sunday. “We just put ourselves in a position to now play some real meaningful games. ... We found a way to get the win and now we can turn our focus to a short week and the Denver Broncos.” Joe Burrow became the first player in NFL history to throw for at least 250 yards and three or more touchdowns in seven consecutive games. One of his TD passes, to Tee Higgins, came as he was falling down. He finished 23 for 30 for 252 yards. ... Ja'Marr Chase continues to build his resume as he strives to win the receiving “triple crown.” He had six catches for 97 yards and a touchdown against the Browns and leads the league in receptions, yards and TDs. ... K Cade York tied a franchise record with a 59-yard field goal. “The guys have responded this way all season,” Taylor said. “We lost some heartbreakers to be quite frank, and games that just came down to the end. It doesn’t mean that we’ve had a bad football team and we weren’t in it. We’ve been in this, and now — I don’t want to say getting our confidence back, because we’ve had confidence — but we’re just making the plays necessary at the critical points of the game to take control of these games. That’s really what’s happened the last three weeks, and we’ve got to continue that.” Burrow has fumbled 10 times this season. Against the Browns, he lost a fumble on a strip-sack with the Bengals on the Cleveland 2-yard-line. Last week, S Jordan Battle scooped a fumble and ran it all the way back, only to fumble as he crossed the goal line, leading to a touchback. Against the Browns, he intercepted a second-half pass from Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the end zone. The Bengals' defense has nine takeaways in the past two games. Cincinnati's depleted offensive line allowed four sacks. The offensive line took a hit when tackle Amarius Mims went out with an ankle injury and didn't return. 5.1 — Yards per carry by RB Chase Brown, who seems to get better every week. He had 18 carries for 91 yards. The Bengals continue their improbable effort to slip into the playoffs when they host the Broncos in their home finale on Saturday. They finish the season the following week at Pittsburgh. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLCentoni, EVP and Chief Customer Experience Officer at Cisco, Brings Proven Expertise in Elevating Customer Success PLEASANTON, Calif. , Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Workday, Inc . (NASDAQ: WDAY), a leading provider of solutions to help organizations manage their people and money , today announced the election of Liz Centoni, executive vice president and chief customer experience officer at Cisco, to its board of directors. Centoni is a seasoned leader who has a passion for leveraging technology to drive customer success and deliver unparalleled experiences. Throughout her career, Centoni has been spearheading initiatives that have significantly enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty. "Liz's passion for championing customer success aligns perfectly with our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences, making her an ideal addition to our Board," said Carl Eschenbach , CEO, Workday. "Her expertise will be instrumental in ensuring that we continue to exceed customer expectations as we innovate and grow." Centoni has held a range of senior engineering and strategy roles during her 24 years at Cisco. In 2024, she led the company's $28 billion acquisition of Splunk, positioning Cisco at the forefront of the AI revolution. Centoni was also instrumental in developing Cisco's responsible AI framework, and has advocated for equity in tech at events including World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting. She is an active mentor and sponsor of underrepresented groups, including serving as Cisco's global executive sponsor for the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program. "Joining Workday's board is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with a company that shares my passion for empowering people and organizations through innovative technology and AI," said Liz Centoni , executive vice president and chief customer experience officer, Cisco. "I'm eager to leverage my experience to further strengthen Workday's customer-centric approach and contribute to its continued growth." Centoni's appointment is effective as of today. About Workday Workday is a leading enterprise platform that helps organizations manage their most important assets – their people and money . The Workday platform is built with AI at the core to help customers elevate people, supercharge work, and move their business forever forward. Workday is used by more than 10,500 organizations around the world and across industries – from medium-sized businesses to more than 60% of the Fortune 500. For more information about Workday, visit workday.com . © 2024 Workday, Inc. All rights reserved. Workday and the Workday logo are registered trademarks of Workday, Inc. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements including, among other things, statements regarding Workday's plans, beliefs, and expectations. These forward-looking statements are based only on currently available information and our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. If the risks materialize, assumptions prove incorrect, or we experience unexpected changes in circumstances, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements, and therefore you should not rely on any forward-looking statements. Risks include, but are not limited to, risks described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including our most recent report on Form 10-Q or Form 10-K and other reports that we have filed and will file with the SEC from time to time, which could cause actual results to vary from expectations. Workday assumes no obligation to, and does not currently intend to, update any such forward-looking statements after the date of this release, except as required by law. Any unreleased services, features, or functions referenced in this document, our website, or other press releases or public statements that are not currently available are subject to change at Workday's discretion and may not be delivered as planned or at all. Customers who purchase Workday services should make their purchase decisions based upon services, features, and functions that are currently available. