NewzIntel.com

Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rotorua Police continue to appeal for information to identify motorcyclist involved in fatal collision

    Source: New Zealand Police

    To be attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Mark van Kempen, Rotorua CIB:

    Rotorua Police can now release the name of the man who died after being struck by a motorcycle on Edmund Road on 15 June.

    He was Paige Johnson, aged 24, from Rotorua.

    Police have received a number of calls and online reports in response to our previous appeals for information and we would like to thank everyone who has contacted us so far.

    We are now appealing for further public assistance to identify and locate the rider of the motorcycle involved.

    Since 15 July, the investigation team has been working to trace the movements of the motorcycle that day.

    CCTV footage provided by members of the public has helped establish that following the collision, the motorcycle travelled from Edmund Road on to Clayton Road, then along Thomas Road and in to Gordon Road, heading east.

    Today, a significant police presence has been in and around this area, speaking with residents and gathering further information. The response has been extremely positive, with several valuable pieces of information being received.

    Police are also continuing to support Paige’s family, who are devastated by his loss. Both Paige’s family and Police reiterate our appeal to anyone with knowledge of this incident, the motorcycle, or its rider to contact Police – either directly or anonymously via Crime Stoppers. 

    We also want to reiterate our appeal to the motorcyclist to come forward and do the right thing – both for their own sake and for Paige’s grieving family. We know Paige’s death will likely be weighing heavily on this person and it is important that we speak to them to understand the full picture of what occurred.  

    Additionally, we want to remind members of our community that assisting anyone involved in this incident in a way that intentionally hinders the police investigation could have serious consequences.

    Photographs of the motorcycle and its rider are attached. The motorcycle is believed to be a black and gold Kawasaki Ninja 600cc. The rider is believed to be male and has a distinctive full-length tattoo on his left leg.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105 and quote Operation Simpson, file number 250615/1168. 

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    SUVA, Fiji – Pacific Partnership 2025 officially concluded its mission stop in Fiji with a closing ceremony hosted at the Waiqanake District School on June 16, 2025.

    The largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific, Pacific Partnership enables participants, including United States and Fijian personnel, to work together to enhance disaster response capabilities and foster new and enduring friendships.

    “The United States of America believes in a free and open Pacific for all nations,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander during the closing ceremony. “We deeply value our long history with Fiji and we hope that the work done here helps to reinforce our commitment to this island and to the people of Fiji.”

    While in Fiji, the medical team, consisting of U.S. and Fijian public health services personnel, conducted a total of 16 side-by-side subject matter expert exchanges in the fields of hemoculture, permaculture, agriculture, and apiculture. The team accrued more than 26 hours of hands-on training through public health engagements such as the Polymerase Chain Reaction laboratory, spay and neuter clinics, ruminant husbandry training, and a beekeeping tour assembling over 42 participants from across Suva.

    The Pacific Partnership engineering team also capitalized on the opportunity to provide focused support to address several local infrastructure concerns. A total of 12 U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, and 8 New Zealand Royal Army Engineers collaborated to undertake the construction and repairs of the Waiqanake District School, to include the complete renovation and installation of a small library in a classroom building. The team also removed obsolete rain gutters from three different classroom buildings and rendered a fresh coat of paint to two classroom buildings. Waiqanake District School, which accommodates over 300 staff, faculty and students, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration for the newly renovated facilities on June 16.

    U.S. Navy Musicians with the Pacific Fleet “Big Wave” Brass Band engaged in a variety of live performances across more than 10 school campuses and venues across the island of Viti Levu, Fiji. This musical ensemble featured 10 musicians, which hosted concerts between Suva and Nadi, including the closing ceremony of Pacific Partnership 2025’s mission stop in Fiji.

    Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.

    Date Taken: 06.16.2025
    Date Posted: 06.19.2025 21:08
    Story ID: 501094
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 54
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025, by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    SUVA, Fiji – Pacific Partnership 2025 officially concluded its mission stop in Fiji with a closing ceremony hosted at the Waiqanake District School on June 16, 2025.

    The largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific, Pacific Partnership enables participants, including United States and Fijian personnel, to work together to enhance disaster response capabilities and foster new and enduring friendships.

    “The United States of America believes in a free and open Pacific for all nations,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander during the closing ceremony. “We deeply value our long history with Fiji and we hope that the work done here helps to reinforce our commitment to this island and to the people of Fiji.”

    While in Fiji, the medical team, consisting of U.S. and Fijian public health services personnel, conducted a total of 16 side-by-side subject matter expert exchanges in the fields of hemoculture, permaculture, agriculture, and apiculture. The team accrued more than 26 hours of hands-on training through public health engagements such as the Polymerase Chain Reaction laboratory, spay and neuter clinics, ruminant husbandry training, and a beekeeping tour assembling over 42 participants from across Suva.

    The Pacific Partnership engineering team also capitalized on the opportunity to provide focused support to address several local infrastructure concerns. A total of 12 U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, and 8 New Zealand Royal Army Engineers collaborated to undertake the construction and repairs of the Waiqanake District School, to include the complete renovation and installation of a small library in a classroom building. The team also removed obsolete rain gutters from three different classroom buildings and rendered a fresh coat of paint to two classroom buildings. Waiqanake District School, which accommodates over 300 staff, faculty and students, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration for the newly renovated facilities on June 16.

    U.S. Navy Musicians with the Pacific Fleet “Big Wave” Brass Band engaged in a variety of live performances across more than 10 school campuses and venues across the island of Viti Levu, Fiji. This musical ensemble featured 10 musicians, which hosted concerts between Suva and Nadi, including the closing ceremony of Pacific Partnership 2025’s mission stop in Fiji.

    Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.

    Date Taken: 06.16.2025
    Date Posted: 06.19.2025 21:08
    Story ID: 501094
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 54
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025, by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s why some people suffer from motion sickness – and which remedies actually work

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christian Moro, Associate Professor of Science & Medicine, Bond University

    EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty

    Cars may be a modern phenomenon, but motion sickness is not. More than 2,000 years ago, the physician Hippocrates wrote “sailing on the sea proves that motion disorders the body”. In fact, the word nausea derives from the Greek naus, meaning ship.

    Whether you’re in a ship, car, plane, or riding a rollercoaster, motion sickness (also called travel sickness or seasickness) can make you retch, vomit, sweat and become pale, and feel nauseated, dizzy and tired.

    For some people, watching dizzying scenes in a television show or simply thinking about moving can make us feel woozy. Playing video games or using virtual reality headsets can also lead to motion sickness (in this case, called “cybersickness”).

    But why does it happen? And why doesn’t it affect everyone?

    What is motion sickness?

    Motion sickness can happen in response to real or perceived motion.

    We don’t understand the exact mechanisms underlying motion sickness, although there are various hypotheses.

    The most accepted theory is that our brains like to know what’s going on around us. If our body is moving, but our brain can’t work out why, this creates some internal confusion.

    Within our brains, the “vestibular system”, which includes sensory organs in your inner ear, helps maintain balance.
    It has trouble doing this when you’re constantly being moved around (for example, inside a car) and sends the signals throughout our body which make us feel woozy.

    Supporting this theory, people who have damage to some parts of their inner ear systems can become completely immune to motion sickness.

    Why does motion sickness affect some people and not others?

    Very rough movement will make almost anyone
    motion sick. But some people are much more susceptible.

    Women tend to experience motion sickness more than men. There is evidence that hormonal fluctuations – for example during pregnancy or some stages of the menstrual cycle – may increase susceptibility.

    Some other conditions, such as vertigo and migraines, also make people more likely to experience motion sickness.

    In children, motion sickness tends to peak between ages six and nine, tapering off in the teens. It is much rarer in the elderly.

    In a car, the driver is normally in charge of the motion, and so their brain can anticipate movements (such as turning), leading to less motion sickness than for passengers.

    Are some modes of transport worse?

    Motion sickness is typically triggered by slow, up-and-down and left-to-right movements (low-frequency lateral and vertical motion). The more pronounced the motion, the more likely we are to get sick.

    This is why you might feel fine during some stages of an air flight, but become nauseous during times when there is turbulence. It’s the same at sea, where the larger and more undulating the waves, the more chance there is passengers will feel sick.

    Recent reports have suggested electric vehicles make motion sickness worse.

    This may be because electric vehicles tend to launch from a standstill with a fast acceleration. Sudden movements like this can make some occupants more nauseous.

