NewzIntel.com

Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medical innovation advisers meet

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today chaired the first meeting of the Advisory Committee on Health & Medical Innovation Development.

    The advisory committee receives staunch support from the National Medical Products Administration, with Department of Drug Registration Director Yang Ting joining as official representative of the national drug regulatory authority.

    During the meeting, committee members were briefed on the progress of the establishment of the Centre for Medical Products Regulation. The preparatory office for the centre is taking forward measures with the objective of putting forward a timetable for its establishment and the roadmap towards the adoption of “primary evaluation” in the first half of this year.

    The measures include examining the need for new legislation, mapping out the strategies to reform the regulatory regime of drugs and medical devices, and advancing plans for “primary evaluation”.

    The committee members also offered advice on the proposals for establishing the Real-World Study & Application Centre.

    The centre aims to enhance access and application of health and medical databases, as well as strengthen collaboration between Hong Kong and the Mainland, particularly in integrating data generated by the use of Hong Kong-registered drugs and medical devices used in Hong Kong public hospitals in the Greater Bay Area.

    This is to achieve three major objectives: accelerating the research and development (R&D), approval and market launch of innovative medical products; leveraging data to support evidence-based decision-making; and developing Hong Kong into a leading region and global hub for real-world studies. The Government strives to establish the centre by the end of this year.

    Prof Lo said that the Government will strenuously work in line with the national objective of further reforming the medical and healthcare system and take forward the establishment of the two centres by complementing technological innovation with institutional innovation.

    “We will fully utilise the institutional advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and Hong Kong’s professional healthcare strengths to develop the city into an international health and medical innovation hub, thereby enabling patients to benefit from the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies and achieving the concept of bringing the benefits of good drugs and R&D to Hong Kong.

    “At the same time, we aim to attract more local, Mainland and overseas pharmaceutical and medical device enterprises to conduct R&D and clinical trials in Hong Kong, thereby developing new quality productive forces in biomedicine and a new model for Hong Kong’s health and medical innovation development, so as to make further contributions to the overall development of the nation.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Genetic Counseling Professional Science Master’s Students Graduate

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The first graduates from the University of Connecticut’s Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in genetic counseling were hooded last Tuesday. The program was ten years in the making and is the first such accredited program at a public university in New England.

    “Watching our first cohort graduate today was nothing short of incredible,” says program director and UConn Health pediatric genetics counselor Maria Gyure. “These graduates didn’t just complete a program – they helped build it. I couldn’t be prouder to send them out into the world as the next generation of genetic counselors. We have no doubt they will serve as exemplary ambassadors for our program and make meaningful contributions to the communities they serve.”

    From left to right: Samantha Wesoly, Lila Aiyar, Kathryn Cavanna, Heather Gaddy, Natalie Cartwright, Mariangelie Beaudry, Karina Mancini, Stephanie Auger, Matthew Ruegg, and Maria Gyure (Rachel O’Neill/UConn Photo)

    The two-year program is uniquely positioned to give students broad experience in both research and clinical genetics. The Genetic Counseling PSM is housed under the auspices of the Institute for Systems Genomics (ISG). The ISG includes researchers and clinicians at UConn Health, Connecticut Children’s, and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine. Those relationships, along with others, allow students to participate in a series of 10-week fieldwork rotations throughout their training. Students are placed in clinical rotations in diverse areas, including prenatal, pediatric, cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic genetic counseling, as well as a laboratory rotation. An enrichment rotation gives students the opportunity to tailor a fieldwork experience aligned with their individual interests, in specialty clinics, industry, and advocacy.

    They are also required to take part in a genetic research project beginning in the second semester. This graduating class focused on areas including forensic genetic genealogy, the human right to health, barriers to newborn genomic research, underrepresented populations in rare disease research, among others.

    “The graduating class of 2025 represents a remarkable achievement, not only for the outstanding students in the program, but for the leadership and faculty that have made this program possible,” says ISG director Rachel O’Neill.

    UConn’s tuition is generally more affordable than the private university genetic counseling programs elsewhere in the region, making it more accessible for potential students. Interested potential students are encouraged to look at the program’s homepage as applications open in the fall.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • APEC highlights ‘fundamental challenges’ in global trade as tariffs overshadow meeting

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation group adopted a statement on Friday that cited “fundamental challenges” facing the global trading system, but stopped short of discussing a joint response to U.S. tariffs looming large over its meeting.

    The annual gathering is the first major multilateral trade gathering since U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping tariffs that hit more than half of the 21 members of the bloc with U.S. import duties in excess of the 10% minimum.

    “We are concerned with the fundamental challenges faced by the global trading system,” APEC members said in the joint statement.

    They also said they remained committed to APEC as the main forum for regional economic cooperation and addressing the economic challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region.

    The statement expressed support for the continued role of the World Trade Organization, while noting its shortcomings.

    “We recognise the importance of the WTO to advance trade issues, and acknowledge the agreed-upon rules in the WTO as an integral part of the global trading system.”

    The statement also said that “the WTO has challenges and needs meaningful, necessary, and comprehensive reform to improve all its functions, through innovative approaches, to be more relevant and responsive in light of today’s realities”.

    The Trump administration views the WTO as a body that has enabled China to gain an unfair export advantage and has recently moved to suspend U.S. funding to the institution.

    Kim Yong Jin, a management professor at Sogang University in Seoul, said the joint statement reflected U.S. claims “they are at a disadvantage under WTO, and that needs to be fixed.”

    APEC warned at the start of the meeting that exports from a region that accounts for around half of world trade would slow sharply this year as a result of the U.S. tariffs.

    Earlier on Friday, some diplomats from member countries had expressed doubts the group would even be able to adopt a joint statement, although they said South Korea Minister for Trade, Cheong In-kyo, had pushed hard for some consensus.

    “There was new momentum created through these meetings to overcome a difficult situation … as APEC urged a trans-regional effort to break through uncertainties engulfing the global economy,” Cheong told a briefing.

    In February, a Group of 20 meeting of finance ministers and central bankers in Cape Town failed to agree a joint communique after top officials from several countries, including the United States, skipped it.

    Cheong said there was no “official” discussion about a joint response to U.S. tariffs, despite pressure from some members for such talks.

    “From our standpoint, it is difficult to jointly respond because each country is in a completely different situation,” he said.

    APEC is a non-binding regional economic forum established in 1989 to facilitate deepening ties in the Asia-Pacific region, with the United States, China, countries in Latin America and Southeast Asia, as well as Hong Kong and Taiwan among its member economies.

    BILATERAL MEETINGS

    For many of the member economies, the attendance of U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer raised the stakes of the conference held on South Korea’s Jeju Island, ahead of a leaders’ summit scheduled later in the year.

    On the first day, many, if not all, of the representatives had or sought a meeting with Greer, according to host country officials.

    Greer met China’s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang on Thursday, less than a week after their first face-to-face talks in Geneva on May 10-11, where they agreed to significantly lower tariffs for 90 days.

    Beijing’s commerce ministry spokesperson, He Yongqian, told a press conference that China was always open to discussing economic and trade relations with the United States through offline communication, but gave no details on the substance of the latest talks.

    According to a statement from the ministry, China’s Li said at the APEC meeting that in recent years individual economies had implemented so-called reciprocal tariffs, which provoked global trade frictions and strong dissatisfaction and opposition from many trading partners.

    Greer also spoke with South Korea’s Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun, three weeks after Seoul and Washington held their opening round of trade talks, and ministers from Malaysia and Taiwan, yielding optimism that further talks would lead to reduced tariffs.

    (Reuters)

  • IIFT sets up first overseas campus in Dubai, marking historic step in global expansion

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major stride towards internationalising Indian higher education, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) has announced the establishment of its first overseas campus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The move marks a significant milestone in IIFT’s 62-year history and underscores India’s growing presence in the global education landscape.

    The announcement was made by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Friday. The new campus has received the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Education, along with No Objection Certificates from the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the University Grants Commission (UGC).

    Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal hailed the development as a reflection of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s vision of making India a global hub for education. “This truly reflects the spirit of NEP 2020, marking a new chapter in the internationalisation of Indian education and its growing role in shaping global thought leadership. It is also a testament to the strengthening India-UAE partnership,” he said.

    Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal described the Dubai campus as a turning point in IIFT’s journey. “This represents India’s emergence as a provider of world-class education, especially in the field of international trade,” he noted, while applauding the institute’s continued focus on aligning academic and research efforts with national priorities.

    Prof. Rakesh Mohan Joshi, Vice Chancellor of IIFT, expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders who supported the initiative. Reaffirming the institute’s commitment to excellence, he said, “We aim to transform IIFT into a world-class institution through our Dubai campus by excelling in education, training, and research in international trade.”

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Talent and tenacity is celebrated in champion style at 2025 Leeds Sports Awards

    Source: City of Leeds

    Organised by Sport Leeds and Leeds City Council, the ceremony is held each year to celebrate the achievements of athletes – of all ages and levels – as well as coaches, administrators and volunteers.

    And the 2025 edition of the event – hosted at Leeds’s Carriageworks Theatre – did exactly that, with close to 20 different awards being presented to some extremely deserving recipients.

    The evening’s winners included Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair Rugby League coach and former player James Simpson, who took home the coveted Sporting Pride of Leeds title.

    Previous recipients of the award – which recognises work done by an individual, club or organisation to raise the profile of the city as a centre of sporting excellence – include Rob Burrow, Eddie Gray and Josh Warrington.

    A Lifetime Achievement Award, meanwhile, went to Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington. The same award was presented posthumously to former Rhinos chief scout Bob Pickles.

    Joan Young’s tireless work supporting netball across the city was recognised with a Special Contribution Award.

    Local, national and international athletics stalwart Dr Ian Richards and City of Leeds Diving Club fundraisers Fiona Croft and Becky Simmonds were all winners in the Outstanding Sports Volunteer category.

    There were awards, too, for local stars of the Olympics and Paralympics, including Georgie Brayshaw, Katy Marchant, Tom Pidcock, Hannah Cockroft and Kadeena Cox.

    Crossgates Harriers took first place in the Community Club category, with a highly-commended mention going to Methley Athletic AFC.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

    “The Leeds Sports Awards is one of the highlights of our city’s sporting calendar and an event that means a huge amount to many people.

    “It’s an opportunity to salute the sporting community as a whole, with the important contribution made by grassroots organisations – as well as volunteers and other unsung heroes – being rightfully celebrated alongside the high-profile achievements of Leeds Rhinos, Leeds United and our Olympians and Paralympians.

    “Congratulations to all the winners and nominees at this year’s awards, you have done yourself and the city proud.”

    FULL LIST OF WINNERS AND ‘HIGHLY COMMENDED’ RECIPIENTS

    Young Sportsperson (sponsored by Technogym)

    Winner: Yaried Alem

    Highly commended: Matilda Potter and Amy Wright               

    Young Disability Sportsperson (Sponsored by Technogym)

    Winner: Oliver Porter     

    Highly commended: Lucas Town               

    Sportsperson (Sponsored by Technogym)

    Winners: Georgie Brayshaw, Katy Marchant and Tom Pidcock

    Disability Sportsperson (Sponsored by Technogym)

    Winners: Hannah Cockroft and Kadeena Cox

    School Achievement (Sponsored by YPO Sports)

    Winner: St Theresa’s Catholic Primary School

    Highly commended: Dave Curtis                                  

    Community Coach (Sponsored by Evans Homes)

    Winner: Charlotte Williams

    Highly commended: Elaine Brown and Pete Makowski

    Community Club (Sponsored by Evans Homes)

    Winner: Crossgates Harriers

    Highly commended: Methley United AFC

    Student Sport Champion (Sponsored by Leeds Trinity University)

    Winner: Max Burgin

    Highly commended: Luke Whitehouse                                               

    Outstanding Sports Volunteer (Sponsored by Rosterfly)

    Winners: Dr Ian Richards, Fiona Croft and Becky Simmonds

    Inspirational Community Champion (Sponsored by University of Leeds)

    Winner: Come Outside – Jovanni Sterling and Rob Lattibeaudiere

    Highly commended: Anthony Hall

    Performance Coach (Sponsored by Yorkshire Sport Foundation)

    Winner: Dave Murray

    Highly commended: Rhys Davey, Paul Moseley and Adam Smallwood

    Performance Club (Sponsored by Weetwood Hall Hotel)

    Winner: City of Leeds Diving Club

    Highly commended: Leeds Gymnastics Club

    Sustainability Champion (Sponsored by Zoggs)

    Winner: K.E.E.P.