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/workday-appoints-liz-centoni-to-its-board-of-directors-302321567.html SOURCE Workday Inc.As the year draws to a close, it's time to take stock of the footballing landscape and look ahead to the upcoming season. One key aspect that often flies under the radar is the list of mega stars whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the year. From seasoned veterans to up-and-coming talents, these players hold the key to their respective clubs' success in the coming season. Here, we take a closer look at eleven footballing superstars whose contracts are set to expire next year.
BRUSSELS , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In an upcoming EU Reporter interview , M. Shigeo Katsu , Founding President of Nazarbayev University (NU) and a key architect of Kazakhstan's education reforms, will address the escalating scandal surrounding financial mismanagement at the country's flagship higher education institution. The crisis gained public attention following the announcement of the state audit results of Nazarbayev University. The revelations have sparked widespread concerns about transparency and oversight at one of Central Asia's most prestigious universities. Adding to the controversy are allegations of financial mismanagement involving the New Generation Foundation, the Jusan Group — entities originally established to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of NU and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). Questions have also been raised about the state of affairs at NU's Social Development Fund. Reports suggest that funds may have been misappropriated, triggering outrage from students, educators, and civil society. In response, a student initiative group from Nazarbayev University issued an open letter demanding the release of both the state audit and NU's internal audit of the Social Development Fund. The letter also calls for greater accountability, enhanced transparency, and the protection of students' rights. This appeal reflects mounting frustration with the university's leadership and a growing demand for immediate corrective action. Shigeo Katsu's interview will shed light on these unfolding developments. As a former leader of NU, Katsu is uniquely positioned to analyze the root causes of the crisis, critique the university's response, and discuss the broader implications for Kazakhstan's education sector. The full interview can be found here: https://www.eureporter.co/kazakhstan-2/2024/12/23/the-battle-for-nazarbayev-universitys-future-shigeo-katsu-on-financial-mismanagement-and-accountability/ The Battle for Nazarbayev University's Future: Shigeo Katsu on Financial Mismanagement and Accountability In light of recent controversies surrounding the financial governance of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS), an open letter from concerned students has surfaced, addressing the troubling mismanagement of funds and alleged conflicts of interest. The letter highlights a series of financial decisions that led to the unraveling of key institutions meant to ensure the long-term stability of NU and NIS. The students are particularly concerned about the fate of the Jusan Group and the Nazarbayev Fund (NGF), which were once positioned to secure the financial future of these two leading educational institutions. Instead, they allege that significant funds were misappropriated and whole organizations lost, leading to the collapse of what was once a promising financial structure. In response, Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, has also written an open letter , received by EU Reporter, addressing the ongoing crisis and providing his perspective on the unfolding situation. In his letter, Katsu outlines the rationale of engagement in the financial sector and the erosion of the initial vision for NU, highlighting the role of key financial institutions like Jusan Bank and the NGF in securing a stable future for the university and NIS. He draws attention to the series of decisions that led to the loss of the former and calls for urgent remedial actions to prevent further damage to the institutions' credibility and financial stability . In this exclusive interview with EU Reporter , Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, sheds light on these pressing issues. He discusses the audit findings, the role of Jusan Bank , and what must be done to restore trust and secure the future of NU and NIS. Bio: Mr. Shigeo Katsu is the Founding President of Nazarbayev University. He held the position of President from December 2010 until June 2023 . He was Chair of the Board of Trustees of an affiliated secondary school system, the Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, and of the University's hospital system. Prior to the assignments in Kazakhstan , over the course of a 30-year career at the World Bank, Mr. Shigeo Katsu held various positions including leading financial sector reform support for China , Director for Cote d'Ivoire , and Vice President for Europe and Central Asia . After his retirement from the World Bank, he served for a few years on the US board of a youth-oriented international development NGO. Between 2011 and 2015 he was an Advisory Panel member of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO). Questions: - We have exclusively published your open letter and anticipate that it will