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Category: Education

  • MIL-Evening Report: Snakes are waking up. What should you do if you’re bitten? And what if you’re a long way from help?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hamish Bradley, Adjunct Lecturer, Anaesthetist and Aeromedical Retrieval Specialist, The University of Western Australia

    RugliG/Shutterstock

    From the creeks that wind through inner city Melbourne to the far outback in Western Australia, snake season is beginning.

    Over the cooler months snakes have been in state of brumation. This is very similar to hibernation and characterised by sluggishness and inactivity. As warmer conditions return both snakes and humans become more active in the outdoors, leading to an increased likelihood of interaction. This may happen when people are hiking, dog-walking or gardening.

    The risk of being bitten by a snake is exceptionally small, but knowing basic first aid could potentially save your, or another person’s, life.

    When a snake bites

    Snake bite envenomation (when venom enters the blood stream) is a significant issue in Australia, with 3,000 cases annually and an average of two deaths.

    Snake bite should always be treated as a life-threatening emergency, and if you are bitten in rural or remote Australia, you will often receive an air medical emergency pick up to a regional or metropolitan hospital for advanced care.

    The effects of snake bites vary, depending on the species of snake and first aid measures undertaken.

    Australian standard first aid guidelines include:

    • calling for help (dialing 000 or activating an emergency beacon)
    • applying a pressure immobilisation bandage
    • resting.

    Why pressure is important

    Snake venom is carried within the lymphatic system. This is a collection of tiny tubes throughout the body that return fluid outside of blood vessels back to the blood stream.

    Muscles act as a “pump” to help the fluid move through this system. That’s why being still, or immobilisation, is vital to slow the spread of venom.

    A firm pressure immobilisation bandage, applied as tight as you would for a sprained ankle, will compress these tubes and help limit the venom’s spread.

    Ideally bandage the entire limb on which the bite occurred and apply a splint to help further with immobilisation. It is very important that the blood supply to the limb is not limited by this bandage.

    Never attempt to capture or kill the snake for identification. This risks further bites and is not required for specialist care. The decision about when to give antivenom (if any) is based on the geographical location, symptoms, the results of blood tests and discussion with a toxicologist.

    The tyranny of distance

    People living in rural and remote locations may also have limited access to health care, including access to ambulance services, snake bite first aid such as bandages and splints, and to antivenom.

    Availability and the prompt use of antivenom have been identified as crucial factors in the effective treatment of snake envenomation – but not studied in detail.

    Over one year (as a component of a larger three-year study) we collected information on the pre-hospital care and in-flight care with the Royal Flying Doctors Service Western Operations.

    During this time, 85 people from regional, rural, remote and very remote Western Australia were flown by Royal Flying Doctor Service to hospital for suspected or confirmed snake bites. Reassuringly, only five of these patients (6%) ultimately received a toxicologist’s diagnosis of envenomation.

    To move or not to move?

    Troublingly, 38 (45%) of the 85 snake bite victims continued to move around and be active following their suspected snake bite. This raises questions about whether people lack knowledge of first-aid guidelines, or whether this is a consequence of being isolated, with limited access to health care.

    Either way, our as-yet-unpublished research highlights the vulnerability of Australia’s rural and remote people. All patients eventually received a pressure immobilisation bandage, with an average time from bite to application of 38 minutes. Three quarters of the patients made their way to health-care site by foot, or private car, arriving on average 65 minutes after the bite.



    Read more:
    Breakthroughs and setbacks on the hunt for a universal snakebite antivenom – podcast

    Rest and compression with a bandage are vital elements of snakebite first aid.
    Microgen/Shutterstock

    What needs to change?

    Our results indicate rural and remote Australians need innovative health-care solutions beyond the metropolitan guidelines, particularly when outside ambulance service areas.

    Basic snake bite first aid education needs to be not only reiterated but also a pragmatic approach is required in these geographically isolated locations. This would involve being vigilant, staying safe and, when isolated, always carrying emergency technology to call for help.

    The authors wish to acknowledge the efforts required through this research project as it continues, including by Fergus Gardiner, Kieran Hennelly, Rochelle Menzies, James Anderson, Alex McMillan and John Fisher. Hamish Bradley is an Aeromedical Retrieval Specialist and Principal Investigator in this project.

    Alice Richardson receives funding from NHMRC.

    Breeanna Spring is affiliated with Australian College of Midwives, Australian College of Nursing.

    Hamish Bradley 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. Snakes are waking up. What should you do if you’re bitten? And what if you’re a long way from help? – https://theconversation.com/snakes-are-waking-up-what-should-you-do-if-youre-bitten-and-what-if-youre-a-long-way-from-help-234365

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Young scientists from the State University of Management completed an internship at the largest agricultural holding in Russia

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    From September 23 to 27, employees of the State University of Management – technician of the Reverse Engineering Laboratory Dmitry Taldykin and specialist of the Business Incubator Artem Podgorny – completed an internship in the Krasnodar cluster of the largest agricultural holding in Russia “STEPPE” as part of the flagship educational project of the Charitable Foundation “Sistema” “Lift to the Future”.

    The internship allowed young specialists to immerse themselves in the production processes of the agricultural holding, become familiar with advanced technologies in the field of agricultural mechanization and collect the necessary theoretical and methodological base for conducting scientific research.

    The GUU employees studied the design of modern harvesting combines and took part in the harvesting of agricultural crops, gaining practical experience working with high-tech equipment. In addition, young scientists tested and adjusted a self-propelled sprayer, studying the operating principles of modern precision tillage systems.

    Special attention was paid to the processes of mechanized harvesting, sorting, packaging and storage conditions of products, including temperature and humidity control to ensure long-term preservation of freshness of vegetables and fruits. In addition, the university representatives visited the machine and tractor station for technical maintenance and repair of equipment and the central warehouse of spare parts, which allowed them to assess the scale of the agroholding’s activities and see with their own eyes the process of technical maintenance of the machine and tractor fleet.

    On the final day of the internship, the young scientists visited the head office of the STEPPE agroholding in Rostov-on-Don, where they were told about the work of unmanned aerial vehicles used for spot irrigation of gardens. The GUU employees studied the methods of setting up UAV geolocation and got acquainted with the software used to automate the irrigation process in order to save water resources in the conditions of intensive gardening.

    The head and curator of the practice was the head of the service station of the agroholding “STEPPE” Ivan Bulgakov. With his active participation, demonstration tests were organized, during which young scientists of the State University of Management not only got acquainted with the advanced equipment of the agroholding, but also had the opportunity to see the work of the latest agricultural machinery in real conditions.

    The State University of Management expresses gratitude to the Sistema Charitable Foundation and personally to the President of the Foundation Larisa Pastukhova for organizing the internship at the STEPPE agroholding. The theoretical and practical knowledge gained in the field of agricultural mechanization will help young specialists of the State University of Management in their future professional and scientific activities.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09/30/2024

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Young scientists from the State University of Management completed an internship at the largest agricultural holding in Russia

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research reveals why the mighty Darling River is drying up – and it’s not just because we’re taking too much water

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milton Speer, Visiting Fellow, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney

    Water flows in mainland Australia’s most important river system, the Murray-Darling Basin, have been declining for the past 50 years. The trend has largely been blamed on water extraction, but our new research shows another factor is also at play.

    We investigated why the Darling River, in the northern part of the basin, has experienced devastating periods of low flow, or no flow, since the 1990s. We found it was due to a decrease in rainfall in late autumn, caused by climate change.

    The research reveals how climate change is already affecting river flows in the basin, even before water is extracted for farm irrigation and other human uses.

    Less rain will fall in the Darling River catchment as climate change worsens. This fact must be central to decisions about how much water can be taken from this vital natural system.

    A quick history of the Darling

    Murray Darling catchment map.
    Martyman/Wikimedia, CC BY

    The Darling River runs from the town of Bourke in northwest New South Wales, south to the Murray River in Victoria. Together, the two rivers form the Murray-Darling river system.

    The Indigenous name for the Darling River is the Baaka. For at least 30,000 years the river has been an Indigenous water resource. On the river near Wilcannia, remnants of fish traps and weirs built by Indigenous people can still be found today.

    The Darling River was a major transport route from the late 19th to the early 20th century.

    In recent decades, the agriculture industry has extracted substantial quantities of water from the Darling’s upstream tributaries, to irrigate crops and replenish farm dams. Water has also been extracted from Menindee Lakes, downstream in the Darling, to benefit the environment and supply the regional city of Broken Hill.

    A river in trouble

    Natural weather variability means water levels in the Darling River have always been irregular, even before climate change began to be felt.

    In recent years, however, water flows have become even more irregular. This has caused myriad environmental problems.

    At Menindee Lakes, for example, fish have died en masse – incidents experts say is ultimately due to a lack of water in the river system.

    Periods of heavy rain in recent years have dramatically improved water flows.

    But in between those episodes, water levels and quality have declined, due to factors such as droughts, expanded water extraction, salinity and pollution from farms.

    Compounding the droughts, smaller flows that once replenished the system have now greatly reduced. Our research sought to determine why.

    What we found

    We examined rainfall and water flows in the Darling River from 1972 until July 2024. This includes from the 1990s – a period when global warming accelerated.

    We found a striking lack of short rainfall periods in April and May in the Darling River from the 1990s. The reduced rainfall led to long periods of very low, or no flow, in the river.

    Since the 1990s under climate change, shifts in atmospheric circulation have generated fewer rain-producing systems. This has led to less rain in inland southeast Australia in autumn.

    The river system particularly needs rainfall in the late autumn months, to replenish rivers after summer.

    The periods of little rain were often followed by extreme floods. This is a problem because the rain fell on dry soils and soaked in, rather than running into the river. This reduced the amount of water available for the environment and human uses.

    In addition to the fall in autumn rainfall, we found the number of extreme annual rainfall totals for all seasons has also fallen since the 1990s.

    We also examined monthly river heights at Bourke, Wilcannia and Menindee. We found periods of both high and low water levels before the mid-1990s. But the low water levels at all three locations from 2000 onwards were the lowest in the period.

    Ensuring water for all

    Australia is the driest inhabited continent on Earth. Ensuring steady water supplies for human use has always been challenging.

    Falls in Darling River water levels in recent decades have largely been attributed to water extraction for farm dams, irrigation and town use.

    But as our research shows, the lack of rainfall in the river catchment – as a result of climate change – is also significant. The problem will worsen as climate change accelerates.

    This creates a huge policy challenge. As others have noted, the Murray-Darling Basin Plan does not properly address climate change when determining how much water can be taken by towns and farmers.

    Both the environment and people will benefit from ensuring the rivers of the basin maintain healthy flows into the future. As our research indicates, this will require decision-makers to consider and adapt to climate change.

    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. New research reveals why the mighty Darling River is drying up – and it’s not just because we’re taking too much water – https://theconversation.com/new-research-reveals-why-the-mighty-darling-river-is-drying-up-and-its-not-just-because-were-taking-too-much-water-239923

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “StuDos” invites you to open classes

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The creative team “StuDos” invites you to the first open classes for dancers and vocalists.

    Become a part of our creative family, discover your talent and show yourself to the world! Our team supports any initiatives and efforts. You should definitely visit our open classes and show your talent.

    Dance September 30 at 19:00 Dance floor of the State University of Management (building of the Central University of Management, 1st floor)

    Registration for the class is strictly via this link: https://forms.yandex.ru/u/66f512c75d2a06350cebb30e/ Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes. See you on the dance floor!

    Vocals October 9 at 19:00 A-124 (Administrative building of the State University of Management, 1st floor)

    Registration for the class is also strict, but this time via this link: https://forms.yandex.ru/u/66f50c553e9d0833492fe8dd/ Don’t forget to prepare a song.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 09/30/2024

    The creative team “StuDos” invites you to the first open classes for dancers and vocalists.

    Become a part of our creative family,…

    ” data-yashareImage=”https://guu.ru/wp-content/uploads/СтуДос-1.png” data-yashareLink=”https://guu.ru/%d1%81%d1%82%d1%83%d0%b4%d0%be%d1%81-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b8%d0%b3%d0%bb%d0%b0%d1%88%d0%b0%d0%b5%d1%82-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%be%d1%82%d0%ba%d1%80%d1%8b%d1%82%d1%8b%d0%b5-%d0%b7%d0%b0%d0%bd%d1%8f/”>

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    “StuDos” invites you to open classes

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE Tops Ranking of Universities Leading Tech Entrepreneurship

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    HSE University has taken the leading position in the university ranking prepared by the Expert Analytical Center. The Techpred-50 ranking evaluates the success of educational institutions in training founders of technology startups for the period from 2014 to 2023. HSE is among the top three, along with MIPT and MSU.