    Highly commended: Yorkshire Cricket Foundation                                         

    Sporting Pride of Leeds (sponsored by first direct arena)

    Winner: James Simpson

    Lifetime Achievement Award (Sponsored by Leeds City Council)

    Winner: Gary Hetherington

    Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award (Sponsored by Leeds City Council)

    Winner: Bob Pickles

    Special Contribution Award (Sponsored by Leeds City Council)

    Winner: Joan Young

    Note to editors:

    Sport Leeds was established in 2002 and has since become a dynamic sports network with a strong reputation in the city and region. It serves as the strategic partnership for organisations involved in promoting and developing sports and active recreation in Leeds. The network includes professional and amateur sports clubs, universities, colleges, school clusters and other important sporting organisations from within the city, region and beyond.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Uzbek Minister: China is a strategic partner in building a complementary and innovative educational ecosystem in Central Asia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 16 (Xinhua) — We regard China as a strategic partner in building a complementary and innovative educational ecosystem in Central Asia, said Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan Kongratbay Sharipov in an exclusive interview with Xinhua News Agency.

    Kongratbay Sharipov arrived in China to participate in the First Meeting of Education Ministers “China-Central Asia”, which was held in the city of Urumqi in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region /Northwest China/.

    According to K. Sharipov, this event made an exceptionally positive impression on him – both in terms of the level of organization and the substantive content of the meeting. He called the meeting an important platform that contributes to the deepening of strategic partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the Central Asian countries in the field of education, science and innovation.

    “Uzbekistan is interested in expanding bilateral and multilateral projects with the participation of leading Chinese universities and research institutes, including the creation of joint scientific laboratories, educational programs, student and teacher exchanges, as well as the implementation of digital and engineering initiatives,” he said.

    The Minister noted: “In the field of higher and professional education, we strive to actively borrow Chinese experience in introducing dual education, training personnel for priority industries, as well as integrating science, production and education.”

    “We are particularly interested in Chinese experience in such areas as the development of innovative universities, technology transfer, university science management and commercialization of scientific developments, development of professional colleges and institutes. We are also interested in the development of startup ecosystems, incubators, science and technology parks based on universities, as well as in a deeper integration of the educational process with the needs of the economy,” he said.

    K. Sharipov added that Uzbekistan welcomes the development of joint educational institutions, double degree programs, as well as the study of the Uzbek language and Central Asian regions in China.

    “I am convinced that our efforts aimed at forming sustainable, institutional mechanisms of cooperation will allow us to take the educational and scientific partnership between Uzbekistan and China to a new, strategic level,” K. Shapirov summed up.

    Let us recall that at the said meeting a number of memorandums and agreements were signed between educational institutions of the participating countries, including a memorandum on the joint creation of a research center for the mutual study of the civilizations of China and Uzbekistan. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese-Kazakhstani elite engineering institute will be created on the basis of cooperation between SZPU and KazNU

    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

    BEIJING, May 16 (Xinhua) — A China-Kazakhstan Elite Engineering Institute will be established based on cooperation between the Northwestern Polytechnical University (NWPU) of China and the Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi (KazNU), the NWPU website reported.

    The agreement on the establishment of the above-mentioned institute, which will be located in the Kazakh branch of SZPU in Almaty, was concluded recently within the framework of the 1st Meeting of Ministers of Education “China-Central Asia” between SZPU and KazNU.

    The establishment of elite engineering institutes abroad is a project developed by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China on the basis of unified planning in the field of international cooperation.

    The Chinese-Kazakhstan Elite Engineering Institute will establish cooperation with enterprises of both countries in the field of training highly qualified engineers with an innovative approach, said SZPU Rector Song Baowei.

    SZPU is located in Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province /Northwest China/. The university, which belongs to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the PRC, is one of the most important centers in the country for scientific research and training of specialists in the field of aviation, astronautics, navigation, etc.

    In recent years, NWPU has been actively cooperating with research institutions in the countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. In May 2023, NWPU and KazNU signed an agreement to open a Kazakhstan branch of the Northwestern Polytechnical University of China. The branch was opened five months later in Almaty. Thus, according to the data, Kazakhstani students were given the opportunity to do an internship in Xi’an. Upon completion of their studies, they will receive diplomas from two universities. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Giant: John Lithgow’s masterful turn explores Roald Dahl’s antisemitism – and wider questions about children’s literature

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Kristina West, Lecturer in Children’s Literature, Royal Holloway University of London

    Back in 2023, a bitter debate erupted over the editing of Roald Dahl’s children’s books. His publishers, Puffin Books, had worked with Dahl’s estate (now owned by Netflix) to remove references to violence, body size, mental health, gender and skin colour. Now, a new play about an incident in Dahl’s later life is focusing on another controversy.

    Giant (written by Mark Rosenblatt) is playing at London’s Harold Pinter Theatre until August 2. It features a masterly performance by John Lithgow in the role of Dahl. The play tracks the fallout from his 1983 review of God Cried, a photographic book by Catherine Leroy and Tony Clifton about the Israeli army’s siege of west Beirut.

    However, in Rosenblatt’s blend of fact and fiction, the very real controversy arose not from the review, but from an interview Dahl gave that many Jewish and non-Jewish readers objected to as antisemitism (others saw it as a justified critique of Israel’s actions during the Lebanon war). This is melded with an imaginary situation in which Jewish representatives from Dahl’s British and American publishers visit his home to calm the backlash.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Rosenblatt explores the tensions in this response both as it related to Dahl and to conversations across the world on the recent and ongoing attacks in Palestine and Israel.

    Perhaps reflecting the controversy over Dahl’s language in his children’s books, this play, too, is engaged with conversation, language and word choices. The words we use about others, how that language is interpreted and meaning is formed, and discussions about language are all at the centre of the story. As is the discourse between different forms, styles, and times of writing, and the tension between spoken and written language.

    While Rosenblatt’s script is centred on Dahl’s comments on Israel and Jewish people, it also engages with his spoken misogyny. This includes his repeated insulting epithets for American publisher Jessica Stone (Aya Cash) and his hectoring of housekeeper Hallie (Tessa Bonham Jones). It is no coincidence that the play is set right before the release of The Witches (1983), now a centre of complaints about Dahl’s written misogyny.

    The trailer for Giant.

    And while the play begins with some genuinely comic moments, the night I saw it the audience audibly gasped during the scene in which Dahl told The New Statesman that “even a stinker like Hitler didn’t just pick on [the Jews] for no reasons”. It’s a quote taken directly from Dahl’s real interview with journalist Michael Coren in 1983.

    In its engagement with the power of language and the potential effects of a political statement on the sales of Dahl’s books, the play returns viewers to the debate over cancel culture and the place of politics in and around children’s literature.

    Today, such controversy centres on Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling and the impact of her position on transgender rights on her millions of child and adult fans. But such criticisms of children’s authors for being too political have been made for decades.

    Cancel culture

    Lithgow’s performance as Dahl adds another layer of complexity to the debate on age appropriateness and the validity of political comment. He centres his aged Dahl in a time of flux, unsettled and unwell, dealing with the renovation of his house. This is reflected in some clever staging in which the house as a place of sanctuary, work and rest has become a claustrophobic space in which people are on top of each other, nothing is where it belongs, and the only solace to be had is in a decent glass of wine.

    He is also about to marry his long-term mistress, Felicity Crossland (Rachael Stirling), after divorcing his even longer-term wife. You can almost hear the creak of his knees as he moves around and feel the aches in his back as he stretches that gaunt frame.

    Lithgow’s performance of age seems to explain some of Dahl’s crabby responses. As such, perhaps, the audience is tempted to ask questions that have been asked about “classic” literature before: is old age justification for prejudicial viewpoints? Is misogyny acceptable when someone was born in 1916? Is antisemitism excusable if someone is unwell?

    While Rosenblatt and Lithgow may open the door to questions such as these, they close that door pretty firmly by the end of the play. The shock value of Dahl’s phone interview in which he exerts an agency belying his age and clearly demonstrates his antisemitism leaves the audience in little doubt as to the final message.

    But with Dahl damned by his own antisemitism, what next? Is the play calling on cancel culture for Dahl? Is it claiming that his political views and language choices mean that we shouldn’t read The Witches to our children, in edited form or not?

    Perhaps it leaves us rather back where we began: with questions over language, with debate, with more discussion on intent, and meaning, and appropriateness of language. We also need to question the rights of an individual – especially a celebrated children’s author – to express controversial views against the rights of an individual or group, especially when demonstrably abhorrent. And this conversation isn’t going to end any time soon.

    Giant is at London’s Harold Pinter Theatre until August 2 2025.

    Kristina West 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. Giant: John Lithgow’s masterful turn explores Roald Dahl’s antisemitism – and wider questions about children’s literature – https://theconversation.com/giant-john-lithgows-masterful-turn-explores-roald-dahls-antisemitism-and-wider-questions-about-childrens-literature-256530

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Struggle icon, Duma Nokwe, awarded honorary title of Senior Counsel

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has posthumously awarded struggle veteran human rights lawyer, Advocate Dumalisile (Duma) Philemon Pearce Nokwe, the honorary title of Senior Counsel (SC or Silk) for the Republic of South Africa.

    Nokwe passed away in 1978 while in exile in Zambia.

    “The posthumous honour bestowed on the first African advocate of the Supreme Court is a high honour that recognises Advocate Nokwe’s expertise and contribution to the legal profession.

    “President Ramaphosa has conferred the status of Senior Counsel on Adv Nokwe in line with the provisions of the Legal Practice Act of 2014, which governs this status and sets out the criteria for its conferral.

    “In this instance, the Legal Practice Council and the Duma Nokwe Group of Advocates made an application to the President for Advocate Nokwe’s posthumous appointment as a Senior Counsel,” the Presidency said in a statement.

    Nokwe’s remains were repatriated to South Africa in 2024 and his reburial will be held on Saturday.

    “The President has bestowed this conferral on the late Adv Nokwe on the eve of the esteemed legal practitioner’s reburial in West Park Cemetery, Johannesburg, tomorrow, Saturday, 17 May 2025. He will be reburied along with his wife, Mrs Vuyiswa Malangabi-Nokwe who passed away in 2008.

    “President Ramaphosa has accorded Advocate Nokwe a Special Provincial Official Funeral and the President will deliver a tribute at tomorrow’s ceremony,” the statement read.

    Struggle icon

    Nokwe held a BSc degree from the University of Fort Hare and a diploma in education, which he used to foray into teaching in Krugersdorp.

    However, his political activities led his imprisonment during the Defiance Campaign aimed at the apartheid government in 1952.

    He was banned and restricted in 1953 by the racist government following his participation in the World Youth Festival and visits to the then Soviet Union, China and Britain.

    “He subsequently studied law, obtained an LLB degree and became the first black advocate to be admitted to the Johannesburg Society of Advocates. The Native Affairs Department of the time debarred him from taking chambers with his white colleagues in the Johannesburg city centre and this development led to Adv Nokwe devoting himself to the liberation struggle.

    “He was put on trial for treason and was subjected to banning orders, arrests and assault by the police,” the presidency said.

    His political activism and fight for the freedom of South Africans led to him having to leave the country.

    “He was elected Secretary-General of the African National Congress in 1958 and mobilised communities against apartheid until the underground leadership directed him to leave South Africa in January 1963.