    The silence of an electric vehicle is also unusual. Most of us are used to hearing the engine running and feeling the vehicle’s rumble as it moves. The silence in an electric vehicle removes these prompts, and likely further confuses our brain, making motion sickness worse.

    Interestingly, when an electric vehicle is put into autonomous (self-driving) mode, the driver becomes just as susceptible to motion sickness as the passengers.

    What helps motion sickness?

    For some people it never goes away, and they remain susceptible to motion sickness for life.

    But there are ways to manage symptoms, for example, avoiding travelling in bad weather, looking out the window and focusing on stable points (such as the aeroplane wing during a flight) or a distant stationary object (such as the horizon). This reduces conflicting signals in your brain.

    It may also help to:

    Medicines can help. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend a variety of over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, which may help alleviate symptoms.

    Some people find alternative treatments helpful, including ginger, anti-nausea wrist bands (sea-bands or pressure bands). However we still don’t have enough consistent scientific evidence to endorse these remedies.

    There are longer-term options such as prescription medications and skin patches. However, many have potential side effects, so you should discuss these with a health professional.

    Not all of these medications will be suitable for children. However, there are some options which may help alleviate serious cases, and these can be talked through with your family GP.

    Does it ever go away?

    Sometimes, repeated exposure to the activity (called habituation) can help reduce motion sickness. The ancient Romans and Greeks reported the more experienced a sailor became, the less prone they were to sea sickness.

    While inconvenient, motion sickness may also have some evolutionary advantages. It’s thought species prone to motion sickness (including humans, fish, dogs, cats, mice and horses) avoid dangerous patches of rough water or high windy branches.

    We’re safest when firmly on land and not moving at all. Perhaps motion sickness is simply one way that our body works to keep us out of harm’s way.

    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. Here’s why some people suffer from motion sickness – and which remedies actually work – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-some-people-suffer-from-motion-sickness-and-which-remedies-actually-work-258065

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Here’s why some people suffer from motion sickness – and which remedies actually work

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Christian Moro, Associate Professor of Science & Medicine, Bond University

    EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty

    Cars may be a modern phenomenon, but motion sickness is not. More than 2,000 years ago, the physician Hippocrates wrote “sailing on the sea proves that motion disorders the body”. In fact, the word nausea derives from the Greek naus, meaning ship.

    Whether you’re in a ship, car, plane, or riding a rollercoaster, motion sickness (also called travel sickness or seasickness) can make you retch, vomit, sweat and become pale, and feel nauseated, dizzy and tired.

    For some people, watching dizzying scenes in a television show or simply thinking about moving can make us feel woozy. Playing video games or using virtual reality headsets can also lead to motion sickness (in this case, called “cybersickness”).

    But why does it happen? And why doesn’t it affect everyone?

    What is motion sickness?

    Motion sickness can happen in response to real or perceived motion.

    We don’t understand the exact mechanisms underlying motion sickness, although there are various hypotheses.

    The most accepted theory is that our brains like to know what’s going on around us. If our body is moving, but our brain can’t work out why, this creates some internal confusion.

    Within our brains, the “vestibular system”, which includes sensory organs in your inner ear, helps maintain balance.
    It has trouble doing this when you’re constantly being moved around (for example, inside a car) and sends the signals throughout our body which make us feel woozy.

    Supporting this theory, people who have damage to some parts of their inner ear systems can become completely immune to motion sickness.

    Why does motion sickness affect some people and not others?

    Very rough movement will make almost anyone
    motion sick. But some people are much more susceptible.

    Women tend to experience motion sickness more than men. There is evidence that hormonal fluctuations – for example during pregnancy or some stages of the menstrual cycle – may increase susceptibility.

    Some other conditions, such as vertigo and migraines, also make people more likely to experience motion sickness.

    In children, motion sickness tends to peak between ages six and nine, tapering off in the teens. It is much rarer in the elderly.

    In a car, the driver is normally in charge of the motion, and so their brain can anticipate movements (such as turning), leading to less motion sickness than for passengers.

    Are some modes of transport worse?

    Motion sickness is typically triggered by slow, up-and-down and left-to-right movements (low-frequency lateral and vertical motion). The more pronounced the motion, the more likely we are to get sick.

    This is why you might feel fine during some stages of an air flight, but become nauseous during times when there is turbulence. It’s the same at sea, where the larger and more undulating the waves, the more chance there is passengers will feel sick.

    Recent reports have suggested electric vehicles make motion sickness worse.

    This may be because electric vehicles tend to launch from a standstill with a fast acceleration. Sudden movements like this can make some occupants more nauseous.

    The silence of an electric vehicle is also unusual. Most of us are used to hearing the engine running and feeling the vehicle’s rumble as it moves. The silence in an electric vehicle removes these prompts, and likely further confuses our brain, making motion sickness worse.

    Interestingly, when an electric vehicle is put into autonomous (self-driving) mode, the driver becomes just as susceptible to motion sickness as the passengers.

    What helps motion sickness?

    For some people it never goes away, and they remain susceptible to motion sickness for life.

    But there are ways to manage symptoms, for example, avoiding travelling in bad weather, looking out the window and focusing on stable points (such as the aeroplane wing during a flight) or a distant stationary object (such as the horizon). This reduces conflicting signals in your brain.

    It may also help to:

    Medicines can help. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend a variety of over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, which may help alleviate symptoms.

    Some people find alternative treatments helpful, including ginger, anti-nausea wrist bands (sea-bands or pressure bands). However we still don’t have enough consistent scientific evidence to endorse these remedies.

    There are longer-term options such as prescription medications and skin patches. However, many have potential side effects, so you should discuss these with a health professional.

    Not all of these medications will be suitable for children. However, there are some options which may help alleviate serious cases, and these can be talked through with your family GP.

    Does it ever go away?

    Sometimes, repeated exposure to the activity (called habituation) can help reduce motion sickness. The ancient Romans and Greeks reported the more experienced a sailor became, the less prone they were to sea sickness.

    While inconvenient, motion sickness may also have some evolutionary advantages. It’s thought species prone to motion sickness (including humans, fish, dogs, cats, mice and horses) avoid dangerous patches of rough water or high windy branches.

    We’re safest when firmly on land and not moving at all. Perhaps motion sickness is simply one way that our body works to keep us out of harm’s way.

    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. Here’s why some people suffer from motion sickness – and which remedies actually work – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-some-people-suffer-from-motion-sickness-and-which-remedies-actually-work-258065

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Cinity preview at CineEurope showcases China’s tech power

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

    The first footage from James Cameron’s highly anticipated “Avatar: Fire and Ash” was presented at CineEurope in Barcelona, Spain, on June 18, using the Chinese-developed Cinity projection system.

    An “Avatar: Fire and Ash” logo on display at CineEurope in Barcelona, Spain, June 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

    At CineEurope, the official convention of the International Union of Cinemas, a sub-5 minute presentation of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” was showcased using China’s premium cinema system Cinity, developed by China Film Group. The showcase delivered an immersive audiovisual experience that drew acclaim from global film industry professionals.

    James Cameron continues his pursuit of cinematic perfection in “Avatar: Fire and Ash” with 4K, 3D and 48fps screening technology. His selection of the Cinity system for the film’s first global reveal demonstrates his trust in its premium format capabilities — delivering Pandora’s vibrant landscapes with unprecedented clarity to create a sensory revolution for audiences worldwide.

    Industry veterans in attendance praised the system’s exceptional color depth, contrast, dynamic range and motion clarity. Several noted that Cinity’s unmatched brightness and high frame rate deliver superior 3D that fully realizes directors’ visions. The presentation of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” received particular acclaim for its immersive quality, with its high brightness and frame rate achieving something other systems cannot.

    In a video message shown at the China premiere of “Avatar: The Way of Water” in 2022, Cameron stated that Cinity technology helps moviegoers experience Avatar’s world more immersively than ever before. He then confirmed continuing the partnership with Cinity to create the ultimate big-screen experience, declaring it the new gold standard for film screening. 

    The Cinity cinema system, which utilizes independent Chinese intellectual property rights, is an advanced projection system featuring 4K, 3D, ultra-high brightness, high dynamic range, wide color gamut, high frame rate and immersive sound technologies, which makes films more vivid and immersive. It debuted in director Ang Lee’s film “Gemini Man” in 2019, demonstrating its huge potential to international studios and exhibitors.