generate a significant response. What drove you to write it, particularly in light of the misuse of funds intended to ensure the long-term financial stability of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS)? The decision to write the open letter was not made lightly. It was driven by a profound sense of responsibility to the students, faculty, and broader community of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). These institutions were established with a vision to create world-class educational hubs in Kazakhstan and establish a center of excellence for academic research. Ensuring their financial independence and long-term stability is a core requirement to achieve the two institutions' mission. However, recent developments revealed through state and internal audits have exposed serious breaches of trust. The misuse of funds from entities like the University's Social Development Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group directly threatens the sustainability of NU and NIS. These funds were meant to build up and guarantee the financial security of the institutions. Instead, we now see signs of embezzlement, mismanagement, and a concerning lack of accountability. The role played by key figures like the directors and executives of NGF, of Aslan Sarinzhipov (Executive Vice President of NU, a former Minister of Education) and Kadisha Dairova (Vice President for Student Affairs and International Cooperation, Nazarbayev University) only adds to the gravity of the situation. By writing the letter, my goal was to bring transparency to the issue and to mobilize public attention and international scrutiny. NU and NIS were founded on principles of meritocracy, transparency, and academic freedom. If we allow these values to be compromised, we risk undoing more than a decade of progress. The letter serves as a call for accountability, reform, and most importantly, protection of the future of Kazakhstan's youth. - Many students and alumni of NU have expressed their concern over the lowering of admission standards and the shift away from international standards. How do you assess these changes, and do you see them as diverging from the original vision for NU? NU was conceived as a model of excellence , designed to meet international standards in research, teaching, and governance. One of its founding principles was merit-based admission , which ensured that students were selected solely based on their ability and potential. This meritocratic foundation was not only an academic principle but a reflection of NU's mission to transform Kazakhstan's education system. Students, alumni, faculty and staff have worked hard to build NU's name. Now students, alumni and parents are rightly concerned that the lowering of admission standards undermines this mission and risks eroding the university's reputation both domestically and internationally. Such changes create the perception that NU is moving away from its original vision of being a world-class institution. To restore confidence, NU must reaffirm its commitment to international standards, transparency, and academic rigor. Reverting to merit-based admissions and prioritizing excellence will send a clear message that the institution remains steadfast in its mission. In the Open Letter, I stated that in theory, a policy of opening the entry door wider, but then be resolutely strict in terms of progression and graduation based on academic integrity and merit could work. There are some cases globally. However, it can only work if there is a full commitment to integrity and merit, openness and transparency, and NU's original values are upheld. But unfortunately, what I have observed and heard about recent developments at NU does not make me optimistic. While administration is supposedly in a belt-tightening mode, new senior positions were created and filled with scant regard for a proper hiring process and qualification. Conflict of interest and restrictions on hiring family members have been discarded. These are just a few of the institutional changes that will inevitably bleed over into the academic fabric as well. Is this the example that senior management wants to present to our students? - Do you believe the current situation, where the financial foundations like the Social Development Fund and New Generation Foundation were mismanaged, reflects a broader crisis within Kazakhstan's governance and democracy? Absolutely, but to be fair, this corporate governance crisis is not just limited to Kazakhstan . The findings of the internal audit conducted by NU on the Social Development Fund (SDF) reveal a systemic absence of check and balances and accountability that extends beyond these institutions. Mismanagement and theft, such as those involving Aslan Sarinzhipov , have not only undermined NU and NIS but also shaken public trust in Kazakhstan's leadership. The financial institutions linked to NU and NIS—Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group — were designed to guarantee long-term financial stability for education in Kazakhstan , securing the futures of NU and NIS for decades. However, NGF and Jusan Group's systematic depletion and dismantling highlight the country's struggle with accountability and the need for deep structural reform. This mismanagement reflects broader governance failings—particularly a lack of oversight, transparency, and mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest. I cannot pronounce myself on the current status of the NF, but I would not be surprised if one discovers similar shortcomings there as well. I had called for an audit for some time until my departure but was not successful. The impact extends beyond education, affecting the economic and social fabric of Kazakhstan . Addressing these issues requires not just reforms within these organizations but also a renewed commitment to governance, accountability, and