    “Advocate Nokwe campaigned against the apartheid state on global platforms including those of the Organisation of African Unity and African Union and remained an activist until he passed in Lusaka in January 1978,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan women’s power takes flight internationally; gender equality achievements showcased in New York

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Taiwan women’s power takes flight internationally; gender equality achievements showcased in New York

    Date：2025-03-04
    Data Source：Department of NGO International Affairs

    March 4, 2025No. 056The 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) will be held in New York from March 10 to 21. This year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in continued collaboration with Taiwanese nongovernmental organizations, has arranged for Taiwan Gender Equality Week (TGEW) to be held in New York at the same time. CSW69 will focus on the gender equality outcomes of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted by the Fourth World Conference on Women. In line with this, TGEW’s theme will be “Resilient Leadership & Free Expression,” demonstrating to the world Taiwan’s long-standing efforts to promote gender mainstreaming and gender equality.The highlight of this year’s TGEW will be Taiwan Women’s Power and Culture Night, to be held at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York at 18:00 on March 12. The event, themed “Taiwan Main Stage: Celebrating Women’s Resilience and Progress,” will showcase Taiwan’s gender equality achievements. A number of distinguished guests will be invited to share their perspectives on Taiwan’s implementation of gender mainstreaming and international commitments in recent years as Taiwan has responded to global trends. In addition, the event will feature Ambassador-at-Large Liu Po-chun, World Winner of the 2019 International Olympic Committee Women and Sport Award. Using her personal experiences in Taiwan as a starting point, she will invite the international community to discuss in depth the next steps for global gender equality. And Chair of the Egret Cultural and Educational Foundation Lu Chia-hui will hold a multimedia piano concert, expressing Taiwanese women’s concern for and contributions to environmental protection, cultural inclusion, and peace via the performing arts. Meanwhile, the Taiwan Women’s Power Exhibition will employ statistics to illustrate milestones along Taiwan’s path to gender equality. The event will be live streamed on MOFA’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.This year, over 60 representatives from more than 40 Taiwanese NGOs and local governments will hold 32 parallel events during the NGO CSW Forum. They will share Taiwan’s gender equality initiatives and policy implementation experiences with the international community.Since 2020, MOFA and the Foundation for Women’s Rights Promotion and Development (FWRPD) have coorganized TGEW. Moving forward, the government will continue to work hand in hand with civil society, leveraging Taiwan’s advantages in gender equality to make Taiwan’s voice heard on the world stage. During TGEW, everyone is welcome to participate in the FWRPD’s gender equality campaign on X at @WomensRightsTW and use the hashtags #TaiwanforHer and #EqualityTaiwan to spread the word. And by following MOFA’s Facebook page and X account, together we can raise awareness about Taiwan’s gender equality achievements and call for global sustainable development through gender equality. For more information, visit https://www.tgew.org/. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Should we ban mobile phones in schools?

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Watch members press the government on its plans to ensure mobile phones are kept out of schools.

    Read a transcript of this question https://hansard.parliament.uk/lords/2025-05-12/debates/02FE8999-D6BC-4F83-B61A-C53F71A73330/SchoolsMobilePhones

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3ZUkxnOG04

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preston Markets Loved for 150 Years

    Source: City of Preston

    This week, as part of ‘Love Your Local Market’ fortnight, Preston Markets is proud to announce the 150th anniversary of its iconic Victorian canopy.

    Standing tall since 1875, this striking structure has sheltered generations of traders and welcomed countless visitors, becoming one of Preston’s most recognisable city centre landmarks.

    To mark the occasion, Preston Markets will host a two-day Victorian-themed celebration on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August. Visitors can expect traditional characters such as Victorian strong men, penny-farthing-riding policeman along with live performances and family-friendly activities. A special heritage tour will offer insights into the markets rich history whilst a curated display – developed in collaboration with a history student from the University of Lancashire will showcase the markets’ story through the decades. More details will be announced.

    ‘Love Your Local Market’ is a UK wide initiative celebrating local markets and the traders who provide fresh quality produce and services to their communities.

    Originally held on Preston Flag Market with street traders dotted around the town, Preston Market evolved significantly after the arrival of the railway in 1838. This economic boost paved the way for the construction of a permanent canopy, completed in November 1875 which quickly became a symbol of Preston’s thriving market culture.

    Today, 150 years on, the canopy still provides a home for local traders and a popular space for visitors. It now shares space with beloved statues of Wallace and Gromit characters adding a playful touch to its historic setting.

    Councillor Martyn Rawlinson, cabinet member for Resources at Preston City Council said:

    Preston Markets have always been at the heart of Preston and it is fantastic to see them celebrated this way, Market traders work incredibly hard all year-round providing quality goods and services.

    “Marking the 150 year anniversary of the iconic, market canopy honours not only the heritage but also the vital role our markets continue to play in Preston’s future.”

    If you have a personal memory or family story linked to Preston Markets, we’d love to hear from you. Email markets@preston.gov.uk – selected stories may be included in a special display inside the Market Hall.

    To stay up to date with celebration details, including competition and event anouncements visit Preston Markets and follow @prestonmarkets on Instagram and Facebook.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Top Prize Awarded in Lunar Autonomy Challenge to Virtually Map Moon’s Surface

    Source: NASA

    NASA named Stanford University of California winner of the Lunar Autonomy Challenge, a six-month competition for U.S. college and university student teams to virtually map and explore using a digital twin of NASA’s In-Situ Resource Utilization Pilot Excavator (IPEx). 
    The winning team successfully demonstrated the design and functionality of their autonomous agent, or software that performs specified actions without human intervention. Their agent autonomously navigated the IPEx digital twin in the virtual lunar environment, while accurately mapping the surface, correctly identifying obstacles, and effectively managing available power.

    Adam dai
    Lunar Autonomy Challenge team lead, Stanford University

    Dai added, “It pushed us to find solutions robust to the harsh conditions of the lunar surface. I learned so much through the challenge, both about new ideas and methods, as well as through deepening my understanding of core methods across the autonomy stack (perception, localization, mapping, planning). I also very much enjoyed working together with my team to brainstorm different approaches and strategies and solve tangible problems observed in the simulation.” 
    The challenge offered 31 teams a valuable opportunity to gain experience in software development, autonomy, and machine learning using cutting-edge NASA lunar technology. Participants also applied essential skills common to nearly every engineering discipline, including technical writing, collaborative teamwork, and project management.
    The Lunar Autonomy Challenge supports NASA’s Lunar Surface Innovation Initiative (LSII), which is part of the Space Technology Mission Directorate. The LSII aims to accelerate technology development and pursue results that will provide essential infrastructure for lunar exploration by collaborating with industry, academia, and other government agencies.

    Niki Werkheiser
    Director of Technology Maturation and LSII lead, NASA Headquarters

    “To succeed, we need input from everyone — every idea counts to propel our goals forward. It is very rewarding to see these students and software developers contributing their skills to future lunar and Mars missions,” Werkheiser added.  
    Through the Lunar Autonomy Challenge, NASA collaborated with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Caterpillar Inc., and Embodied AI. Each team contributed unique expertise and tools necessary to make the challenge a success.
    The Applied Physics Laboratory managed the challenge for NASA. As a systems integrator for LSII, they provided expertise to streamline rigor and engineering discipline across efforts, ensuring the development of successful, efficient, and cost-effective missions — backed by the world’s largest cohort of lunar scientists. 
    Caterpillar Inc. is known for its construction and excavation equipment and operates a large fleet of autonomous haul trucks. They also have worked with NASA for more than 20 years on a variety of technologies, including autonomy, 3D printing, robotics, and simulators as they continue to collaborate with NASA on technologies that support NASA’s mission objectives and provide value to the mining and construction industries. 
    Embodied AI collaborated with Caterpillar to integrate the simulation into the open-source  driving environment used for the challenge. For the Lunar Autonomy Challenge, the normally available digital assets of the CARLA simulation platform, such as urban layouts, buildings, and vehicles, were replaced by an IPEx “Digital Twin” and lunar environmental models.
    “This collaboration is a great example of how the government, large companies, small businesses, and research institutions can thoughtfully leverage each other’s different, but complementary, strengths,” Werkheiser added. “By substantially modernizing existing tools, we can turn today’s novel technologies into tomorrow’s institutional capabilities for more efficient and effective space exploration, while also stimulating innovation and economic growth on Earth.”
    FINALIST TEAMS
    First PlaceNAV Lab teamStanford University, Stanford, California

    Second PlaceMAPLE (MIT Autonomous Pathfinding for Lunar Exploration) teamMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

    Third PlaceMoonlight teamCarnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA

    OTHER COMPETING TEAMS

    Lunar Explorers
    Arizona State University
    Tempe, Arizona

    AIWVU
    West Virginia University
    Morgantown, West Virginia

    Stellar Sparks
    California Polytechnic Institute Pomona
    Pomona, California

    LunatiX
    Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering
    Baltimore

    CARLA CSU
    California State University, Stanislaus
    Turlock, California

    Rose-Hulman
    Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
    Terre Haute, Indiana

    Lunar Pathfinders
    American Public University System
    Charles Town, West Virginia

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: High technology to help people: Polytechnicians win prosthetics championship

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The regional stage of the high-tech championship in the competence “Design and manufacture of prostheses and orthoses” was held at the Institute of Secondary Vocational Education of SPbPU.

    The students demonstrated their understanding of 3D scanning, modeling, circuit design and programming, as well as how to work with 3D printing and assemble robotic prostheses. The participants not only demonstrated their knowledge, but also applied it in practice.

    The industrial expert of the championship was the head of the innovation technologies department of the Federal Scientific and Educational Center for Medical and Social Expertise and Rehabilitation named after G. A. Albrecht of the Ministry of Labor of Russia Mikhail Golovin. He consulted the experts of the evaluation groups, provided valuable recommendations and a practical approach to prosthetics. His experience and knowledge became an important resource for the participants, helping them improve their work.

    Students from colleges of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University and the North-West Institute of Management of RANEPA took part in the championship.

    The winner of the championship was Violetta Molodtsova from the ISPO SPbPU, expert – Daria Malyuk. Second place was taken by Daria Bolotnova from the ISPO SPbPU, expert – Karina Babieva. Third place went to Nikita Mostovoy from the faculty of secondary vocational education of the North-West Institute of Management RANEPA, expert – Evgeny Polubotko.

    It was a test of myself, knowledge and endurance. It’s like a race against time, when you see a solution and the only thing left for you is to spend all your energy on implementing it within the given time frame, – shared Violetta Molodtsova.

    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 United Nations: Cities Unite for Data-Driven Urban Resilience: UNDRR & WCCD Host Workshops in Vaughan, Canada, and Ajman, United Arab Emirates

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Cities around the world have a tremendous opportunity to enhance their urban resilience by leveraging standardized, reliable data. Such data is crucial for evidence-based, needs-driven planning and for attracting investment in disaster risk reduction and sustainable development. By utilizing consistent and verifiable data, cities can present compelling cases to investors, securing the necessary funding for critical infrastructure projects. This approach not only improves immediate disaster preparedness but also supports long-term urban planning and sustainability efforts.

    Recognizing this potential, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and World Council on City Data (WCCD) jointly hosted workshops in Vaughan, Canada, and Ajman, United Arab Emirates. The central theme, “Data for Resilient Cities,” emphasized the importance of standardized, third-party verified city data in fostering collaboration between local governments and the financial sector. This data is essential for strategic planning and mitigating risks through resilient infrastructure investments.

    The workshops, held on 24-25 April in Vaughan welcomed cities primarily from the Americas and Europe—including Toronto, Vaughan, Mississauga, the Regional Municipality of York (Canada), Reykjavik (Iceland), Montevideo (Uruguay), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Montego Bay (Jamaica)— while the Ajman session on 6-7 May convened participants from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including Al Madinah (Saudi Arabia), Makati City (Philippines), Windhoek (Namibia), Kisumu (Kenya), Minna (Nigeria), Banjul (The Gambia), Ajman (UAE), and Doha (Qatar). These cities engaged in fruitful exchanges of experience on the use of data, ISO certification, and urban resilience strategies and planning—demonstrating the power of peer learning and global cooperation in advancing resilient urban development.