    Cinity’s cinema projection system and LED cinema projection system are now expanding across Europe, delivering novel, exceptional and groundbreaking premium viewing experiences to audiences. The technology demonstrates China’s transition from follower to standard-setter in cinema tech, marking a key step in the globalization of Chinese film technology, according to a statement from China Film Group.

    Industry insiders and cinemagoers at CineEurope in Barcelona, Spain, June 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

    The “Avatar” franchise revolutionized the film industry in 2009 with its first installment. It became a global cultural phenomenon, ushered in the 3D era for cinemas worldwide, accelerated the growth of IMAX and transformed China’s film industry. The original film earned $2.92 billion and remains the highest-grossing movie in history, while its sequel, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” grossed $2.32 billion to become the third-highest grossing film worldwide.

    “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the third film in the franchise, opens worldwide on Dec. 19, continuing James Cameron’s Pandora saga. The story follows Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) as their family confronts grief after Neteyam’s death and the aggressive Ash People tribe led by Varang. The cast also includes Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Oona Chaplin and Kate Winslet.

    The film preview in Barcelona featured a video appearance from James Cameron in New Zealand, who paid tribute to his late collaborator Jon Landau. Cameron promised audiences they would see “a side of Pandora you didn’t know existed,” adding that “Avatar” films are “made to be experienced on the big screen.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Broadcasting Service (PBS)’s Role in Emergencies

    Source: US State of Oregon

    strong>SALEM, Ore.—In an age of digital communication, public broadcasting radio stations remain an indispensable tool for emergency alerts and disaster response. As natural disasters, extreme weather events, and public safety emergencies continue to challenge communities, local and national public radio stations provide reliable, timely and accessible information that can save lives.

    “The Public broadcasting radio plays a critical role in disseminating emergency alerts when disasters strike,” Oregon Statewide Interoperability and Watch Center Manager William Chapman, said. “Through partnerships with agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), public radio stations broadcast emergency messages, weather warnings, and evacuation orders to ensure that residents receive crucial updates—especially in areas where other forms of communication, like internet access and cellular service, is unavailable or disrupted.”

    Unlike digital platforms that rely on cellular networks or broadband services, radio signals remain stable and reach communities even when power lines are down and mobile networks are overloaded. This resilience makes public radio a trusted source during hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes and other crises where traditional communication channels may fail.

    The Public Broadcasting Network (PBN) helps emergency responders coordinate effectively by making its statewide spectrum available to federal and state authorities to communicate with first responders and the media during emergencies. While, PBS WARN provides a back-up mechanism to wireless emergency alerts, should carrier connections fail either due to an internet disruption or a cybersecurity incident.

    Additionally, the Federal Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is collaborating on a new effort to arm agencies with a digital alerting system that taps into NEXTGEN public TV broadcasting technologies to provide emergency dispatch backup and resiliency if the internet or phone systems are down.

    “Next Gen TV will not only improve emergency alerting but also create resilient methods of communications to get emergency call information to first responders when other means of communication are offline,” Chapman said. “This capability is still in the development phase but early protypes have shown that the technology works.”

    While many for-profit broadcasters choose to provide emergency alerts voluntarily, public broadcasters are expected to do so as part of their core mission. Since public broadcasting is mission-driven—not profit-driven—and publicly owned, offering alerts is a mandatory service. However, services like emergency alerts often cost more to maintain than they generate in revenue, which is why they’ve traditionally been subsidized by taxpayer dollars. As a result, federal funding is foundational for public media, representing an essential portion of station budgets. It enables stations to provide free educational content, local programming, and critical emergency alerts. Without it, many stations, especially in rural areas, would struggle to operate.

    Public radio stations also contribute to disaster preparedness by offering educational programming on emergency response, featuring expert interviews, and keeping listeners informed about potential threats. Furthermore, in the aftermath of a disaster, they help relay recovery related information, share community resources, and offer support to those affected.

    “Public radio connects communities with lifesaving information and resources, ensures that emergency responders can coordinate effectively, and provides reassurance during uncertain times,” Erin McMahon, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) director, said.

    As climate-related disasters increase and emergency response becomes more complex, public broadcasting radio remains a vital part of public safety infrastructure and a reliable source of information in times of crisis.

    For more information about how to prepare for and respond to disasters, visit the Community Preparedness section of the OEM website. For the budget breakdown for public broadcasting, visit the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Warm-ups, layered clothes, recovery: 4 tips to exercise safely in the cold

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harry Banyard, Senior Lecturer in Exercise and Sports Science, Swinburne University of Technology

    Maridav/Shutterstock

    Temperatures have dropped in many parts of Australia which means runners, cyclists, rowers, hikers, or anyone physically active outside need to take extra precautions to stay safe and exercise in relative comfort.

    Cold environments can also include high winds and water exposure, which present unique physiological, psychological and logistical challenges that can turn people off exercising.

    While exercising in the cold does not typically increase injury risk, certain conditions can lead to a drop in whole body temperature (hypothermia) and impaired exercise performance.

    One advantage to exercising in the cold is that it often feels easier, since the body perceives lower exertion levels compared to performing the same task in hot environments.

    While it’s sometimes tempting to rug up and stay indoors when temperatures plummet, here are some tips for exercising in cold conditions.

    1. Wear layers

    Start exercising in a slightly chilled state (if you’re warm when you begin, take a layer off).

    Strip down one layer as you warm up to avoid overheating and excessive sweating, which can lead to chilling later as you cool down.

    Clothing recommendations include:

    • inner (base) layer: wear a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric (such as polyester) as a base layer to keep sweat away from your skin
    • middle (insulating) layer: add a fleece or thermal layer if temperatures are close to freezing
    • outer layer: a windproof, water-resistant jacket is essential in wet, windy or snowy conditions
    • additional considerations: for hands and feet, wear gloves and opt for polyester socks. A beanie or headband is great for the head and ears because you lose a significant amount of heat from your head.

    2. Warming up is crucial

    In cold conditions, your muscles may take longer to warm up and may be at a greater risk of injury due to reduced blood flow (vasoconstriction), reduced flexibility and slower reaction times.

    Spend about ten minutes (perhaps indoors) performing a structured warm-up. This should include dynamic stretches and exercises such as push-ups, leg swings, lunges, calf raises, squats and high knees before heading out.

    This will help enhance blood flow, increase tissue temperature and improve your joints’ range of motion.

    No matter what exercise type you choose, start slowly and gradually progress your intensity.

    3. Be aware of the risks

    Depending on the mode of activity, outdoor exercise can be riskier during winter due to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility.

    If you are walking or running, shorten your steps and stride length when it’s wet to maintain control and prevent slips and falls.

    If you are cycling, avoid sharp turns or sudden stops. Stick to well-lit areas and paths and try to exercise during daylight hours if possible.

    Also, consider wearing bright or reflective clothing at night or in foggy conditions.

    4. The importance of recovery

    Spend a few minutes at the end of your workout for active recovery (walking and stretching) which helps prevent blood pooling and inflammation in the feet, while bringing the body’s systems back to homeostasis (resting breathing and heart rate).

    When it’s extremely cold, get indoors immediately because your body temperature drops fast once you stop moving.

    Change out of any damp clothes and have a warm shower or bath as soon as possible to help regulate body temperature and prevent hypothermia. Be aware of signs of hypothermia, which include shivering, slurred speech, cold pale skin and poor coordination, among others.

    Other tips to consider

    If it’s nearing or below 0°C with wind chill or rain or snow, perhaps opt for an indoor mode of exercise such as treadmill running, stationary cycling or cross-training to avoid unnecessary risks such as hypothermia, non-freezing cold injuries (such as trenchfoot) or freezing cold injuries (frostbite).

    To ensure adequate hydration, it is recommended to consume about 500ml of fluid two hours before exercise and to continue to drink during and after exercising.

    If you do brave the cold to exercise outside, is still advisable to wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on exposed skin during the day, since ultra violet radiation can still pass through clouds and is not related to temperature.

    Overall, exercise in the cold can be safe and enjoyable with the right precautions and planning.

    Harry Banyard 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. Warm-ups, layered clothes, recovery: 4 tips to exercise safely in the cold – https://theconversation.com/warm-ups-layered-clothes-recovery-4-tips-to-exercise-safely-in-the-cold-255223

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Concern for welfare – Ngukurr

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing its search for 19-year-old Regen who has not been seen since Sunday.