emphasis on establishing the rule of law. - With the financial stability once promised by entities like the NGF now in jeopardy, how do you envision NU's future without those foundational guarantees? The original intent of the Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group was to provide NU and NIS with long-term financial stability. These entities were carefully designed to ensure that Kazakhstan's leading educational institutions could eventually operate in a manner less affected by state budget fluctuations. However, as the audits reveal, these institutions have been systematically mismanaged and looted, jeopardizing the financial future of NU and NIS. NU's survival and success now depend on a bold and transparent strategy. The first step is to rebuild trust with the public, students, and alumni by publishing the findings of both the state audit of NU and the internal audit of SDF. Then, those responsible are held accountable. Financially, NU must re-establish a diversified funding model. This includes rebuilding its endowments and enhancing additional revenue streams, such as a logical and sound tuition policy, executive education and collaboration with industry and business in the form of contract research. Transparency and governance reform will be key to attract donors and investors who believe in NU's mission and potential. - The Supreme Audit Chamber of Kazakhstan , in its state audit, reported the mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge at Nazarbayev University , as well as allegations of half a billion tenge being used illegally. What is your opinion on this, and how should the university address governance and corruption issues? I have not had the opportunity to access the state audit report, thus it is difficult to comment. If the cited amount in mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge over six years is true, it is scandalous. However, we do not know what the auditors' definition and criteria of mismanagement is. So, let's first find out what the report actually says. What is clear, however, is the outcome of a 2023 internal audit of NU's Social Development Fund (SDF) , and it is sobering. This SDF audit reveals a blatant disregard of corporate governance principles, where individuals entrusted with university resources prioritized personal gain over the mission of NU. The audit revealed that SDF management led by current NU Executive Vice President Aslan Sarinzhipov constructed an intricate web of subsidiary entities, including abroad, to systematically evade the oversight and control of the University. Funds ( over 14 billion tenge ) meant to assist students and faculty were used for personal gains of Aslan Sarinzhipov and questionable deals. Unfortunately, NU senior officials such as Vice President Kadisha Dairova participated in such schemes. When I voiced my concern earlier over the developments at NU, it is largely because of the track record of senior officials there. For NU to move forward, it must adopt zero-tolerance policies for corruption, demand accountability from those responsible, and reform its governance structures to ensure transparency. - Why do some claim there is a lack of funds for NU and NIS, despite the promises of financial stability from their endowment funds? The claim of a lack of funds is a direct consequence of the systematic looting of resources from the New Generation Foundation and Jusan Group. These entities were explicitly designed to contribute to NU and NIS' long-term financial sustainability against the backdrop of reduced state funding. However, as I described in my Open Letter, these innovative financial structures have been undermined by mismanagement, and outright theft. For instance: Rebuilding financial stability will require recovering stolen assets, reforming governance structures, and restoring public trust through full transparency and accountability. - Given the scale of financial mismanagement, what steps are necessary to ensure accountability for those involved, including senior officials? Accountability must begin with transparency. First, all findings from the audits should be made public, and independent investigations should be conducted to identify those responsible. No individual, regardless of rank or influence, should be above scrutiny. Second, legal consequences must follow where wrongdoing is found. Kazakhstan's legal system must demonstrate its independence and commitment to justice by prosecuting those who exploited these funds. Finally, governance reforms are essential. NU and its associated entities must implement stricter checks and balances, including external audits, whistleblower protections, and oversight committees with independent members. These steps are not just about rectifying past mistakes—they're about ensuring a future where such mismanagement cannot happen again. - The audit findings were just the beginning of uncovering deeper issues. Is there more information you can share about how these financial foundations were exploited and what this means for the future of NU and NIS? The patterns that have emerged—opaque transactions, conflicts of interest, and questionable settlements—are deeply troubling. For instance, the transfer of assets to private hands under unclear terms raises red flags about the intentions behind such decisions. This exploitation puts the futures of NU and NIS at risk. These institutions were designed to be financially independent, insulated from political and economic volatility. The weakening of their financial foundations erodes their ability to deliver on their missions and betrays the trust of the Kazakhstani people, who have invested in these institutions through their taxes. The way forward requires not just recovering lost assets but rebuilding the governance systems that allowed this exploitation to occur. - Nazarbayev University was founded with