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Category: DJF

  • Dedicated myself to nation, says PM Modi in Gujarat after unveiling Rs 24,000 crore development projects

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a series of development projects in Dahod, Gujarat, collectively valued at ₹24,000 crore.
     
    The projects include critical railway infrastructure and several initiatives under the Gujarat government’s broader development agenda.
     
    Among the key announcements, PM Modi flagged off the Vande Bharat Express connecting Veraval and Ahmedabad, as well as a new express train linking Valsad and Dahod—moves expected to significantly enhance regional rail connectivity.
     
    Reflecting on his journey in office, PM Modi recalled May 26, 2014—the day he first assumed the role of Prime Minister.
     
    “In these years, I have dedicated myself to the nation. Decades-old shackles have been broken. The country has taken decisions that were once unimaginable and unprecedented. We have progressed across every sector,” he said.
     
    Highlighting India’s push toward self-reliance, he said, “Today, 140 crore citizens are working tirelessly to make India a Viksit Bharat. The demand of the times is that everything essential to national progress be manufactured in India.”
     
    He added, “India is rapidly advancing in manufacturing—whether producing goods for domestic needs or exporting ‘Made in India’ products globally, this momentum is strong and consistent.”
     
    The Prime Minister also emphasized India’s technological advancements. “Today, India not only manufactures the necessary technology for rail and metro systems but also exports it. Our Dahod is living proof of this progress.”
     
    Referring to the newly inaugurated electric locomotive manufacturing facility in Dahod, PM Modi said, “Three years ago, I laid the foundation stone. Some mocked it, calling it an election stunt. But today, we see the first electric locomotive manufactured and ready.”
     
    Earlier, he inaugurated the Loco Manufacturing Shop–Rolling Stock Workshop and flagged off the first electric locomotive produced at the facility, marking a major milestone for Indian Railways.
     
    Built at an investment of ₹20,000 crore, the Dahod locomotive manufacturing unit is now operational, just three years after its foundation was laid in 2022. The facility is designed to produce 120 electric locomotives annually, scalable up to 150 units depending on future demand.
     
    Under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, Indian Railways plans to manufacture 1,200 electric locomotives at this facility over the next decade. Each 9,000-HP locomotive, aligned with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, will bear the tag ‘Manufactured in Dahod’. These high-powered engines can haul up to 4,600 tonnes of cargo and are intended for both domestic use and export.
     
    The Prime Minister will next travel to Bhuj to launch additional development projects worth over ₹53,400 crore. These include initiatives in Kandla Port, solar energy, power transmission, and road infrastructure.
     
    He will also unveil four drinking water supply schemes costing ₹181 crore, aimed at benefiting 4.62 lakh residents across 193 villages and one town in the Mahisagar and Dahod districts.
     
    PM Modi will also distribute cheques worth ₹3,300 crore to urban local bodies under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana.
     
    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free meals for 3 months? Volunteers needed for ‘benefits of eating fish’ study Scientists exploring why eating fish is good for heart and gut health are looking for volunteers to help them unlock more of its nutritional secrets.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Prof Jules Griffin tries fish curry with Karen Taylor and Prof Frank Thies

    Scientists exploring why eating fish is good for heart and gut health are looking for volunteers to help them unlock more of its nutritional secrets.
    Codenamed FAM-OUS because it compares fish and meat-based diets, the Aberdeen University study hopes to underline the benefit of eating more of our local catch.
    And the lucky participants will have a 14-week menu selected for them by the Rowett Institute’s dieticians, with regular monitoring of the relative changes to their health.
    The £750,000 project is funded by the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and will delve deeper than previous research in the area.
    It is specifically aimed at providing strong scientific backing for the heart health benefits of eating fish, following studies showing an increase in some people’s blood levels of a metabolite – trimethylamine N-oxide, known as TMAO – after eating fish.
    The latest project comes shortly after the Rowett published Scottish Government-funded research showing many vital nutrients are “lost” because the UK exports so much of the fish caught by our fleets.
    That report concluded fresh efforts are urgently needed to increase the quantity of fish we eat as a country, which falls significantly short of the recommended intake.
    Rowett Institute director Jules Griffin, who is one of the lead researchers for the FAMOUS study, said the work would help highlight the value of one of the north east of Scotland’s most celebrated assets – and said he was delighted with some of the dishes set to be served up to volunteers, including a curry and fish cakes.

    The FAMOUS study sets out to examine the health benefits of a fish-based diet, going further than traditional studies to investigate how fish modifies the microbial community in our guts to promote health” Prof Jules Griffin

    “This region produces some of the best fish and seafood in the world and yet many of us eat a rather limited range, perhaps just fish and chips on a Friday,” he said.
    “We are not just missing out on some great tasting food, but fish is an important source of vitamin D and polyunsaturated fats, protecting us from serious diseases including cardiovascular disease.
    “The FAMOUS study sets out to examine the health benefits of a fish-based diet, going further than traditional studies to investigate how fish modifies the microbial community in our guts to promote health.
    “Using the Rowett’s world-class Human Intervention Studies unit, we will better define these health benefits to promote the consumption of the great fish and seafood we have in the area.
    “I will also see if I’m allowed to share some of the wonderful recipes the team have created for the study – the fish curry is a personal favourite and the fish cakes are excellent too!”
    The team is looking for healthy, overweight (BMI 25-29.9) 30–65-year-old meat eaters with elevated blood lipids, sugar, or blood pressure but not on medication or with any history of heart disease or other inflammatory diseases and not on medication for cholesterol or lipaemia or taking any dietary supplements.
    Taking part will involve following different diet plans over set periods and having heart health and gut microbiome changes monitored and assessed.
    To apply or find out more, please contact Frank Thies (f.thies@abdn.ac.uk) or Morven Cruikshank (morven.cruickshank@abdn.ac.uk) or visit the Rowett website: FAMOUS Study | The Rowett Institute | The University of Aberdeen

    Related Content

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New book about Polytechnic heroes: from T-34 to Operation Berezino

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The TASS press center hosted a presentation of the book “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945.” The author, leading specialist of the SPbPU History Museum Alexander Kobyshev, and the vice-rector for youth policy and communication technologies at SPbPU Maxim Pasholikov told journalists about the new edition, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    “The book ‘Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945’ is just one example of how the Polytechnic University preserves the memory of the Great Patriotic War,” began Maxim Pasholikov. “Back in 2004, students created the military-historical club ‘Our Polytechnic’, began studying archival documents, organizing search watches, hikes to battle sites, excursions and much more. In May, in Karelia, where the Polytechnicians fought in 1941, the military-patriotic rally ‘Syandeba. Connection of Generations’ was held for the twentieth time. For many years, students have been restoring the names of fallen soldiers, searching for personal files, and collecting them in an electronic Book of Memory. Last year, it was printed for the first time. And the new edition “Polytech. Fortitude. 1941–1945” continues the study of unknown pages in the history of our university.”

    The book “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945” consists of two parts. The first describes the activities of the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute named after M. I. Kalinin during the Great Patriotic War – both in Leningrad and in evacuation, in Pyatigorsk and Tashkent. The second part is dedicated to the contribution of polytechnicians to the creation of the weapons of Victory. In addition to the already known names, readers will learn for the first time about more than 120 graduates of the institute who worked at the main defense enterprises and in intelligence.

    “Our task was to show the history of the institute as a whole and its influence on the course of World War II,” emphasized Alexander Kobyshev. “Probably, everyone has seen the “Weapons of Victory” coins issued by the Central Bank. Eight of the nineteen coins depict weapons developed by polytechnicians.”

    The famous T-34 tank was designed by Mikhail Koshkin, a graduate of the institute. Ivan Bushnev participated in the creation of the T-50 light tank, and the names of Nikolai Dukhov and Zhores Kotin are associated with the production of the KV-1, KV-2, IS-1, IS-2, and IS-3 heavy tanks. Polytechnicians also contributed to aviation. The first fighters were designed by Nikolai Polikarpov, seaplanes by Georgy Beriev, and combat gliders that delivered weapons and food were designed by Oleg Antonov.

    Vladimir Tsimbalin created a device to protect pilots from overloads in flight, Mikhail Berezina participated in the creation of aircraft guns. Yuri Baimakov came up with a technology for producing an alloy for fuses of Molotov cocktails. Fyodor Petrov developed the M-30 howitzer. During the war, every second mortar was made from pipes of the Nikopol South Pipe Metallurgical Plant, the evacuation of which to Pervouralsk was led by the director, a graduate of the metallurgical faculty of the Polytechnic University, Alexey Astakhov.

    “Almost all artillery is the result of the work of Polytechnic graduates: anti-aircraft guns, divisional guns, anti-tank guns, small artillery, mortars,” listed Alexander Kobyshev. “The Degtyarev anti-tank rifle is named after the bureau, but was developed by the group of Polytechnician Alexander Dementyev. The gas generator for the famous GAZ-AA truck was made by our graduate student and engineer Volodin. And the director of GAZ was our graduate Loskutov, who replaced the previous graduate, who, unfortunately, was arrested and died during the repressions. We provide a list of these people and a list of the factories where they worked. For us, this became a new understanding of the contribution of Polytechnicians to the Great Victory.”

    The book names 11 Polytechnicians who were Heroes of the Soviet Union, who received this title from 1941 to 1945. Among them is Marshal Leonid Govorov, a former Polytechnic student who was mobilized into the Russian Imperial Army during the First World War.

    The final chapter of the book is called “Behind the Front Lines” and is dedicated to intelligence officers.

    “The name of the first of them is well known – this is Hero of the Soviet Union Viktor Lyagin,” said Alexander Kobyshev. “We learned about the second one recently, this is a graduate of the electromechanical faculty, Alexander Demyanov. He was a double agent: the Germans called him Max, and ours – Heine. He led a radio game, thanks to which significant parts of the Wehrmacht were not transferred to Stalingrad, and we were able to win this decisive battle. After that, our graduate continued working in Operation Berezino in Belarus, for which Heine was awarded the Order of the Red Star, and Max received the Iron Cross with Swords. German intelligence officers highly valued him for the disinformation he supplied them with.”