    Regen is believed to have departed his home address in Ngukurr on Sunday 22 June at 6am and did not arrive at his destination. It is believed Regen was travelling on a motorbike towards the Nulawan Outstation, 23km to the east of Ngukurr Community.

    Yesterday, the Search and Rescue Section (SRS) deployed aerial assets including Police Airwing, Challenger Jet Aircraft and helicopters to conduct searches in the area.

    Local police, alongside members from Numbulwar and Katherine, and with the assistance of local rangers and community volunteers, coordinated a ground search, and door knocks have been conducted in Ngukurr Community. Members from the Territory Response Group (TRG) were also deployed to assist with the ground search utilising ATVs and motorbikes.

    Search efforts are expected to continue today, with additional resources from the Territory Safety Division (TSD) and NT Emergency Services volunteers being deployed.

    Police hold concerns for Regen’s welfare and urge anyone with information to call Triple Zero (000) or 131 444. Please quote reference P25168347.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Apollo Provides $750 Million High Grade Capital Solution to Mumbai International Airport Ltd. in Second Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and MUMBAI, India, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Apollo (NYSE: APO) today announced that Apollo-managed funds, affiliates and other long-term investors have completed a $750 million investment grade rated financing for the Mumbai International Airport Ltd. (MIAL), an Adani Portfolio company and subsidiary of Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL), India’s largest private airport operator, that operates Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), the second largest airport in India.

    The 4-year senior secured notes will primarily refinance existing debt, enhancing MIAL’s financial flexibility to support operations, modernization and sustainability initiatives. The structure also allows for up to $250 million in additional funding to accelerate capital expenditure and capacity expansion. The transaction represents one of the largest private investment grade rated deals in India’s infrastructure sector.

    “Working with the Adani Group, we are pleased to deliver a scaled, bespoke capital solution for MIAL, supporting a critical infrastructure asset and the next phase of its ambitious growth capex plans,” said Apollo Partner Jamshid Ehsani. “This marks Apollo’s second large financing for MIAL, having previously provided operational flexibility to deleverage and now delivering an investment grade rated solution.”

    Mr. Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, added, “This financing provides us with greater operational flexibility and positions us to further enhance the airport experience for millions of travelers. With Apollo’s continued support and the Adani Group’s proven execution capabilities, we are well-positioned to realize our vision of transforming MIAL into a world-class asset with a focus on efficiency, comfort and sustainability.”

    Matt Michelini, Partner and Head of Asia-Pacific at Apollo, commented, “As one of the fastest growing global economies, India is an attractive market for hybrid and credit financing, particularly opportunities underpinning critical, next-generation infrastructure. It is a key market for Apollo in Asia, and one where we believe we can serve as a long-term capital partner to leading companies and families.”

    CSMIA, a cornerstone of India’s aviation infrastructure, is part of Adani Airport Holdings Limited’s (AAHL) network of eight airports. AAHL is responsible for developing airport infrastructure assets across India and is a core growth vertical of the Adani group.

    MIAL remains committed to sustainability, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals through initiatives such as transitioning to electric vehicles, enhancing energy-efficient operations, strengthening water conservation measures and accelerating efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2029, reflecting its leadership in sustainable airport operations.

    Allen & Overy LLP and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldass served as legal counsel to MIAL. Milbank LLP and Khaitan & Co served as legal counsel to Apollo.

    About Apollo
    Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of March 31, 2025, Apollo had approximately $785 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

    About MIAL
    Mumbai International Airport Ltd. (MIAL) is managed by Adani Airport Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises. MIAL operates under a Public-Private Partnership model, with AAHL holding a 74% stake and the Airports Authority of India holding 26%. MIAL is at the forefront of redefining airport infrastructure in India, with a vision to create a vibrant, integrated aerotropolis in Mumbai.

    Apollo Contacts

    Noah Gunn
    Global Head of Investor Relations
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0540
    IR@apollo.com

    Joanna Rose
    Global Head of Corporate Communications
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0491
    Communications@apollo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Frequently asked questions (FAQs) – changes to vocational education

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Can you please explain the different groups involved in the changes?

    ISBsIndustry Skills Boards

    Industry Skills Boards are new entities that will be established formally from 1 January 2026. 
    They have a core role of standard setting for vocational education across their allocated sectors. They will also work to share the voice of industry and advise TEC about workforce needs.
    Each ISB will be set up through an Order in Council and will be industry led. (Six out of eight board members will come from industry.) 

    ISB EAGsIndustry Skills Boards Establishment Advisory Groups

    These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the establishment of the new ISBs. 
    Their focus is on governance and organisation establishment rather than industry advocacy. 

    ITPsInstitutes of technology and polytechnics

    ITPs are independent regional polytechnics that will be established in 2026. The location of the first of these will be decided by the government in mid-2025. Further decisions will be made during 2026.

    ITP EAGsInstitutes of Technology and Polytechnics Establishment Advisory Groups

    These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the set-up of the ITPs that are being established at the beginning of 2026. 
    Their focus is on establishing the regional polytechnics as they are split out from the national entity of Te Pūkenga. 

    ITOsIndustry training organisations

    Before the Reform of Vocational Education in 2023, all work-based training was delivered by ITOs. In 2023, most work-based training done in ITOs moved into Te Pūkenga, becoming the work-based learning divisions. Many of the entities continued to use their ITO branding even though ITOs did not technically exist in the system from 2023. 
    These work-based learning divisions of Te Pūkenga will move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, for up to two years.

    PTEsPrivate training establishments

    PTEs are registered with and quality assured by NZQA. They are training providers who have met specific requirements. Training providers (that are not a university, polytechnic or wānanga) must hold PTE registration to be eligible for TEC funding. PTEs may be companies or not-for-profit organisations.

    VETVocational education and training

    Vocational education and training includes all provision at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, as well as Level 2 when it is delivered in the workplace.
    It does not include degree-level provision or foundation education.
    VET can be delivered in the workplace (work-based) in a classroom/campus setting (provider-based) or by distance and online learning (extramural). 

    TECTertiary Education Commission

    TEC’s core role in the VET system is funding. We fund the provision at this level in line with funding mechanisms from government.

    NZQANew Zealand Qualifications Authority

    NZQA assures the quality and integrity of New Zealand qualifications. They register providers, quality assure programmes and, for some areas, act as a standard setter. They also oversee the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice.