a mission to serve as a model for higher education in Kazakhstan , supported by funds like those from the Nazarbayev Fund and New Generation Foundation. What was your original vision for the university, and how did these funds play a critical role in realizing that vision? The vision for NU was bold: to create an institution that could compete with the best universities in the world while serving as a model for higher education reform in Kazakhstan . From day one, we envisioned NU as a hub for innovation, research, and leadership development—a place where the brightest minds could come together to solve the challenges of tomorrow. However, one should not forget that universities, in particular research universities, are a long-term endeavor. They are meant to educate and develop generations upon generations of leaders and professionals in a broad range of sectors, and thus contribute to the scientific, economic, and societal wealth of countries. Building a strong institution that can meet the test of time requires long-term and unwavering commitments to foundational values such as integrity, meritocracy, excellence, openness and transparency. But of course, strong financial support from government and other stakeholders is needed, especially in the first decades. Thus, it was understood that NU would be dependent on state funding (through education grants and capital investments) for the initial decades of its existence, while in the meantime it would develop other sources of financing such as through endowment funds, tuition, and contract research. The Nazarbayev Fund, NGF and the Jusan Group were integral parts of this vision. This overall construct allowed us to recruit world-class faculty, develop state-of-the-art facilities, and provide scholarships to talented students, many from underprivileged backgrounds. These resources weren't just financial—they were a vote of confidence in NU's mission and a recognition of the transformative power of education. The loss of these resources is a significant setback, but I do hope that NU can recover. The university must focus on rebuilding trust with its stakeholders—students, faculty, alumni, and the public. This starts with transparency in financial management and governance. Diversifying funding sources will be crucial. This includes rebuilding its endowments, engaging with the philanthropic community, and developing innovative revenue streams. But most importantly, NU must stay true to its mission and values. Financial stability is important, but it must never come at the cost of compromising the university's integrity or academic excellence. Restoring NU's credibility begins with transparency. For instance, the university must share the audit report with stakeholders, and openly address any major shortcomings highlighted in the audit, including financial mismanagement and governance failures. An independent investigation, followed by public disclosure of findings, will demonstrate a commitment to accountability. Next, an affirmation of NU's commitment to its foundational values and principles is needed. Next, institutional reforms are essential. This includes introducing stronger oversight mechanisms for financial and administrative processes, ensuring that governance boards are staffed with individuals of the highest integrity and independence, and that management, faculty and staff are recruited on the basis of transparency and merit. Fourth, NU must recommit itself to its founding mission of academic excellence. This means maintaining rigorous admission standards, prioritizing high-quality faculty recruitment, and fostering research that addresses national and global challenges. And finally, engaging the NU community—students, faculty, alumni, and parents—in shaping the university's path forward is critical. A transparent, inclusive process will rebuild trust and reaffirm NU's position as a leader in higher education. Educational reform is not just critical—it is foundational to Kazakhstan's economic recovery and long-term stability. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in education systems worldwide, but it also underscored the importance of adaptability, innovation, and resilience. For Kazakhstan , investing in education means investing in the future. A well-educated population is essential for diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investment, and fostering innovation. Institutions like NU and NIS must lead the way by setting benchmarks for quality and demonstrating the value of education in driving economic progress. Moreover, reform must focus on equity. Expanding access to high-quality education for students from socially vulnerable backgrounds will ensure that economic recovery benefits all segments of society, not just the privileged few. - How do you see the role of institutions like NU and NIS in not only providing quality education but also contributing to economic growth in Kazakhstan , especially when financial stability is threatened? NU and NIS are more than educational institutions—they are catalysts for economic growth and social development. By equipping students with critical thinking skills, technical expertise, and a global perspective, they prepare the workforce needed to diversify Kazakhstan's economy. Their impact extends beyond classrooms. NU's research contributes to solving national challenges in areas like energy, healthcare, and technology. Meanwhile, NIS fosters innovation and leadership at the secondary education level, creating a pipeline of talent that benefits universities and industries alike. To sustain this role, NU and NIS must secure their financial stability. This includes strengthening governance, diversifying funding sources, and forging partnerships with the private sector and international organizations. These institutions are vital to Kazakhstan's future, and their success is intertwined with