    Participants were introduced to ISO 37123—Indicators for Resilient Cities and ISO 37125—Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) for Cities. These standards provide a robust framework for cities to align their resilience planning with private sector financing, ensuring informed investment decisions based on reliable ESG metrics.

    Hosted by Vaughan and Ajman—the world first ISO37123 certified cities, the workshops focused on two main areas: strategic planning and resilience data, and financing resilient infrastructure. The session highlighted the importance of data in the implementation of ISO 37123, emphasizing the role of certified resilience data in risk reduction planning, disaster recovery, and urban governance. Peer-to-peer exchanges allowed cities to share lessons learned and discuss resilience challenges and solutions. Additionally, the introduction of ISO 37125 explored how ESG metrics can unlock capital markets. Sustainable finance leaders engaged in discussions on the role of certified city data in supporting municipal bonds, green bonds, and other sustainable investment vehicles.

    Participants left the workshops with a comprehensive understanding of how ISO-certified data can be applied to strengthen disaster risk reduction and capital planning, and how data insights help align local resilience goals with global finance frameworks.

    These workshops were part of the UN-led Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative and support the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and UN Sustainable Development Goals. They mark pivotal moments where cities and the financial sector unite around standardized, verified data to drive resilient investment.

    “We are bringing cities and banks into the same room to address two critical challenges—cities need funding, and investors need data. These workshops equip both with the tools to take meaningful, collaborative action.”

    – Dr. Patricia McCarney, President and CEO of WCCD

    “With disasters accelerating and urban services under increasing pressure, these workshops mark pivotal moments—where cities and the financial sector unite around standardized, verified data to drive resilient investment.”

    – Sanjaya Bhatia, Head of Global Education and Training Institute, UNDRR

    The success of the Vaughan and Ajman workshops sets the stage for future sessions aimed at empowering cities to not just recover but lead in resilience planning and sustainable development.

    MCR2030 is a United Nations-led global partnership that has mobilized more than 1,800 local governments from 93 countries and territories, representing 597 million people, committed to strengthening their disaster and climate resilience.  The workshops highlighted the role of MCR2030 Core Partners —UNDRR and WCCD—in leveraging the technical expertise and global networks of both organizations to guide cities in applying standardized data for risk-informed planning, investment, and governance. The events also underscored the importance of city-to-city learning and exchange in fostering collaboration and network among cities on disaster risk reduction and climate resilience.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Caribbean education Ministers reaffirm commitment to safer and more resilient schools

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Ministers of Education and regional stakeholders gathered this week in Saint Lucia for the Fourth Caribbean Ministerial Forum on School Safety, reaffirming their commitment to the Caribbean Safe School Initiative (CSSI) and sharing concrete actions to ensure safer learning environments in the face of escalating climate and disaster risks.

    Convened under the theme “Increased collaboration and action for school safety in the Caribbean”, the Forum brought together CSSI signatory countries along with education and disaster risk experts, youth delegates, and representatives from the private sector, civil society, and international partners.  

    The event was hosted by the Government of Saint Lucia through the Ministry of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport of Sint Maarten; the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA); the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR); the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF); and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO).

    Building on the momentum of the Third Ministerial Forum and the Sint Maarten Declaration, the encounter offered a space for dialogue, learning and decision-making among high-level stakeholders to accelerate implementation of the Caribbean Regional Roadmap on School Safety.

    The Forum also reinforced CSSI’s growing impact across the region. Since its launch in 2017, the initiative has supported the development of national school safety policies in over 75% of signatory countries, enhanced risk-informed infrastructure planning, trained thousands of education professionals in emergency preparedness, and expanded youth participation in school safety governance.

    Over two days, participants assessed the current state of school safety across the region, discussed the integration of early warning systems into the education sector, and exchanged good practices to build resilient school infrastructure and tackle violence in and around schools. The Forum also featured the presentation of a new CSSI monitoring tool and the outcomes of a regional monitoring exercise conducted in April 2025.

    Ministers agreed on a series of concrete outcomes to advance the Caribbean Safe School Initiative. These include the formalization of the CSSI Coordination Committee. These include the formalization of the CSSI Coordination Committee; the integration of this body into the Safe School Working Group with defined terms of reference; and regular coordination through quarterly virtual meetings. Countries committed to annual national reporting using the CSSI Monitoring Tool, with the first round of submissions expected within two months of the Forum. The next Ministerial Forum will be held by 2028, with interim virtual meetings to assess progress. Focal point meetings will take place twice per year, and Ministries of Education will explore institutionalizing school safety allocations within national budgets. Finally, Ministers agreed to update the Regional Roadmap for School Safety ahead of the fifth Ministerial Forum and to support continued advocacy through an annual Caribbean School Safety Week and youth-led initiatives.

    These outcomes will directly inform the upcoming Safe Schools Ministerial Round Table at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, where Caribbean leadership and lessons will be showcased on the global stage.

    As part of the programme, youth delegates presented a series of recommendations from the parallel Youth Forum, calling for greater inclusion in risk governance and education planning.

    Executive Director of CDEMA, Elizabeth Riley, explained that significant investment has been made over years to implement and scale the CSSI, adding that it contributes significantly to the agency’s Comprehensive Disaster Management strategy. “This 4th Ministerial Forum presents an important opportunity—not just to reflect on our accomplishments, but to deepen our resolve and accelerate progress. We must continue to mobilize political will, financial resources, and community engagement to ensure that every child in the Caribbean has access to a safe, inclusive, and resilient learning environment. As we convene here today, let us recommit to the goals of the CSSI, strengthen our partnerships, and elevate the role of education in building a safer Caribbean,” she said.

    “The Fourth Ministerial Forum is a milestone in reaffirming that school safety is not optional—it’s a fundamental part of inclusive, quality education and resilient development. The commitments made have had ripple effects across the Caribbean. We have moved from plans to action, and working towards ensuring every child can learn in a safe, prepared, and empowering environment,” said Saskia Carusi, Deputy Chief of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) – Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean.

    The Forum also reaffirmed the CSSI as the main regional mechanism to advance school safety, and aligned its outcomes with broader global frameworks including the Comprehensive School Safety Framework (CSSF), the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    “Saint Lucia remains committed to building resilience in the education sector, and we are proud to support the Caribbean Safe Schools Initiative,” said Shawn A. Edward, Minister of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training of Saint Lucia. “As we gather for the 4th Ministerial Forum, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that our schools are not only centers of learning but also safe spaces where our children can thrive, even in the face of natural hazards and climate challenges. We look forward to strengthening regional collaboration and sharing best practices that will secure the future of education across the Caribbean,” he added.

    Similarly, Melissa D. Gumbs, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport of Sint Maarten, emphasized the power of joint action: “By strengthening collaboration between CSSI member countries, we can pool resources, share best practices, conduct joint training exercises, and leverage external funding more effectively. No school, no student, no teacher in our region should face insurmountable risk. Together, through collaboration and decisive action, we will make our schools bastions of safety, resilience, and hope.”

    By promoting cooperation across ministries, national disaster management agencies, and youth networks, the Forum emphasized that the safety and continuity of education must be prioritized in policy, planning, and investment.

    About CSSI

    Launched in 2017, the Caribbean Safe School Initiative (CSSI) is the regional framework to advance safe, inclusive, and resilient education systems. With 19 signatory countries, the CSSI supports national implementation of the Comprehensive School Safety Framework by promoting coordinated action on safer school facilities, risk reduction education, and education continuity in emergencies.

    To date, CSSI has contributed to stronger interministerial coordination, the integration of disaster risk reduction into education sector plans, and the development of national school safety strategies. Its newly launched monitoring tool is helping countries track progress and guide evidence-based policy implementation. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Rwanda Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    Urujeni Bakuramutsa, the new Permanent Representative of Rwanda to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented her credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    Prior to her appointment to Geneva, Ms. Bakuramutsa had been serving as Ambassador of Rwanda to Jordan since December 2023.  She served as Director of the Cabinet of the Office of the President of Rwanda from March 2020 to December 2023.  She also held the post of Permanent Secretary at the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from October 2018 to March 2020.

    Ms. Bakuramutsa served as Minister Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Representative of Rwanda to the United Nations in New York from October 2016 to October 2018.  She was Director General of the Imbuto Foundation in Kigali from May 2014 to October 2016.  She started her career working in the private sector, first in California, United States from November 2006 to December 2011, and then in Kigali, Rwanda from January 2012 to May 2014.

    Ms. Bakuramutsa holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sacramento State University in the United States.  She was born in 1979 in Burkina Faso and is married with three children.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CR25.020E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A trial is testing ways to enforce Australia’s under-16s social media ban. But the tech is flawed

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Alexia Maddox, Senior Lecturer in Pedagogy and Education Futures, La Trobe University

    De Visu/Shutterstock

    Australia’s move to ban under-16s from social media is receiving widespread praise. Other countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore and Japan, are also now reportedly considering similar moves.

    The ban was legislated in November 2024 and is due to take effect in December 2025. The law says social media platforms can’t use official IDs such as passports to check Australian users’ ages, and shouldn’t track Australians. But it doesn’t specify the alternative.

    To test alternative methods, the federal government commissioned a trial of currently available technologies designed to “assure” people’s age online. Run by the Age Check Certification Scheme, a UK-based company specialising in testing and certifying identity verification systems, the trial is in its final stages. Results are expected at the end of June.

    So what are the technologies being trialled? Are they likely to work? And how might they – and the social media ban itself – alter the relationship all of us have with our dominant forms of digital communication?

    Dead ends for age verification

    Age verification confirms a person’s exact age using verified sources such as government-issued IDs. Age assurance is a broader term. It can include estimation techniques such as analysing faces or metadata to determine if users meet age requirements.

    In 2023 the federal government rejected mandating verification technologies for age-gating pornography sites. It found them “immature” with significant limitations. For example, database checks were costly and credit card verification could be easily worked around by minors.

    Nonprofit organisation Digital Rights Watch also pointed out that such systems were easily bypassed using virtual private networks – or VPNs. These are simple tools that hide a user’s location to make it seem like they are from a different country.

    Age assurance technologies bring different problems.

    For example, the latest US National Academies of Sciences report shows that facial recognition systems frequently misidentify children because their facial features are still developing.

    Improving these systems would require massive collections of children’s facial images. But international human rights law protects children’s privacy, making such data collection both legally and ethically problematic.

    Flawed testing of innovative tech?

    The age assurance technology trial currently includes 53 vendors hoping to win a contract for new innovative solutions.

    A range of technology is being trialled. It includes facial recognition offering “selfie-based age checks” and hand movement recognition technologies that claim to calculate age ranges. It also includes bespoke block chains to store sensitive data on.

    There are internal tensions about the trial’s design choices. These tensions centre on a lack of focus on ways to circumvent the technology, privacy implications, and verification of vendors’ efficacy claims.

    While testing innovation is good, the majority of companies and startups such as IDVerse, AgeCheck, and Yoti in the trial, will likely not hold clout over the major tech platforms in focus (Meta, Google and Snap).

    This divide reveals a fundamental problem: the companies building the checking tools aren’t the ones who must use them in the platforms targeted by the law. When tech giants don’t actively participate in developing solutions, they’re more likely to resist implementing them later.

    Google recently proposed storing ID documents in Google Wallet for age verification.
    nitpicker/Shutterstock

    Unresponsive tech companies

    Some major tech companies have shown little interest in engaging with the trial. For example, minutes from the trial’s March advisory board meeting reveal Apple “has been unresponsive, despite multiple outreach attempts”.

    Apple has recently outlined a tool to transmit a declared age range to developers on request. Apple suggests iOS will default the age assurance on Apple devices to under 13 for kids’ accounts. This makes it the responsibility of parents to modify age, the responsibility of developers to recognise age, and the responsibility of governments to legislate when and what to do with an assured age per market.