    Aleksandr Nikolaevich shared a few more interesting facts about people who studied at the Polytechnic at different times. Thus, Marceli Porowski, a graduate of the economics department, fought during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944 and was the president of Warsaw. Nikolai Novik, a future member of the French Resistance, who was awarded the French Military Cross and the Order of the Legion of Honor, studied at the same economics department.

    Many archives are being declassified now, and every year we learn something new. I hope that students will join this work, and the chronicle of our university will be replenished, – Maxim Pasholikov summed up.

    “Polytechnic. Fortitude. 1941-1945” is the fourth book in the series of historical works by Alexander Kobyshev. The first, “Polytechnic. Beginning. 1899-1917”, was published for the 125th anniversary of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University in a print run of 500 copies. All subsequent volumes were published in print runs of 200. As Alexander Nikolaevich said at a press conference, a total of seven books are planned. The fifth will cover the period from 1946 to 1960, the sixth – from 1960 to 1990, and the seventh – from 1990 to the present day.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mathematicians once again confirmed their title as the university’s strongest track and field athletes

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The annual track and field competitions were held at the NSU stadium – the last event of the Spartakiad program among faculties and institutes, in which 12 teams took part.

    Almost 100 students competed in 100, 400 and 800 meter races, and the competition program was concluded by a mixed 4 x 200 m relay. The team standings were determined by the sum of the 10 best results shown in all events, and the MMF students once again became winners.

    Prize winners in the individual competition:

    100m Run 1st place – Anastasia Osmushkina (IMMT) and Alexander Makhanov (GGF) 2nd place – Arina Landl (SUNC NSU) and Andrey Birkin (EF) 3rd place – Anastasia Moshkina (MMF) and Sergey Budyakov (IFP)

    400m run 1st place – Ksenia Zubareva (FEN) and Nikita Bosak (MMF) 2nd place – Arina Landl (SUNC NSU) and Andrey Birkin (EF) 3rd place – Varvara Volkova (MMF) and Alexander Makhanov (GGF)

    800m Run 1st place – Anastasia Osmushkina (IMMT) and Alexey Chviruk (MMF) 2nd place – Daria Zavalishina (MMF) and Miron Gaskov (FIT) 3rd place – Tatyana Nefedova (GI) and Gleb Mamonov (MMF)

    Relay 4×200 m 1st place – MMF, result 1.48.1 2nd place – FIT, result 1.53.6 3rd place – team of FF and SUNC, result 1.56.4

    Team standings of the NSU Spartakiad in athletics: 1st place – Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics 2nd place – Faculty of Physics 3rd place – Institute of Intelligent Robotics

    Congratulations to the winners of the competition! We thank all the students for participating, and Anton Mamekov and other teachers of KaffV for organizing the start! We wish you success in the summer session and look forward to seeing everyone on our sports grounds next academic year!

     

    See all results in the protocols on the page

    Photos

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Official responsible for warship launch accident detained in North Korea – KCNA

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    PYONGYANG, May 26 (Xinhua) — Law enforcement agencies in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) have detained a senior official who is largely responsible for the recent failed launch of a warship, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Monday.

    Based on the findings so far from the accident investigation team, law enforcement agencies have summoned and detained Lee Hyun-sung, deputy head of the Military Industry Department of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) Central Committee, who is “largely responsible for the serious accident,” KCNA said in a statement.

    The investigation team into the incident informed the WPK Central Military Commission of its progress on Sunday, KCNA reported.

    “At the site where the accident occurred during the launch of the destroyer, work is actively underway to fully restore the balance of the warship under the technical guidance of a group of experts in accordance with its schedule,” the statement said.

    Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation after the newly built 5,000-ton destroyer lost balance, capsized and lay on its side in the water while being launched at the Chongjin shipyard on Wednesday. Authorities had previously detained three people over the incident, KCNA reported. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: FMA confirms fintech sandbox participants

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 12 

    The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko has announced the six fintech firms who will be testing their innovative products, services or business models in the FMA’s pilot regulatory sandbox.  

    The successful fintech firms are: 

    Fintech firm Details on their intentions
    ECDD Holdings Limited ECDD Holdings Limited (part of the exchange service Easy Crypto) intends to launch a yield bearing NZD-backed stablecoin and to generate revenue from interest earned on money held on trust in interest-bearing accounts.
    Emerge Group Limited Emerge is a digital banking alternative offering products like debit cards, current accounts, and in-app expense tracking. Customer funds are currently held in trust with a partner bank but Emerge aims to transition to higher yielding options such as government bonds. 
    Homeshare

    Homeshare offers investors the opportunity to own a fractional share of real estate, with each property divided into 1,000 equal shares. These shares are tokenised and can be bought and sold via an online platform.
    IndigiShare

    IndigiShare aims to improve access to capital for Māori entrepreneurs and small businesses. It seeks to offer Te Whare Manaaki (a koha loan platform), as a way to lower barriers to entry for indigenous businesses and enable community entrepreneurship.  
    Invest in Farming Co-op IIF (Invest in Farming) is an Australian-based cooperative that connects investors to farming by digitising ownership of livestock, aquaculture, horticulture, and agriculture. It allows investors to own a share of agricultural assets, where investment returns are unlocked on the sale of the stock or crop.
    Tandym Limited A group investment platform enabling people to form groups and build wealth together in a social and engaging way – while removing administrative burden.

    FMA Executive Director Strategy and Design Daniel Trinder says, “We offered this pilot sandbox to spur innovation for both startups and established licensed financial institutions. We received 24 applications to be part of the sandbox and went through a thorough review process to determine which of the firms would be chosen to be part of the pilot.” 

    The criteria used to determine the final six was: 

    • genuine innovation exists that is either unique or solves an existing issue, 
    • likely benefit to consumers,  
    • the product or service does not pose high risk of causing consumer harm, 
    • there is a demonstrated need to be in the sandbox, 
    • the firm is ready and has a product to test, and  
    • the management team have appropriate experience and skills to execute the sandbox testing plan. 

    “During the pilot they can test new products and services in a controlled environment, helping them to obtain a deeper understanding of supervisory expectations,” says Daniel. “The opportunity to adjust a product or service before full commercial launch may also help reduce costs for firms. 

    “We see clear benefits for the FMA too. By working closely with the firms during their time in the sandbox, we expect to gain greater insights into the benefits and risks of financial innovation and new technologies. Experiences gained through such a testing phase should allow us to react faster and more effectively to any potential regulatory and supervisory problems. It should also highlight gaps around investor and customer protection, allowing development of more appropriate and timely solutions.” 

    The FMA is committed to supporting financial services innovation and is grateful for the constructive work and support from FintechNZ throughout the process. 

    ENDS

    Background 

    You can read more about the launch of our regulatory sandbox pilot on our website

    FMA launches regulatory sandbox pilot

    Innovation

    Media contact 

    If you have any questions on this media release, please contact [email protected]  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Experienced retail investor found liable for market manipulation

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 13

    Kok Ding Cheng, an experienced retail investor, has been ordered to pay the Crown a pecuniary penalty of $198,000, following a civil proceeding brought by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tatai Hokohoko for market manipulation.  

    The FMA’s case centred on five small orders for of NZX-listed shares of Rua Bioscience Limited (RUA) that Mr Cheng made over a 10-day period during late 2020 via a broking account he held with ASB Securities.  The Court found in making each of those five orders, which ranged from $59 to $540, Mr Cheng breached s265 of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 which prohibits trade-based market manipulation.  The Court found that Mr Cheng deliberately placed the orders for the purpose of increasing the price and/or demand for Rua shares.

    Mr Cheng did not file a statement of defence during the proceeding, and so the proceeding progressed by way of formal proof hearing.  

    FMA Head of Enforcement, Margot Gatland said, “Mr Cheng’s orders lacked a genuine commercial purpose and were instead made for the purposes of increasing the price and/or demand for RUA shares at a time when he held a material shareholding in the company.  

    “Market manipulation undermines confidence in financial markets because it means investors can’t trust prices or market activity to be genuine. We take cases of market manipulation seriously to ensure New Zealand’s markets reflect genuine supply and demand, in order to preserve their integrity and reputation.

    “We considered Mr Cheng’s conduct warranted a strong response to deter market manipulation. This case and the Judge’s ruling are important reminders that trade-based market manipulation can occur when trading through online share brokerage accounts. Investors should be careful to understand their obligations when trading online, as trading listed shares for disingenuous reasons can result in liability.” 

    The $198,000 is to be paid to the Crown after it is first applied to the FMA’s actual costs in taking the case. 

    ENDS 

    Media contact  
    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]   

    Related links  

    FMA vs Cheng Judgment [PDF 415KB]

    FMA files market manipulation case against Kok Ding Cheng for trading of Rua shares

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Westpac to pay $3.25 million penalty for misleading customers

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release
    MR No. 2025 – 14

    Westpac is to pay a penalty of $3.25 million for misleading customers entitled to advertised discounts as well as overcharging some of its business customers. Westpac admitted its conduct in civil proceedings brought by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – at the High Court in Auckland in December 2024.

    Westpac’s breaches of the fair dealing provisions under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 (FMCA) affected a total of 24,621 customers and resulted in $6.35m in overcharges. Westpac admitted having made misrepresentations in respect of the following historic issues:

    • Customers entitled to various benefits under Westpac’s Employee, Gold and Platinum (EGP) packages failed to receive the advertised discounts
    • Personal and business banking customers failed to receive benefits under one of Westpac’s other advertised packaged arrangements
    • Westpac failed to honour agreed pricing for business customers who held a “Business Transact Account”.