    Work-based learning divisions
    When the work-based learning divisions move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, will they stop enrolling new learners?
    No. At this point we expect that all work-based learning divisions will still be enrolling new learners from 1 January.
    When we have reached the point where there are sufficient providers for a sector, we will:
     (a) not fund additional providers; and
     (b) require ISBs to cease enrolling new learners (if provision remains with them).
    ISBs will have the role of informing TEC about the network of work-based learning provision (number and types of providers) that industry needs. This will inform the funding of new providers, and the expectations on the work-based learning divisions.
    ISBs will begin this work in January 2026, and we expect it to take time for them to gather this information from industry.
    Why is work-based learning moving to the ISBs?
    We appreciate that learners, employers and educators may have some concerns about possible disruption to work-based training because of the upcoming changes. The transition period (2026–2027) has been put in place to minimise disruption for learners and employers as the functions currently under Te Pūkenga work-based learning lift-and-shift unchanged into the ISBs.
    Will the work-based learning divisions of the new ISBs be able to continue developing programmes? Or does all new development stop on 1 January 2026?
    The focus for work-based learning during the transition period (where the training units sit within the ISBs) will be on preparing for transfer, rather than growing. There will, however, be cases where new standards, credentials or qualifications will be required to meet industry needs. In these cases, new provision will be supported.
    What is happening with ITOs?
    ITOs ceased to exist in 2022, although many Te Pūkenga work-based learning business divisions continued to use their old ITO names. Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions will move temporarily into ISBs. This work-based learning will move into providers (including polytechnics, wānanga and PTEs) by 31 December 2027.
    Industry Skills Boards
    How many ISBs are there and what do they cover?
    We are currently awaiting decisions on the number of ISBs and their broad coverage.
    Further consultation will happen later this year when the ISB EAGs consult around detailed coverage as part of the Order in Council (OIC) process to formally establish the ISBs.
    Why are you putting standard setting and delivery/arranging of training back together?
    The training functions that are moving into the ISBs will only be there temporarily. By January 2028, no training will be delivered by ISBs. During the transition period, the training unit will sit within the ISB but will not be fully integrated into it.
    How will you ensure ISBs manage the conflict of interest involved with being both the standard setter and a training deliverer?
    During the transition period, each training unit will sit within the relevant ISB but will not be fully integrated into it, as this arrangement is only temporary.
    If industries are grouped together in one ISB, will they stop having unique qualifications?
    No. ISBs will be able to create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications that are specific to the sectors they cover – in the same way Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) do.
    I am worried that ISBs will only look after work-based learning.
    ISBs will create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications for all the sectors they cover at the vocational level. This will include products that support provider-based (including polytechnic) delivery, and extramural programmes as well as work-based learning.
    How will industry continue to have a voice in the system when there is only provider-based learning for their sector?
    An ISB will take on vocational standard setting for its entire sector, not just for the work-based learning elements. This means it will be responsible for all standards, credentials and qualifications for that sector.
    The term “industry” is very broad. When you say industry will inform choices who do you mean?
    ISBs have a role in communicating industry voice, and their governance will be industry led. ISBs will work with established industry groups and associations as well as employers and other sector stakeholders. ISBs will be expected to put in place mechanisms that identify the needs of all industries they represent.
    What expectations does TEC have regarding collaboration between the ISB Establishment Advisory Groups?
    We have an expectation for all ISBs and ISB Establishment Advisory Groups that they work together cooperatively, especially where the qualifications they cover will impact multiple sectors.
    What will happen to WDCs? What will be done to ensure expertise in WDCs is retained in the new system?
    The standard-setting functions of WDCs will continue until the end of 2025, when they will be disestablished and ISBs will be stood up. In the upcoming months, WDCs will develop plans to transfer relevant functions to ISBs.
    ISBs have a more targeted role than WDCs. It is expected that WDC staff involved in these functions will transition into ISBs.
    PTEs that deliver work-based training
    What happens to work-based learners and apprentices who are studying through a PTE?
    There is currently a small network of PTEs that are funded by TEC to deliver work-based learning. These PTEs will be able to continue enrolling and delivering the provision they currently do.
    All TEC funded providers are given a funding allocation for the year and their enrolments must stay within that allocation. There is no guarantee of funding for providers that enrol above their allocation.
    Who is responsible for determining who is eligible to become a new PTE or work-based provider? What will the criteria be?
    NZQA determines whether an organisation has the appropriate capability to become a registered provider (PTE). TEC determines whether the provider’s offering is suitable for government funding. Funding decisions will be informed by industry preferences about a network of provision.
    How does a PTE start being TEC funded to deliver work-based learning?
    Currently we will only fund new work-based learning PTEs in cases where the provider can demonstrate significant industry support. Our requirements for this will be stringent. For details, see Application to receive TEC funding.
    ISBs will work with industry during 2026 and beyond to understand the network of work-based learning provision that each sector needs. This information will inform TEC funding. Until this information is received, TEC will not have a clear picture of what provision will be both sustainable and sufficient to meet industry needs.
    In most cases we encourage providers to read the guidance information about what we are looking for in work-based learning and start to prepare for future opportunities.
    These same criteria will be applied to existing work-based learning providers that may wish to expand their provision.
    What are the new funding parameters for work-based learning? This is a critical pathway for all providers as business owners.
    See the TEC website for work-based learning funding rates.
    Managed apprenticeships
    Do Managed Apprentices stay with their Polytech provider or move to an ISB in January 2026?
    Currently, no changes are expected for Managed Apprentices already enrolled with a Polytechnic.
    We are currently working through the detail of what Managed Apprenticeships will look like in the future. Like other work-based provision, we do not want to see expansion before ISBs have had the opportunity to consider the network of provision needed for their sectors.
    The stand up of regional ITPs
    How do we find out which polytechnics will be standalone and which will be part of a federation?
    These decisions are being worked through. We will update this information when details are available.
    Will regional ITPs be able to offer programmes nationally?
    Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) are being set up to deliver regionally, to maximise the strength of local knowledge. We expect that this will be the main focus of their provision, however, we will consider other arrangements if these have the support of industry.
    Secondary/tertiary provision
    What is happening with standard setting and delivery for secondary to tertiary transition programmes like Gateway and Trades Academies?
    We will be looking at how these programmes will be supported, and expect this information to be covered in the transition plans developed by WDCs and Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government honours exceptional exporters with Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK Government honours exceptional exporters with Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards

    Twelve exceptional UK-based SMEs have been named today as winners of the Department for Business and Trade’s 2025 Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards.

    • Twelve SMEs announced as winners of the 2025 Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards 
    • Now in their third year, the awards celebrate outstanding small businesses achieving exporting success 
    • Winning entries highlight the UK’s strength in sustainability and AI innovation 

    From ethical metal recycling to AI-driven edtech and digital identity, twelve exceptional UK-based SMEs have been named today as winners of the Department for Business and Trade’s (DBT) 2025 Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards. 

    Now in their third year, the awards celebrate the international growth of the UK’s most dynamic small businesses. While the awards naturally reflect the sectoral diversity of British innovation, this year’s winners signal a global appetite for UK leadership in two high-growth areas: sustainability and artificial intelligence. From Osbit’s offshore wind infrastructure to Twin Science’s gamified climate action kits and ubloquity’s AI-enhanced trade platform, British SMEs are exporting solutions to tackle some of the world’s most urgent challenges. 

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, said: 

    The innovation and entrepreneurship shown by the businesses entering the Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards demonstrate the best of British business. 

    When small businesses export, the whole economy benefits. By celebrating the outstanding international trade achievements of UK SMEs, we hope to encourage more businesses to get on the exporting ladder and take the best of Britain to markets around the world.   

    This year’s winners were chosen from hundreds of entries across 12 sector-focused categories, including two new areas—Digital & Technology and Export Services—introduced to reflect evolving global opportunities. Each category includes one winner and up to three highly commended businesses. 

    In the Digital & Technology category, Porotech stood out for its AR and AI-powered wearables, with 90% of revenue from exports and partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft and Foxconn. Twin Science & Robotics, winner in Education & EdTech, exports to over 40 countries and has seen 70% annual revenue growth through its STEM kits focused on AI, robotics and climate literacy. 

    Sustainability also remains a major theme across the winners. Osbit, winner in Low Carbon Energy, delivers mission-critical offshore wind technology, with 65% of revenue from exports. Meanwhile, Avon Specialty Metals, recognised in Advanced Manufacturing & Construction, recycles high-performance metals and alloys and has grown international sales by 192% over three years. 

    Winners like Gerald McDonald & Company (Agriculture, Food & Drink) and LIMB-art (Healthcare) underscore the global demand for British-made, high-quality products. From innovative prosthetics to premium fruit derivatives, these SMEs prove that exporting drives resilience, expansion and innovation. 

    This year’s winners will receive a bespoke promotional package, including a one-year membership to the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, a working capital masterclass with Lloyds Bank, an invitation to the winners’ reception in London, professional photography of their business, bespoke promotion on DBT channels and a digital badge, certificate and trophy to commemorate their achievements. 

    By creating jobs, driving innovation and exporting world-class British products and services, these businesses are making a vital contribution to the Government’s mission to go further and faster for economic growth as part of its Plan for Change.  

    A key part of this mission is supporting SMEs to grow, scale and enter global markets—recognising that when more businesses trade internationally, the entire UK economy benefits. Exporting supports a fifth of UK employment1, paying on average 7% higher wages2 and delivering 21% higher productivity for goods exporters3. 

    To help achieve its mission, the Government recently revamped the Board of Trade to boost SME exports and will soon launch its Trade Strategy. This will set out its approach to maximising export opportunities, including those arising from recently signed agreements with India, the US and the EU. 