    The rating ranks universities by a number of key indicators, including the number of local and foreign startups created by graduates, the volume of investments attracted, and support for startups at the development stage. The Higher School of Economics scored the maximum score for most parameters, which allowed it to top the rating.

    According to the rating, HSE graduates have played a significant role in creating technology startups both in Russia and abroad. The university is the leader in the number of startups founded that have received support both locally and internationally. The share of startups created by HSE graduates is 44.7% in Russia and 82% abroad. This confirms that the university not only produces highly qualified specialists, but also actively promotes their further professional implementation in global markets.

    In addition, HSE took first place in terms of the volume of investments attracted. According to the rating, startups founded by HSE graduates attracted the largest investments both in rubles at the local level and in dollars in international projects.

    In recent years, the university has been consistently developing programs to support technological entrepreneurship. Particular attention is paid to creating conditions for the development of startups – from acceleration programs to close cooperation with venture funds and business incubators. The university provides students with unique opportunities to implement their projects, providing them with access to experts, financing and development of entrepreneurial competencies.

    “We attach great importance to the development of technological entrepreneurship, because we consider it one of the factors of sustainable economic growth and innovative leadership of Russia. HSE Business Incubator helps our students and graduates to turn their ideas into successful projects. We are proud that our graduates topped the rating and demonstrate such high results,” said Dmitry Shminke, Deputy Vice-Rector, Head of the HSE Business Incubator.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/edu/967365057.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Joan: ITV drama introduces a magnetic anti-heroine you can’t help but root for

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Laura Minor, Lecturer in Television Studies, University of Salford

    This article contains minor spoilers for episode one of Joan.

    The new six-part ITV crime series, Joan, opens with The Pretenders’ rebellious rock anthem Brass in Pocket. It’s a fitting choice that immediately sets the tone for the series. As Chrissie Hynde’s vocals kick in, we’re introduced to our protagonist – a woman who, like the song, will soon exude self-assurance and a touch of defiance, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    Sophie Turner stars as Joan Hannington, whose journey from impoverished victim to notorious jewel thief unfolds in 1980s London. Based on true events, the series chronicles Hannington’s transformation into “the godmother” – the most infamous woman in the city’s criminal underworld.

    The first episode establishes Hannington’s dire circumstances and the spark that ignites her criminal career. She is trapped in an abusive marriage to a violent man who physically abuses her and neglects their six-year-old daughter, Kelly. When he goes on the run, Hannington seizes the opportunity to escape, but not before facing the harsh realities of her situation – from being assaulted by gangsters to whom her husband owes money, to being pressured by undercover police to inform on him.

    Circumstances force Hannington to place Kelly with an emergency foster family. This decision is made all the more poignant by the revelation of Joan’s own childhood in care, which explains her fierce determination to provide a better life for her daughter. Their relationship forms the first episode’s emotional core. It is why Joan takes her first tentative steps into illegality, beginning with stealing a car to visit Kelly at her new home.

    The trailer for Joan.

    This initial transgression evolves into more sophisticated cons. Her method of learning about jewellery by eavesdropping on wealthy women before landing a job at a jeweller’s offers a pointed commentary on class barriers. Hannington’s ability to mimic the accents and mannerisms of the affluent underscores the performative nature of social class and foreshadows her future success in high-end theft.

    Joan doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of its world, where the threat of male violence is a constant shadow. From her husband’s brutal abuse to the unwelcome advances of her new boss at the jewellers, the series portrays a reality where Hannington’s safety is perpetually at risk.

    Yet these very threats fuel her determination to carve out a safer life for herself and Kelly. We watch as she takes increasingly bold steps, culminating in a scene where she swallows several diamonds to smuggle them out of the store. This moment marks a turning point for Hannington, signalling her commitment to her new life of crime.

    Anti-heroines in British crime drama

    Joan takes its place in a rich tradition of anti-heroines in British crime TV, a lineage that has been slowly but steadily growing since the turn of the millennium.

    As noted by professor of television studies, Milly Buonanno in Television Antiheroines: Women Behaving Badly in Crime and Prison Drama (2017), it wasn’t until the noughties that “the rule of male prominence and power [was] challenged by a wave of anti-heroines who have made inroads into the criminal underworlds and have provided evidence of women’s capacity to be ‘good at being bad’ against the myth of female innocence”.

    Hannington joins this pantheon of complex female characters, trail-blazed in the 90s by Jane Tennison (Helen Mirren) from Prime Suspect (1991). As TV critic Rebecca Nicholson has observed, Tennison’s influence “looms larger than is often acknowledged within modern television”. More recent additions to this lineage include characters such as Alice (Ruth Wilson) in Luther (2010) and Villanelle (Jodie Comer) in Killing Eve (2018) – each pushing the boundaries of how female characters are portrayed in British crime dramas.

    Speaking about bringing Hannington to life on screen, Turner has said that she “was captivated by the character of Joan, she’s such a complex and extraordinary woman, both vulnerable and strong. She makes some terrible choices, unfortunately, but I think someone that a lot of people can relate to, and I just wanted to read more and more about her.”

    Turner’s words encapsulate the hallmarks of the anti-heroine archetype – moral ambiguity, inner conflict, and a strange magnetism that draws viewers in despite (or perhaps because of) the character’s flaws. Her emphasis on Hannington’s relatability – even in the face of “terrible choices” – speaks to the human core of these anti-heroine stories.

    But it’s crucial to approach these characters with a sense of discernment. As Buaonanno cautions, we should refrain from “uncritically celebrating characters of women in the business of crime”. The mere presence of criminal anti-heroines doesn’t equate to feminist achievement. But Joan does offer an opportunity for a nuanced exploration of themes such as gender, class and morality.

    Whether Hannington’s journey will serve as a cautionary tale or a celebration of resilience remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Joan will challenge audiences to grapple with moral ambiguities as it explores the story of a working-class woman who forges her own path in the ruthless world of organised crime.


    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.

    Laura Minor 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. Joan: ITV drama introduces a magnetic anti-heroine you can’t help but root for – https://theconversation.com/joan-itv-drama-introduces-a-magnetic-anti-heroine-you-cant-help-but-root-for-239673

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University at the Russian Energy Week: Student Victories, Professional Expertise and Scientific Discussions

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    From September 26 to 28, Moscow hosted the largest discussion forum for discussing development trends in the global fuel and energy complex — Russian Energy Week 2024. Students and teachers of the Polytechnic University took an active part in it, showed excellent results in competitions and spoke at discussion platforms.

    A significant event within the framework of the Youth Day was the summing up of the results of the All-Russian competition “Youth Global Forecast of Energy Development” – a competition among teams that has been held annually since 2017. Each year, teams of students and young industry professionals form scientifically based proposals regarding the future parameters of energy development in accordance with the topic they have chosen.

    This year, 38 student teams and 25 teams of young professionals took part in the competition. As a result, 63 teams representing leading universities and top companies of the country presented their forecasts. 20 of these teams reached the final, where the winners and prize winners in each category were determined. According to the jury of the competition in the category “Students”, the team “Poly Energy” consisting of students of the Higher School of Industrial Management of IPMEiT (Daniil Guryev (team captain), Nonna Gavrikova, Nikolay Kazmin, Elena Kovyazina, Polina Kurenkova, Ulyana Makarenko, Anastasia Malashchitskaya, Daria Moiseenko, Dmitry Rusnak, Polina Sannikova, Vladislav Sedov, Evgeniya Filyanina, Alexander Khomyakov, Nikita Fomin, Aidar Khaliullin) took first place, presenting the work “Development of energy partnership in the BRICS, CIS and EAEU spaces”. The team mentor was Associate Professor Anna Timofeeva.

    As part of the competition final, participation in the panel discussion and questions for the teams were provided by the management of universities and industry companies whose teams reached the final. The Polytechnic University was represented by Vice-Rector for Educational Activities Lyudmila Pankova.

    For the Polytechnic University, this is a truly great student victory. Initially, 1,000 participants applied for the competition, who went through a multi-stage selection. The students worked on the project for six months, refined the solution, and eventually successfully presented it in the final of the competition. It is especially valuable that the students of our university, within the framework of their project, were able to make a small, but still a contribution to determining the main directions of development of the domestic fuel and energy complex and the search for optimal solutions in response to existing challenges, – Lyudmila Pankova commented on the victory of the Polytechnic students.

    Our main objective was to study energy cooperation between Russia and the BRICS, CIS and EAEU member countries. We identified the most promising countries for developing energy partnership. To make a forecast until 2035, it was necessary to study existing and potential ways of cooperation with the selected countries, conduct a SWOT and PESTEL analysis, risk analysis and energy cooperation cases. We created three scenarios for the development of energy partnership: negative, baseline and positive, and for each scenario we offered recommendations on the necessary measures for the Russian government and the country’s largest energy companies. Of course, the “Russian Energy Week” made a strong impression on our entire team with its scale, number of participants and grandeur of the events. We are very glad that we were its full-fledged participants and spoke at it! – shared their impressions the students of the “Poly Energy” team.

    At the end of the REN Youth Day, a ceremonial awarding of all winning teams took place. The Polytechnic University student team was awarded by State Secretary, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Anastasia Bondarenko. The diploma of the winner of the youth forecast for energy development signed by Deputy Chairman of the Russian Government Alexander Novak was ceremoniously presented to the team to thunderous applause.

    After such a stunning conclusion of the competition, the students are charged with optimism, energy and enthusiasm to continue their research and project activities. I am sure that many more brilliant successes and victories await them in the future, – said Olga Kalinina, Director of the Higher School of Industrial Management at IPMET.

    Another significant event for the Polytechnic University was the successful performance of the students of the Institute of Power Engineering at the Youth Day of the Russian Energy University. Masters of the Higher School of Electric Power Systems Gerasimov Alexander, Plastinin Sergey and Ruchkina Anastasia reached the final of the All-Russian competition of final qualification works of bachelors and masters of technical universities on electric power and electrical engineering topics, held by PJSC Rosseti, and Master of the Higher School of High-Voltage Power Engineering Valeeva Evgeniya reached the final of a similar competition of final qualification works, held by Inter RAO.

    In total, 35 universities from all over the country participated in the All-Russian competition of final qualifying work from PJSC Rosseti; the best 10 bachelor’s and 10 master’s works competed for the first three places in their categories. According to the results of the competition, Anastasia Ruchkina won with the topic “Study of methods for identifying consumer phases in a low-voltage electrical network based on data from smart metering devices.” In her work, Anastasia examined the impact of uneven distribution of single-phase consumers on the quality of electricity, and also created an algorithm that determines the phase affiliation of consumers by analyzing data from smart metering devices.

    A very large-scale and significant event, where innovative projects and solutions are discussed and, most importantly, contacts are established between young, goal-oriented power engineers from all over Russia. I am very happy with my victory! – shared Anastasia Ruchkina.

    Ivan Kurta, Head of the Directorate for Continuing Education and Industry Partnerships at the Polytechnic University, also worked at the forum. He participated in the work of discussion platforms devoted to discussing the strategy for developing fuel and energy sectors, introducing new technologies and staffing for technological sovereignty and global leadership of the domestic fuel and energy sector.

    This platform allows us to meet and discuss key issues of the development of the domestic fuel and energy complex. We managed to hold a number of really important meetings and reach agreements on the development of cooperation with HR directors of enterprises that are the largest employers in the energy sector, – noted Ivan Kurta.

    Ivan Kurta also acted as an expert in the main youth event — the REN Cup of the League of Young Specialists of the International Engineering Championship “CASE-IN”. Following his work, Ivan was awarded a letter of thanks from the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/education/polytech-at-the-Russian-energy-victory-week-students-professional-expertise-and-scientific/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The fight against racism in the canton of Vaud

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Its systemic nature is highlighted by studies. On the occasion of the Assises, the IntégrAction 2024 Prize also rewarded the NELA and Action-parrainages associations.

    Organised by the Cantonal Consultative Chamber of Immigrants (CCCI) chaired by Guy Gaudard, the 2024 Immigration Conference was dedicated on Saturday to the fight against racism, the subject of the 2004 edition. “20 years later, if things have moved forward, the findings have also evolved. Racism is a very real reality in Switzerland”, underlines Isabelle Moret, head of the Department of Economy, Innovation, Employment and Heritage.