    FMA Head of Enforcement, Margot Gatland, said, “Westpac’s issues stemmed from deficiencies in its systems that meant the bank failed to deliver contractually agreed discounts to their customers. Westpac used preferential pricing to attract and retain customers, without having systems that could reliably deliver on those promises.”  

    Westpac has remediated impacted customers. “The FMA acknowledges Westpac’s full cooperation throughout the FMA’s investigation, and the work it undertook to remedy the issues,” said Ms Gatland.

    “The $3.25 million penalty against Westpac reflects the number of customers affected,” Ms Gatland said. “The relationship between financial institutions and their customers must be one of trust. Customers should rightfully expect to be treated fairly and that agreements between the two parties will be honoured.”

    In his penalty decision Justice Venning said, “I accept Westpac’s submission there is no suggestion that its conduct was deliberate or wilfully misleading, nor that there was any intention to intentionally deprive customers of benefits. While it had in place systems, the systems were insufficient.”

    ENDS

    Media contact

    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]

    Related

    FMA v Westpac – Judgment [PDF 265KB]

    Westpac admits to misleading representations that resulted in $6.35m in overcharges
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update on the Pushpay insider trading appeal

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 15

    The Financial Market Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – has welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision on the Pushpay insider trading appeal. 

    In August 2023 the defendant was found guilty of an insider trading offence following a four-week trial in the Auckland High Court. They were sentenced to six months community detention and a fine of $100,000. In April 2024 they appealed the conviction and the High Court’s decision to refuse name suppression. The Crown also appealed the sentence, saying it was manifestly inadequate.  

    FMA Head of Enforcement Margot Gatland says, “We were pleased with the Court’s decision to uphold this conviction. Insider trading is a serious offence that undermines investor confidence in New Zealand markets. The FMA will continue to take action when we see this type of misconduct as it damages the trust and confidence in New Zealand’s financial markets and businesses.” 

    In its judgment the Court of Appeal:  

    • dismissed the appeal against conviction,  
    • dismissed the appeal against the refusal to grant name suppression, pending final decision of the conviction appeal, with the existing interim name suppression to continue for seven days post judgment, and
    • granted the Crown’s appeal against the sentence in part, increasing the fine aspect of the sentence to $200,000.  

    Name suppression continues for seven days to allow the defendant to notify family members and/or business interests in advance of name suppression lapsing.   

    ENDS

    Background

    The case, brought by the FMA, centered around the resignation and sell-down of shares of former Pushpay co-founder and Director Eliot Crowther in June 2018. The FMA considered Mr Crowther’s intention in this regard to be material information, which, if generally available, would be likely to have a material effect on the price of Pushpay’s shares at the time.  

    The FMA alleged that the defendant knew of, and used, that information to advise or encourage others to trade in the lead up to Mr Crowther’s announcement.  

    Mr Crowther’s trading was legitimate, and he was not party to the proceedings. 

    Related media releases 

    FMA alleges insider training of Pushpay shares

    Guilty verdict media release

    Media contact 

    If you have any questions about this media release, please contact [email protected]  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: FMA issues a warning on managed investment scheme

    Source: Budget 2025 – Greenpeace braced for ‘scorched earth’ budget from Govt

    Media Release  
    MR No. 2025 – 16

    The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko – has issued a public warning about a managed investment scheme operated by Jesse Joseph Vaughan and former NZ company Crypto Partners Limited (CPL). 

    FMA Executive Director of Response and Enforcement Louise Unger said, “We understand that Mr Vaughan, the sole director and shareholder of formerly registered company CPL, has offered investments in a managed investment scheme (MIS) operated by CPL. He did so without holding a MIS manager licence, and without providing the required disclosure, which are both contraventions of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.” 

    Mr Vaughan also told his investors in a newsletter that he had applied for a MIS manager’s licence, and that it was being reviewed by the FMA.  

    “I can confirm that neither Mr Vaughan nor CPL has ever applied to the FMA for any form of market services licence,” said Ms Unger. “One of the main purposes of the market services licensing regime is to require licensees to act with integrity, diligence and skill and in the best interests of investors using their services. We consider that CPL and Mr Vaughan’s conduct has been contrary to these obligations and investors are likely to have experienced significant detriment as a result.  

    “The FMA will continue to take actions when we see misconduct damaging the trust and confidence in New Zealand’s financial markets and businesses. We do this to both prevent and deter others from doing this and, in this case, to hold Mr Vaughan to account,” concludes Ms Unger. 

    If you are an investor in CPL, let us know  

    If you are an investor in CPL and have not received the return of your investment, or you have recently been contacted by Mr Vaughan inviting you to invest in his business, we encourage you to report the details to the FMA.  

    Media contact  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme launches new call for research proposals

    Source: NATO

    The NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme promotes dialogue and practical cooperation between Allies and NATO partners based on scientific research, technological innovation and knowledge exchange. The Programme aims to strengthen the Alliance to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow, and it is pleased to announce a new call for research proposals.

    The SPS Programme offers funding, expert advice and support to tailor-made, civil security-relevant activities that respond to the SPS Key Priorities. Participation in the Programme enables experts, academia and scientists to develop innovative solutions, achieve scientific breakthroughs and build partnerships with their peers in Allied and partner countries. 

    In light of the changed security environment and the SPS Programme’s ability to foster timely and impactful technological innovation to address security challenges, the Programme has experienced a significant increase in visibility. In 2024, two calls for proposals received 300 submissions – the highest number for one calendar year in the Programme’s history.  

    The new call for research proposals is open until 6 July 2025.

    The modalities and all information for the call and the application process can be found here.

    The NATO SPS Programme has contributed to scientific excellence for more than 60 years, and has supported thousands of scientists, including Nobel laureates. Collaborating through the SPS Programme is a highly rewarding experience, which fosters scientific research, builds bridges between innovation networks in NATO member and partner countries, and contributes to a safer and more secure world.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel’s new aid delivery system for Gaza is sparking outrage. Why is it so problematic?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amra Lee, PhD candidate in Protection of Civilians, Australian National University

    Some 2.1 million Gazans are facing critical hunger levels, with many at risk of famine following Israel’s 11-week blockade on aid intended to pressure Hamas.

    According to the United Nations, 57 children have already died from malnutrition since the aid blockade began on March 2. A further 14,000 children under 5 years old are at risk of severe cases of malnutrition over the next year.

    Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu permitted a limited number of aid trucks into Gaza amid increasing pressure from allies who have drawn a line at images of starving children.

    However, Israel is controversially planning to transfer responsibility for distributing aid in Gaza through a new system that would sideline the UN and other aid agencies that have been working there for decades.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres swiftly rejected Israel’s new aid distribution system in Gaza, saying it breaches international law and humanitarian principles.

    In a joint statement, two dozen countries, including the UK, many European Union member states, Australia, Canada and Japan, have supported the UN’s position on the new model. The signatories said it won’t deliver aid effectively at the scale required, and would link aid to political and military objectives.

    The UK, Canada and France have further threatened to take “concrete actions” to pressure Israel to cease its military offence and lift restrictions on aid.

    And in another blow to the credibility of the new system, the head of the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which will oversee the distribution of aid, resigned on Monday. He cited concerns over a lack of adherence to “humanitarian principles”.

    So, how will would this new aid delivery system work, and why is it so problematic?

    A military-led system with deep flaws

    Israel has relied on unsubstantiated claims of large-scale aid diversion by Hamas to justify taking control over aid delivery in Gaza. The UN and its humanitarian partners continue to refute such claims, publicly sharing details of their end-to-end monitoring systems.

    Yet, the new aid delivery initiative is vague on important details.

    Several reports have revealed the plan would establish four secure distribution sites for aid under Israeli military control in southern and central Gaza.

    Security would be provided by private military contractors, such as Safe Reach Solutions, run by a former CIA officer, while the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation would oversee the distribution of food.

    There is little clarity beyond this on who is behind the new system and who is funding it.

    The initiative has provoked strong reactions from the UN and the wider humanitarian aid system.

    Senior aid officials have underlined the fact the international aid system cannot support a military-led initiative that would breach international law and be incompatible with humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence.

    There are also concerns the four distribution hubs would require individuals to travel long distances to collect and carry heavy packages. This could leave female-headed households, people with disabilities, those who are ill and the elderly at greater risk of exclusion and exploitation.

    In addition, a leaked UN memo reportedly expressed concern over UN involvement in the initiative, saying the organisation could be “implicated in delivering a system that falls short of Israel’s legal responsibilities as an occupying power”.

    There are further concerns the UN could be implicated in atrocity crimes, including a risk of genocide through its participation in the system, setting a dangerous precedent for future crises.

    Tom Fletcher, the UN relief chief, has called the plan “a deliberate distraction” and “a fig leaf for further violence and displacement”.

    Other rights groups have condemned the mandatory collection of biometric data, including facial recognition scans, at the distribution sites. This would make aid conditional on compliance with surveillance. It would also expand Israel’s controversial use of facial recognition technology to track and monitor Palestinians throughout Gaza.

    And famine expert Alex de Waal claims Israel has “taken a page from the colonial war handbooks” in weaponising food aid in pursuit of military victory.

    He argues the planned quantities of food aid will be insufficient and lack the specialised feeding necessary for malnourished children, in addition to clean water and electricity.

    What has not been stated but can be implied from the strong resistance to the new system lacking humanitarian expertise: the lack of good faith on Israel’s part. The Israeli government continues to pursue an elusive military victory at the expense of the rules and norms intended to preserve humanity in war.

    Wider pattern of behaviour

    The UN’s rebuke of the plan should be interpreted through a wider pattern of Israeli government behaviour undermining the international aid system and its role in upholding respect for humanitarian principles.

    These fundamental principles include respect for humanity, neutrality, impartiality and operational independence. As the joint statement by 24 nations on aid to Gaza this month said:

    Humanitarian principles matter for every conflict around the world and should be applied consistently in every war zone.