    Google’s recent Google Wallet proposal for age assurance also misses the mark on privacy concerns and usefulness.

    The proposal would require people over 16 to upload government-issued IDs and link them to a Google account. It would also require people trust Google not track where they go across the internet, via a privacy-preserving technology that remains a promise.

    Crucially, Meta’s social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram also do not let you login with Google credentials. After all, they are competitors. This raises questions about the usefulness of Google’s proposal to assure age across social media platforms as part of the government’s under-16s ban.

    Meanwhile, Google is also suggesting AI chatbots should be directly targeted and available to children under 13, creating something akin to a “social network of one”, which are out of scope of the ban.

    Rather than engage with Australian age verification systems, companies such as Apple and Google are promoting their own solutions which seem to prioritise keeping or adding users to their services, or passing responsibility elsewhere.

    For the targeted platforms that enable online social interactions, delay in engagement fits a broader pattern. For example, in January 2025, Mark Zuckerberg indicated Meta would push back more aggressively against international regulations that threaten its business model.

    A shift in internet regulation

    Australia’s approach to banning under-16s from using social media marks a significant shift in internet regulation. Rather than age-gating specific content such as porn or gambling, Australia is now targeting basic communication infrastructure – which is what social media have become.

    It centres the problem on children being children, rather than on social media business models.

    The result is limiting childrens’ digital rights with experimental technologies while doing little to address the source of perceived harm for all of us. It prioritises protection without considering children’s rights to access information and express themselves. This risks leaving the most vulnerable children being cut off from digital spaces essential to their success.

    Australia’s approach puts paternal politics ahead of technical and social reality. As we get closer to the ban taking effect, we’ll see how this approach to regulate social communication platforms offers young people respite from the platforms their parents fear – yet continue to use everyday for their own basic communication needs.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A trial is testing ways to enforce Australia’s under-16s social media ban. But the tech is flawed – https://theconversation.com/a-trial-is-testing-ways-to-enforce-australias-under-16s-social-media-ban-but-the-tech-is-flawed-256332

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Lord Mayor takes on historic role

    Source: City of Leicester

    LEICESTER’S new Lord Mayor has been handed the chains of office at a ceremony in the city’s Town Hall.

    Cllr Teresa Aldred, who has represented Thurncourt ward since the 2015 local elections, was sworn in as the city’s first citizen at a meeting of the full council yesterday (Thursday).

    At the ceremony, the new Lord Mayor announced she would be supporting two important health charities in her mayoral year: the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust and ANDYSMANCLUB.

    Cllr Aldred will be supported in her year in office by the Lady Mayoress, her daughter Libby Aldred, together with her good friend Maggie Corley and the former boxer Rendall Munroe, who will serve as her consorts.

    “I am very excited and maybe just a little nervous about being the Lord Mayor of Leicester but I promise to serve the people with my whole heart,” said Cllr Aldred.

    “I am proud to be the Lord Mayor of this beautiful city – so rich in diversity and culture, and a place I have always called home.

    “During my year in office, I hope to highlight some of the many brilliant things that happen in the city but often go unnoticed.

    “I will also be passionate about supporting the work of the two charities I have chosen: the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust, which strives to reduce the impact and incidence of sudden arrhythmic death syndrome, increase the number of public access defibrillators in communities, and train more people in the skills needed to save a life in an emergency – and the suicide prevention charity, ANDYSMANCLUB. 

    “In my year in office, I hope to raise awareness of the vital work that both charities do.”

    Born and raised in Thurnby Lodge – where she still lives today – Cllr Aldred attended Willowbrook and St Joseph’s primary schools, before moving on to St Paul’s RC School and Hamilton Community College.

    She began work in a care home for the elderly, while attending Charles Frears College of Nursing and Midwifery, and she also trained as a teaching assistant.

    While raising her family, she started taking an active role in the local community, holding events at the Thurncourt Community Centre and assisting with sessions for elderly people.

    Cllr Aldred is married with four children and is passionate about horses, having had her own horse from a young age. Although she still keeps and cares for horses, it’s her children who continue to live her dream and she very much encourages them to be involved and enjoy the outdoors.

    The family also enjoy travelling across England in their motorhome.

    Cllr Aldred becomes the latest incumbent of an office that dates back to at least 1209. Formerly the ‘Mayor of Leicester’, the title was upgraded to ‘Lord Mayor’ in 1928.

    The outgoing Lord Mayor, Cllr Bhupen Dave, will serve as Deputy Lord Mayor in 2025-26, with Cllr Manjula Sood remaining as High Bailiff.

    More information about the office of the Lord Mayor is available at leicester.gov.uk

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Education Bureau to hold Information Expo on Multiple Pathways 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Education Bureau to hold Information Expo on Multiple Pathways 2025 
    A spokesman for the EDB said today (May 16), “The Info Expo aims to provide the latest information on multiple pathways for senior secondary school students, parents and teachers; and to help students make good preparations for different articulation and career plans. Around 30 post-secondary institutions and organisations will set up exhibition booths to provide information on locally accredited post-secondary programmes (including programmes eligible for various government subsidy schemes as well as vocational and professional education and training programmes and applied degree programmes), the Diploma of Applied Education programmes, as well as relevant online platforms such as the Information Portal for Accredited Post-secondary Programmes (iPASS), the Electronic Advance Application System for Post-secondary Programmes (E-APP), the Concourse for Self-financing Post-secondary Education (Concourse), and the Qualifications Framework.”
     
    In addition, Hok Yau Club, the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, and the Hong Kong Young Women’s Christian Association will offer studies and career guidance services to students.
     
    There will also be talks on multiple pathways, preparation and strategies for articulation to post-secondary education, and experience sharing by post-secondary students. Institution and industry representatives will also provide first-hand information about various programmes and career development. 

    Admission is free and prior registration is not required. There are interactive games at the EDB’s booth. Participants who have completed designated tasks will receive a gift while stocks last.Issued at HKT 11:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Smart Parent Net” Recommendation: (Video) Developmental Disorders in Children – Developmental Language Disorder

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The One-minute Video Production Competition 2025 (the Competition) is a signature event of the Biliteracy and Trilingualism Campaign, organised by the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR). The Competition is now open to the public until 25 May 2025 for voting on their favourite entries in the categories including parent-child, primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary. The entry with the highest number of votes in each category will receive “The Most Popular Award”, and the awardees for each category will be awarded a book coupon valued $2,000. Teachers, students, parents and members of the public are invited to click here or scan the QR code in the e-banner above to vote for entries that you like best in promoting biliteracy and trilingualism at its highest impact.

    Themed “Hong Kong and me – our dialogue, our story • Cultural Exchange”, the Competition featured by video production inspires students to better understand how their biliterate and trilingual abilities can facilitate their connection with different parts of the world. It can also promote Hong Kong as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange as well as an international education hub. The result of the Competition will be announced on 27 June 2025 at the Closing cum Award Presentation Ceremony of the Campaign.

    SCOLAR’s Facebook and Instagram (scolar.hk) will keep you updated with the exciting events and latest news. We look forward to your support and participation.

     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Information Expo on Multiple Pathways 2025; Public Voting for “The Most Popular Award” of the “Biliteracy and Trilingualism Campaign: One-minute Video Production Competition 2025” organised by SCOLAR

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The One-minute Video Production Competition 2025 (the Competition) is a signature event of the Biliteracy and Trilingualism Campaign, organised by the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR). The Competition is now open to the public until 25 May 2025 for voting on their favourite entries in the categories including parent-child, primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary. The entry with the highest number of votes in each category will receive “The Most Popular Award”, and the awardees for each category will be awarded a book coupon valued $2,000. Teachers, students, parents and members of the public are invited to click here or scan the QR code in the e-banner above to vote for entries that you like best in promoting biliteracy and trilingualism at its highest impact.

    Themed “Hong Kong and me – our dialogue, our story • Cultural Exchange”, the Competition featured by video production inspires students to better understand how their biliterate and trilingual abilities can facilitate their connection with different parts of the world. It can also promote Hong Kong as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange as well as an international education hub. The result of the Competition will be announced on 27 June 2025 at the Closing cum Award Presentation Ceremony of the Campaign.

    SCOLAR’s Facebook and Instagram (scolar.hk) will keep you updated with the exciting events and latest news. We look forward to your support and participation.

     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Public hearing on “The State of Media in the EU and Media Resilience” – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    On 19 may the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield and the Committee on Culture and Education will hold a joint public hearing on “The State of Media in the EU and Media Resilience”. The hearing aims to explore the alarming decline of democracy and the growing threats to media freedom across Europe.

    Media organisations are navigating new challenges such as disinformation, the concentration of media ownership, and political pressures. Experts will analyse not only the state of media resilience in the EU, but also assess relevant existing and planned legislation and policies to further detect possible loopholes, gaps and overlaps in policies on media and information literacy, aiming to strengthen media pluralism, independent journalism and prevent undue influence from both state and corporate powers.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Spanish scholar highlights AI’s role in cross-cultural exchange

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

    Juan Manuel Corchado, rector and AI professor at the University of Salamanca, delivers a lecture titled “From Understanding to Dialogue: The Power of AI to Unite People and Nations” at Tsinghua University in Beijing, May 15, 2025. [Photo by Wang Yiming/China.org.cn]

    For two nations with rich cultural heritages and growing technological ambitions like Spain and China, artificial intelligence (AI) offers a unique opportunity to forge deeper ties, said Juan Manuel Corchado, rector and chair professor of artificial intelligence, computer science and cybersecurity at the University of Salamanca.

    During a recent visit to China from May 13-15, Corchado led a Spanish academic delegation that met with representatives from some of China’s top universities, including Peking University and Tsinghua University, to explore opportunities for educational cooperation and AI-powered cultural exchange.

    In an interview with China.org.cn, Corchado elaborated on how AI can facilitate cultural exchange and strengthen academic ties between China and Spain, and his views of AI as a powerful enabler for stronger bilateral ties.

    He explained that advanced AI models, such as large language models (LLMs) and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems, have the capability to “analyze the cultural context of a conversation” and adjust their responses to respect local traditions and customs. This contextual awareness helps avert misunderstandings and promotes culturally sensitive communication. Moreover, AI can analyze cultural trends and perspectives, providing valuable insights to support international decision-making.

    He also emphasized AI’s ability for “smart translation,” which goes beyond simple language conversion by accurately interpreting idiomatic expressions unique to each culture while maintaining their original meaning. Additionally, Corchado pointed out that AI enables “real-time multilingual communication,” effectively breaking down language barriers and fostering collaboration and mutual understanding across nations.

    Beyond language, Corchado highlighted that AI can identify and understand philosophical concepts unique to certain cultures. For example, AI models can explain the differences between Western and Eastern thought, further bridging cultural divides and enhancing cross-cultural dialogue.

    As a concrete example of AI’s application in cultural exchange, Juan Corchado highlighted the University of Salamanca’s plan to open a Confucius Institute at the end of this month, integrating AI into its teaching approach.

    “The Confucius Institute will promote Chinese language and culture,” Corchado said. “But now that we offer all our students courses in AI, we believe we can combine AI with Confucius education.”

    He explained that the university provides AI courses to all students because everyone has the ability to adopt AI to become a better professional. Taking advantage of current AI advancements alongside Chinese language learning, the university plans to use innovative tools such as the latest generative AI models and RAG technology to develop specialized systems for teaching Chinese language and culture.

    “We can customize all the information we have about China to meet the needs of each individual user,” Corchado noted. “This is a great advantage. By combining the traditional Confucius teaching approach with the power of AI, we aim to create knowledge that reaches far more people, adapting to their specific learning needs.”

    Reflecting on his visit to China 10 years ago, he said he was struck this time by the country’s remarkable progress. “I’m impressed with the level of technology you apply in society to all elements, and how everything is so well thought out and made for the people,” he said.