    Since then, the Cantonal Office for the Integration of Foreigners and the Prevention of Racism (BCI), created in 2009, has set up a consultation for people facing racism since 2012, which was subsequently supplemented by that of the Lausanne Office for Immigrants (BLI). A new consultation is currently being planned in the north of the canton. To counter systemic racism, action plans are underway or being considered with various cantonal services, including the police, schools and the health sector,

    During the Assizes, Ludovic Vérolet, a lawyer specializing in this field, noted that, while the criminal law against discrimination and incitement to hatred (article 261 bis of the penal code) certainly makes it possible to counter racist acts and behavior, despite 30 years of existence, it still faces challenges in its application (the public dimension of the act is necessary for the offense to be constituted and the definitions of the groups or individuals targeted are very restrictive).

    Denise Efionayi-Mäder, deputy director of the Swiss Forum for Migration and Population Studies at the University of Neuchâtel, notes the existence of real systemic racism, a racism that goes beyond individual deviant behavior and can unconsciously influence institutions.

    Anthropologist Ninian Hubert van Blijenburgh noted that the scientifically based claim that races do not exist (there is only one human species) must be supplemented by an explanation that accounts for human diversity. He emphasizes that diversity education is essential to counter racist misrepresentations.

    Journalist Julie Eigenmann also presented the exploratory survey “Switzerland in flagrant denial” which brings together testimonies and analyses on various concrete facets of racism. Several articles taken from this survey were exhibited at the Lausanne School of Social Work and Health (HETSL) which hosted the Assises this year.

    The IntegrAction 2024 prize was awarded by the president of the jury, Professor Patrick Bodenmann, head physician of the Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine at the University Center for General Medicine and Public Health (Unisanté), to two winners: on the one hand, the NELA association, which welcomes, supports and supervises young migrants through sponsorships and the implementation of cultural and social projects, and on the other hand, to the Action-parrainages association, which connects families living in the canton and migrants in order to facilitate their integration, by promoting the learning of French and the creation of links with the population.

    Link to the press release

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Photographers encouraged to enter Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Photographers have been encouraged to submit entries to the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition, which is aimed at communicating matters on water action.

    “The competition is aimed at elevating inspiring stories on citizen science for water by touching upon people’s emotional connection to water and inspiring them to take positive action,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said on Saturday.

    Citizen science is the practice of public participation and collaboration in scientific endeavours to increase scientific knowledge. 

    The South African National Committee (SANC) for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), in collaboration with the DWS, launched the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition on Friday in Pretoria. 

    SANC members include DWS, the Water Research Commission (WRC), Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), University of South Africa (UNISA), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), amongst others.

    “The competition’s objectives are to raise awareness on the intertwined relationship between water and the various dimensions of culture, value, education and the natural sciences in the past and present; activate youth involvement in communicating matters of water action in creative ways; contribute to joint actions in the water action agenda, and to demonstrate how citizens, communities and education could effectively support the sustainable use and management of water,” the department said.

    Participants should explore five themes which are: Water and Citizen Science; Water and Partnerships; Water and Education; Water and Culture, as well as Water and Communities. 

    The competition is now officially opened. Submissions can be sent via a link: https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/UNESCO/cspi.aspx

    Applicants are urged to familiarise themselves with the submission rules when entering the competition. Anyone with inquiries or struggling with submission may direct their queries to ihp50photostory@dws.gov.za.

    The competition is free to enter, and participants must be 18 years or older. The deadline for submission is 28 February 2025, 23:00 South African Time. 

    The winners will be officially announced in March 2025 and receive an award from the department and South African National Committee for IHP, and recognition and visibility through IHP channels and initiatives both locally and internationally. 

    The top 15 winning pieces will be exhibited in June 2025 during the launch of the Photo Story Book. –SANews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Thai experts laud China’s smart rice irrigation tech

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese and Thai experts learn about crop water demand testing at the Guangxi Irrigation Experimental Central Station in Guilin, Guangxi, Sept. 28, 2024. [Ren Bin/China.org.cn]

    A team of 30 agricultural irrigation experts, government officials and local community representatives from China and Thailand visited Guilin, a city in southwest China’s Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, on September 28, to study climate-smart water and rice farming technologies as part of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism. 

    In Songlin village, Huixian township of Guilin, researchers from China’s Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute (CRSRI) of Changjiang Water Resources Commission, demonstrated smart irrigation equipment to Thai experts.

    “With our smart equipment, the data on flow rate, water level, soil moisture and meteorology can be remotely monitored in real-time with just a digital device in your hand,” said Li Yalong, director of CRSRI’s Agricultural Water Conservancy Department. “With the help of this information, local farmers can control the amount of irrigation water, for example, and it helps achieve the goals of energy saving, water conservation and emission reductionat the same time.”

    A local farmer surnamed Liao told China.org.cn about the improved drainage and water conservation since implementing the equipment.

    “Compared to last year, the cost of twice irrigation has been saved. And the crops are growing well,” said Liao. “In previous years, when I planted the rice all by myself, the field yield was 1,800 to 2,100 kilograms per acre, but this year, it is estimated to be more than 2,400 kilograms.”

    The demonstration site is part of a wider project promoting climate-smart water technologies for sustainable resources and rice production in the Lancang-Mekong Region, supported by the Lancang-Mekong Special Fund. 

    The project, guided by Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources, is jointly coordinated with several institutes, including the Asia Center of Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI Asia Center) in Bangkok, the Environmental Research Institute of Chulalongkorn University, the Lancang-Mekong Water Resources Cooperation Center, the CRSRI, and the Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research. It aims to enhance climate-smart technology innovation and promote sustainable regional rice production and water resource management.

    Thanapon Piman, water cluster lead and SEI Asia Center senior research fellow, who leads the project, praised the demonstration for strengthening cooperation among Lancang-Mekong countries on climate-smart farm technologies. He said it helps local communities adapt to the impacts of climate change and reduce the risks of floods and droughts.

    “The technologies from China are good examples for Thailand to apply the technology in agricultural water resource management,” Piman said. “This visit gives us more confidence and inspiration on how to help local communities cope with the impact of climate change.”

    The team also visited the Guangxi Irrigation Experimental Central Station, exploring experimental areas for water conservation, pollution prevention, and precision irrigation. Thai experts exchanged ideas on irrigation experiments with the station’s technical staff.

    The Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism is a multilateral framework established in 2016 for China and five Southeast Asian countries to collaborate on development and regional issues. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Communities urged to safeguard water infrastructure

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Minister, David Mahlobo, has called on residents across the country to safeguard water infrastructure in areas where they reside as a measure to assist government to ensure water security through the implementation of water projects. 

    Mahlobo made these remarks at a community engagement session on Friday in Alice in the Eastern Cape, where he joined the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, to hand over the R130 million Alice Water Treatment and the University of Fort Hare’s Wastewater Treatment Works Expansion Projects.

    The University of Fort Hare initiated the upgrade of the Alice Water Treatment Works (WTWs) and the flow rate increase from an average of 6.5 megalitres per day to 12 megalitres day. This resulted in the total water storage capacity increasing from 11.28 megalitres to 17.48 megalitres.  

    “The initiative was sparked by the treatment and storage capacity of the Wastewater Treatment Works, which far exceeded the demand, which had significant negative impact on both the Alice town and the university,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said.

    The university then approached the Amathole District Municipality, as the Water Services Authority, to solicit its plans to address the unreliable supply in the area, and to also meet its additional requirement as additional student residential accommodation was needed.

    The Amathole District Municipality advised the university that the upgrade of the Alice Water Treatment Works was set to start in the 2024/25 budget cycle due to over commitments in its Infrastructure Capital Programmes.

    This then prompted the university to approach the Department of Higher Education and Training to bridge the upgrades of both the Alice Water Treatment Works and the Wastewater Treatment Works in order to unlock further development of student accommodation.

    The request was endorsed by former Minister Blade Nzimande, and it culminated into the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Fort Hare University and Amathole District Municipality.

    The MoU set the wheels in motion, which resulted in the two projects effectively implemented and handed over by the current Minister of Higher Education and Training, and Deputy Minister Mahlobo. 

    Mahlobo has endorsed the university’s initiative and praised the swift response by the Department of Higher Education and Training. 

    “As the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, we fully encourage and support such initiatives, as undertaken by the university and our sister department. Water is a source of life and all of us should work together to ensure that we safeguard this precious resource. Any initiative that strives to ensure water security will always get the support of the Ministry of Water and Sanitation.

    “While we welcome collaborative work, we also call on community members to play their significant role in ensuring that they safeguard water infrastructure. It cannot be correct that the vandalism of water infrastructure still happens in communities,” Mahlobo said.

    The two projects are aimed at addressing water treatment and wastewater management at the university, and are collaborative initiatives of the University of Fort Hare, Amathole District Municipality and Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. –SANews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure

    In accordance with Huawei’s Rotating Chair system, Ms. Sabrina Meng will assume the position of Rotating and Acting Chair of Huawei from October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. During her term, Ms. Meng will serve in the company’s top leadership position and head the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
    Sabrina Meng’s Bio

    Ms. Meng holds a master’s degree from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Ms. Meng joined Huawei in 1993 and has held positions including Director of the International Accounting Dept, CFO of Huawei Hong Kong, and President of the Accounting Mgmt Dept. Ms. Meng now serves as Deputy Chairwoman of the Board, and Rotating Chairwoman and CFO of Huawei.
    Since 2003, Ms. Meng has led the establishment of Huawei’s globally unified finance organizational structure, processes, regulations, and IT platforms. From 2007 to 2014, Ms. Meng implemented the Integrated Financial Services (IFS) Transformation Program across the company around the world, making fine-grained management part of Huawei’s DNA for sustainable growth.
    In 2014, Ms. Meng led the company’s data transformation and established a comprehensive data management system, creating a single source for data and making data a strategic asset of the company. During the same period, Ms. Meng implemented transformation programs for Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICFR), Consistency of Inventory Accounts and Goods (CIAG), treasury management, and tax management. This has transformed the finance team into a business partner and value integrator, and supported the rapid and stable development of the company’s business worldwide.
    Since 2019, Ms. Meng has developed a blueprint for the digital transformation of finance based on the company’s strategic vision and long-term development plan. She has led the development of key risk indicators and risk control models, making contactless risk controls a reality at Huawei. She has guided the establishment of an agile operations management system which has facilitated intelligent operations management and decision-making based on data and AI algorithms. She has also guided the establishment of an integrated management platform for key financial operations scenarios, to achieve collaborative operations and matrix management based on data sharing and real-time interactions.
    Under Ms. Meng’s leadership, Huawei has established a world-leading digital and intelligent finance organization, laying a solid foundation for the company’s operations and supporting the company’s efforts to realize its strategies in the new era.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure Sep 30, 2024

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure
    Sep 30, 2024

    In accordance with Huawei’s Rotating Chair system, Ms. Sabrina Meng will assume the position of Rotating and Acting Chair of Huawei from October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. During her term, Ms. Meng will serve in the company’s top leadership position and head the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
    Sabrina Meng’s Bio

    Ms. Meng holds a master’s degree from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Ms. Meng joined Huawei in 1993 and has held positions including Director of the International Accounting Dept, CFO of Huawei Hong Kong, and President of the Accounting Mgmt Dept. Ms. Meng now serves as Deputy Chairwoman of the Board, and Rotating Chairwoman and CFO of Huawei.
    Since 2003, Ms. Meng has led the establishment of Huawei’s globally unified finance organizational structure, processes, regulations, and IT platforms. From 2007 to 2014, Ms. Meng implemented the Integrated Financial Services (IFS) Transformation Program across the company around the world, making fine-grained management part of Huawei’s DNA for sustainable growth.
    In 2014, Ms. Meng led the company’s data transformation and established a comprehensive data management system, creating a single source for data and making data a strategic asset of the company. During the same period, Ms. Meng implemented transformation programs for Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICFR), Consistency of Inventory Accounts and Goods (CIAG), treasury management, and tax management. This has transformed the finance team into a business partner and value integrator, and supported the rapid and stable development of the company’s business worldwide.
    Since 2019, Ms. Meng has developed a blueprint for the digital transformation of finance based on the company’s strategic vision and long-term development plan. She has led the development of key risk indicators and risk control models, making contactless risk controls a reality at Huawei. She has guided the establishment of an agile operations management system which has facilitated intelligent operations management and decision-making based on data and AI algorithms. She has also guided the establishment of an integrated management platform for key financial operations scenarios, to achieve collaborative operations and matrix management based on data sharing and real-time interactions.
    Under Ms. Meng’s leadership, Huawei has established a world-leading digital and intelligent finance organization, laying a solid foundation for the company’s operations and supporting the company’s efforts to realize its strategies in the new era.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has submitted a draft three-year budget for 2025–2027 to the State Duma

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The draft law on the federal budget for 2025 and for the planning period of 2026 and 2027 has been submitted to the State Duma for consideration. The order to submit it was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    Document

    Order dated September 28, 2024 No. 2693-r

    When drafting the new three-year budget, the Government proceeded from the need to fulfill social obligations to citizens and solve priority tasks outlined by the President.