    International humanitarian law requires member states to respect – and ensure respect – for the rules of war. This includes taking all feasible measures to influence the parties engaged in a conflict to respect humanitarian law.

    Likewise, the Genocide Convention requires member states to take measures to prevent and punish genocide beyond their jurisdictions.

    As Fletcher, the UN relief chief, reminded the UN Security Council earlier this month, this hasn’t been done in past cases of large-scale violations of international human rights, such as in Srebrenica (in the former Yugoslavia) and Rwanda.

    He said reviews of the UN’s conduct in cases like these

    […] pointed to our collective failure to speak to the scale of violations while they were committed.

    While humanitarians are best placed to deliver aid, greater collective political action is what’s needed. Pressure now falls on all UN member states use their levers of influence to protect civilians and prevent the further weaponisation of aid at this critical time.

    Amra Lee does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Israel’s new aid delivery system for Gaza is sparking outrage. Why is it so problematic? – https://theconversation.com/israels-new-aid-delivery-system-for-gaza-is-sparking-outrage-why-is-it-so-problematic-257347

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Cabinet Office Board Non-Executive Board Member

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment of Cabinet Office Board Non-Executive Board Member

    New appointment to the Cabinet Office Board

    Lisa Tremble has been appointed as a Cabinet Office Non-Executive Board Member for a period of three years, concluding in April 2028.

    Lisa is currently the Chief People, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, and a Member of the Management Committee at British Airways. Prior to that, she was a Group Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director at Direct Line Group Plc and the Director of External Affairs at Mishcon de Reya LLP.

    The Cabinet Office Board provides strategic leadership for the department, comprising Cabinet Office ministers, senior executives, and non-executives from outside government. Its purpose is to advise on strategy, monitor performance, and assess significant risks.

    The Non-Executive Board Members are responsible for providing support and challenge to the department’s ministers and senior officials on the delivery of key policies and programmes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Cabinet Office Board Lead Non-Executive Board Member

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment of Cabinet Office Board Lead Non-Executive Board Member

    New appointment to the Cabinet Office Board

    John Fallon has been appointed as the new Cabinet Office Lead Non-Executive Board Member (NEBM) for a period of three years, concluding in April 2028.

    John is an executive and academic currently holding positions as a Professor of Practice and senior adviser at Northeastern University, an Executive Fellow at London Business School, and Chair of WarChild UK and Blackpool Pride of Place. He served as CEO from 2013 to 2020 at Pearson Plc. John has also held senior roles at PowerGen plc, Centro, and the House of Commons. 

    The Cabinet Office Board provides strategic leadership for the department, comprising Cabinet Office ministers, senior executives, and non-executives from outside government. Its purpose is to advise on strategy, monitor performance, and assess significant risks.

    The role of the Cabinet Office Lead NEBM is to provide strategic oversight and leadership for the department’s team of Non-Executives. The Lead NEBM supports ministers and officials by providing expert advice and challenge on delivery and performance. As well as their formal role on the Board and its sub-committees, the Lead NEBM also maintains close working relationships with the Permanent Secretary and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to support the delivery of their priorities. 

    The Lead NEBM works with the department to ensure the NEBMs are assigned to work on issues where they will have the most impact and can best support the delivery of the department’s strategic priorities.

    Chief Operating Officer for the Civil Service and Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office, Cat Little said:

    Lead Non-Executive Board Members provide vital scrutiny and challenge to departmental boards, guiding our work and helping us deliver for people across the country.

    John Fallon will bring a wealth of experience in systems and transformation leadership within complex organisations. I look forward to working with him to deliver the Cabinet Office’s priorities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Uzbekistan launches National Trade Facilitation Roadmap 2025–2030 to boost regional trade leadership

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward strengthening its role as a central trade hub in Central Asia with the launch of its National Trade Facilitation Roadmap 2025–2030, developed in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). 

    The roadmap was officially launched last week in Tashkent during the meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee, chaired by Aziz Urunov, Special Representative of the President of Uzbekistan on World Trade Organization (WTO) issues and Chief Negotiator. The UNECE presented the roadmap at the meeting, which brought together representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, Ministry of Transport, State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan and other relevant officials, as well as the private sector representatives. Donor agencies also came together to coordinate efforts in implementing the measures of the roadmap.  

    Serving as a comprehensive framework, the roadmap outlines Uzbekistan’s trade facilitation reforms over the next five years and directly supports its goal of WTO accession by 2026. A preface for the official publication of the document was previously signed by Mr. Urunov and UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean at the WTO headquarters on 2 December 2024. 

    Developed using UNECE’s methodology, using an assessment of the country’s readiness to implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) done by UNECE and Uzbekistan experts and a draft study on the regulatory and procedural barriers to trade, the roadmap is aligned with the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA), particularly its Trade Facilitation Strategy and Principles for Sustainable Trade. The roadmap distinguishes between two sets of objectives and categorization of the WTO trade facilitation measures: the readiness of Uzbekistan on the binding TFA measures and a broader set of objectives, which reflect the country’s long-term objective for profound trade facilitation reforms, making it one of the most dynamic economies today. The implementation of the binding measures is almost complete and will allow the country to accede to the WTO at the next WTO Ministerial Conference in 2026. 

    Uzbekistan envisions becoming a key contributor to regional trade in Central Asia, fostering a dynamic, efficient, and inclusive trade ecosystem. The results of the recent UN Global Survey revealed that the trade facilitation performance of Uzbekistan is currently at an implementation rate of 85% — the highest in the region. 

    The roadmap sets out clear priorities to achieve this vision: 

    As a double Landlocked Developing Country (LLDC), Uzbekistan faces inherent challenges such as dependency on transit countries, high trade costs, and infrastructure bottlenecks. These challenges make trade facilitation and regional connectivity critical areas for reform. 

    UNECE plays a key role in advancing these efforts through its norms, standards and policy recommendations — particularly the UN/CEFACT package of standards and ongoing work on enhancing digital connectivity — which enable the digitalization of trade and improved coordination along international transit corridors. 

    UNECE remains committed to supporting Uzbekistan and other programme countries in trade modernization through global standards, collaborative frameworks, and innovative policy tools. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at Luxury Symposium 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at Luxury Symposium 2025 (English only) 
    Mr Alain Li (President of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. It is truly my pleasure to be here at Luxury Symposium 2025, where leaders, experts and innovators from the global luxury industry gather together in the metropolitan city of Hong Kong to explore the future of luxury. And indeed, my activities today are intertwined. I met with the Hong Kong Retail Management Association just now, then I came to this Symposium, then I will go back for a meeting to prepare for our next peak of visitor arrival. This pretty much shows the importance of tourism and luxury spending and luxury sales on my radar screen.
     
    This year marks the 10th anniversary and this is the ninth edition of the Luxury Symposium series. Since its inception in 2016, the Symposium has established itself as a renowned platform for exploring the evolution of luxury and fostering meaningful dialogue. I’m most pleased to welcome distinguished speakers, world-class brands and passionate participants, many of you would be our old friends while some may have come our way for the first time. For this special milestone, the return of Luxury Symposium 2025 to Hong Kong is a firm testimony of Hong Kong’s unique position as Asia’s Events Capital, an international hub for arts and culture, and a shopper’s paradise.
     
    Hong Kong has a long and rich East-meets-West historical legacy. And with the strong support of the Central People’s Government, Hong Kong is striving to further develop this unique asset for the benefit of fostering deepened international cultural co-operation. Specifically, our role is the “super-connector” between our motherland and the rest of the world. 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable for Hong Kong’s cultural and creative scene. We have successfully hosted iconic international events like Art Basel and Art Central, which were warmly received by over 100 000 participants, including artists, galleries, art collectors and enthusiasts, and about 50 per cent of them were from outside of Hong Kong.
     
    Indeed, in the last couple of years, and indeed even right now, our M+ museum in West Kowloon and our Museum of Art have been staging exquisite exhibitions with modern and unique curation of Yayoi Kusama, I M Pei, Pablo Picasso, Renoir and Cézanne. These exhibitions are primarily in the area of visual arts, and an ability for Hong Kong people and our visitors to appreciate, and an instinct to achieve beauty and awe, is the fundamental driver for the creation and acquisition of sublime art pieces, many of which actually take the form of luxurious goods. Hong Kong has long been aware of the importance of, and actively fosters, the development of arts, culture and creative industries. Last year in November, we have introduced the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development. And “Develop Diverse Arts and Culture Industries with International Perspective” was one of the four strategic directions. I’m glad to see that Luxury Symposium 2025, by applying a unique perspective from global leaders of the industry, will generate innovative and inspirational ideas that benefit the long-term development of the luxury and relevant industries here in Hong Kong and globally.
     
    Apart from showcasing brilliant arts talent, we have also brought world-class fashion to our shores. An iconic example was the unforgettable Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Pre-fall fashion show in Hong Kong in end November 2023, which was the first ever runway show to stage against our iconic Victoria Harbour and the spectacular skyline along the Avenue of Stars. With the Government’s full facilitation, the event reached over 560 million views worldwide, showcasing Hong Kong’s unique allure to a global audience. Another one would be Chanel’s Cruise 2024/25 Show which creatively took place in the Hong Kong Design Institute in November 2024. The event not only successfully drew a big crowd of celebrities and fashion icons to Hong Kong, but also connected cinema lovers through film-related talks and happenings at Shaw Studios, taking note of the fact that cinema has always been at the heart of the brand. The event reaffirms the brand’s commitment to the city through celebrating the heritage and spirit of the collection, all the while paying tribute to the culture of Hong Kong.
     
    We certainly welcome more mega events, including luxurious brand events, with open arms and will be most happy to act as a strong facilitator. Of course, apart from government action, it takes joint efforts and collective wisdom from both local and international stakeholders, to cultivate an organic ecosystem for the development of arts, culture and creative industries on Hong Kong’s fertile soil. 
     