    Corchado was also particularly impressed by the close relationship between Chinese universities, society and industry. “I visited several companies that are proud of their cooperation with universities,” he said. “And the universities, in turn, proudly speak of how many of their former students are now working at top technology companies such as DeepSeek and Lenovo. This synergy between academia and industry is impressive and shows how education directly benefits society.”

    Corchado praised China’s leadership in AI, attributing it to a powerful combination of investment, infrastructure and talent. “I believe the top power in AI worldwide is China,” he said. “You have the funding to develop large language models like DeepSeek and to build the computing clusters they require. But even more important is the human capital to develop these platforms.”

    “I’ve studied several Chinese tech firms, and I’m really impressed by the level of knowledge and capability I’ve seen,” he said.

    Acknowledging China’s leading role in AI, Corchado stressed the importance of collaboration. “We need to be closer to those who know more than us, to learn more,” he said, emphasizing the critical role academic institutions can play in fostering cross-cultural understanding, especially in the age of AI.

    He highlighted the University of Salamanca’s longstanding engagement with China. “We are a more than 800-year-old university with one of the strongest Asian studies programs, especially focused on China,” he said.

    The university hosts around 600 Chinese students annually — roughly one-tenth of its international student body — and receives many more for short-term courses. In addition to academic partnerships, Salamanca’s science park is also home to companies doing business with China, strengthening links across education, research and industry.

    “Universities trust each other. We are accustomed to collaborating, communicating and working jointly on projects. This kind of cooperation helps us not only to accomplish academic goals, but also to gain a deeper understanding of one another’s cultures,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Announces Second Fiscal Quarter and Recent Operational Highlights and Provides Corporate Outlook 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced its second fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2025 and more recent operational highlights and provided an outlook on its expectations and goals for 2025 and beyond.

    “We started 2025 with a view to build on a successful 2024, and have done just that, pursuing and executing on our objectives efficiently,” said Jay Yu, Founder, Chairman and President of NANO Nuclear. “The acquisition of the rebranded, high technology readiness level stationary KRONOS MMR™ and portable LOKI MMR™ microreactors, which were finalized at the start of the year, has put us in a leading position in the microreactor race in U.S. We have solidified our relationship and working agreements with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) for the KRONOS MMR and are now working to construct the first research microreactor on campus grounds in the U.S. We are confident our efforts at UIUC will lead to eventual commercialization of many KRONOS MMRs being constructed throughout many industries across the world. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) approved the Fuel Qualification Methodology Topical Report for the KRONOS MMR, which is a major milestone for the commercial microreactor sector in general and crucial for the eventual construction of the microreactor system on campus grounds. In the coming months, we expect to begin the process of geological characterization, including subsurface investigations, which will lead to our construction permit applications and other future project milestones.”

    “In addition, NANO Nuclear has amassed dozens of domestic and international patents through our KRONOS and LOKI acquisition. We are also further expanding our current intellectual property protections with over a dozen new patent applications surrounding our microreactor portfolio, and supplementary technologies like our ALIP pump system,” continued Mr. Yu. “This year has also seen us commit to a new, multimillion dollar demonstration facility in Westchester County, New York, where the development of non-nuclear components, including commercializing the ALIP technology, will take place. Furthermore, our team has grown, and we have attracted many full-time engineers, regulatory and licensing experts, led by a world class Chief Technical Officer and Head of Reactor Development, Dr. Florent Heidet. This positive start to the year positions us well to achieve further milestones during the rest of 2025 and lays a solid foundation for achieving our longer term demonstration, regulatory licensing and commercialization goals.”

    2025 Operational Highlights

    Financial Achievements

    Operating Activities

    • $5.6 million used in operating activities during the six months ended March 31, 2025, reflecting NANO Nuclear’s ongoing scale-up in operations and research and development.

    Investing Activities

    • $12.7 million used in investing activities during the six months ended March 31, 2025, which includes $9.1 million for the acquisition of the KRONOS and LOKI assets and $3.6 million for investment in property and equipment primarily related to the build out of NANO Nuclear’s new demonstration facility in Westchester, New York, which is now operational.

    Financing Activities

    • $108.4 million raised during the six months ended March 31, 2025. NANO Nuclear had cash and cash equivalents of $118.6 million as of March 31, 2025, up from $28.5 million on September 30, 2024. These cash resources demonstrate not only strong investor support, but also an efficient use of investor capital to advance the Company’s business goals since its May 2024 initial public offering. The Company also has the liquidity to drive further value going forward.

    Selected for Inclusion into MSCI USA Index

    • Selected to be included in the MSCI USA Index, effective as of February 28, 2025, following the February index review by MSCI Inc. The MSCI USA Index is designed to measure the performance of the large and mid-cap segments of the U.S. market. With 576 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in the US.

    “We have been focused while executing on our capital and technology development roadmap while putting in place cost controls and maintaining a solid financial foundation. With a strong balance sheet and strong investor support, we are well-positioned to advance our initiatives for the remainder of this year and beyond” concluded Mr. Yu.

    Technological Advancements

    Acquisition of Tech Ready Patented Energy Systems

    • NANO Nuclear closed the acquisition of select nuclear energy technology assets on January 10, 2025, including the patented KRONOS MMR Energy System and LOKI MMR reactor from Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC).
      • Acquisition immediately added one of the highest technology readiness level advanced nuclear reactors in development and significantly expanded NANO Nuclear’s patent portfolio.
      • KRONOS has well-developed projects at UIUC and Chalk River, Ontario, where NANO Nuclear is seeking to be the first company in the U.S. and in Canada to build and license a microreactor intended for research and commercial use.
      • The KRONOS MMR™ is a stationary reactor system and designed to produce power up to 45 megawatts thermal (MWth) power.
      • The LOKI MMR™ is a compact portable nuclear reactor designed to provide between 1 MWth and 5 MWth of power.

    Acquisition and Further Expansion of Intellectual Property Protections

    • Series of patents that were acquired from USNC alongside its reactor technologies serve to strengthen NANO Nuclear’s intellectual‑property protections for its portfolio of modular nuclear technologies currently in development.
      • Filed four new separate utility patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) related to NANO Nuclear’s Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP) technology.
      • Filed six additional patents surrounding the components and designs of the ZEUS™ portable microreactor on March 27, 2025.

    Fabrication and Assembly of Key Non-Nuclear Components

    • Engaged Thermal Engineering International (TEi), a Babcock Power Inc.® company, to carry forward the design and fabrication of several heat exchangers for its portable ODIN™ nuclear microreactor project.
      • TEi is a leading supplier of heat transfer technology to the electric power generation industry for over 100 years.
    • Assembled the first reactor core hardware of its ZEUS microreactor for initial non-nuclear testing.
      • The hardware consists of a half‑scale (1:2) block, and the initial testing phase will evaluate its thermo‑mechanical performance under expected prototypical ZEUS operating conditions.

    Operational Growth

    Addition of Key Personnel and Leaders

    • Darlene T. DeRemer transitioned into a new corporate role with NANO Nuclear as its Executive Director of Corporate Finance, having previously served as the Chairwoman of NANO Nuclear’s Executive Advisory Board for Institutional Finance. Ms. DeRemer is the Chair of the ARK Invest ETF Trust Board, co-founder of Grail Partners LLC. and has over 25 years of experience as a leading adviser in the financial services industry.
    • Florent Heidet, Ph.D. joined NANO Nuclear as Chief Technology Officer and Head of Reactor Development. Dr. Heidet is a world-renowned expert on advanced nuclear reactor technologies, leveraging two decades of nuclear engineering and project management expertise. Dr. Heidet was previously the Head of Engineering at Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC).
    • Andrew Steer, Ph.D. joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks as NANO Nuclear’s Head of Regulatory Engagement. Dr. Andrew Steer is a nuclear safety case and regulatory engagement expert with over 18 years of experience in the nuclear industry.
    • Brent Hamilton was appointed as the Company’s Director of Quality Assurance. Mr. Hamilton has over 26 years of quality control, quality engineering, and quality assurance experience, primarily in nuclear construction for commercial nuclear, Department of Energy projects, and nuclear fuel manufacturing.
    • James Leybourn joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks. Mr. Leybourn is a Chartered Physicist with over 12 years’ experience of Physics and Engineering within the U.K. nuclear industry.
    • Simon Boddington joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks. Mr. Boddington is a reactor physicist with over 10 years of industry experience covering pressurized water reactors as well as thermal and fast spectrum molten salt reactor designs.
    • Radwan Nassim Kheroua joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks. A Nuclear Systems Engineer, Mr. Kheroua previously served as a Research Engineer in Reactor Thermal-Hydraulic Modeling at Framatome.
    • Luke Godfrey joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks. A Senior Nuclear Engineer, Mr. Godfrey previously served as Lead Thermohydraulic Engineer at Moltex, focusing on molten salt heat transfer, coupled reactor system modeling, and safety case development.
    • Jake Miles joined NANO Nuclear’s U.K.-based nuclear science and engineering partner Cambridge AtomWorks. A Nuclear Engineer, Mr. Miles earned a BSc in Physics from the University of Leeds and later completed a Master’s degree in Nuclear Energy at the University of Cambridge.

    Recruitment Drive

    • Recruitment drive initiated with a focus on Midwestern United States to expand engineering and project development teams in proximity to UIUC and the KRONOS reactor project.
      • Effort seeks to support construction permit application activities as well as eventual demonstration and construction activities.
      • NANO Nuclear is actively recruiting top talent across a variety of critical disciplines.

    New York State Demonstration Facility

    • Established a dedicated, multimillion dollar, purpose-built demonstration facility in Westchester County, New York.
      • Will house demonstrations of the operation and viability of several non-nuclear parts and components of NANO Nuclear’s microreactors in development.
    • Engaged aRobotics Company to oversee the retrofit and build-out of Westchester County demonstration facility.
      • aRobotics has been recognized with multiple honors, including the NATO DIANA Challenge, the NYC Department of Building Challenge, and active contracts with all major branches of the U.S. Military.
    • Build-out and retrofitting of the Westchester Facility completed in early May.
      • Facility is now operational, with testing to commence shortly and continue throughout 2025, focusing on ZEUS components and the Company’s patented ALIP technology.

    Canadian Demonstration Reactor

    • Reestablishing KRONOS MMR demonstration reactor in Canada.
      • Positions NANO Nuclear to advance its technology efficiently from construction and demonstration to regulatory licensing and, ultimately, commercialization throughout North America.

    Partnerships, Collaborations and Government Awards

    SBIR Phase 1 Application

    • Announced backing for a U.S. Department of Energy Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I proposal, submitted in partnership with the City University of New York–City College (CCNY) and Advanced Engineering Solutions LLC.
      • The SBIR Phase 1 proposal is “Investigation of Microreactor Cooling and Development of a Smart Alarming System for Reactor Pressure Vessel Surface Temperature Monitoring” – and aims to develop advanced cooling techniques and monitoring systems for microreactor transport safety.

    KRONOS MMR™ Construction Pathway

    • Signed a strategic collaboration with the UIUC to construct the first research KRONOS MMR on a major research university campus.
      • Site has been selected and preparatory work towards a Construction Permit application has been initiated. NANO Nuclear will begin the process of geological characterization, including subsurface investigations, to support preparation of a Construction Permit Application for submission to the NRC.
        • This preparatory work is essential to understanding the environmental parameters of the site, including critical inputs to safety analysis, to ensure the utmost reliability and safety of the facility, and support NANO Nuclear’s Preliminary Safety Analysis Report and Environmental Report.
      • Establishes UIUC as key collaborator in the licensing, siting, public engagement, and research operation of the KRONOS MMR™.

    Nuclear Regulatory Commission Communication on KRONOS

    • Pre‑application work on the KRONOS MMR™ Energy System is progressing in cooperation with the UIUC following the NRC’s update to the project’s landing page (NRC Project No. 99902094), formally naming NANO Nuclear as the reactor’s designer.
    • The NRC issued its final Safety Evaluation (SE) approving the Fuel Qualification Methodology Topical Report (FQM TR) to be used for the KRONOS MMR™.