    Thus, one of the main priorities is targeted support for pregnant women and families with children.

    Submission to the State Duma of the draft federal law developed by the Ministry of Finance “On the federal budget for 2025 and for the planning period of 2026 and 2027”

    12 hours ago

    In particular, over 4 trillion rubles have been allocated for monthly benefits in connection with the birth and upbringing of a child for 2025–2027. Over 1.7 trillion rubles have been planned for the provision of maternity capital, and over 12 billion rubles over three years for subsidies for housing for young families.

    Dmitry Grigorenko on the introduction to the State Duma of the draft federal law developed by the Ministry of Finance “On the federal budget for 2025 and for the planning period of 2026 and 2027”

    12 hours ago

    It is proposed to allocate approximately 37.5 billion rubles to support regional demographic programs aimed at increasing the birth rate.

    The necessary funds have also been allocated for such important areas as hot meals for schoolchildren, payments to class teachers, major repairs and construction of new educational institutions, provision of medicines for beneficiaries, increasing the level of pension provision and resuming indexation of pensions for working pensioners.

    The draft budget allocates over 130 billion rubles to help citizens who find themselves in difficult life situations under the social contract program.

    More than 80 billion rubles are planned for the development of a long-term care system for the elderly and disabled who need such assistance.

    The Government’s priority tasks include the implementation of national projects. A total of more than 18 trillion rubles have been allocated for their financing (19 projects) over three years. Over 40 trillion rubles have been allocated from the federal budget over six years. Compared to the national projects in effect in 2019–2024, funding from the federal budget has been almost doubled.

    An equally important area is financial support for the regions. It is planned to allocate 3.3 trillion rubles annually for these purposes.

    The draft of the new three-year federal budget is based on the basic version of the socio-economic development forecast. It implies that in 2025–2027, economic dynamics will be on a moderate trajectory of 2.5–2.8% of GDP.

    Budget revenues in 2025 will amount to 40.3 trillion rubles, in 2026 – 41.8 trillion rubles, in 2027 – 43.2 trillion rubles.

    Expenditures in 2025 are planned at 41.5 trillion rubles, 44 trillion rubles in 2026, and 45.9 trillion rubles in 2027.

    The execution of the new three-year federal budget is expected with a deficit of 0.5% of GDP in 2025, 0.9% of GDP in 2026 and 1.1% in 2027. During this period, the non-oil and gas deficit will be reduced to 5% of GDP in 2027 (by 2.5 percentage points compared to 2024).

    The main sources of deficit financing in 2025–2027 will be government borrowing. The volume of government debt will remain at a safe level.

    Along with the draft of the new three-year budget, the Government also sent draft budgets of extra-budgetary funds and a number of other bills of decisive importance for public finances to the lower house of parliament.

    This year, the budget package was submitted entirely via electronic communication channels for the first time. This was the result of systematic work to improve the interaction between the Government Office and the State Duma.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/52839/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Extraordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers on September 30, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Timor-Leste Portuguese to English –

    Presidency of the Council of Ministers

    Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
    ……………………………………………. ……………………………………………. …………………….

    Press release

    Extraordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers on September 30, 2024

    The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and approved the Draft State Budget (OGE) Bill for 2025, presented by the Minister of Finance, Santina José Rodrigues F. Viegas Cardoso, with a total value of US$ 2.6 billion allocated to the Central Administration, the Special Administrative Region of Oe-Cusse Ambeno (RAEOA) and Social Security, including the Social Security Reserve Fund. This amount includes an allocation of US$ 2.07 billion for the Central Administration, US$ 482 million for Social Security and US$ 62 million for the RAEOA.

    The 2025 State Budget Bill continues the strategy of implementing the priorities set out in the Government Programme, under the motto “Investment in strategic infrastructure, strengthening the economy and improving the well-being of citizens”. The Proposal is formulated based on the Strategic Objectives of the IX Constitutional Government, with a view to promoting the socio-economic development of the Nation through targeted investments in strategic infrastructure, economic strengthening and initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of citizens. The 2025 State Budget aims to promote economic development and improve the living conditions of the Timorese population, through a clear strategy focused on sustainable economic growth, improving public services and ensuring that the benefits of development reach all citizens.

    In terms of strategic infrastructure, US$227.3 million has been earmarked for the construction, expansion, rehabilitation and maintenance of road networks and bridges, as well as for the implementation of measures to protect against natural disasters, with the aim of improving connectivity and protecting communities from the effects of climate change. Funding is also provided for the rehabilitation of Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport and for the completion of the submarine fibre optic cable that will link Timor-Leste to Australia. The expansion of the internal fibre optic network will enable the provision of high-speed internet throughout the country from 2025 onwards. In the electricity sector, the budget foresees a significant increase in subsidies to the public company EDTL, EP, with the aim of improving and expanding the continuous supply of electricity, especially in rural and remote areas, ensuring a more stable and comprehensive service.

    In the natural resources sector, the proposal allocates US$40 million to improve industrial and oil and mineral extraction areas on the country’s southern coast, contributing to economic development and strengthening energy security.

    In the financial sector, an investment of US$5 million is expected in the capitalization of the Central Bank of Timor-Leste, with the aim of strengthening the stability and resilience of the national financial system.

    The bill allocates a significant portion of the spending, around US$406 million, to support civil society, health and social services. In human capital development, US$17.2 million is allocated to vocational and technical training programs, as well as to grant scholarships. Education will also receive US$145.8 million to build new schools, train teachers and strengthen the education management system.

    In health, the budget allocates US$99.2 million to improve the hospital network and health centers throughout the country, in addition to US$14.2 million for the acquisition and distribution of essential medicines and medical equipment. In terms of social protection, the Bolsa da Mãe program will be strengthened with an increase of more than US$7 million, plus US$2.86 million earmarked for improving the health and nutrition of pregnant women and children. The proposal also includes a transfer of US$124.1 million to the Social Security Budget, an increase of US$37.4 million compared to 2024, which reflects the expansion of the Social Security system and the value of the social old-age and disability pension. END

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 21 startups transforming education with AI

    Source: Google

    Picture a world where students, regardless of their background, can learn in a personalized way. Imagine teachers with tools that anticipate their needs, freeing them to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding their class. This isn’t a distant dream, but a reality being shaped by entrepreneurs in the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education program.

    Selected from a pool of more than 600 applicants from across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the 21 participating startups are all using AI to create more inclusive, engaging and effective educational pathways. From building intelligent tutors that adapt to each student’s pace, to platforms that make education accessible even in remote areas, we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on learners around the world.

    Each founder and their team will receive three months of mentorship by Google experts, resources to help grow their technology, business and global reach, and a collaborative community of fellow founders to support one another. Learn more about the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education cohort:

    • Angaza Elimu (Kenya): An eLearning platform that creates a more personalized and engaging experience, fostering stronger connections between learners and teachers.
    • BLISKO (Poland): An AI-powered platform that personalizes learning for children ages 0-6, that focuses on building strong relationships and creating personalized learning plans that fit each child’s unique needs, abilities and interests
    • Complori (Germany): A hybrid learning platform that equips children, ages 7-16, with hard skills such as technological understanding and programming, and soft skills through live and online group lessons.
    • Correcto (Spain): An AI-powered platform that enhances Spanish writing skills, offering tools tailored for Spanish-speaking users.
    • Digify Africa (South Africa): A high-tech learning platform, delivered via a low-tech interface, that improves access to education for low-income learners.
    • eKidz (Germany): An app that makes acquiring literacy and a new language easy and accessible for every child. Utilizing a purpose-built AI voice recognition students with precise diagnostics and support.
    • EvidenceB (France): An AI tutoring platform that works for any subject, available as a subscription service. Teachers get helpful data insights to guide their instruction.
    • ExamSolutions (UK): An AI-powered tutoring platform combining visual, auditory and textual content tailored for learning and exam preparation for math at GCSE & A-level.
    • Hawkings Education (Spain): An AI online learning system, making the experience more personalized for students and giving teachers better tools.
    • Jotit (Israel): A first of its kind, turning any standard Chromebook or tablet into an all-in-one learning space, creating a focused, distraction-free environment which keeps handwriting at its core.
    • LearnWise AI (Netherlands): A platform empowering universities and colleges worldwide to revolutionize student support through custom AI assistants.
    • MOONHUB (UK): A VR training platform that allows people to train like they were on the job from anywhere, any time to assess how people react to their observed virtual worlds.
    • Optima (UAE): An AI-powered education platform and course creation engine with a focus on data and AI engineering skills. Optima’s approach combines live interactive sessions, self-paced learning and AI-assisted tutoring.
    • OpenCyberAI (United Kingdom): An educational platform dedicated to cybersecurity, offering virtual simulations through interactive training, powered by an AI personalizing your learning path.
    • Pandatron (Finland): A platform supports talent development and helps employees adapt to digital and cultural changes by using AI-powered coaching conversations to identify underlying issues within the organization.
    • SignLab (Norway): An AI sign language digital platform that makes learning more accessible, effective, and affordable.
    • Story Spark (United Kingdom): An AI-powered story generator and reading platform for children combining innovative literacy education with engaging and personalized content.
    • ubiMaster (Germany): A live, personal online tutor platform designed to make learning with experts easy and widely available.
    • Utiva Education (Nigeria): A tech platform that helps people in Africa learn skills needed for global jobs, enabling companies to hire talent across different regions and increasing employment in the region.
    • Wilco (Israel): A platform helping both businesses and software vendors easily provide high-end training and education materials for their employees, candidates or users.
    • Wiloki (France): An online tutoring platform for children ages 7-14, using AI-powered tools to personalize the learning path according to each child’s unique educational profile and motivational triggers.

    As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI in education, one thing is certain: The path towards more personalized, effective and inspiring learning experiences has just begun.

    Learn more about our selected startups at startup.google.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Valuing learning

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    A large promotional campaign is planned to support these efforts, as well as the opening of a Cité des métiers in Crissier to provide information and guidance throughout the year. However, to observe real changes, an evolution in the orientation and the end of compulsory schooling will be necessary via the MAT-EO project.

    On the eve of the opening of the career fair on October 1, 2024, State Councilor Frédéric Borloz presented generally stable figures on the career guidance of young people in the Canton. These figures nevertheless show for the first time in a long time a 1% increase in the choice of apprenticeship upon leaving compulsory school (19.3% in 2023 to 20.3% in 2024). The number of young people in pre-gymnasium who directly choose apprenticeship is also up by 2% (7% to 9%). At the same time, transition measures are falling by 0.9% to 24% and enrollments in maturity schools are stable at around 37.7% and have not increased for 3 years. Out of 36,4000 young people in post-compulsory education, the Canton of Vaud has 19,500 young people in apprenticeships compared to 13,950 in general education at the start of the 2024-2025 school year.

    Building bridges between schools and the world of work

    Promoting vocational training is a priority of the 2022-2022 legislative program7 and a priority of the Council of State. For two years, the Department of Education and Vocational Training has continued its efforts and deployed its action plan. In addition to the one-off and symbolic event represented by the Salon des Métiers, an entire ecosystem of measures and systems are now in place and developing. For example, we can cite the organization of meetings between local businesses and students through regional forums. These events are set up in several establishments by the coordinators of the approach to the professional world, now present in all school regions. Thus, young people benefit from opportunities for individual or group internships thanks to the links established with the world of work in each region.

    A City of Trades in Crissier and a campaign to promote apprenticeships

    The head of the training department also announced that the Cité des Métiers project has started. This permanent place dedicated to information and guidance will be available to the population by 2028 at the latest on the site of the future Crissier gymnasium. Various Vaud administration counters will be represented there, academic and professional guidance, training for young people and adults, employment and scholarships. In addition, a campaign to promote apprenticeships will be launched to enhance the image of apprenticeships among young people, parents and teachers. It will help combat stereotypes and show the diversity of professions and career opportunities.

    The Careers Fair and a day of higher education

    Thousands of young people, students and families are expected at the Salon des Métiers 2024, which takes place earlier this year. For the first time, Sunday will be devoted to higher education courses that follow the CFC, whether they are higher education diplomas, federal certificates or professional diplomas.

    Efforts are continuing to highlight the apprenticeship pathway, in several timeframes, for several audiences and in various forms. While some indicators seem rather encouraging, real changes can only be observed with time and by changing the orientation of students at the end of compulsory schooling. In the years to come, this is precisely one of the missions of MAT-EO, the project of the reform of the four-year maturity and compulsory schooling.