    Luxury should not just be about expensive art pieces or goods that are beyond the reach of ordinary people. Everyone needs and deserves a bit a luxury, be it peace of the mind, ample me-time, tranquil lifestyle, a super fine culinary experience, or just a bit of glitter once in a while. It is more about things in life that bring a joy so special or satisfying that it cannot be replaced by much else, so that one feels a desire to own it, to touch it and to come to it. It can mean different things to different people. And some of the things might be ultra expensive, but some are simply one of a kind, treasurable, without being overly costly. 
          
    The theme of this year’s Symposium is “Hong Kong Zoom in, Zoom out – The Asia edition”. Let us now zoom in a little bit and zoom out a little bit to see what Hong Kong has to offer. 
     
    Zooming in, Hong Kong is dedicated to advancing our infrastructure and enriching the content of our offering to drive new experiences and visitor engagement. The newly opened state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park which hosted world-class events like Coldplay concerts and the Hong Kong International Rugby Sevens provide unforgettable excitement while fresh tourism initiatives announced last week like Hong Kong Industrial Brand Tourism, in-depth travel in Kowloon City and Old Town Central, rejuvenation of the Former Yau Ma Tei Police Station etc. There is no shortage of fun and nostalgia of Hong Kong’s cultural legacy.
     
    Zooming out, we are strengthening global connections by actively initiating, supporting or participating in platforms for arts and cultural exchange, to name a few, the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum where cultural administrators exchange views of cultural policies, and the Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo newly launched in 2024 that brought together global arts institutions and practitioners for business partnerships and promotion of the industry all in one go. The Luxury Symposium is another precious piece in this puzzle – it is a platform for Hong Kong to connect with international peers, exchange ideas, gain experience, and explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation. These initiatives are introduced not only by the Government, but also the industries and various institutions.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, rapid and vigorous changes have been taking place in our current world, and definitely to the luxury industry. It has come to my attention that a specific part on tackling talent challenges will be presented in our Symposium later today. Apart from talent, shifting market trends and customer preference, as well as technological advancement, all pose challenges to the luxury industry, particularly in this volatile age of geopolitical tension. Faced with evolving challenges of changing spending patterns and tourist behaviours every day, I always advocate an active approach to discover the opportunities that come with the challenges. At this year’s Luxury Symposium, we all have the privilege to learn about insightful thoughts on the future of luxury from leaders of the industry, academia and a wide range of related sectors with diversified backgrounds. When rivers of thought converge, civilisations bloom in shared moonlight, and the potential of the industry can then be fully unleashed. It is through collaboration, creativity, and shared wisdom that we can unlock one another’s potential as a vibrant, global industry.
     
    Before I close, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Hong Kong for your unwavering dedication in organising the Luxury Symposium year after year. Your effort continues to strengthen the bond between Hong Kong and France while enriching cultural exchange on a global scale. My special thanks also go to the distinguished speakers, participating brands, collaborating organisations and amazing attendants like every one of you here and online. I wish Luxury Symposium 2025 a resounding success and all of you a fruitful journey of discovery, innovation and luxury in Hong Kong.
     
    Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 17:06

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai leads industrial listening tours to Taichung and mobilizes the government to help Businesses tackle U.S. Tariff Challenges.

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai Ching-Te led a delegation on April 11 to the Taichung Industrial Park under the Bureau of Industrial Parks(BIP) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs(MOEA) as part of the “Industry Listening Tour.” Accompanied by Secretary-General to the President Pan Men-An, Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-Hsin, Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-Huei, Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China Chairman Tai Teng-shan, and other MOEA officials, President Lai held in-depth discussions with central Taiwan enterprises leaders to understand firsthand the challenges and needs arising from recent changes to U.S. tariff policy.
    On April 10, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause and reduction of reciprocal tariffs to 10%. President Lai emphasized that this presents a crucial opportunity for Taiwan to engage in strategic negotiations and adjustments. He reassured the industry that the government would seize this opportunity and work side-by-side with enterprises to secure Taiwan’s best benefits. President Lai noted that Taiwan was among the first countries globally to respond with concrete actions, including launching industry consultations and proposing specific measures. These include pursuing tariff negotiations, increasing procurement and investment in the U.S., removing trade barriers, and combating country-of-origin misrepresentation. Addressing the impact of the reciprocal tariff, President Lai stated, “When the roots of the tree are stable, there’s no fear of the typhoon shaking its branches,” and outlined a new strategy: “rooted in Taiwan, expand global presence, strengthened ties with the U.S., and market worldwide.” He emphasized a dual transformation approach-smart and global-to enhance Taiwan’s industrial competitiveness.
    The MOEA explained that the government had launched an NT$88 billion support program for export supply chains in response to the U.S. tariff policy. The plan targets nine key areas and includes 20 measures such as enhanced export credit guarantees, enhanced SME financing, transformation R&D subsidies, and overseas market expansion, aimed at strengthening industry resilience and adaptability.
    During the session, company representatives actively shared insights and suggestions, covering topics such as international trade shows, logistics arrangements for U.S. shipments, financing needs, mechanisms to prevent origin fraud, and tax credit incentives for Taiwan-based operations. The President and officials responded directly and promptly to each concern, underscoring the government’s determination and responsiveness.
    President Lai concluded by noting that Taiwan is already included in the U.S.’s first list for tariff negotiations. He assured attendees that the government is fully prepared to engage in talks. This “listening tour,” he emphasized, is not only about hearing from the industry-it also marks the start of concrete government action, backed by targeted policies and resources to support businesses amid global change.

    Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
    Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

    Contact Person: Chi, Shih-Tsung (Director of Taichung Branch, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-4-26581215, 0905287377
    Email: chist@bip.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Guidelines issued to hospitals as Delhi govt closely monitors Covid cases: CM Rekha Gupta

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    With Delhi crossing the 100-mark in daily Covid-19 infections, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday assured the public that the government is closely monitoring the situation and has issued guidelines to all hospitals.
     
    Urging people not to panic, CM Gupta said, “Guidelines have been issued to all hospitals, and the government is closely monitoring the situation.”
     
    She further added that all state-run hospitals are equipped with the necessary facilities to manage the rise in cases.
     
    According to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Delhi has reported 104 active Covid-19 cases.
     
    “We have analysed the scenario, and there is no cause for panic,” Gupta reiterated.
     
    Last week, the Delhi government issued a Covid-19 advisory, directing hospitals to ensure the availability of beds, oxygen, essential medicines, and vaccines.
     
    All health institutions have also been instructed to send positive Covid-19 samples for genome sequencing to Lok Nayak Hospital.
     
    “The hospitals must ensure preparedness in terms of the availability of beds, oxygen, antibiotics, other drugs, and vaccines. All equipment such as ventilators, BiPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and PSA plants must be in functional condition,” the advisory stated.
     
    Health Minister Pankaj Singh said that the government is also verifying case details to determine whether the patients are Delhi residents or have a recent travel history.
     
    Meanwhile, the Union Health Ministry reported 1,009 Covid-19 cases nationwide, with Kerala (430) and Maharashtra (209) recording the highest numbers. Seven deaths were also reported—four in Maharashtra, two in Kerala, and one in Karnataka.
     
    According to the latest data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the recent spike in cases is being driven by NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—sub-lineages of the JN.1 Covid variant.
     
    INSACOG, a network of 64 laboratories under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, identified one case of NB.1.8.1 in Tamil Nadu in April and four cases of LF.7 in Gujarat in May.
     
    Both NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are currently classified as Variants Under Monitoring (VUM) by the World Health Organization (WHO). A VUM indicates a SARS-CoV-2 variant that may require prioritized attention and further observation by public health authorities.
     
    —IANS

  • This engine will give Dahod a new identity in the world: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday lauded the inauguration of a modern locomotive manufacturing plant in Dahod, Gujarat, calling it a transformative step that will redefine the city’s identity on the global stage.
     
    According to Vaishnaw, the facility will manufacture 9,000-horsepower electric locomotives, named “D Nine,” symbolising Dahod’s resurgence as a major railway production hub. The locomotives are expected to serve not only the Indian Railways network but also be exported globally.
     
    “When the world was run by steam engines, Dahod played a key role in railway production. But with the gradual replacement of these engines, Dahod’s economy was significantly impacted. In 2022, our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, decided that modern electric locomotives would be built in Dahod, and work began in 2023. Today, we have a state-of-the-art factory ready,” the Railway Minister said.
     
    “The 9,000-horsepower locomotives from Dahod will not only operate within India but will also be exported across the globe. This is not just an engine—it’s a running computer centre. It is high in quality, yet low in cost. Named ‘D Nine,’ meaning Dahod 9000, this factory will bring international recognition to Dahod. Prime Minister Modi has truly blessed this sacred land,” he added.
     
    Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the locomotive manufacturing plant of Indian Railways in Dahod, marking a major milestone in boosting the country’s railway infrastructure and freight capabilities.
     
    He also flagged off the first electric locomotive produced at the plant.
     
    According to an official release from the Prime Minister’s Office, the inauguration is part of PM Modi’s ongoing commitment to enhancing connectivity and developing world-class transport infrastructure. The Dahod facility will produce 9,000-horsepower electric locomotives for both domestic use and international export.
     
    The locomotives are expected to significantly increase Indian Railways’ freight loading capacity. They will feature regenerative braking systems and be designed to reduce energy consumption, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability, the statement said. (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consultation on Industry Skills Boards’ coverage

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 21 May 2025
    Last updated 21 May 2025

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    We consulted on a proposed model for the number and coverage groupings of Industry Skills Boards. The consultation has now closed.
    We consulted on a proposed model for the number and coverage groupings of Industry Skills Boards. The consultation has now closed.