    LIS Technologies and the Department of Energy Low Enriched Uranium IDIQ Award.

    • Entered a collaboration to support LIS Technologies, the only U.S. origin and patented laser enrichment company, to address the fuel supply chain issues which could potentially affect the mass deployment of all advanced reactor systems for all nuclear reactor companies.
      • LIS Technologies was one of six companies selected to address the LEU supply chain, with NANO Nuclear as its principal subcontractor, responsible for addressing the conversion, mining, and milling requirements of the IDIQ award.

    Shareholder Suit Dismissal

    • A Clark County, Nevada judge has completely dismissed the shareholder lawsuit titled Latza v. Walker, et al., (Case No. A-24-900423-B). The judge granted both dismissal requests filed by the Company and by its officers and directors, ending the case in their favor.

    Corporate Outlook

    SBIR Projects

    • The SBIR Phase III project surrounding NANO Nuclear’s ALIP technology will advance towards its conclusion, with the Company’s new Westchester demonstration facility expected to play a key role in its advancement.
    • Company anticipates early indicators surrounding a separate SBIR Phase I project application filed in partnership with CCNY and Advanced Engineering Solutions LLC.

    Advances in Demonstration Reactor Preparations

    • NANO Nuclear anticipates further clarity on the advancement of its KRONOS MMR demonstration reactor plans in both the United States and Canada.
      • Next steps in the development of pre-construction permit application with UIUC anticipated this year.
        • NANO Nuclear is currently planning drilling work at the UIUC site intended for the construction of the KRONOS reactor system, to provide the Company with the geological characterization necessary to submit a ‘Permit to Construct’ application to the NRC. NANO Nuclear is aiming to be the first microreactor company in the U.S. to file for this permit.
      • NANO Nuclear intends to enter the licensing process under Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) oversight and has been in discussions with the Canadian Nuclear Laboratory (CNL) about the selected site for the project at Chalk River. NANO Nuclear is aiming to be the first company to build a licensed microreactor in Canada intended for commercial deployment.

    Advances in Non-Nuclear Component Development

    • NANO Nuclear anticipates the receipt of, and revision & eventual finalization of TEi designs for ODIN™ heat exchangers.
    • Company intends to begin the testing phase of its 1:2 scale ZEUS™ reactor core hardware, which will evaluate its thermo‑mechanical performance under expected prototypical operating conditions.
      • Testing is expected to continue through 2025.

    Hiring Drive Expectations

    • NANO Nuclear anticipates making substantial progress in its hiring initiative throughout 2025, in support of additional permit and licensing advances and eventual demonstration & construction activities in Midwestern USA.

    “We’ve made meaningful progress across several key initiatives in the first half of the fiscal year and we’re now focused on accelerating our efforts in the second half of fiscal 2025,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We have grown our technical and regulatory teams as we begin testing non-nuclear components and pursue construction permits. We have acquired and are developing a robust portfolio of patents and other IP and are planning to expand it further as the year progresses. Our ambitions don’t stop with just our reactors, we see enormous potential across the nuclear industry in areas such as nuclear transportation, fuel enrichment, and nuclear consulting services that we are actively developing to grow our business and resources. We have also made inroads in our discussions and coordination with regulatory and licensing bodies, which will play a crucial role in the near and long term. All in all, the last six months have put us on solid footing as we look to capitalize on upcoming opportunities throughout the remainder of the year.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

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    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements include those related to the Company’s development, demonstration, licensing and commercial plans, goals and strategies. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EngageLab Supercharges Global E-commerce with Smart Push and Push Plan Features for AppPush & WebPush, Boosting Click-Through Rates by Over 30%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As global e-commerce gears up for a series of major shopping seasons, EngageLab, a leading customer engagement solutions provider recently launched two powerful new features for its AppPush and WebPush products: Smart Push and Push Plan. These enhancements are designed to help global e-commerce businesses significantly improve user engagement, marketing efficiency, and conversion rates, with early adopters already reporting click-through rate increases of over 30%.

    With major sales events like TikTok’s multi-country Summer Sale (June-July), Amazon Prime Day (July), the North American Back-to-School season (July-September), and Southeast Asia’s mega-sales (September) on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop rapidly approaching, e-commerce businesses are seeking more intelligent ways to cut through the noise and maximize their marketing ROI. EngageLab’s new features directly address the challenges of optimizing message delivery and managing complex promotional campaigns.

    Feature 1: Smart Push – Deliver Messages at the “Golden Moment”
    EngageLab’s new Smart Push capability eliminates the guesswork in scheduling push notifications. By analyzing users’ recent activity patterns and usage habits, the smart feature predicts the optimal time each user is most likely to be active and engaged. Messages are then delivered precisely according to the user’s local time zone, ensuring notifications arrive at their personal “golden moment.”

    Key Advantages:

    • Higher Click-Through Rates: Delivering messages when users are most active significantly increases visibility and interaction. Clients testing this feature have seen click-through rates improve by over 30%.
    • Increased Conversion Efficiency: Capturing user attention at peak engagement times leads to more effective down-funnel conversions.
    • Enhanced User Experience: Avoids inopportune interruptions, fostering positive brand perception.
    • New User Friendly: For users without historical data, businesses can still opt for immediate delivery, a specific scheduled time, or a time based on the end-user’s local time zone.

    This feature is now available for a limited-time free trial via the EngageLab dashboard.

    Feature 2: Push Plan – Masterful Management for Large-Scale Promotion Campaigns
    Managing the multi-wave, multi-segment, and multi-content push notification strategies required for major global e-commerce campaigns can be complex. The new Push Plan feature provides a centralized command center for these intricate operations.

    Key Advantages:

    • Centralized Campaign Management: Group multiple push tasks targeting the same campaign (e.g., pre-heat, launch, and retargeting phases for a summer sale) into a single “Push Plan” for clear, stage-by-stage communication strategy management.
    • Holistic Performance Insights: Move beyond fragmented data from individual pushes. Push Plan offers consolidated analytics, precisely tracking key metrics like delivery rate, click rate, and conversions across the entire campaign lifecycle.
    • Flexible Operation: Full support via API and Web Portal allows both developers and marketing operators to easily create, manage tasks, track data, and optimize strategies within their Push Plans.
    • Data-Driven Optimization: A clear dashboard provides an at-a-glance view of overall marketing campaign effectiveness, offering robust data support for future strategy refinements.
      • Push Statistics: Detailed tracking of delivery, clicks, and more.
      • Summary Statistics: Comprehensive analysis of conversion rates and overall campaign impact.

    These two new features for AppPush and WebPush are designed to empower businesses with smarter technology and more efficient tools for managing customer engagement. By optimizing message delivery and streamlining campaign management, EngageLab helps businesses enhance user communication, boost marketing efficiency, and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive global marketplace.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions and marketing automation across every channel, including AppPush, WebPush, Email, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.

    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    For Media Inquiries:
    Contact: marketing@engagelab.com 
    Website: www.engagelab.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d1c343b-3c76-486c-859f-5f6be53f41fd

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2721f75-5dd9-4180-8af7-a221cf79e385

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaelic Psalms and hymns to be showcased at the British Academy, London The beautiful psalms and hymns of the Gaelic-speaking Hebrides will make a rare appearance at the British Academy in London on Thursday 22 May 2025 – and will be live-streamed to audiences around the world.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Dr Frances WilkinsThe beautiful psalms and hymns of the Gaelic-speaking Hebrides will make a rare appearance at the British Academy in London on Thursday 22 May 2025 – and will be live-streamed to audiences around the world.
    Ethnomusicologist Dr Frances Wilkins, who is a senior lecturer at the Elphinstone Institute, University of Aberdeen, will be travelling to London with the celebrated Gaelic singer, Kristine Kennedy, from Lewis, to take part in a special event at the British Academy, titled ‘Memory Through Music: Celebrating Sung Histories’.
    Dr Wilkins, who lives on Skye, said: “Musical storytelling has for centuries been used as a means of preserving cultural knowledge and experience across the globe, in a way that is often overlooked in written records.
    “This event aims to bring these histories to life, through a combined exploration of Breton ballads, Gaelic spiritual singing, UK rap and grime, and Islamic singing from the Balkans. ‘Memory Through Music’ will bring academics and performers together to explore the enduring impact of these traditions on our cultural heritage and understanding.”
    During the event, Dr Frances Wilkins, will provide an overview of the little-researched sacred song repertoires in Hebridean communities. This will include the iconic Gaelic psalm singing tradition and songs from the rich bardic tradition of the islands. Kristine Kennedy will be singing some of the most iconic songs from the tradition.
    Dr Wilkins added: “It is a privilege to be taking part in this event, which celebrates the some of the most important aspects of Scotland’s cultural heritage.
    “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to speak about this topic alongside Kristine Kennedy, one of Scotland’s finest Gaelic singers.”
    Highlands-based Kristine Kennedy said: “It’s been a real joy to collaborate with Frances who has really embraced our precious Gaelic spiritual songs which hold such a special place in my heart. I look forward to sharing them with a wider audience.”
    Dr Wilkins has been researching the sacred song traditions of the West Highlands and Hebridean communites since 2018. She has conducted extensive research and produced an archive of over 300 song recordings (found at www.seinn.org), touring exhibition, and numerous publications. The exhibition, ‘Seinn Spioradail: Sacred Soundscapes of Highland and Island Communities’, has been touring Hebridean communities since January 2024. It is currently on display at Comunn Eachdraidh Nis in Ness (Island of Lewis) until November 2025.
    The Memory Through Music: Celebrating Sung Histories’ event, which starts at 18:30, will be held at the British Academy in Carlton House Terrace, London.
    It is free to attend but booking is required. It will be live-streamed to allow people to watch it from anywhere in the world.
    For more details visit Memory through melody: celebrating sung histories | The British Academy.
    Further details on Dr Wilkins’ research can be found at www.franceswilkins.com
    ENDS
    Note to editors
    Event details:
    Title
    ‘Memory Through Music: Celebrating Sung Histories’.
    Time
    Thursday 22 May 2025: 18:30-20:00
    Venue
    The British Academy, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AH & Online: Vimeo
    Website
    https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/events/memory-through-melody/
    Price
    Free (in person/online)
    Sailm is laoidhean Ghàidhlig ri thaisbeanadh aig Acadamaidh Bhreatainn, Lunnainn
    Bidh sailm is laoidhean àlainn nan Eileanan Gàidhlig a’ nochdadh gu tearc aig Acadamaidh Bhreatainn ann an Lunnainn air Diardaoin 22 Cèitean 2025 – agus thèid an craoladh beò gu luchd-èisteachd air feadh an t-saoghail.
    Bidh an t-eòlaiche-ciùil eitneòlach, an Dr Frances Wilkins, a tha na h-òraidiche àrd-ìre aig an Ionaid Elphinstone, Oilthigh Obar Dheathain, a’ siubhal a Lunnainn leis an t-seinneadair Gàidhlig ainmeil, Cairistìona Cheanadach, à Leòdhas, gus pàirt a ghabhail ann an tachartas sònraichte aig Acadamaidh Bhreatainn, leis an tiotal ‘Cuimhne tro Cheòl: A’ comharrachadh Eachdraidh Seinnte’.
    Thuirt an Dr Wilkins, a tha a’ fuireach san Eilean Sgitheanach: “Tha sgeulachdas ciùil air a bhith air a chleachdadh airson linntean mar dhòigh air eòlas agus eòlas cultarail a ghleidheadh air feadh an t-saoghail, ann an dòigh a thèid a dhìochuimhneachadh gu tric ann an clàran sgrìobhte.
    “Tha an tachartas seo ag amas air na h-eachdraidh sin a thoirt beò, tro sgrùdadh còmhla air baileadan Breatannach, seinn spioradail Gàidhlig, rap is grime RA, agus seinn Ioslamach bho na Balkans. “Bidh ‘Cuimhne tro Cheòl’ a’ toirt luchd-acadaimigeach agus luchd-ciùil còmhla gus buaidh mhaireannach nan traidiseanan seo air ar dualchas agus ar tuigse chultarail a sgrùdadh.”
    Rè na tachartais, bheir an Dr Frances Wilkins sealladh farsaing air na clàran-ciùil òran naomha nach eil air an rannsachadh gu mòr ann an coimhearsnachdan Innse Gall. Bidh seo a’ toirt a-steach traidisean suaicheanta seinn nan sailm Gàidhlig agus òrain bho dhualchas beairteach bàrdachd nan eilean. Bidh Cairistìona Cheanadach a’ seinn cuid de na h-òrain as suaicheanta bhon traidisean.
    Thuirt an Dr Wilkins: “’S e urram a th’ ann a bhith a’ gabhail pàirt san tachartas seo, a tha a’ comharrachadh cuid de na taobhan as cudromaiche de dhualchas cultarail na h-Alba.
    “Tha mi air leth toilichte gun d’ fhuair mi an cothrom bruidhinn mun chuspair seo còmhla ri Cairistìona Cheanadach , aon de na seinneadairean Gàidhlig as fheàrr ann an Alba.”
    Thuirt Cairistìona Cheanadach, a tha stèidhichte air a’ Ghàidhealtachd: “Tha e air a bhith na fhìor thoileachas co-obrachadh le Frances a tha air gabhail ri ar n-òrain spioradail luachmhor Gàidhlig aig a bheil àite cho sònraichte nam chridhe. Tha mi a’ coimhead air adhart ri bhith gan roinn le luchd-èisteachd nas fharsainge.”
    Tha an Dr Wilkins air a bhith a’ dèanamh rannsachaidh air traidiseanan òrain naomha choimhearsnachdan na Gàidhealtachd an Iar agus Innse Gall bho 2018. Tha i air rannsachadh farsaing a dhèanamh agus tha i air tasglann de chòrr is 300 clàradh òrain a thoirt gu buil (ri lorg aig www.seinn.org), taisbeanadh siubhail, agus iomadh foillseachadh. Tha an taisbeanadh, ‘Seinn Spioradail: Sacred Soundscapes of Highland and Island Communities’, air a bhith a’ siubhal choimhearsnachdan Innse Gall bho Fhaoilleach 2024. Tha e an-dràsta ri fhaicinn aig Comunn Eachdraidh Nis ann an Nis (Eilean Leòdhais) gu Samhain 2025.
    Thèid an tachartas ‘Cuimhne tro Cheòl: A’ Comharrachadh Eachdraidh nan Seinn’, a thòisicheas aig 18:30, a chumail aig Acadamaidh Bhreatainn ann an Carlton House Terrace, Lunnainn.
    Tha e an-asgaidh a bhith an làthair ach feumar àite a ghlèidheadh. Thèid a chraoladh beò gus leigeil le daoine coimhead air bho àite sam bith san t-saoghal.
    Airson tuilleadh fiosrachaidh tadhail air Cuimhne tro fhonn: a’ comharrachadh eachdraidh nan seinn | Acadamaidh Bhreatainn.
    Gheibhear tuilleadh fiosrachaidh mu rannsachadh an Dr Wilkins aig www.franceswilkins.com
    CRÌOCH
    Nota do luchd-deasachaidh
    Fiosrachadh mun tachartas:
    Tiotal
    ‘Cuimhne tro Cheòl: A’ comharrachadh Eachdraidh nan Seinneadairean’.
    Ùine
    Diardaoin 22 Cèitean 2025: 18:30-20:00
    Àite
    Acadamaidh Bhreatainn, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, Lunnainn, SW1Y 5AH & Air-loidhne: Vimeo
    Làrach-lìn
    https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/events/memory-through-melody/
    Prìs
    An-asgaidh (gu pearsanta/air-loidhne)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The management and students of the State University of Management laid flowers on Mamayev Kurgan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 15, 2025, as part of the implementation of the tourist and volunteer program in Volgograd, dedicated to the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the management and students of the State University of Management laid flowers in the Hall of Military Glory on Mamayev Kurgan.