    Link to the press release

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI: reAlpha Invests in Xmore AI to Advance AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Ohio, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — reAlpha Tech Corp. (“reAlpha”) (Nasdaq: AIRE), a real estate technology company developing and commercializing artificial intelligence (“AI”) technologies, today announced the selection of Xmore AI as the first company to secure investment from its newly launched reAlpha AI Labs, reAlpha’s research and development initiative.

    Xmore AI, co-founded by Dr. Benjamin Yan and Adrian Self, leverages over a decade of research in AI-driven cybersecurity and has developed a platform that consolidates multiple cybersecurity tools into a seamless, AI-driven solution, ensuring that enterprises can operate securely in a rapidly evolving digital environment. Dr. Yan is a Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at Michigan State University. Adrian Self, a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in blockchain security and embedded systems, complements Dr. Yan’s expertise with his hands-on approach to security assessments and technology integration. This investment marks a strategic milestone for reAlpha AI Labs to accelerate the development of AI technologies and advance technology innovation in the real estate industry.

    Mike Logozzo, President and Chief Operating Officer of reAlpha, emphasized the broader impact of Xmore AI’s technology: “At reAlpha AI Labs, we aim to create an environment where innovative AI startups can thrive. Xmore AI’s focus on cybersecurity aligns with our vision and we believe Xmore AI’s technology will enhance the security and scalability across our AI homebuying platform and our recently acquired portfolio companies.” reAlpha’s recently acquired portfolio companies include Naamche, Hyperfast, Be My Neighbor, and AiChat.

    “Xmore AI represents the next generation of forward-thinking innovation we envisioned to collaborate with when we launched reAlpha AI Labs,” said Vinayak Grover, Associate Vice President of AI Labs at reAlpha. “Their expertise in cybersecurity, particularly for AI operations, will be critical as AI becomes more integrated into enterprise systems.”

    In addition to enhancing reAlpha’s AI homebuying platform through its AI-cybersecurity expertise, Xmore AI is developing a software that will consolidate multiple cybersecurity tools to provide AI-cybersecurity solutions to enterprises in multiple industries. At the core of Xmore AI’s innovation is its ability to address the unique vulnerabilities created by the rapid expansion of AI across industries. We believe Xmore AI is well-positioned to address critical challenges like data privacy, compliance, and risk management, by providing innovative solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of the cybersecurity landscape.

    “With AI becoming more integrated into how businesses operate, it is essential that cybersecurity evolves alongside it,” said Dr. Yan, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Xmore AI. “Through our partnership with reAlpha AI Labs, we believe we are in a position to deliver scalable, cutting-edge security solutions that protect enterprises from the emerging risks of AI integration.”

    Launched earlier this year, reAlpha AI Labs is designed to support innovative AI startups with funding, technical resources, and strategic partnerships. By providing early-stage funding along with access to reAlpha’s extensive network, the program is committed to accelerating the growth and efficacy of AI-driven solutions.

    The incubation of Xmore AI not only highlights reAlpha AI Labs’ commitment to cybersecurity, but it also marks reAlpha AI Labs’ broader mission to drive AI advancements across sectors like real estate, fintech, and enterprise technology.

    About reAlpha Tech Corp.

    reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) is a real estate technology company developing an end-to-end commission-free homebuying platform. Utilizing the power of AI and an acquisition-led growth strategy, reAlpha’s goal is to offer a more affordable, streamlined experience for those on the journey to homeownership. For more information, visit https://www.realpha.com/.

    About Xmore AI

    Xmore AI is developing a software that will offer innovative AI-driven cybersecurity solutions by consolidating multiple cybersecurity tools into a single platform, which will provide real-time risk analysis, vulnerability detection, and IT operations management, all while ensuring privacy by keeping data within the enterprise.

    About the reAlpha Platform

    reAlpha (previously called “Claire”), announced on April 24, 2024, is reAlpha’s generative AI-powered, commission-free, homebuying platform. The tagline: No fees. Just keys.™ – reflects reAlpha’s dedication to eliminating traditional barriers and making homebuying more accessible and transparent.

    reAlpha’s introduction aligns with major shifts in the real estate sector after the National Association of Realtors agreed to settle certain lawsuits upon being found to have violated antitrust laws, resulting in inflated fees paid to buy-side agents. This development is expected to result in the end of the standard six percent sales commission, which equates to approximately $100 billion in realtor fees paid annually. The reAlpha platform offers a cost-free alternative for homebuyers by utilizing an AI-driven workflow that assists them through the homebuying process.

    Homebuyers using the reAlpha platform’s conversational interface will be able to interact with Claire, reAlpha’s AI buyer’s agent, to guide them through every step of their homebuying journey, from property search to closing the deal. By offering support 24/7, Claire is poised to make the homebuying process more efficient, enjoyable, and cost-efficient. Claire matches buyers with their dream homes using over 400 data attributes and provides insights into market trends and property values. Additionally, Claire can assist with questions, booking property tours, submitting offers, and negotiations.

    Currently, the reAlpha platform is under limited availability for homebuyers located in 20 counties in Florida, but reAlpha is actively seeking new MLS and brokerage licenses that will enable expansion into more U.S. states.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements about Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative; the anticipated benefits of Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative; reAlpha’s ability to anticipate the future needs of the short-term rental market; future trends in the real estate, technology and artificial intelligence industries, generally; and reAlpha’s future growth strategy and growth rate. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “plan”, “possible”, “project”, “strive”, “budget”, “forecast”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential” or “continue”, or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: reAlpha’s limited operating history and that reAlpha has not yet fully developed its AI-based technologies; reAlpha’s ability to commercialize its developing AI-based technologies; whether reAlpha’s technology and products will be accepted and adopted by its customers and intended users; reAlpha’s ability to leverage Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative into its existing business and the anticipated demand for reAlpha AI Labs collaborations and partnerships; Xmore AI’s ability to develop its software to consolidate cybersecurity tools to provide AI-cybersecurity solutions to enterprises and the anticipated demand for such software; the inability to maintain and strengthen reAlpha’s brand and reputation; the inability to accurately forecast demand for short-term rentals and AI-based real estate focused products; the inability to execute business objectives and growth strategies successfully or sustain reAlpha’s growth; the inability of reAlpha’s customers to pay for reAlpha’s services; changes in applicable laws or regulations, and the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in reAlpha’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although reAlpha believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. reAlpha’s future results, level of activity, performance or achievements may differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking statements. For more information about the factors that could cause such differences, please refer to reAlpha’s filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and reAlpha does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media
    irlabs on behalf of reAlpha
    Fatema Bhabrawala
    fatema@irlabs.ca

    1 https://market.us/report/ai-in-cybersecurity-market/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The history and importance of airborne thermal infrared imaging in Yellowstone National Park

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.  This week’s contribution is from R. Greg Vaughan, research scientist with the U.S. Geological Survey.

    Top: the first thermal infrared images of Yellowstone (1961).  Warm areas are brighter; cold areas are darker.  These images were published in: McLerran, J.H. and Morgan, J.O. (1965) Thermal mapping of Yellowstone National Park. Proceedings of the 3rd International Symposium on Remote Sensing of Environment, University of Michigan, Institute of Science and Technology, Ann Arbor, MI, pp. 517-530.  Bottom: the first thermographic mosaic of Yellowstone (April 1969).  These image strips were acquired by flying an infrared line scanner that was modified for video tape recording along dozens of adjacent flight lines.  This type of airborne image acquisition resulted in many distortions and striping effects due to differing look angles.  Some of these artifacts could be corrected in image post-processing.  This uncontrolled mosaic was published in: Williams Jr, R.S., Hasell Jr, P.G., Sellman, A.N. and Smedes, H.W. (1976). Thermographic mosaic of Yellowstone National Park. Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing, 42(10), pp.1315-1324.

    In 1800, German-British astronomer William Herschel discovered infrared light—electromagnetic radiation that exists beyond what we can see with our eyes. Using a prism to separate sunlight into its rainbow of colors, and placing a thermometer within distinct colors, Herschel noted that heating was unequal among the different colors, and that the temperature would increase further in a thermometer placed below the red color of the spectrum.  Indeed, “infrared” means “below red,” although at the time Herschel called this part of the spectrum “invisible rays of the Sun” and “calorific rays.”  He would also use the term, “radiant heat” and was the first to propose that visible light and radiant heat may be the same phenomenon.  This was many decades before development of electromagnetic radiation theory. 

    In the century that followed, numerous advances were made in the ability to measure radiant heat, providing the ability to measure very small differences in temperature.  For example, in 1901, a bolometer (a type of infrared detector invented in the 1870s by American astronomer and physicist Samuel Pierpont Langley), could detect thermal infrared radiation from a cow 400 m (1300 ft) away. 

    Thermal infrared imaging was born in 1929, when Hungarian physicist Kálmán Tihanyi invented an electronic television camera that was sensitive to thermal infrared light and could be used for military applications—it could see planes flying at night. 

    Thermal imaging methods advanced throughout the following decades, but much of the technology was classified because of its military applications.  Eventually, thermal infrared cameras became more widely available, rendering thermal infrared radiation emitted by warm objects into an image represented by visible colors. 

    In April-May 1961, a series of aerial infrared images were collected in Yellowstone National Park by the U. S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory and the Infrared Laboratory of the University of Michigan Institute of Science and Technology, in cooperation with the National Park Service.  Several thermal areas were imaged, including Norris Geyser Basin, Roadside Springs, Roaring Mountain, Midway and Upper Geyser Basin, Tern Lake, Fern Lake, and Pelican Creek.  Several other airborne infrared surveys were conducted in Yellowstone in the 1960s and 1970s.  These data led to the discovery of some previously unknown thermal areas and allowed the creation of the first thermographic mosaic of Yellowstone National Park. 

    Top: Thermographic mosaic of Yellowstone acquired by the NASA’s MODIS-ASTER Airborne Simulator (MASTER), a thermal infrared scanner, in September 2006.  Dark shades indicate cool temperatures and bright are warm; this reflects not only hydrothermal activity, but also types of ground cover.  Bottom: Thermographic mosaic of a portion of Norris Geyser Basin acquired from a thermal infrared camera mounted on an aircraft, acquired in March 2015.

    With modern infrared scanning and imaging technologies and digital image processing, it is now possible to produce seamless thermographic mosaics of large areas and high-resolution thermal infrared images of geyser and hot spring basins throughout Yellowstone.  From 2005 to 2015, there was an annual (and sometimes bi-annual) campaign of airborne thermal infrared surveys of selected thermal areas in the park.  These surveys produced very high-resolution (1 meter per pixel) mosaics, allowing for detailed mapping, characterization, and change detection of individual thermal features. 

    One of the tradeoffs with high-resolution airborne thermal surveys is that they are expensive and require a lot of logistical planning, and they are therefore infrequent.  This is why YVO scientists make extensive use of satellite based thermal infrared imaging to study and monitor thermal activity in Yellowstone.  These data have proven remarkably useful, for instance, in the discovery of a new thermal area near Tern Lake.  And these data are complemented by high-resolution visible imagery that have also been used identify previously unmapped thermal areas.

    While satellite data provide a wonderful overall view of thermal output from Yellowstone and some localized views of thermal features, airborne thermal infrared surveys are the most effective for detailed mapping and monitoring.  YVO scientists are currently exploring new, more efficient, and cost-effective ways of acquiring high-resolution aerial thermal data, and we look forward to sharing our progress in future editions of Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres in 20 States virtually inaugurated in closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah held at Ranchi

    Source: Government of India

    More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres in 20 States virtually inaugurated in closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah held at Ranchi

    Multifarious developments with enhanced velocity through Saksham Anganwadis will encourage communities to participate, engage and own initiatives of Poshan 2.0 to make India a Suposhit Rashtra : Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister, Women and Child Development

    More than 12 Crore sensitization activities at 13.95 Lakhs AWCs conducted during the Poshan Maah on different nutrition-related themes

    Exclusive campaigns on environment sustainability through Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam held throughout the Poshan Maah

    Posted On: 30 SEP 2024 3:32PM by PIB Delhi

    The closing ceremony of 7thRashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 was held today at Ranchi, Jharkhand in the august presence of Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar,  Governor, Jharkhand; Smt. Annpurna Devi,  Union Minister for Women and Child Development; and other senior officers from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India and State Govt of Jharkhand.

    A film on Poshan Maah demonstrating various mass sensitization initiatives that took place across the country during the month-long celebrations was shown to the audience. This was followed by the Annaprashan Ceremony of Children and God Bharai of Pregnant women.

     

    This was followed by an inspiring short film “Aao Toden: Kuposhan Chakra” highlighting Jharkhand’s lifecycle approach towards improving the status of nutrition among children, adolescent girls and pregnant and lactating mothers. The key highlight of the event was the virtual inauguration of more than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi across 20 States of the country today. A short film showcasing the concept of how Saksham Anganwadis can lead to improved nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education delivery (ECCE) was also showcased.