    The Government is proposing to set up seven Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) that cover these broad areas:

    Automotive industries
    Construction industries
    Infrastructure industries
    Food and fibre industries
    Service industries
    Manufacturing and technology industries
    Social and community industries.

    As part of setting up Industry Skills Boards, some industries and sectors that are currently covered by a Workforce Development Council are proposed to be covered by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
    These proposals were covered in the Consultation Document ISB Coverage (PDF 426 KB).
    Frequently asked questions
    Consultation was open from Monday 28 April until 5.00pm, Tuesday 20 May.
    Thank you to the groups and individuals that made submissions. Your views will help inform final decisions by the government on the number and coverage of Industry Skills Boards. They will also inform the detailed coverage provisions in ISBs’ Orders in Council. These Orders will be consulted on later this year.
    New work-based learning model

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advice seen by Minister

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Date
    Reference Number
    Title

    19 December 2019
    AM/19/01484
    Aide-Memoir: Discussion paper: establishing a CoVE specialising in Secondary Tertiary Programmes, Multiple Pathways and Transitions (PDF 1.4 MB) 

    5 December 2019
    B/19/01460
    Funding Agreement between the Crown and Lincoln University (PDF 1.3 MB) 

    3 December 2019
    1210568
    Education Report: High-level decisions on the unified funding system for discussion at the strategy session on 12 December (PDF 7.8 MB)

    22 November 2019
    B/19/01385
    Tertiary Education Commission 2019/20 Quarter One Performance Report

    20 November 2019
    B/19/01340
    Tertiary Education Report: August 2019 Fees-Free Enrolment Update (PDF 658 KB) 

    20 November 2019
    B/19/01339
    Tertiary Education Report: August 2019 Enrolment Update (PDF 590 KB) 

    15 November 2019
    AM/19/01341
    Expenditure accrual adjustment to Vote Tertiary Education

    13 November 2019
    AM/19/01357
    Overview of standard operating procedures and/or code of practices for TEI accommodation services

    11 November 2019
    Cabinet paper
    Confirmation of Crown capital investment to support the rebuild of Lincoln University’s science facilities (PDF 1.2 MB)

    7 November 2019
    AM/19/01351
    Tertiary Education Institution Accommodation Overview

    1 November 2019
    AM/19/01338
    No recoveries for exceeding prior achievement limit in 2019 for YG and SAC 1-2

    29 October 2019
    B/19/01328
    Tertiary Education Commission Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2019

    25 October 2019
    AM/19/01337
    Reform of Vocational Education Programme Governance – Update

    24 October 2019
    E/19/01252
    Ako Aotearoa 2019 Tertiary Teaching Excellence Awards Evening – 30 October 2019

    23 October 2019
    B/19/01284
    Crown support for Whitireia Community Polytechnic

    15 October 2019
    E/19/01277
    Launch of Drawing the Future event on 18 October at Porirua East School

    14 October 2019
    B/19/01260
    Report to Ministers from the University of Canterbury Futures Governance Oversight Group

    14 October 2019
    B/19/01275
    ITP constitutions for two councils

    9 October 2019
    AM/19/01258
    AgResearch business case for a new building at Lincoln University

    4 October 2019
    E/19/01256
    Opening the 15th New Zealand Vocational Education and Training Research Forum on Tuesday 15 October 2019

    25 September 2019
    B/19/01192
    Update on Careers System Strategy Engagement Process (PDF 500 KB) 

    20 September 2019
    B/19/01175
    Tertiary Education Commission draft Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2019 (PDF 276 KB) 

    19 September 2019
    B/19/01211
    Tertiary Education Report: Draft Cabinet paper on supporting the rebuild of Lincoln University’s science facilities and reallocation of funding to Tai Poutini Polytechnic (PDF 159 KB) 

    17 September 2019
    B/19/01023
    Review of the appointment of the Commissioner of Whitireia and WelTec (PDF 250 KB) 

    13 September 2019
    B/19/01210
    Establishing a Stakeholder Advisory Group for Reform of Vocational Education

    13 September 2019
    B/19/01209
    Workforce Development Council and ITO Workstream: Progress update (PDF 861 KB) 

    13 September 2019
    1204429
    Briefing Note: Unified Funding Work Programme: Progress update (PDF 3.6 MB)

    10 September 2019
    E/19/01176
    Ministerial visit to the University of Auckland on Tuesday, 10 September 2019

    9 September 2019
    E/19/01176
    Ministerial visit to the University of Auckland on Tuesday, 10 September 2019 (PDF 871 KB) 

    9 September 2019
    E/19/01169
    Meeting with Greg Wallace, Chief Executive of Master Plumbers on Thursday 12 September 2019

    6 September 2019
    B/19/01141
    ITP constitutions for seven councils (PDF 297 KB) 

    2 September 2019
    E/19/01158
    Ministerial visit to Unitec Institute of Technology on Tuesday, 3 September 2019 (PDF 3.2 MB) 

    27 August 2019
    B/19/01065
    Tertiary Education Report: Lincoln University Programme Business Case: Moving Forward (PDF 487 KB) 

    27 August 2019
    B/19/01086
    Tertiary Education Report: April 2019 Fees-Free Enrolment Update (PDF 640 KB) 

    21 August 2019
    B/19/01085
    Tertiary Education Report: April 2019 Enrolment Update (PDF 826 KB)

    19 August 2019
    E/19/01093
    Minister of Education Opening the Primary ITO Symposium on Tuesday 20 August 2019

    8 August 2019
    AM/19/00929
    Fees-free monitoring and addressing non-complying TEOs

    26 July 2019
    E/19/00868
    Ōritetanga Learner Success Conference (PDF 240 KB) 

    26 July 2019
    AM/19/00971
    Talking Points for Cabinet on 29 July 2019 – NZIST Establishment Board Appointment

    25 July 2019
    B/19/00928
    Lincoln University and the University of Canterbury Partnership Proposal (PDF 1.5 MB) 

    24 July 2019
    B/19/00882
    Crown support for Tai Poutini Polytechnic (PDF 670 KB)

    20 July 2019
    AM/19/00790
    WAIKATO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 2018 Annual Report (PDF 459 KB) 

    19 July 2019
    AM/19/00959
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for Telfrod – Talking point for Cabinet

    19 July 2019
    AM/19/00954
    Annotated Agenda – NZ Institute of Skills and Technology Establishment

    17 July 2019
    B/19/00773
    Update on Careers System Strategy and Career Action Plan (PDF 275 KB) 

    17 July 2019
    B/19/00867
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for operating Telford in 2020 and 2021 (PDF 486 KB) 

    15 July 2019
    AM/19/00800
    Assurance findings for the Reform of Vocational Education Programme

    15 July 2019
    B/19/00763
    2020 Investment Round Update: Indicative Allocations

    11 July 2019
    E/19/00879
    Minister to visit Otago University on 12 July 2019 (PDF 465 KB) 

    10 July 2019
    B/19/00819
    Manukau Institute of Technology– council constitution (PDF 402 KB) 

    10 July 2019
    AM/19/00880
    Compliance monitoring of fees-free tertiary education and prosecution for false statutory declarations

    4 July 2019
    B/19/00785
    TEC 2018/19 Quarter Three Performance Report (PDF 355 KB) 

    3 July 2019
    B/19/00861
    Review of the appointment of the Commissioner of Unitec (PDF 289 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00840
    2018 Educational Performance Indicators (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    1 July 2019
    AM/19/00820
    Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi 2018 Annual Report (PDF 506 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00708
    Publication of the Tertiary Education Commission’s Statement of Intent 2019/20–2022/23 and Statement of Performance Expectations 2019/20 (PDF 274 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    AM/19/00827
    Aide-Memoire: Lincoln University Programme Business Case: Moving Forward (PDF 303 KB) 

    1 July 2019
    B/19/00840
    2018 Educational Performance Indicators

    28 June 2019
    E/19/00835
    Meeting with Service Skills Institute Incorporated on Monday 1 July 2019

    25 June 2019
    AM/19/00821
    Talking Points for APH on 26 June 2019 – Appointment to the council of Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi (PDF 219 KB)

    20 June 2019
    AM/19/00790
    WAIKATO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 2018 Annual Report

    19 June 2019
    AM/19/00797
    Growing the Food and Fibres Sector – Recommendations for the TEC

    17 June 2019
    E/19/00776
    University of Canterbury – Opening of the Rehua Building on 25 June 2019 (PDF 326 KB) 

    12 June 2019
    E/19/00690
    Meeting with the Commissioner of WelTec and Whitireia (PDF 346 KB) 

    12 June 2019
    AM/19/00749
    Update on Whitireia Community Polytechnic and the Wellington Institute of Technology

    10 June 2019
    AM/19/00739
    Update on the current situation of funding training and education of carers

    7 June 2019
    B/19/00702
    Recognition of Skills Active Aotearoa Limited as an industry training organisation (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    31 May 2019
    B/19/00709
    Waikato Institute of Technology Council Constitution (PDF 441 KB) 

    31 May 2019
    AM/19/00704
    Unitec Institute of Technology 2018 Annual Report (PDF 408 KB)

    31 May 2019
    B/19/00706
    2018 final full-year enrolments at tertiary education organisations

    31 May 2019
    AM/19/00707
    Update on the financial position of ITPs

    30 May 2019
    B/19/00703
    Recognition of the Funeral Service Training Trust of New Zealand as an industry training organisation (PDF 479 KB) 

    30 May 2019
    B/19/00701
    Recognition of Primary Industry Training Organisation as an industry training organisation (PDF 897 KB) 

    30 May 2019
    E/19/00705
    Meeting with UCOL on 5 June 2019  (PDF 2.6 MB)

    27 May 2019
    AM/19/00648
    Advice on options to support the University of Canterbury following the Christchurch mosque attacks

    24 May 2019
    B/19/00650
    Ministerial appointment to Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi

    17 May 2019
    B/19/00706
    2018 Final Full-Year Enrolments at Tertiary Education Organisations (PDF 1.1 MB) 

    17 May 2019
    B/19/00640
    Tai Poutini Polytechnic Capital Injection – Final Milestone (PDF 386 KB) Tai Poutini Polytechnic Capital Injection Appendix A (PDF 1.6 MB) 

    16 May 2019
    AM/19/00651
    Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki 2018 Annual Report (PDF 516 KB) 

    10 May 2019
    E/19/00555
    Meeting with Professor Jan Thomas from Massey University on 22 May 2019 (PDF 682 KB) 

    10 May 2019
    E/19/00644
    Meeting with Southland Federated Farmers

    9 May 2019
    B/19/00613
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to two tertiary education councils (PDF 286 KB) 

    8 May 2019
    E/19/00509
    Minister to speak at the Open Polytechnic Graduation on Thursday, 23 May 2019 (PDF 3.2 MB).