the country's broader economic ambitions. - Could the model used by NU and supported by the Nazarbayev Fund be applied in other countries, or does it require a uniquely Kazakh approach to work effectively? The NU model is innovative, but its core principles—integrity, meritocracy, autonomy, and a focus on global best practices—are universally applicable. Many countries could benefit from establishing institutions that prioritize excellence and align with international standards. That said, successful implementation depends on adapting the model to local contexts. Kazakhstan's approach benefited from strong initial financial and political backing, and a vision that emphasized independence from political and state bureaucratic interference. Replicating this requires careful consideration of governance structures, funding mechanisms, autonomy and other values, and cultural factors. In countries where philanthropic traditions or financial resources are limited, the model may need to rely more on public-private partnerships or international collaborations. Ultimately, the NU experience demonstrates that ambitious goals in education are achievable with the right vision, leadership, and long-term commitment support. - What lessons do you hope others will learn from the experience of the NGF, Jusan Bank , and the financial turmoil at NU? The story of NU and its financial affiliates offers a critical lesson: no institution, no matter how noble its mission, is immune to mismanagement and corruption without strong governance. NU and NIS' financial pillars, namely the Nazarbayev Fund, NGF, Jusan Group, but also the SDF and NIS' Corporate Development Fund were designed to guarantee long-term financial sustainability, yet their exploitation demonstrates how quickly trust can be eroded when transparency and accountability are neglected. For any endowment fund or financial institution, the following lessons are clear: NU's experience is a cautionary tale but also an opportunity. By addressing these failures head-on, NU can emerge as a model for how institutions can learn from adversity and rebuild stronger than before. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nazarbayev-university-crisis-shigeo-katsu-demands-audit-transparency-302338886.html SOURCE EU ReporterEvery great nation has its great romantic tragedies, those star-crossed lovers who succumb to reckless passion, heedless of convention or personal cost. Ancient Rome had Antony and Cleopatra. France had Napoleon and Josephine. And modern America has the Republican Party’s helpless, hopeless love affair with shutting down the government. As with all great loves, their fervor is wholly irrational. Shutdowns annoy voters, who tend to blame Republicans for that annoyance. Nor does it save any appreciable amount of money, because the major entitlement programs keep rolling out checks, and the furloughed federal workers eventually collect back pay for the time they spent twiddling their thumbs. As for using a shutdown as a political bargaining chip ... well, as Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) told reporters last year, “They never have produced a policy change, and they’ve always been a loser for Republicans politically.” Why, then, do Republicans keep flirting with this destructive, abusive old flame? Because too many Republicans haven’t grasped a basic political lesson: In the game of politics, it is not enough for your enemies to lose. You actually have to win. Try to think back to the last time the Republican Party had an agenda that didn’t boil down to “no”? It’s pretty difficult, isn’t it? What is the core of Donald Trump’s appeal to his base? That he owns the libs and refuses to kowtow to progressive pieties. What is his most prominent economic policy? Tariffs that represent a big fat “no” to global trade. What was the most successful political ad campaign of the 2024 campaign? The infamous “they/them” ads that painted Vice President Kamala Harris as a freak who wants to provide government-funded transition surgeries to transgender prisoners. And what have been the biggest recent conservative successes at the Supreme Court? The 2023 Students for Fair Admissions decision in which the court said “no” to affirmative action practices and the recent arguments in U.S. v. Skrmetti, which suggested that the justices are set to uphold state bans on giving puberty blockers and hormones to gender-dysphoric kids. The problem isn’t that conservatives are wrong about all these things. I disagree with Trump on the merits of tariffs, but I also have serious reservations about the current research base and practice of youth gender medicine. The prison system shouldn’t provide expensive transition surgeries to people who have committed horrible crimes, or house anyone with male genitalia in a women’s prison. Like many Americans, I think that our nation’s affirmative action programs had an element of unfairness to them and became unworkable as the nation diversified. But “no,” by itself, is not an agenda. And that’s basically all the Republican Party is selling right now, to voters and to itself. No to wokeness, no to foreign aid, no to gun control or vaccine mandates - no, in fact, to anything the left says, including “Happy holidays.” No might be enough to curb the worst excesses of the left, but it leaves massive gaps that the party has mostly filled by rhetorical posturing and empty gestures. A serious Republican agenda would lay out exactly what should be taxed, and what the money should be spent on - make those numbers roughly balance each other out. Anything else is a recipe for endless deficits, perennial policy failures and constant crisis. The lack of a positive agenda keeps bringing us back to the same pointless battles over raising the debt ceiling and funding the government. Democrats have a list of things they want to get done, which forces them to