    For free help selling to the world, visit business.gov.uk 

    2025 Winners of the Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards: 

    • Advanced Manufacturing & Construction – Avon Specialty Metals (Gloucester): Selling to 20+ countries with exporting accounting for 31% of revenue from sustainable alloy/metal recycling and AI-driven processing 

    • Agriculture, Food & Drink – Gerald McDonald and Company Ltd (Basildon, Essex): World’s largest supplier of premium Japanese yuzu juice, exporting to 4 continents 

    • Consultancy & Professional Services – Champions Speakers (Loughborough): Exporting to 66 countries, 122% growth in two years 

    • Creative Industries – Luminous Show Technology (Exeter): Special effects hardware used in Harry Potter and the Commonwealth Games, with 35% export revenue 

    • Digital & Technology – Porotech (Cambridge): 90% export revenue; cutting-edge AR and AI display tech 

    • Education & EdTech – Twin Science & Robotics Ltd (London): STEM tools used in 40+ countries, 93% export revenue 

    • Financial Services & FinTech – Ozone Financial Technology Ltd (London): Exports to 15 countries; 77% of revenue from international markets 

    • Healthcare – LIMB-art (Conwy, Wales): Stylish prosthetics sold in 10 countries; 30% of revenue from exports 

    • Infrastructure & Engineering – Maritime Developments Limited (Aberdeen): 92% export revenue from offshore energy tech 

    • Low Carbon Energy – Osbit (Riding Mill, Northumberland): Bespoke offshore wind equipment exported to 9 countries 

    • Retail & Consumer Goods – Jenolite UK Ltd (Biggleswade, Bedfordshire): Iconic rust removal brand exporting to 50+ countries, with £2.9M in export revenue 

    • Export Services – ubloquity (Scarva, Northern Ireland): AI, blockchain and digital identity solutions empowering businesses to scale globally  

    2025 Highly Commended Businesses: 

    • Advanced Manufacturing & Construction – Bespoke Stairlifts (Huddersfield), Delta-Xero Distribution Ltd (Fareham), John King Chains (Leeds) 

    • Agriculture, Food & Drink – Evenproducts Ltd (Evesham), PBS International (Crawley), Nourished (Birmingham) 

    • Consultancy & Professional Services – Jean Edwards Consulting (Brighton), Landell Mills (Wiltshire), The Config Team (Cumbria) 

    • Creative Industries – Jesmonite (Shropshire), Rainbow Productions (London), Wild Creations (Cardiff) 

    • Digital & Technology – Hitomi Broadcast (Maidenhead), iLivestock (Dunfermline), uqudo (Manchester) 

    • Education & EdTech – Alphablocks (London), Learning Resource Network (London), Lincoln College (Lincoln) 

    • Financial Services & FinTech – Bueno Europe (Birmingham), Hoptroff (London) 

    • Healthcare – Black Space Technology (Birmingham), Birmingham Biotech (Birmingham), Novocuris (London) 

    • Infrastructure & Engineering – Rosehill Polymers (West Yorkshire), Direct Access (Nantwich), Atmos International (Manchester) 

    • Low Carbon Energy – Munro Vehicles (Glasgow) 

    • Retail & Consumer Goods – RSscan Lab (Ipswich), Dr.PAWPAW (London), The British Hamper Company (Lincoln) 

    • Export Services – Intralink (Oxford), Abex Infoway Europe Ltd (London)

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Drone footage captured orcas crafting tools out of kelp – and using them for grooming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vanessa Pirotta, Postdoctoral Researcher and Wildlife Scientist, Macquarie University

    Sara Jenkins/500px/Getty

    The more we learn about orcas, the more remarkable they are. These giant dolphins are the ocean’s true apex predator, preying on great white sharks and other lesser predators.

    They’re very intelligent and highly social. Their clans are matrilineal, centred around a older matriarch who teaches her clan her own vocalisations. Not only this, but the species is one of only six known to experience menopause, pointing to the social importance of older females after their reproductive years. Different orca groups have fashion trends, such as one pod who returned to wearing salmon as a hat, decades after it went out of vogue.

    But for all their intelligence, one thing has been less clear. Can orcas actually make tools, as humans, chimps and other primates do? In research out today by United States and British researchers, we have an answer: yes.

    Using drones, researchers watched as resident pods in the Salish Sea broke off the ends of bull kelp stalks and rolled them between their bodies. This, the researchers say, is likely to be a grooming practice – the first tool-assisted grooming seen in marine animals.

    This video shows whales using kelp tools in what appears to be social grooming behaviour. Credit: Center for Whale Research.

    Self kelp: why would orcas make tools?

    Tool use and tool making have been well documented in land-based species. But it’s less common among marine species. This could be partly due to the challenge of observing them.

    This field of research expands what we know these animals are capable of. Not only are orcas spending time making kelp into a grooming tool, but they’re doing it socially – two orcas have to work together to rub the kelp against their bodies.

    To make the tool, the orcas use their teeth to grab a stalk of kelp by its “stipe” – the long, narrow part near the seaweed’s holdfast, where it tethers to the rock. They use their teeth, motion of their body and the drag of the kelp to break off a piece of this narrow stipe.

    Next, they approach a social partner, flip the length of the kelp onto their rostrum (their snout-like projection) and press their head and the kelp against their partner’s flank. The two orcas use their fins and flukes to trap the kelp while rolling it between their bodies. During this contact, the orcas would roll and twist their bodies – often in an exaggerated S-shaped posture. A similar posture has been seen among orcas in other groups, who adopt it when rubbing themselves on sand or pebbles.

    Why do it? The researchers suggest this practise may be social skin-maintenance. Bottlenose dolphin mothers are known to remove dead skin from their calves using flippers, while tool-assisted grooming of a partner has been seen in primates, but infrequently and usually in captivity.

    Orcas across different social groups, ages and genders were seen doing this. But they were more likely to groom close relatives or those of similar age. There was some evidence suggesting whales with skin conditions were more likely to do the kelp-based grooming.

    Humpback whales are known to wear kelp in a practice known as “kelping”. But this study covers a different behaviour, which the authors dub “allokelping” (kelping others).

    A surprise from well-studied pods

    Interestingly, this new discovery comes from some of the most well-studied and famous orcas in the world – a group known as the southern resident killer whales. If you were a child of the 90s, you would have seen them in the opening scene of Free Willy, the movie which set me on my path to study cetaceans.

    These orcas consist of three pods known as J, K and L pods. Each live in the Salish Sea in the Pacific Northwest on the border of Canada and the US.

    Researchers fly drones over these resident pods most days and have access to almost 50 years of observations. But this is the first time the tool-making behaviour has been seen.

    Unfortunately, these pods are critically endangered. They’re threatened by sound pollution from shipping, polluted water, vessel strike and loss of their main food source – Chinook salmon.

    A pod of killer whales off Vancouver, Canada.
    Vanessa Pirotta, CC BY-NC-ND

    Orcas are smart

    In one sense, the findings are not a surprise, given the intelligence of these animals.

    In the Arctic, orcas catch seals by making waves to wash them off ice floes. Before European colonisation, orcas and First Nations groups near Eden hunted whales together.

    They can mimic human speech, while different groups have their own dialects. These animals are awe-inspiring – and sometimes baffling, as when a pod began biting or attacking boats off the Iberian peninsula.

    While orcas are often called “killer whales”, they’re not whales. They’re the biggest species of dolphin, growing up to nine metres long. They’re found across all the world’s oceans.

    Within the species, there’s a surprising amount of diversity. Scientists group orcas into different ecotypes – populations adapted to local conditions. Different orca groups can differ substantially, from size to prey to habits. For instance, transient orcas cover huge distances seeking larger prey, while resident orcas stick close to areas with lots of fish.

    Not just a fluke

    Because orcas differ so much, we don’t know whether other pods have discovered or taught these behaviours.

    But what this research does point to is that tool making may be more common among marine mammals than we expected. No hands – no problem.

    Vanessa Pirotta 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. Drone footage captured orcas crafting tools out of kelp – and using them for grooming – https://theconversation.com/drone-footage-captured-orcas-crafting-tools-out-of-kelp-and-using-them-for-grooming-259372

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Lucas GC Limited Announces Closing of Follow-On Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucas GC Limited (NASDAQ: LGCL) (“Lucas” or the “Company”), an artificial intelligence (“AI”) technology-driven Platform-as-a-Service (“PaaS”) company with proprietary technologies applied to the human resources and insurance industry verticals, today announced the closing of its “best efforts” follow-on offering (the “Offering”) of 32,150,000 ordinary shares, par value US$0.000005 per share, of the Company (the “Ordinary Shares”) at a public offering price of US$0.20 per share, for total gross proceeds of US$6,430,000 before deducting placement agent’s fee and offering expenses.

    AC Sunshine Securities LLC acted as the placement agent for the Offering.

    A registration statement related to the Offering has been filed with, and declared effective by, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    This offering was made only by means of a prospectus forming part of the effective registration statement. The final prospectus relating to the Offering was filed with the SEC and is available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the final prospectus may be obtained from AC Sunshine Securities LLC, 200 E. Robinson Street Suite 295, Orlando, FL 32801.