    3 May 2019 
    AM/19/00611
    Lincoln University 2018 financial results (PDF 247 KB) 

    3 May 2019
    AM/19/00615
    Ministerial Appointment to the council of Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi

    23 April 2019
    B/19/00527
    Release of the 2018 PBRF Quality Evaluation Results 

    10 April 2019
    E/19/00512
    Meeting with Primary Industry Training Organisation on Thursday 11 April 2019 

    9 April 2019
    E/19/00473
    Meeting with WITT to discuss RoVE on 11 April 2019 

    8 April 2019
    E/19/00482
    Meeting with Andrew Robb from Tai Poutini Polytechnic on 11 April 2019 

    3 April 2019
    B/19/00451
    Salvation Army foundation education delivery consultation outcomes 

    3 April 2019
    B/19/00469
    Inspiring Futures – Response 

    2 April 2019
    E/19/00465
    Ministerial visit to open new Tech Park Campus development at Manukau Institute of Technology on 5 April 2019 

    28 March 2019
    E/19/00446
    BusinessNZ Major Companies Group – Chief Executive Forum on Friday 5 April 2019 

    27 March 2019
    B/19/00448
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to eight tertiary education institution councils 

    27 March 2019
    B/19/00442
    Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology – council constitution 

    25 March 2019
    B/19/00360
    2018 Interim Full-Year Enrolments at Tertiary Education Organisations 

    18 March 2019
    AM/19/00414
    Talking Points for APH on appointments to eight ITP councils 

    14 March 2019
    B/19/00161
    TEC 2018/2019 Quarter Two Performance Report 

    12 March 2019
    E/19/00396
    Meeting with The Skills Organisation 14 March 2019 

    12 March 2019
    E/19/00398
    Meeting with Careerforce Thursday 14 March 2019 

    12 March 2019
    B/19/00381
    Letters for Ministerial appointments to two university councils 

    7 March 2019
    B/19/00158
    Careers System Strategy Workstream Implementation Update 

    5 March 2019
    AM/19/00330
    Talking Points for APH on appointments to two TEI Councils 

    1 March 2019
    E/19/00166
    Meeting with Competenz Chair and Chief Executive Thursday 7 March 

    1 March 2019
    E/19/00234
    Local Government New Zealand Rural and Provincial Meeting 

    27 February 2019
    E/19/00165
    Visit to Telford (PDF 326 KB) 

    26 February 2019
    E/19/00150
    Meeting with primary industry leaders to discuss your vision on Reform of Vocational Education (PDF 269 KB) 

    25 February 2019
    E/19/00246
    Meeting with the Tertiary Education Union (TEU) at Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) (PDF 2 MB) 

    15 February 2019
    B/19/00082
    Lincoln University and the University of Canterbury Partnership Proposal: next steps (PDF 2.3 MB) 

    11 February 2019
    AM/19/0060
    World Economic Forum OECD Release of Envisioning the Future of Education and Jobs: Trends, Data and Drawings report (PDF 159 KB) 

    7 February 2019
    AM/19/00083
    2018 full-year enrolment reporting timeline (PDF 397 KB) 

    1 February 2019
    B/19/00081
    Southern Institute of Technology’s proposal for operating Telford in 2019 (PDF 393 KB) 

    February 2019
    Cabinet paper
    Council Appointments for Ara Institute of Canterbury, Eastern Institute of Technology, Manukau Institute of Technology, NorthTec, Otago Polytechnic, Tai Poutini Polytechnic, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, UCOL and the Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki (PDF 320 KB) 

    30 January 2019
    B/19/00055
    Appointment of an advisory committee to support the Commissioner of Whitireia and WelTec (PDF 202 KB) 

    29 January 2019
    AM/19/00064
    Computer in Homes Tender (PDF 824 KB) 

    28 January 2019
    AM/19/00063
    Meeting with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury (PDF 1.2 MB) 

    21 January 2019
    E/19/00010
    Ara Institute of Canterbury – Manawa and Outpatients facility opening on Thursday 31 January 2019 (PDF 1.2 MB) 

    11 January 2019
    B/19/00028
    Update World Economic Forum: Launch of Envisioning the Future of Education and Jobs (PDF 554 KB) 

    8 January 2019
    B/19/00007
    University of Auckland – amendment to council constitution (PDF 303 KB) 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Budgets

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 25 May 2023
    Last updated 25 May 2023

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    Every year the Government allocates funding to a range of tertiary education initiatives as part of the budget. This section includes information on recent budgets and their implications for tertiary education.
    Every year the Government allocates funding to a range of tertiary education initiatives as part of the budget. This section includes information on recent budgets and their implications for tertiary education.

    Most of this funding is appropriated, or made available, through Vote tertiary education. The Ministry of Education (MoE) is the lead agency for the sector.
    Our Statement of Intent explains how we will manage the services involved in providing the funding to tertiary education organisations (TEOs).
    The Government’s financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June, whereas we base our funding for most TEOs on the calendar year. This means it can take a while for budget decisions to have an impact.
    Read more about recent budgets and their implications:

    Related Content

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Budget 2025 for tertiary sector

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 22 May 2025
    Last updated 22 May 2025

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    The Government released its 2025 Budget on Thursday 22 May, which included $398 million investment in the tertiary sector over four years.
    The Government released its 2025 Budget on Thursday 22 May, which included $398 million investment in the tertiary sector over four years.

    The Budget tertiary system investment includes:

    $213 million to provide a 3 per cent increase in tuition and training subsidies from 1 January 2026 in targeted subjects across all levels of tertiary study.
    $64 million for an additional 1.75 per cent increase in tertiary education subsidies at degree level and above in high demand “STEM” subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), along with Initial Teacher Education and other priority health workforce areas.
    $111 million to fund enrolment growth in 2025 and 2026, including another 175 Youth Guarantee students a year.

    For more information on Budget 2025 and the tertiary sector, see:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Funding rates by year

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 23 May 2025
    Last updated 23 May 2025

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    Funding rates are used to allocate funding to tertiary education organisations, and may be based on learner numbers, hours or EFTS. These funding rates vary for different funds and years.
    Funding rates are used to allocate funding to tertiary education organisations, and may be based on learner numbers, hours or EFTS. These funding rates vary for different funds and years.

    The ‘Funding rates for 2025 and 2026’ spreadsheet contains 2025 and 2026 funding rates for the following funds:

    DQ7-10: Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) to 10 on the NZQCF 
    DQ3-7: Delivery at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) on the NZQCF: delivery component, learner component, and strategic component
    DQ1-2: Delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the NZQCF
    ACE: ACE in Schools and ACE in TEIs
    ELT: English Language Teaching
    L&N: Intensive Literacy and Numeracy, and TEO-led Workplace Literacy and Numeracy
    Gateway: cohort number rates, and rates per learner
    YG: Youth Guarantee, and YG Exceptional Travel
    Equity: Equity Funding for DQ1-2 and DQ7-10

    The spreadsheet also contains a table of DQ3-7 rates by course classification for the purposes of TEOs submitting combined DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 commitment documents.
    Funding rates for 2026 
    We have developed some examples to show how Budget 2025 targeted tuition subsidies have been calculated for 2026. This is because both decreases and increases apply to some rates.  
    These examples explain how we have calculated the 2026 funding rates for DQ3-7 and DQ7-10. 
    Rates will be finalised following consultation on the 2026 funding mechanisms later this year.  
    2026 funding rates including targeted rate examples (PDF 392 KB)
    Funding rates for 2025 and 2026
    Funding rates for 2025 and 2026 (XLSX 72 KB)
    Historical funding rates
    Funding rates for 2024 and 2025 (XLSX 62 KB) 
    2025 funding rates increase:

    For 2025 funding rates, there will be a general 2.5% increase from the 2024 funding rates.
    Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) to 10 on the NZQCF (DQ7-10) will include the additional 4% applied in 2024 and continued into 2025.
    The Mātauranga and te reo Māori DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 funding rate includes the additional 3.75% increase applied to the 2024 base funding rate, which includes 5%, and an additional 4% rate increase for DQ7-10 for 2024. For 2025 to 2027, there is a 3.75% increase applied to the 2024 base funding rate, which includes 5% for DQ3-7 and DQ7-10 only. This is part of the total 15% increase being funded and implemented over four years.