    Thereafter, there was an online interaction between the Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Governor, Jharkhand, Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister, Women and Child Development, Government of India and Anganwadi Workers of Saksham Anganwadi Centre from Jamui district in Bihar and Rajnandgaon district in Chhattisgarh.

    Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister, Women and Child Development in her special Address said, “I am overwhelmed with the wide participation and enthusiasm that all the stakeholders have shown during Poshan Maah. A total of 12.86 Crores sensitization activities at 13.95 Lakhs AWCs were conducted during the Poshan Maah on different nutrition-related themes. In addition to this nutrition-centric Jan Andolan which has played a vital role in sensitizing the entire country, exclusive campaigns on environment sustainability through Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam were held. A total of 86 Lakhs activities related to Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam were conducted during the Poshan Maah”. She also said “Some of the States have organized unique activities during the Maah for sensitization of the beneficiaries and community.  In Assam, Adolescent Girls with better Hemoglobin levels were recognized as ‘Hemoglobin Queens‘. This has not only inspired and sensitized the adolescents, but the community at large”. Concluding her special address, she said, “I can foresee the multifarious developments with enhanced velocity through Saksham Anganwadis, which will encourage communities to participate, engage, and own the initiatives of Poshan 2.0 with a mission to make India a Suposhit Rashtra”.

    Shri Santosh Gangwar, Governor, Jharkhand, in his Keynote Address drew the attention of the audience to the importance of convergence and partnerships among all the departments and other stakeholders to build a holistic ecosystem towards malnutrition-free India. Further, stressing the importance of the role of Anganwadi Workers, he mentioned: “I am glad that with the help of these frontline workers, Saksham Anganwadi and concepts like Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, we are moving towards a strong and self-reliant country”. He further mentioned that we should all promote green vegetables, whole grains and millet in our daily meals.

     

    An exhibition with a variety of stalls focusing on different themes like Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, ECCE, Palna Grih, Take Home Ration/ Food & Nutrition, Health Camp & Anemia Testing, Child Protection, Self Help Groups, Social Security Schemes and CMAM Protocol was  organised at the venue. The third edition of Poshan Dhara Magazine, focusing on key strategies for transforming Jharkhand into a malnutrition-free State was also launched during the event.

    During the month-long celebrations in Poshan Maah, more than 12.86 crore sensitization activities around nutrition have been conducted across all 36 States/ UTs. In terms of different themes, dedicated 2.4 crore activities and 2 crore activities have been conducted on anaemia and growth monitoring respectively. 

    Poshan Maah 2024 celebrates the collective efforts of various stakeholders towards a healthier and nourished India. It not only recognizes the dedication of all participating states but also underscores the vital role of strengthening the grassroots movements through continued Jan Andolans while ensuring better exposure for stakeholders through Saksham Anganwadi Centres.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft held a corporate plogging race in Moscow

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft volunteers held an environmental campaign in Moscow’s Izmailovsky Park – plogging, during which Company employees collected garbage while jogging.

    More than 150 employees of the Company and their family members took part in the event. The eco-volunteers ran a route of more than 6 kilometers and collected almost 300 kg of garbage. Preserving the environment for future generations is an integral part of Rosneft’s social policy. The Company promotes a healthy lifestyle culture and supports professional and amateur sports. Plogging is an international environmental movement whose participants combine jogging with garbage collection. The event not only helps improve the environmental situation, but also unites people, giving them the opportunity to spend time outdoors and get a boost of energy.

    The volunteer movement has become an important element of Rosneft’s corporate culture. As part of the corporate program “Good Deeds Platform”, about 800 different events were organized in the first six months of 2024, in which more than 50 thousand employees of the Company took part.

    One of such volunteer projects is plogging runs, which are held annually in the regions where the Company operates. Earlier this year, Rosneft employees collected trash in the Moscow park Fili.

    The Company’s volunteer projects are highly appreciated both at the regional and federal levels. This year, the Syzran Oil Refinery received the public award “Ecobalance” for its contribution to the development of corporate volunteering and environmental protection in the Samara Region, forest restoration and greening of the city of Syzran. “SamaraNIPIneft” won first place in two nominations of the All-Russian competition “Russian Organization of High Social Efficiency” – “For the Development of Human Resources in Non-Production Sphere Organizations” and “For Support of Employees – Parents with Many Children and Their Children Among Organizations”. In addition, the Kuibyshev Oil Refinery was recognized as a laureate of the Kommersant-Volga competition in the nomination “Environmental Education”.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft September 30, 2024

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/220858/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Student Olympiad “I am a professional”: the new season has started

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    September 26th was held press conference, dedicated to the opening of the VIII season of the student Olympiad “I am a professional“, the co-organizer of which is the Higher School of Economics. This project of the presidential platform “Russia – the Country of Opportunities” is being implemented with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    “I am a professional” is a large-scale platform for testing the knowledge and applied skills of students from Russian universities. The Olympiad has been held since 2017 and covers more than 70 subject areas – from aircraft manufacturing to artificial intelligence. The list of areas is updated annually, taking into account the requests of participants and current changes in the labor market. In the VIII season, such new disciplines as “Project Management” and “Digital Product Management and Innovation” will be presented.

    Participants of the Olympiad learn to solve industry practical problems, which allows training highly qualified specialists already at the stage of study at the university. All tasks are developed by experts from leading universities and research institutes, of which there are more than 30, together with specialists from more than 600 partner companies, including Yandex, Sber, VTB, Rosatom and others.

    “I am a professional” pursues two global goals: to create conditions for professional and personal development of Russian youth and to increase the number of those who seek opportunities for self-realization and want to be successful in the Russian labor market. Therefore, the main idea of this season was the theme “Work and study in Russia”.

    “In Russia, the need for professionals is enormous — all industries need fresh ideas and people who can implement them. Today is the best time to study and work in Russia, because it is here that the best opportunities open up, the most interesting professional challenges, and therefore career prospects, are available. “I am a professional” helps a talented student and his potential employer find each other. The largest and most technologically advanced companies in our country are looking for ambitious interns. “I am a professional” is not just an Olympiad, it is a community that supports you, where your potential is revealed, where you grow both as an individual and as a highly competent specialist,” says Andrey Betin, Executive Director of ANO “Russia — Country of Opportunities”, Rector of the Senezh Management Workshop.

    Over the past seven seasons, more than 1.2 million students have taken part in the Olympiad. The number of registrations is several times higher: in the seventh season alone, over 850 thousand were received, of which more than 17 thousand were students of the Higher School of Economics, which corresponds to the second position in the university rankings by total number of registrations. Moreover, in 2023, HSE was the university that organized seven areas – economics, design, sociology, journalism, business informatics, urban studies and quantum technologies – for which more than 100 thousand registrations were recorded.

    The best participants of the Olympiad receive benefits when entering the master’s and postgraduate programs of the National Research University Higher School of Economics and other leading universities, as well as the opportunity to do an internship and start a career in a large Russian company. Prizes from 100 to 300 thousand rubles are provided for the medalists of the Olympiad: over seven seasons, the total amount of cash prizes amounted to more than 500 million rubles for 3,500 medalists.

    The Olympiad includes the Career Development Center “I am a Professional”, which provides access to internships and vacancies in leading Russian companies, consultations with career experts, educational events and excursions to the offices and production facilities of industry leaders – partners of the Olympiad. More than 300 thousand Olympiad participants gained experience in career navigation, and more than 100 thousand completed internships with the possibility of subsequent employment.

    In Season VIII, it is planned to expand access to the career portal – a platform where each participant can find a vacancy in the profile they are interested in. The opportunity to respond will also be available to Olympiad participants who have successfully passed the selection stage.

    “Today’s economic situation and challenges require new approaches to personnel training. The main task is to help young people not only gain knowledge, but also develop the skills that will allow them to confidently look to the future, adapt to changes and become leaders in their fields. The Olympiad participants are the people who will move the Russian economy forward tomorrow, create innovations and make our country stronger. And we, for our part, are doing everything possible to ensure that these young talents receive support and motivation for further development,” commented Alexander Shokhin, President of the HSE University and President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/edu/968285066.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A thousand letters to the front. A charity event by Polytechnic students

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Students of the Higher School of Technosphere Safety wrote a thousand letters to servicemen who are currently fighting in the area of the special military operation. The action “Letters to Soldiers” was timed to coincide with the beginning of the school year and the eightieth anniversary of the complete lifting of the siege of Leningrad. The special importance of this action is that it not only raises the morale of our soldiers, but also serves as a reminder that they are appreciated, loved and awaited.

    Such letters become an important source of psychological support and emotional connection with the homeland, and participation in the campaign develops a sense of patriotism, civic responsibility and humanity in young people. Polytechnic students not only realize the importance of supporting the country’s defenders, but also learn to express their thoughts and emotions in kind words, which strengthens social ties within society.

    The students wrote messages, poems, and conveyed the warmest words with love and care. They wished the soldiers a speedy return home and also expressed gratitude for their bravery.

    Deputy Director of the Higher School of Military History for Educational Work Anatoly Zaitsev is confident: Letters to soldiers are not just words on paper, they are a bridge between the world and the front, which brings hope and support to those who defend our freedom.

    Also, students of the Higher School of Technosphere Safety made 5,000 shoe insoles for military personnel. This will give them comfort and convenience when performing combat missions.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/student_life/thousand-letters-to-the-front-charity-action-of-polytechnic-students/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues legislative update 9.29.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 29, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
     

    • AB 98 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Planning and zoning: logistics use: truck routes.
    • AB 347 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Household product safety: toxic substances: testing and enforcement.
    • AB 772 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Child day care facilities.
    • AB 796 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Athletic trainers.
    • AB 801 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Student privacy: online personal information.
    • AB 866 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Juveniles: care and treatment.
    • AB 977 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Emergency departments: assault and battery.
    • AB 1755 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Civil actions: restitution for or replacement of a new motor vehicle. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 1810 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Incarcerated persons: menstrual products.
    • AB 1824 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: opt out right: mergers.
    • AB 1825 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – California Freedom to Read Act.
    • AB 1841 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Student safety: opioid overdose reversal medication: student housing facilities.
    • AB 1843 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Emergency ambulance employees.
    • AB 1907 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – California Child and Family Service Review System: Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment.
    • AB 1934 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Digital financial asset businesses.
    • AB 2074 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – Pupil instruction: English Learner Roadmap Policy: statewide implementation plan. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2096 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Restraining orders: educational institutions.
    • AB 2119 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Mental health.
    • AB 2123 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Disability compensation: paid family leave.
    • AB 2129 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Immediate postpartum contraception.
    • AB 2132 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Health care services: tuberculosis.
    • AB 2164 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Physicians and surgeons: licensure requirements: disclosure.
    • AB 2192 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Public agencies: cost accounting standards.
    • AB 2215 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Criminal procedure: arrests.
    • AB 2224 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Special immigrant juvenile status: court orders and guardianship.
    • AB 2245 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Certificated school employees: permanent status: regional occupational centers or programs operated by single school districts.
    • AB 2318 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – State Water Pollution Cleanup and Abatement Account: receipts and expenditures: report.
    • AB 2343 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – CalWORKs: childcare programs.
    • AB 2357 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – University of California: school of medicine: University of California Kern County Medical Education Endowment Fund. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2377 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Pupil instruction: physical education: accommodation: religious fasting.
    • AB 2443 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Transactions and use taxes: Cities of Lancaster, Palmdale, and Victorville.
    • AB 2458 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Public postsecondary education: student parents.
    • AB 2475 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Parole.
    • AB 2483 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Postconviction proceedings.
    • AB 2484 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Courts: juveniles: remote proceedings.
    • AB 2493 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Tenancy: application screening fee.
    • AB 2499 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Employment: unlawful discrimination and paid sick days: victims of violence.
    • AB 2531 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Deaths while in law enforcement custody: reporting.
    • AB 2738 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Labor Code: alternative enforcement: occupational safety. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2741 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Rental car companies: electronic surveillance technology.
    • AB 2843 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Health care coverage: rape and sexual assault.
    • AB 2883 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – California State University: University of California: Lunar New Year holiday.
    • AB 2988 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Courts.
    • AB 2998 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Opioid overdose reversal medications: pupil administration.
    • AB 3059 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Human milk.
    • AB 3145 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Family preservation services: standards.
    • AB 3206 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Alcoholic beverages: hours of sale: arenas in the City of Inglewood. A signing message can be found here. 
    • AB 3258 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Refinery and chemical plants.
    • SB 285 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Criminal procedure: sentencing.
    • SB 379 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Victim services: restorative justice.
    • SB 442 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Sexual battery.
    • SB 504 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Wildfires: defensible space: grant programs: local governments.
    • SB 551 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Beverage containers: recycling.
    • SB 575 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Marriage: underage marriage.
    • SB 918 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Law enforcement contact process: search warrants.
    • SB 940 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Civil disputes.
    • SB 946 by Senator Mike McGuire (D-North Coast) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: exclusions: wildfire mitigation payments.
    • SB 958 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Surplus state property: County of Napa.
    • SB 1143 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Paint products: stewardship program.
    • SB 1174 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Elections: voter identification.
    • SB 1303 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Public works.
    • SB 1379 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Public Employees’ Retirement Law: reinstatement: County of Solano.
    • SB 1386 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Evidence: sexual assault.