    About Lucas GC Limited
    With 19 granted U.S. and Chinese patents and over 75 registered software copyrights in the AI, data analytics and blockchain technologies, Lucas GC Limited is an AI technology-driven PaaS company with over 780,320 agents working on its platform. Lucas’ technologies have been applied to the human resources and insurance industry verticals. For more information, please visit: https://www.lucasgc.com/.

    For Investor Inquiries and Media Contact:
    https://www.lucasgc.com/ 
    ir@lucasgc.com 
    T: 818-741-0923

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are also based on assumptions regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Service CU Launches Service Ventures to Drive Innovation in the Credit Union Ecosystem

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PORTSMOUTH, N.H., June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Service Ventures, an independent investment arm of Service Credit Union, has officially launched to allow the credit union to drive its mission of improving members’ financial well-being while also helping their experience.

    Service Ventures invests in solutions that empower credit unions to deliver exceptional member experiences. The firm seeks partnerships with startups that share a commitment to enhancing service, accessibility, and operational excellence across the credit union landscape.

    In its early stage, Service Ventures has already made strategic investments in several innovative companies, including member engagement platform Larky, deposit management solution Modern FI CUSO, conversational AI assistant Posh AI, and wealth technology company WealthCabinet. More information on each of these companies can be found at service.vc/portfolio.

    Service Ventures is led by General Partner Brian Regan. Before joining Service Ventures in 2024, Brian co-founded Strake, a cloud optimization company. Prior to that, Brian worked for VMWare’s Security Business Unit, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and business planning initiatives.

    “Service Ventures will fuel the next generation of companies that help credit unions better serve their members,” Regan said. “We’re focused on ethical, member-first solutions and are excited to bring visionary founders into the fold of opportunity within the cooperative banking space.”

    About Service Ventures

    Service Ventures is the independent venture capital arm of Service Credit Union, a $6+ billion financial institution serving more than 350,000 members worldwide. Service Ventures invests in innovative financial technology companies that align with the credit union philosophy of people helping people and fosters partnerships that drive meaningful impact across the financial services landscape.

    About Service Credit Union

    Service Credit Union is dedicated to providing a banking experience that improves our members’ lives and the communities in which they live. Established in 1957 to provide affordable credit to the Pease Air Force Base community, and now the largest credit union in New Hampshire, with over $6 billion in assets and 50 branch locations in the New England Region and Germany, we continue to provide a better future to our members all over the world. To learn more about Service Credit Union, please visit www.servicecu.org.

    Contact:
    Chris Banker
    cbanker@servicecu.org (603) 923-0904

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kinshasa: Youth Commit to Peace and the Fight Against Disinformation


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    Around one hundred young people, including thirty-seven women from Kinshasa’s four districts, took part on 14 June in a series of activities aimed at promoting peace, security, and tackling disinformation. The initiative was supported by MONUSCO’s Civil Affairs Section, in partnership with the National Technical Secretariat for Resolution 2250 and civil society.

    This gathering marked the conclusion of a process launched in 2022 to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2250, which recognizes the essential contribution of youth to peacebuilding.

    “This initiative followed a call from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Bintou Keita, who encouraged all MONUSCO sections to intensify efforts around Resolution 2250.” explained Phil Wani, Civil Affairs Officer.

    Discussions focused on the link between economic empowerment and peace. Job creation was highlighted as key to preventing youth from joining armed groups. “We introduced a coaching component to provide participants with practical skills to develop sustainable projects, some of the proposals are already ready for funding.” Wani added.

    The National Technical Secretariat emphasized the importance of proximity-based and inclusive approaches. “Beyond technical guidance, we ensured coordination, the aim is to enable genuine and inclusive youth participation in the resolution’s implementation.” said Anna Jacquie, national coordinator.

    Participants expressed appreciation for being heard on an issue where youth perspectives are often overlooked. “As a young person, I felt heard, there’s support and follow-up, which motivates me, too often, youth are unfairly associated with misconduct.” shared Acacia.

    Artists were also inspired. “We were shown how to verify online information, it made me want to launch awareness projects in my community.” said musician and writer Antonio Lufyaulusu.

    This initiative reflects MONUSCO’s commitment to strengthening the role of young people in peace efforts in the DRC by highlighting their ideas and encouraging long-term engagement.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Delivering Growth Through Collaboration and Innovation: SaskTel Reports Net Income of $82.2 Million in 2024-25

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    Today, SaskTel released both its Annual Report and Sustainability Report for the 2024-25 fiscal year, highlighting its financial results and initiatives and best practices driving sustainability, equity and prosperity for the province of Saskatchewan. Financial results for the 2024-25 fiscal year include net income of $82.2 million and operating revenues of $1,364.9 million. These results show SaskTel’s commitment to delivering competitive services and enhancing its world-class networks to enrich everyday life in Saskatchewan.

    “Our government and SaskTel’s commitment to delivering for Saskatchewan remains as strong as ever,” Minister Responsible for SaskTel Jeremy Harrison said. “The significant investments made by SaskTel in 2024-25 will ensure that more families, businesses, and communities across the province have access to the advanced communications networks and technologies that they need to succeed and grow in a developing smart economy.” 

    “In a time of evolution and change in the telecommunications industry, one thing that remains constant is SaskTel’s commitment to empowering Saskatchewan people, organizations and communities to reach their full potential,” SaskTel President and Chief Executive Officer Charlene Gavel said. “Thanks to the substantial investments made in 2024-25, our ongoing progress toward bringing SaskTel’s 5G and infiNET networks to more communities is already driving new economic activity and helping to ready our province for whatever comes next in the tech landscape.”

    SaskTel’s revenue is composed primarily of wireless network services and equipment revenue (49.5 per cent), fixed broadband and data services (23.4 per cent), wireline communication services (10.6 per cent), and maxTV service (7.2 per cent).

    Financial Highlights

    SaskTel’s financial measures focus on shareholder value, revenue and earnings generation and the efficient use of its capital investments. These measures provide insight into its current financial performance and contribute to its long-term financial stability. 

    SaskTel declared dividends of $32.9 million to Crown Investments Corporation during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, while maintaining a debt ratio within industry standards. 

    At the close of the fiscal year 2024-25, SaskTel’s debt ratio increased to 56.5 per cent, an increase of 50 basis points from the previous year. The overall level of net debt increased $99.2 million, primarily to fund continued investment in its fibre and 5G networks through investment in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets.

    Revenue for the fiscal year was $1,364.9 million, an increase of $16.4 million reflecting growth in key business segments including wireless network services and equipment, fixed broadband and data services, maxTV service and IT solutions services. The increase in wireless network services and equipment revenue reflects the growth in SaskTel’s wireless retail subscriber base and increased wholesale revenues. Fixed broadband and data services revenue growth was driven by SaskTel’s Rural Fibre Initiative, which continues to expand the company’s fibre footprint resulting in increased customer connections. IT solutions services revenue growth reflects increased adoption of SaskTel’s cybersecurity solutions, data centre offerings and managed IT services. 

    SaskTel invested $398.5 million of capital in 2024-25 to bring SaskTel infiNET service to more homes and businesses and grow the reach of its 5G wireless network. These investments enhance the reliability and resiliency of SaskTel’s networks and position Saskatchewan for success in the smart economy.

    Wireless spending, including 5G, LTE, and Wi-Fi, accounted for $130.1 million of the $398.5 million total, while $108.5 million was invested in SaskTel’s Fibre-to-the-X program (FTTx). These significant investments, along with the rest of the capital expenditures, have enhanced SaskTel’s systems and networks, our provincial economy and will prepare Saskatchewan to thrive and succeed in a developing smart economy.

    SaskTel’s wireless network covers over 99 per cent of the population with more than 1,000 cell towers, over 700 of which are in rural parts of the province. As of March 31, 2025, SaskTel had converted more than 700 wireless sites to the 5G network, serving 88 per cent of the province’s population with 5G. As this network evolves, it will support things such as the development of smart communities and technological innovations in agriculture, virtual health care and immersive education.

    SaskTel’s FTTx program continued to bring infiNET, SaskTel’s fibre optic network, to homes and businesses across the province. infiNET delivers up to gigabit per second speeds, allowing customers to surf, stream and share more content faster than ever before. As of March 31, 2025, the network was available in 111 communities.