    Funding rates for 2023 and 2024 (XLSX 51 KB)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: How to strengthen public safety through community-oriented policing explored at OSCE and UNODC side event

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: How to strengthen public safety through community-oriented policing explored at OSCE and UNODC side event

    Participants at a side event on “Building Police-Public Partnerships: Community-Oriented Policing and Community Engagement” organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), 23 May 2025. (OSCE) Photo details

    Partnerships, crime reduction, and accountability and trust in law enforcement were some of topics in focus at a side event on “Building Police-Public Partnerships: Community-Oriented Policing and Community Engagement” organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Section in Vienna, Austria, on 23 May.
    Criminal justice practitioners, policymakers and civil society representatives gathered to examine the role of community-oriented policing in enhancing public safety and strengthening trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
    Panelists shared practical experiences and lessons learned on engaging with communities, strengthening partnerships and achieving more focused and effective policing. They also explored how community-oriented policing can, as a strategic approach to preventing and combatting crime, sustainably transform policing practices through collaboration and shared responsibility for community safety.
    The discussions underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement, such as with civil society, oversight bodies and the media, in putting community-oriented policing into practice. In this context, the OSCE guidebook on Good Practices in Building Police-Public Partnerships (2022) was presented as a key resource, outlining common principles and offering concrete guidance to support the use of these strategies by police, policymakers and community actors.
    Looking to the future, participants recognized the role of community-oriented policing in long-term crime reduction and promoting more effective and accountable law enforcement, with knowledge exchange and dialogue being crucial to advancing these approaches across the OSCE area and beyond.
    The event took place on the margins of the 34th Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), and was co-sponsored by Finland’s 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship and the United Kingdom Delegation to the OSCE.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung offers up to 45% OFF with their #PreekendSpecial deals

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung South Africa is giving customers a reason to upgrade their tech and home essentials with an exciting three-day sale offering up to 45% OFF on a wide selection of premium Samsung products. The deals will run only on the Samsung Shop App from 23 to 25 May 2025.
     
    The Preekend Special shopping experience, which premiered on 22 May at 8pm live on the Samsung YouTube channel brought the deals first customers. The livestream combined the exclusive deals on Samsung products with live DJ sets, and offered a shopping experience unlike any other.
     
    The discounted products include some of Samsung’s most sought-after devices, including:
     

    Galaxy S25+
    Galaxy A26 5G
    Galaxy Tab S10FE WIFI
    Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
    Freestyle Projector 2nd Gen
    85″ QLED 4K Smart TV
    75″ Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV
    Q-Series Premium Soundbar
    BESPOKE AI Side by Side, 21.5” Family Hub screen, Plumbed, Black, 594L
    19kg AI Top Loader Washing Machine
    27″ Odyssey G55C QHD, 1ms MPRT, 165Hz Gaming Monitor
    27″ Odyssey 3D G90XF 4K 164Hz Gaming Monitor

     
    Consumers can enjoy unbeatable deals while shopping from the convenience of their mobile devices, with all purchases made securely through the Samsung Shop App.
     
    Why Shop on the Samsung Shop App?
     
    In addition to these limited-time offers, app users enjoy benefits such as:

    Free delivery on all orders
    Flexible payment options including Float, Mobicred, and PayJustNow
    Access to exclusive app-only deals and personalised offers

     
    Don’t Miss Out, download the Samsung Shop App.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Why Industry Leaders are Choosing African Mining Week 2025

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, May 26, 2025/APO Group/ —

    As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, Africa’s mineral-rich economies are stepping into a more prominent role – not only as exporters of raw materials, but as strategic partners in global supply chains. African Mining Week (AMW) 2025, taking place in Cape Town on October 1-3, is emerging as a key platform for policymakers, mining companies, financiers and service providers to connect, negotiate and shape the future of the continent’s mining sector.

    AMW 2025’s will prioritize high-level networking, dealmaking and investor matchmaking. At a time when governments are under pressure to present investable projects, this approach ensures that time on the ground translates into meaningful engagement and tangible progress.

    Targeted Engagement Drives Attendance

    AMW’s agenda is designed to support strategic engagement through exclusive country briefings, curated investor meetings and deal rooms that connect government and private sector actors directly. Its co-location with African Energy Week 2025: Invest in African Energies further enhances the event’s appeal, creating opportunities for cross-sector dialogue on infrastructure, energy access and mineral beneficiation.

    This targeted approach is attracting a wide range of public and private sector delegations. Among confirmed participants is the South Africa–DRC Chamber of Commerce, which will be supporting the participation of companies operating across two of Africa’s largest and most influential mining jurisdictions. South Africa’s mining industry continues to play a central role in global platinum group metals production and is seeing new interest in battery minerals and green hydrogen, with institutions like the Industrial Development Corporation set to participate in sessions on financing mining and industrialization projects across the continent. The DRC, meanwhile, remains critical to global cobalt and copper supply chains, with significant interest in expanding downstream processing.

    Government Participation Signals Project Pipelines

    Several African governments are attending with the express purpose of promoting new investment opportunities. Chad’s Ministry of Petroleum and Energy is expected to highlight emerging opportunities in mining and infrastructure development as part of ongoing efforts to attract investment in its extractive sector. From Angola, national oil company Sonangol is participating as part of a broader push to diversify its portfolio beyond oil and gas. The Angolan government is prioritizing the development of its diamond, iron ore and battery mineral resources, and Sonangol’s involvement reflects the country’s intention to drive resource-linked industrial development.

    International participation is also strong. Organizations such as World Mining Investment and delegations from the Gulf, Europe and Asia are attending to assess African markets amid growing interest in diversifying supply chains and securing long-term access to key minerals.

    Aligning Investment with Industrial Development

    With global exploration spending in Africa projected to rise – particularly in copper, lithium and rare earth elements – many countries are not only positioning themselves as resource suppliers, but as hosts for beneficiation and value-added processing. Discussions at AMW will explore policy incentives, infrastructure corridors and cross-border industrial zones that can help support this ambition.

    As African governments seek to coordinate on regional value chains, improve regulatory coherence and share infrastructure, platforms like AMW play an important role in facilitating dialogue and action. By convening stakeholders across government, industry and finance, the event is helping to reshape how mining investment is pursued on the continent – shifting from transactional approaches to more strategic, collaborative models that align with Africa’s broader development goals.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nairobi City Thunder Clinch First Win, Al Ahli Tripoli Stays Perfect

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    KIGALI, Rwanda, May 26, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya) notched their first victory in the 2025 BAL Nile Conference (https://BAL.NBA.com/), pulling off a surprise 85-76 win over South Africa’s MBB in the opening game of Day 5.

    Albert Odero spearheaded Thunder’s effort with a team-high 23 points, while five other players also scored in double figures. Nairobi dominated the boards with a 53-43 rebounding advantage and showcased their speed with 27 fast break points.

    Despite MBB’s loss, forward Teafale Lenard Jr turned heads with a standout performance, pouring in a game-high 38 points—setting a new single-game scoring record for the 2025 BAL season.

    In the day’s second matchup, Al Ahli Tripoli (Libya) extended their unbeaten run to five games with a thrilling 106-102 victory over hosts APR (Rwanda).

    Jaylen Adams led Al Ahli with 26 points, supported by Jean Jacques Boissy and Mohammed Sadi, who each added 15. APR’s Obadiah Noel (30 points) and Chasson Randle (25 points) delivered exceptional performances, but their efforts fell just short.

    The scintillating contest made BAL history, as Al Ahli became the first team in the 2025 season to surpass the 100-point mark in three games. It also marked the first time two teams crossed the 100-point threshold in the same game this season.

    The Nile Conference concludes on Sunday with two final showdowns: Al Ahli Tripoli vs. MBB at 2:30 p.m., followed by Nairobi City Thunder vs. APR at 5:30 p.m. CAT.

    POSTGAME PRESS CONFERENCES

     *   MBB vs Nairobi City Thunder (https://apo-opa.co/3So2Dwe)

     *   Al Ahli Tripoli vs APR (https://apo-opa.co/3SXcLw0)

    GAME HIGHLIGHTS

     *   MBB vs Nairobi City Thunder (https://apo-opa.co/4kcBOYj)

     *   Al Ahli Tripoli vs APR (https://apo-opa.co/4jhdHGB)

    NILE CONFERENCE STANDINGS

     1.  Al Ahli Tripoli* – 5-0

     2.  APR – 2-3

     3.  MBB – 2-3

     4.  Nairobi City Thunder- 1-4

    *Advanced to 2025 BAL Playoffs

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three children safeguarded following VIDTF 16

    Source: Europol

    Between 12 and 23 May 2025, victim identification experts from over 30 countries and Europol analysed hundreds of images and videos depicting unidentified victims of child sexual abuse during the 16th edition of the Victim Identification Task Force (VIDTF). This two-weeks operation at Europol’s headquarters is dedicated to tracking down perpetrators and identifying victims across 100 million images and videos…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • NCGG launches 9th Capacity Building Programme to boost digital governance for Sri Lankan civil servants

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) on Monday commenced the 9th Capacity Building Programme for mid-career civil servants from Sri Lanka, aimed at strengthening their skills in digital governance and enhancing the effectiveness of public service delivery.

    Scheduled from May 26 to June 6, the two-week intensive training is hosting 40 officers serving in key administrative roles including Senior Assistants, Divisional Secretaries, and Deputy Directors. These participants represent vital ministries such as Public Administration, Defence, Health and Mass Media, and Education.

    Inaugurating the programme, Dr Surendra Kumar Bagde, IAS, Director General of NCGG, lauded the diverse representation of officers and highlighted its focus on strengthening digital governance capabilities.

    “This initiative is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge of India’s best practices in e-governance and to highlight the transformative role of technology in modern administration,” he said.

    Dr AP Singh, Associate Professor and Course Coordinator at NCGG, provided a detailed overview of the programme during the inaugural session. The training includes focused modules on critical themes such as the changing paradigms of governance, Aadhaar, digital payments in India, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), the Public Finance Management System (PFMS), cybersecurity and cyber fraud, and the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP).

    Participants will also undertake several field visits to gain hands-on exposure. These include visits to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), the Computerised Land Record Centre in Uttarakhand, the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), the PM Gati Shakti Anubhuti Kendra, the Election Commission of India, the National E-Governance Division, and the iconic Taj Mahal.

    Dr Bagde encouraged the Sri Lankan officers to actively participate and make the most of their interactions with mentors and subject experts throughout the programme.