     The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:

    • AB 637 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Zero-emission vehicles: fleet owners: rental vehicles. A veto message can be found here. 
    • AB 1111 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Cannabis: small producer event sales license. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1122 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – Commercial harbor craft: equipment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1296 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Bar pilots: regulation of vessels. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1890 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Public works: prevailing wage. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1895 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Public health: maternity ward closures. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1973 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: Bobcat Fire: exclusions. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2058 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Devices: disclosures. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2178 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Prisons: bed thresholds. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2447 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – California State University: fiscal transparency: internet website. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2693 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Childhood sexual assault: statute of limitations. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2773 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Elders and dependent adults: abuse or neglect. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2892 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Vehicles: financial responsibility: self-insurance. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3179 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Emergency telecommunications medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3245 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Coverage for colorectal cancer screening. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3282 by the Committee on Judiciary – Courts. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 299 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Voter registration: California New Motor Voter Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 336 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – State grant programs: negotiated indirect cost rates. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 542 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: wildfires: exclusions. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 615 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Vehicle traction batteries. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 782 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Gubernatorial appointments: report. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 984 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Public agencies: project labor agreements. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1022 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Enforcement of civil rights. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1066 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Hazardous waste: marine flares: manufacturer responsibility. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1155 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Political Reform Act of 1974: postgovernment employment restrictions. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1281 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Advancing Equity and Access in the Self-Determination Program Act. A veto message can be found here.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Luis Vassy Appointed President of Sciences Po

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    The decree of the President of the French Republic, issued on the report of the Minister for Higher Education and Research and on the recommendation of the IEP Board, confirming the appointment of Luis Vassy as director of the IEP de Paris, was published in the Journal officiel de la République française (French Official gazette) on 28 September 2024.

    Luis Vassy was also appointed administrator of the National Foundation of Political Science (FNSP) by an order of the Minister for Higher Education and Research, on the recommendation of the FNSP Board, published on 28 September 2024.

    As part of the procedure for appointing the director of Sciences Po, the IEP Board and the FNSP Board both voted in favour of Luis Vassy, after examining the candidates’ proposals on 19 and 20 September.

    Luis Vassy, Chief of Staff for the ministers for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna and Stéphane Séjourné, former French ambassador to the Netherlands, a graduate of Sciences Po and a former student at the École normale supérieure de Cachan (social sciences department) and the École nationale d’administration, takes office on Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

    I am very honoured to become the new President of Sciences Po, a world-class academic institution that contributes to France’s influence. As a former student, I am deeply committed to its mission of promoting social diversity through excellence. At a time when crises and upheavals are multiplying in France and around the world, our country needs an institution that is able to tackle them through knowledge, rather than through fear and isolation.

    Luis Vassy, President of Sciences Po

    Cover image caption: Student entrance at 27 rue Saint-Guillaume, Paris campus (credits: Marta Nascimento / Sciences Po)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Maggie Smith was a formidable actor with a biting wit and a fearsome ability to deliver lines

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jen Harvie, Professor of Contemporary Theatre and Performance, Queen Mary University of London

    It is a testament to the power of the late British actress Dame Maggie Smith that other eminent actors – though only male ones, as far as I can see – accused her of upstaging them.

    Richard Burton complained that in Anthony Asquith’s 1963 film The VIPs, she didn’t merely steal a big scene with him, “she committed grand larceny”. After making the 1978 Neil Simon film California Suite with her (for which Smith won her second Academy Award), Michael Caine is reported to have phoned Michael Palin, who was to be her co-star in the 1982 film The Missionary. “Watch her,” Caine reportedly warned. “She’ll have that scene from under your feet.”

    More recent audiences will recognise Smith’s arresting power in her portrayal of Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the long-running television series Downton Abbey and its two films. For film critic Peter Bradshaw, even “in the smallest of roles she set her own terms and every other actor was her satellite”.

    A prominent part of what gave Smith her power was her caustic humour, an acerbic put-down, and that withering look – from huge eyes set over pursed lips. New York Times critic Frank Rich praised her ability to “italicise a line as prosaic as ‘Have you no marmalade?’ until it sounds like a freshly minted epigram by Coward or Wilde.”

    But there was so much more to Maggie Smith than this. Her range was huge, and her power was built on craft.

    The social satire and commentary of her performances could be conveyed through anything from minxy humour to world-weariness, but always intelligence. In a review of her portrayal of Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler in a 1970 National Theatre production directed by Ingmar Bergman, the Evening Standard’s Milton Shulman described her as “haunt[ing] the stage like some giant portrait by Modigliani, her alabaster skin stretched tight with hidden anguish”.

    So, if you only know her work through recent blockbusters like Downton and the Harry Potter film franchise, in which she played Professor Minerva McGonagall, take a look at her vast and wonderful back catalogue. It’s a sustained masterclass in acting, as well as some of the very best explorations of the lived experiences of British middle-class women in the mid-to late-20th century. Two good places to start are the 1969 film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and the 1988 Alan Bennett television play A Bed Among the Lentils.

    In The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie – adapted by Jay Presson Allen from Muriel Spark’s 1961 novel– Smith played the eponymous heroine and won her first Academy Award, for best actress. Miss Brodie is a vivacious, romantic teacher at a repressive girls’ school in Edinburgh, Scotland. Confident that she knows what’s best for “her girls”, she fails to recognise how her approach to teaching is as controlling and potentially more damaging than that of the conservative head mistress.

    Smith sails through the film, moving from haughty grandeur through charming coquettishness to anguished despair. With just a hint of delicious melodrama, the film captures Miss Brodie’s hubris, but also the strict social limits of the times on girls’ and women’s freedoms and dreams.

    A Bed Among the Lentils is one of playwright Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads series of television monologues, written mostly for women. Smith plays Susan, the secretly alcoholic wife of an aspirational vicar. She is clearly under-stimulated by a life spent hosting visiting clerics at lunch and competing with other local women at flower-arranging for the altar. Her life shifts when she meets a kind, young and attractive Asian shopkeeper. He helps her to gain a different perspective on what gods can stand for and discovers what she wants and desires from life.

    Smith’s performance under Bennett’s direction is sometimes achingly slow, though it poignantly captures the emptiness of Susan’s life. (Smith reports in the 2018 tribute film Nothing Like a Dame that Laurence Olivier once criticised her for line delivery so slow she “bored him off the stage”. When it came to their next performance, she says, “I went so fast he didn’t know if it was Wednesday or Christmas.”)

    Again and again across an extraordinary career, Smith gave us painfully accurate portraits of British women, from steely and haughty to fragile and vulnerable – often simultaneously. She captured women’s fatigue with the social constraints imposed upon them and showed stunning glimpses of a world beyond those limitations, full of other potentials and possibilities.

    Jen Harvie 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. Maggie Smith was a formidable actor with a biting wit and a fearsome ability to deliver lines – https://theconversation.com/maggie-smith-was-a-formidable-actor-with-a-biting-wit-and-a-fearsome-ability-to-deliver-lines-240135

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Why pay tax? African study finds trust in government is key

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Heikki Hiilamo, Professor of Social Policy, University of Helsinki

    Taxes are important. They’re a primary way in which governments fund essential services like healthcare, education, infrastructure and social protection programmes. They are vital to the economic development of countries.

    In sub-Saharan African countries, the need for public services is great and fiscal resources are often scarce. Getting the public to pay their taxes is essential. However, a variety of structural and governance challenges have made it difficult to effectively mobilise revenue.

    Recent tax protests in Kenya illustrate the growing tension between taxpayers and the government in the region. The protests underscore the importance of designing tax policies that not only raise revenue but also distribute the tax burden fairly across different income groups. If governments don’t address these issues, they risk eroding public trust and increasing tax resistance.

    The logistical difficulties of tax collection are another obstacle. Many sub-Saharan economies are characterised by small-scale enterprises and subsistence agriculture, which complicate tax administration. The informal sector – estimated to account for up to 80% of employment in some countries – largely operates outside the formal tax net. It’s difficult for governments to capture this significant portion of economic activity within their revenue systems.

    Tax collection in sub-Saharan Africa is also hindered by inefficient administrative systems. In many countries, tax authorities are under-resourced and under-staffed, making it difficult to monitor compliance. Personal visits to taxpayers’ homes or businesses are often required to collect taxes. This drives up administrative costs and increases opportunities for corruption. In many cases, tax records are manually maintained – a system that’s prone to manipulation, inefficiencies and data losses.

    Our research shows that one of the most important factors influencing tax compliance in sub-Saharan Africa is trust in government.

    Citizens are more likely to comply with tax obligations when the government is perceived as fair and transparent in the use of tax revenues. A strong social contract – where citizens feel taxes are returned to them in the form of public goods and services – is critical.

    Conversely, when public services are inadequate or corruption is perceived as widespread, tax morale diminishes. This leads to greater tax resistance. In Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and South Africa, studies have shown that satisfaction with public services improves tax compliance. Another study has found that perceived corruption has a negative effect on tax compliance in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Governance quality also plays a role in shaping tax compliance. Citizens who trust their government and perceive that tax revenues are used to reduce inequality are more likely to pay their taxes.

    Progress

    Despite the challenges of collecting revenues, many African countries have made progress over the past three decades.

    From the mid-1990s to 2016, total revenue (excluding grants) in the median African economy rose from around 14% to over 18% of GDP. Tax revenue increased from 11% to 15% of GDP.

    This is a significant achievement, but Africa still remains the region with the lowest revenue-to-GDP ratio globally.

    Weak tax administration systems continue to limit governments’ ability to finance development initiatives. As a result, many countries struggle to provide essential services like healthcare, education and infrastructure.

    Countries also tend to rely on “regressive” taxes, like taxes on consumption. These affect poorer households the most, as they spend a larger share of their earnings on taxable goods and services. This weakens the redistributive effect of tax systems and can exacerbate poverty and inequality.

    Way forward

    Technology could help address many of the challenges associated with tax collection. Digital tax systems, mobile money and online filing could help reduce inefficiencies and increase transparency. Some countries, such as Rwanda and Ghana, have already embraced technology to simplify processes and enhance compliance.

    However, many rural areas in sub-Saharan Africa lack the internet infrastructure needed to do this. Digital tax systems require tax authorities to invest in infrastructure and training.

    Still, as mobile technology penetrates the region, governments will be able to use digital tools to expand their tax base and improve compliance.

    Reducing corruption

    To strengthen tax compliance, improving the social contract between governments and citizens is essential. Research shows that when people believe their taxes are used for public goods and services that benefit them, they are more willing to comply.

    Tax morale can be improved through transparency, reduced corruption, and ensuring that tax revenues are visibly channelled into development projects.

    Targeted communication campaigns about how tax funds are used can help restore faith in government institutions.

    The path to improving tax systems and compliance in sub-Saharan Africa is long. But with the right policy interventions, governments can unlock revenue potential. This will contribute to stronger economies, better public services, and ultimately, more equitable and inclusive development across the region.

    – Why pay tax? African study finds trust in government is key
    – https://theconversation.com/why-pay-tax-african-study-finds-trust-in-government-is-key-239613

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Qatar Airways is set to acquire 25% of Virgin Australia. Who will be the winners?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dr Rico Merkert, Professor in Transport and Supply Chain Management and Deputy Director, Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS), University of Sydney Business School, University of Sydney

    Peter Gudella/Shutterstock

    Qatar Airways has announced plans to buy a 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia from its owner, US private equity firm Bain Capital.

    The two airlines have already had a strong relationship as “codeshare partners” since 2022. Codesharing is where airlines agree to sell seats on each other’s flights. This new announcement, however, is a big step up.

    All of this will, of course, be subject to approval from both Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). But there could be a range of winners if it goes ahead.

    Perhaps most importantly for Australian travellers, the move means Virgin Australia will be able to compete as it once did on long-haul international routes.