    The ceremony was attended by the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev, vice-rectors Dmitry Bryukhanov and Vitaly Lapshenkov, as well as about 30 students of our university.

    After the ceremony, Vladimir Stroyev spoke with the participants of the tourist and volunteer program, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical memory. The rector spoke about the significance of the Battle of Stalingrad, a turning point in the war, about the fortitude and unity of the people, which became the key to the Great Victory. “History is not just the pages of textbooks, it is lessons of courage, patriotism and fortitude,” Vladimir Vitalyevich noted.

    The Volgograd State University of Management’s tourist and volunteer program began on May 14. On the first day, our students helped reconstruct the Mass Grave and the Stella to the Heroes who died in the battles for Stalingrad. Then, a walking tour of the city took place, during which the volunteers saw the armored boats BK-13 and BK-31, which were part of the Volga Flotilla, visited the legendary defense sites of the city – Pavlov’s House and Gerhardt’s Mill – as well as other monuments.

    The program will last until May 17. Our students will help veterans of the Great Patriotic War, clean up burial sites and take part in the restoration of monuments.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 05/16/2025

    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: Artificial Intelligence – a Partner or a Replacement for Humans?

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The All-Russian scientific-practical and educational-methodical conference with international participation “Fundamental and applied research in the field of management, economics and trade” was held at the Polytechnic University.

    The plenary session of the conference was devoted to the discussion of cross-industry solutions using artificial intelligence in various sectors of the economy. The session was opened and the discussion was moderated by the chairperson of the conference program committee, director of the scientific and educational center for information technology and business analysis “Gazprom Neft”, professor of the Higher Engineering and Economics School of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU Irina Rudskaya.

    Welcoming the participants of the conference, which opened in the White Hall of SPbPU, Vice-Rector for Research Yuri Fomin recalled that the university has chosen three relevant areas in its development strategy until 2030, including the development of artificial intelligence technologies.

    It is gratifying that our university is increasingly having discussion platforms on this topic. This is important for working out the decisions being made, finding answers to the questions that AI poses to us, said Yuri Vladimirovich.

    In turn, Vladimir Shchepinin, Director of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU, noted that within the framework of the conference, the institute is holding a plenary session in the format of a panel discussion for the first time, as well as a competition of scientific works of students and postgraduates, according to the results of which the winners will receive scholarships from the institute’s fund, formed together with industrial partners.

    For two hours, the panelists kept the audience’s interest alive. The tone and theme were set by Yuri Fomin, who oversees the AI development direction at SPbPU.

    For us, cross-industry is everything related to engineering, not a specific segment. This is our competitive advantage. Today, we earn about two hundred million rubles a year on such developments using AI, and by 2030, we plan to reach one and a half billion rubles, concentrating on performing applied tasks for our partners, – said Yuri Fomin and spoke about some of the projects being implemented today.

    The Vice-Rector for Research also identified the main barriers that prevent more effective use of AI in the real sector of the economy. The first barrier is the lack of clear formalization of the business process, and for the implementation of AL technologies there must be a clear sequence of actions. The second barrier is insufficient digitalization: correct data is obtained from correctly digitized business processes. Incorrect data leads to making incorrect decisions.

    All speakers, starting with the Vice President, Director of the North-West Macroregional Branch of PJSC Rostelecom Alexander Loginov, spoke about overcoming such barriers and other tasks. He noted that the data really should be reliable, and that infrastructure and personnel are also needed to use AI. Alexander Evgenievich cited the results of one foreign study, according to which more than 60% of employees hide from management that they use AI, and 66% blindly trust all the information received. All participants in the discussion agreed that the solutions and answers offered by neural networks should be verified. This is especially important in such a field as medicine, although the largest number of datasets have been collected here and most of the data is carefully verified. As Petr Shegai, Deputy Director General for Science at the National Medical Research Center of Radiology of the Russian Ministry of Health, explained, Russian AL technologies for medicine, based on data collected in the country, today make it possible to prescribe treatment and help to partly equalize the opportunities of experienced and novice doctors, although, of course, any final decision on the appointment is made by a person.

    Svetlana Merkushina, Executive Director of the Sber Education Industry Center, spoke about the main trends related to data analysis, the advantages of using AI, including reducing the risk of human factor and accelerating all processes. Any AI is data plus algorithms that increase productivity. But what needs to be done to make AI truly generative? According to Maxim Patrushev, Deputy Head of the Kurchatov Complex of NBICS-nature-like technologies at the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center, there is no answer to this question yet, but methods for increasing productivity using AI are being actively created, big data is being analyzed for decision-making, and options for solutions in working with genes are being calculated. For example, scientists at the NRC are working on the Controlled Evolution software.

    Continuing the topic of possible solutions, Director of the Federal Scientific Center for Vegetable Growing, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexey Soldatenko emphasized the possibilities of using AI to solve the problem of food security, increase agricultural yields and reduce labor costs. AI is actively used in breeding, development of animal nutrition, and “smart” video surveillance of animal behavior. Among the problems identified in the implementation of new technologies, Alexey Vasilyevich named an insufficiently developed regulatory framework, and also noted that technologies will change so rapidly that they will have to be mastered constantly.

    The importance of continuous training was also highlighted by the rector of the Gazprom Neft Corporate University, Ilya Dementyev, who noted that each employee of their company undergoes additional training three times a year. Summing up the discussion, Ilya Aleksandrovich identified another problem – a lack of understanding of the essence of artificial intelligence.

    We need to think about whether we have reached a point of singularity, when the technologies being created are used by people who do not understand what they are using. Therefore, we need to stimulate not only the development of technologies, but also the development of education in the field of artificial intelligence. And it is important that there is a demand from within – from the teachers themselves, who must understand how to use AI in teaching, and from students, who must understand what competencies they will need, the speaker noted.

    The panel discussion ended with a conversation with the audience. The speakers answered questions about how they see the labor market changing, what skills employers need, what language models are best to use, and what ethical issues remain unresolved. There was no clear answer to the last question, “What is artificial intelligence?” And while there is no understanding of what is in the “black box,” according to experts, it is worth asking more about how to use it rather than what AI is.

    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: Polytechnic and HR policy: how to attract specialists from the regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The third seminar in a series of events devoted to current issues of attracting labor resources from other regions of the Russian Federation was held in St. Petersburg. The organizer was the Labor Resources Center, which provides city employers with personnel through the implementation of the Labor Migration subprogram of the state program Assistance to Employment of the Population in St. Petersburg.

    The key issues of the seminar were the specifics of attracting and retaining specialists from other regions, the capabilities and support measures of the Labor Resources Center, as well as the experience of employers in organizing the relocation of employees. Business representatives, HR specialists and experts in the field of labor migration discussed the best practices of employee relocation, legal aspects of employment and tools for the adaptation of new personnel at the seminar.

    Specialists from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University also spoke at the event. Acting Director of the Center for Professional Retraining of the Directorate of Continuing Education and Industry Partnership Tatyana Uskova spoke about the university’s advanced experience in the field of network partnership with employers in the implementation of additional professional programs, as well as about participation in the federal project “Active Measures to Promote Employment” of the national project “Personnel”.

    The Personnel project provides employers with unique opportunities to improve the qualifications and professional competencies of their personnel, which allows them not only to adapt to the modern requirements of the labor market and form a personnel reserve capable of solving problems of any level of complexity, but also to build sustainable partnerships with educational organizations and other interested parties. According to Tatyana Aleksandrovna, such connections make it possible to pool resources, exchange experience and knowledge, and jointly develop and implement educational programs that meet the requirements of the time.

    The seminar became an important platform for discussing issues of attracting and adapting personnel from other regions of Russia. It was noted that the implementation of this project provides citizens with the opportunity for free professional retraining and employment, and employers can improve the qualifications of employees and form a modern personnel reserve, strengthening their competitive advantage. The joint efforts of educational institutions and employers open up great prospects for the sustainable development of human capital and economic growth of the country.

    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 –