make deals. Republicans have a list of things they don’t want done, and it’s hard to rally your conference around a black hole, or a vague notion that taxes should be lower and so should spending, especially on Democratic constituencies, but no plausible plan for making it so. So, when the debt ceiling inevitably needs to be raised, or the government funded, a chunk of their caucus simply retreats into “No, not that!” without ever answering the question “Okay, then what?” This tactic never worked very well, but it’s becoming increasingly untenable as America’s fiscal problems mount. Republicans can scream “no” as loud as they want, but unless they stabilize Social Security and Medicare, those programs will run out of money, just the same. Nor will it fix other problems that voters - and Republicans - care about. Saying “no” to abortion won’t undo the cultural and economic forces that have made it hard for young people to form healthy, fertile families. Saying “no” to immigration won’t end our housing crisis if you are also deporting construction workers who build new homes. Saying “no” to trade won’t magically bring back the old manufacturing economy that so many Republicans long for. Many of the jobs we lost were displaced by modern machinery, not cheap foreign labor, and many of our current manufacturing jobs depend on inputs from elsewhere, like the high-tech Dutch photolithography machines that are used to make advanced semiconductors. Oh, sure, Republicans can nope out some taxes, as they have done every time they’ve come to power for the last two decades. But unless they are also willing to say no to major spending programs - defense, old age entitlements, veterans’ benefits - the resulting deficits will translate into higher inflation and interest rates. Voters will give that the same resounding “no” they just delivered to President Joe Biden and Harris. If they want to keep the new-won affections of the American voter, they need to ditch their destructive ex.Support Independent Arts Journalism As an independent publication, we rely on readers like you to fund our journalism. If you value our coverage and want to support more of it, consider becoming a member today . Already a member? Sign in here. Support Hyperallergic’s independent arts journalism for as little as $8 per month. Become a Member A new life-sized statue celebrating actor and Chicano art collector Cheech Marin was unveiled on Tuesday, November 19, outside his namesake arts and culture center in Riverside, California. Entitled “Meet Me at The Cheech” in honor of the nickname for the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture, the bronze sculpture depicts Marin with open arms in a gesture of warm welcome to visitors. It is situated in front of the center, which opened in June 2022 as part of a partnership with the Riverside Art Museum and is home to Marin’s personal art collection , claimed to be the largest known private trove of Chicano art. “Meet Me at The Cheech” was created by East Los Angeles artist Ignacio Gómez, whose work has centered on Chicano culture and community for decades. Gómez told Hyperallergic that he based the work on drawn sketches and photographs he took of Marin, adding that he was “deeply honored” to be commissioned for the project, having grown up watching Marin’s movies. Get the latest art news, reviews and opinions from Hyperallergic. Daily Weekly Opportunities “I’ve been a fan of Cheech for the longest time and a few of my works are in the museum,” the artist said. Originally from predominantly Mexican-American neighborhood of Boyle Heights, Gómez has also created other works including murals and monuments honoring Latine figures like labor leader Cesar Chavez , who founded the United Farm Workers of America, and civil rights activists Felicitas and Gonzalo Méndez , whose landmark case Mendez v. Westminster led to desegregation reform in public schools and other spaces across California. A screenprint of Gómez’s poster for Luis Valdez’s 1978 play Zoot Suit is held in the collection at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and in 2004, he designed and sculpted a life-size bronze statue of Chavez leading 10 farmworkers for the activist’s namesake memorial in San Fernando, California. According to the Riverside Art Museum’s website, the artwork was conceptualized and supported by former board president Ofelia Valdez-Yeager , who passed away on January 7, making the sculpture “her final and lasting contribution to the community she loved.” At the unveiling, attended by around 200 Riverside community members, friends, and family, Marin said, “This statue is not just a reflection of my work, but of the incredible power of Chicano art to tell stories, challenge narratives, and bring us together.” “Riverside has become a home for this art, and I am so humbled to be part of this journey,” Marin added. We hope you enjoyed this article! Before you keep reading, please consider supporting Hyperallergic ’s journalism during a time when independent, critical reporting is increasingly scarce. Unlike many in the art world, we are not beholden to large corporations or billionaires. Our journalism is funded by readers like you , ensuring integrity and independence in our coverage. We strive to offer trustworthy perspectives on everything from art history to contemporary art. We spotlight artist-led social movements, uncover overlooked stories, and challenge established norms to make art more inclusive and accessible. With your support, we can continue to provide global coverage without the elitism often found in art journalism. If you can, please join us as a member today . Millions rely on Hyperallergic for free, reliable information. By becoming a member, you help keep our journalism free, independent, and accessible to all. Thank you for reading. Share Copied to clipboard Mail Bluesky Threads LinkedIn Facebook