    This is because a proposed “wet lease” agreement – in which one airline provides full aircraft, crew and relevant services to another – could see Virgin Australia start operating its own flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney to Doha as early as mid-2025.

    It’s also a win for Bain Capital, which had been trying to offload some of its stake in the airline after acquiring it in crisis in 2020.

    So with the prospect of a renewed international foothold for Virgin Australia, could we soon see more competition – and real consumer benefits – on the “Kangaroo Route” between Australia and Europe?

    Clearer skies for Qatar?

    As you might remember, Qatar Airways’ previous attempts to expand in Australia haven’t always gone smoothly.

    Today’s announcement comes little more than a year after Transport Minister Catherine King controversially blocked a request by Qatar to double the number of flights its state-owned airline Qatar Airways was allowed to fly into major Australian airports.

    Given the intense public backlash to this decision, it’s possible a renewed application by Qatar would have been more successful. A large expansion of flights by Turkish Airlines was later quietly approved.

    But this new deal may diminish the need to try again. By wet-leasing wide-body aircraft so Virgin Australia can operate its “own” long-haul routes to Doha (connecting into Europe), Qatar will effectively bypass the need to get government approval for the additional flights.



    Read more:
    What will putting the interests of Qantas ahead of Qatar Airways cost? $1 billion per year and a new wave of protectionism of legacy carriers

    The ‘Kangaroo Route’ still needs more flights

    Back in 2023, my calculations suggested Qatar’s application to expand should have been approved. Capacity on the Kangaroo Route was only back to 70% of pre-COVID levels. That meant the major players operating flights – including the Qantas–Emirates alliance – could charge significantly more than before the pandemic.

    Using the latest flight schedule data, we can show that the capacity between Australia and the Middle East is still 17% below what it was before the pandemic. If Virgin Australia’s proposed long-haul re-entry goes ahead, we could see much more capacity on these routes, and a formidable challenger to the Emirates–Qantas arrangement.



    Read more:
    What will putting the interests of Qantas ahead of Qatar Airways cost? $1 billion per year and a new wave of protectionism of legacy carriers

    Likely a win for Virgin and Qatar

    It’s easy to see why Virgin and Qatar might be excited. The deal will extend Virgin Australia’s reach – and that of its frequent flyers – into Europe and other destinations via Doha. But this goes both ways, and could also mean more demand on its domestic network.

    Similarly, the additional flights into Doha will feed Qatar Airways’ network, an airline that seems to be going from strength to strength.

    Despite historical troubles at Doha’s main airport, Qatar Airways is now one of the world’s largest airlines. It has once again been ranked as the world’s best airline by the independent air transport rating organisation Skytrax.

    Both airlines were also keen to point out benefits of the partnership they said would go beyond additional services and increasing competition in the Australian market.

    These include the potential to work together towards various sustainability initiatives and on developing Western Sydney’s aviation ecosystem, providing exciting new opportunities for employment and training.

    Not yet a done deal

    However, they’re still a long way from the finishing line. Whether this deal will actually materialise remains to be seen.

    It is worth noting this is not the first time Virgin Australia has been part-owned by an airline in the Middle East. Before Virgin Australia’s collapse into administration in April 2020, Etihad held a 21% equity stake.

    Further, it remains to be seen what aircraft Virgin Australia will actually get access to and how the service will be perceived. Qatar Airways is guaranteed a transaction win through the wet-lease, without taking on the brand and profit risks of operating these services.

    How much concern this will stir at Qantas also remains to be seen, but one thing is clear. Project Sunrise – Qantas’ plan to bypass the Middle Eastern hubs and connect Australia directly with Europe – could soon become much more important.

    Emirates is unlikely to emerge as the winner of this move, now set to face increased competition not only on services connecting Australia with the Middle East, but also across its broader network through Dubai.

    Qatar Airways acquiring a stake in Virgin Australia will also create interesting dynamics within the Oneworld Alliance, in which both Qantas and Qatar Airways are key partners. There are certainly interesting times ahead.

    Dr Rico Merkert receives funding from the ARC and various industry partners. He loves to work with and for airlines, including Qantas and Virgin Australia.

    – ref. Qatar Airways is set to acquire 25% of Virgin Australia. Who will be the winners? – https://theconversation.com/qatar-airways-is-set-to-acquire-25-of-virgin-australia-who-will-be-the-winners-240204

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards – University of Otago Earns Highest Award in New QS Stars Rating System

    Source: QS Quacquarelli Symonds

    London, 1st October 2024: Global higher education analyst QS Quacquarelli Symonds has awarded the University of Otago 5+ Stars in its prestigious QS Stars assessment.

    The award makes the University of Otago the first university in the world to be awarded the top rating under the revamped Stars methodology, which was introduced earlier this year. The new criteria place an increased emphasis on institutions’ sustainability performance.

    Created in 2009, QS Stars rates institutions out of a possible five stars based on areas that are most important to students, including facilities, teaching, employability, research and rankings performance.

    Jason Cushen, Director International at the University of Otago, said: “As New Zealand’s first university, the University of Otago has global reputation for research and teaching excellence. QS Stars demonstrates to the world other aspects of the unique Otago experience that are important to students, such as our world class facilities, exceptional graduate employability, and high levels of student support.”

    QS Stars was relaunched in January 2024 with a new methodology that introduced Sustainability as an assessment category. The enhancement was designed to reflect universities’ pivotal role in tackling contemporary global challenges while emphasising the increasing importance of sustainability to prospective students.

    Cushen added: “QS Stars has always adapted to measure what is important to the changing needs of students and evolving missions of universities. The University of Otago has a commitment to sustainability in all its forms, and we have particularly welcomed the new Environmental, Social and Governance related measures under the new methodology.”

    Florence Webb, Head of Frameworks at QS, said: “The University of Otago’s achievement of the prestigious 5+ Stars rating, the highest possible accolade, highlights its outstanding performance across key higher education metrics and is a recognition of its commitment to excellence, both locally and overseas.”

    Notes

    QS Quacquarelli Symonds  

    QS Quacquarelli Symonds is the world’s leading provider of services, analytics, and insight to the global higher education sector, whose mission is to empower motivated people anywhere in the world to fulfil their potential through educational achievement, international mobility, and career development. Launched in 2009, QS Stars currently assesses more than 700 institutions across more than 70 countries. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Revenues of Latino-Owned Businesses Grew Last Year, But Earnings Fell Due to Rising Expenses, per 2024 Biz2Credit Study

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Biz2Credit’s 2024 Latino-Owned Business Study found that while revenues of Latino-owned companies increased (+11.6%), expenses rose more (+ 22.7%), resulting in lower earnings in 2023-24 than in 2022-23 (-$41.1K).

    The annual study examined the performance of Latino-owned small to midsized companies — from early stage to established companies — in the U.S. from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. It examines financial indicators including annual revenue, operating expenses, age of business, and credit scores of both Latino-owned and non-Latino-owned companies.

    “Revenues for small businesses rose overall, largely because of inflation. Earnings were down overall, but the average drop for Latino-owned businesses was not as sharp as for non-Latino-owned businesses,” said Rohit Arora, CEO of Biz2Credit and Biz2X, who oversaw the research. “When we analyzed earnings performance, Latino-owned businesses outperformed the others.”

    Key findings: Latino-owned vs. non-Latino-owned Businesses

    1. The average annual revenue of Latino-owned businesses increased by 11.6% from $601,636 in 2022-23 to $671,360 in 2023-24. Meanwhile, the average annual revenue for non-Latino Businesses increased by 11.5% from $667,204 in 2022-23 to $744,027 in 2023-24.
    2. Average earnings (Annual Revenue – Operating Expenses) for Latino-owned businesses dropped from $113,268 in 2022-23 to $72,168 in 2023-24, a drop of $41,100. Meanwhile, non-Latino-owned businesses declined from $159,365 to $94,237, a drop of $65,128. Overall, earnings across all businesses decreased by 40% year over year.
    3. Operating expenses for Latino-owned firms increased by 22.7% from $488,368 in 2022-23 to $599,192 in 2023-24, resulting in earnings decrease of 36.3% for Latino firms. Meanwhile, operating costs for non-Latino-owned companies increased 28% from $507,849 in 2022-23 to $649,790 in 2023-24, resulting in a 40.9% drop in earnings.
    4. The average personal (FICO) credit score* for Latino owned business increased from 641 in 2022-23 to 647 in 2023-24. In comparison, the personal credit score for non-Latino-owned business increased from 648 to 659 during the same timeframe.
    5. The age of business for Latino-owned business increased from 54 months (4.5 years) in 2022-23 to 64 months in 2023-24. This is an indication of the staying power of Latino-owned companies. In comparison, non-Latino-owned businesses were in operation for an average of 79 months (slightly more than 6.5 years).
    6. The average approved funding amount** for Latino-owned businesses rose from $55,396 in 2022-23 to $75,680 in 2023-24. The amount was $16,662 lower than that for non-Latino-owned businesses, which had $92,342 in 2023-24, up from $75,912 in 2022-23.
    7. The percentage of financing applications submitted by Latino-owned businesses, relative to the total number of submitted applications, increased slightly from 14.8% in 2022-23 to 15% in 2023-24. In 2024, financing applications by Latino-owned businesses increased 14.13% (year-over-year) compared to 2023. That surpassed applications by non-Latino owned businesses, which grew 12.78% year-over-year.
    8. The funding rate for Latino-owned businesses stands at 32%, slightly higher than the 31% rate for non-Latino-owned businesses. The average funded amounts** were $62,371 for Latino-owned businesses and $76,503 for non-Latino-owned firms.
    9. Construction accounted for the largest industry category of Latino-owned companies examined in the study, followed by Other Services (except Public Administration), Accommodation and Food Services, Retail Trade, and Transportation and Warehousing.
    10. By state, nearly one-quarter (24%) of funding requests from Latino-owned firms came from Florida, followed closely by California (19.4%), and then Texas, New York, and New Jersey.

    “Inflationary pressures significantly hurt the earnings of all small businesses in the last year, and Latino-owned firms were not immune. While their revenues rose in 2023-24, their expenses increased almost twice as much,” said Arora. “Profits for Latino-owned companies seeking financing were down 36% on average, as a result.”

    “Many factors combined, including increased labor costs, rising fuel prices, and overall inflation. High interest rates also pinched companies that borrowed money for working capital or expansion,” Arora added. “The good news is that the growth rate of inflation has been easing a bit, and the Federal Reserve has lowered interest rates, thus bringing down the cost of capital.”

    *Average credit score is derived from the personal FICO credit score of business owners
    ** Average approved funding amounts and average funding sizes are determined by the qualifications of funding applications, including FICO scores and business revenues. any discrepancies are driven by these financial metrics.

    Impact of Latino-owned businesses on the U.S. Economy

    The U.S. is home to over 63 million Latinos, accounting for roughly 19% of the nation’s population. Latinos contribute a staggering $3.2 trillion to the economy and own nearly 5 million businesses that collectively generate more than $800 billion annually, according to the Stanford Graduate School of Business Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative (SLEI).

    Further, Latino entrepreneurs are starting businesses at more than twice the rate of the general U.S. population. This increase has led to a higher proportion of new businesses being owned by immigrants overall. In 2023, immigrants were responsible for 36% of new business launches, up from 25% in 2019, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

    Latino immigrants significantly outpace other groups in business ownership, and they comprise 52% of all Latino-owned businesses. In contrast, only 7% of White-owned employer businesses are immigrant-owned, according to the SLEI. Further, Latino-owned businesses are set to revolutionize the U.S. economy, as Latinos are projected to make up 29% of the population by 2050 and contribute a staggering $1.4 trillion to the U.S. economy, according to JPMorgan Chase.

    Methodology

    Biz2Credit’s 2024 Latino-Owned Business Study is an annual review of the financial performance of Latino-owned small to midsized businesses in the United States, categorized by revenue generation. The study reviewed over 121,000 funding requests from both Latino-owned and non-Latino-owned businesses across all 50 states and 20 industries by analyzing credit inquiries and applications from July 2023 to June 2024.The analysis focused on variables such as submitted applications, annual revenue, operating expenses, business age, personal credit (FICO) scores*, funding rates, and average loan sizes. The study offers insights into the performance of Latino-owned private companies over the past year, using 2022-2023 data to compare average revenue and expenses year-over-year for 2023-2024.

    About Biz2Credit
    Founded in 2007, Biz2Credit has helped thousands of companies access more than $8 billion in small business financing. The company is expanding its industry-leading Biz2X® technology in custom digital platform solutions for banks and other financial institutions, investors, and service providers. Visit http://www.biz2credit.com, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter).

    Media Contact: John Mooney, (908) 720-6057, john@overthemoonpr.com

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