    Further, SaskTel’s Aurora Program was launched last summer following an announcement that the company had received funding from the Federal Government’s Universal Broadband Fund. The program encompasses four significant projects to improve connectivity in Northern Saskatchewan and since the Aurora Program was launched, SaskTel has made significant progress in bringing fibre cabling through the Hanson Lake Road area (Highway 106).

    Sustainability Highlights

    In 2024-25, SaskTel also continued to make a social impact in our province through numerous sponsorships and partnerships as well as the generosity of SaskTel employees. SaskTel contributed $3,094,714 to 1,048 non-profit and charitable organizations, community associations, venues, events and partnerships in 260 communities throughout the province during the 2024-25 fiscal year. 

    At a time when charities and non-profits are seeing growing demand for services, SaskTel’s employees showed their dedication by making a positive difference in their communities through volunteer hours and donations. With nearly 3,700 members, including current and retired employees, SaskTel Pioneers contributed over 25,280 volunteer hours and $1,036,620 in donations to non-profit organizations. SaskTel TelCare, the employee-driven charitable donation program, donated nearly $190,000 to 47 charitable and non-profit organizations operating across Saskatchewan, a number which includes SaskTel’s 50 per cent match.

    Additional SaskTel social impact initiatives include:

    Connecting with Community Challenge

    Through the 2025 Connecting with Community Challenge, SaskTel employees, along with the SaskTel Pioneers raised $15,000 for the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation to help fund youth mental wellness programs.

    The Connecting with Community Challenge worked in tandem with Pink Shirt Day and SaskTel Be Kind Online to encourage employees to perform acts of kindness, such as helping colleagues, volunteering, or supporting local causes. Each reported act of kindness counted as a $5 donation toward the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation.

    SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start

    In partnership with the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement, SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start provided 341 cell phones and $8,000 worth of phone cards to the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) in 2024-25.

    SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start provides wireless phones and phone cards to PATHS member agencies to assist individuals fleeing domestic abuse as well as youth transitioning out of permanent or long-term care from the Ministry of Social Services. By collecting and recycling old wireless phones, the program aims to minimize Saskatchewan’s environmental footprint while helping those in need. 

    SaskTel’s Annual Report and Sustainability Report provide comprehensive insights into the company’s financial performance, strategic initiatives and commitment to sustainable practices. These reports not only highlight SaskTel’s achievements and growth over the past year, but also underscore its dedication to transparency, accountability and long-term value creation for our stakeholders. By detailing our efforts in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and governance, we aim to foster trust and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future for our community and beyond.

    For more information, including the full Annual and Sustainability report, please visit: sasktel.com/about-us.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Media Relations

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Non-Governmental Organizations Brief the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on the Situation of Women in Afghanistan, Chad and Botswana 

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women was this afternoon briefed by representatives of non-governmental organizations on the situation of women’s rights in Afghanistan, Chad and Botswana, the reports of which the Committee will review this week.  The report of San Marino will also be reviewed this week, but there were no non-governmental organizations speaking on that country. 

     

    Non-governmental organizations speaking on Afghanistan raised concerns relating to restrictive laws against women, the ban on girls’ education, and gender-based crimes enacted by the de-facto authorities, among other issues. 

    Speakers for Chad raised issues including women’s low representation in political and public life, gender stereotypes, and the prevalence of female genital mutilation. 

    The speaker on Botswana discussed the criminalisation of sex workers, mistreatment of gender-based violence victims, and social protection gaps impacting women.

     

    No speakers took the floor in relation to San Marino.   

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Afghanistan: Musawah and Strategic Advocacy for Human Rights (SAHR); MADRE and CUNY School of Law; Gender Persecution Working Group (GPWG); Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom; and Afghanistan LGBTIQ+ Organization – ALO. 

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Chad: Lutheran World Foundation Chad; and Ligue tchadienne pour les droits des femmes (Chadian League for Women’s Rights).

    Success Capital Organization spoke on Botswana.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninety-first session is being held from 16 June to 4 July.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 24 June to consider the fourth periodic report of Afghanistan (CEDAW/C/AFG/4).

     

    Statement by Committee Chair 

     

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said this was the second opportunity during the present session for non-governmental organizations to provide information on States parties whose reports were being considered during the second week of the session, namely Afghanistan, San Marino, Chad and Botswana.  

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations on Afghanistan

    In the discussion on Afghanistan, speakers, among other things, said that since the Taliban assumed control of Afghanistan in 2021, Afghan women and girls had been facing increasing human rights violations.  The de facto authorities had issued decrees restricting women in all aspects of their social, cultural, political and economic life.  The 2024 law on the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice mandated ‘Sharia hijab’ covering the entire body and face of women, a prohibition on women to speak in public, and a strict male relative (mahram) requirement for women when leaving the house.  It created the institution of a morality police (muhtasib) to enforce the law, further increasing the risk of arbitrary detention and arrest by the de-facto authorities.  Among the rights that Afghan women and girls were cruelly denied were the rights to education, to work, and to freedom of peaceful assembly. 

    The Taliban’s near-total ban on girls’ education after grade six and its prohibition of women’s university attendance crushed the dreams of an entire generation.  Women had been dismissed from public employment and faced restrictions in the private sector.  Women in Afghanistan also faced extensive restrictions on mobility and employment, including through the de facto authorities’ interference in the hiring process of non-governmental organization employees.  Women had been stripped of autonomy, dignity, and the means to support themselves and their families.

    Since 2021, women lawyers had not been able to obtain or renew their licenses, and could not legally represent clients in court, including female gender-based violence survivors.  Women in court were forced to rely on male advocates to represent them, meaning they effectively had no access to justice.  The Taliban had also eliminated gender-based violence services and legal protections. 

    Since August 2021, the Taliban had institutionalised gender-based crimes and systematically oppressed women, girls, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in Afghanistan.  Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex women and transgender men had been subject to forced marriage to men and faced compounded barriers to fleeing gender violence because of mahram requirements.  The Taliban had subjected transgender women to torture, including sexual violence. 

    Women peacefully protesting these injustices had been beaten, detained and tortured, and had undergone surveillance.  The Taliban’s 2021 decree requiring permits for protests, which was used to silence women-led demonstrations, was a direct assault on freedom of assembly.  Taliban members publicly flogged women for purported “adultery” or for “running away from home.” 

    Women and girls were facing gender apartheid in Afghanistan.  United Nations Member States, regional bodies, and international institutions had a collective responsibility to ensure that the Taliban were held accountable for ongoing violations, especially those targeting the rights and freedoms of women and girls.  The Committee should call on Member States to support the International Criminal Court’s efforts to hold the Taliban accountable, and States’ efforts to bring Afghanistan before the International Court of Justice for rights violations, including under the Convention.  States should provide support to the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court, the establishment of an independent accountability mechanism, and the codification of gender apartheid as a crime under international law. 

    The Committee was urged to call on the de facto authorities to immediately repeal all decrees restricting freedom of expression, appearance, education and employment, including the mandatory hijab and mahram requirements; end women’s banishment from public spaces; end arbitrary imprisonment and torture, including sexual violence, against women human rights defenders; and demand the release of all women imprisoned for protest, speech or identity.  The de facto authorities in Afghanistan must dismantle systemic gender-based oppression by repealing all discriminatory edicts and fully implementing recommendations from United Nations human rights mechanisms. 

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations on Chad

    In the discussion on Chad, speakers among other things, commended the Government of Chad for the progress made in eliminating discrimination against women despite a very difficult environment.  The effective implementation of the Convention continued to be hampered by the consequences of decades of conflict, the persistence of armed violence in the east and south-east of the country, the massive movements of internally displaced persons and refugees, and the continuing humanitarian crisis.

    Following the recommendations made by the Committee to the Chadian State in 2011, several advances had been made through the adoption of laws, strategies and programmes aimed at protecting and promoting women’s rights, including the national gender policy of December 2011, law no. 003/PR/2025 on the prevention and punishment of violence against women and girls, and the adoption of a national action plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325  (2000) by Chad.

    However, the percentage of women participating in public life, politics and the peace process remained low.  The Government of Chad was urged to review relevant legislation to ensure the full and effective participation of women in political and public life; secure the greater inclusion of women in the processes of consultation, national dialogue and reconciliation; and eliminate gender stereotypes and biases.

    Chadian women faced various obstacles such as gender stereotypes, discriminatory cultural norms, harmful religious doctrines, and lack of economic autonomy.  The perception of women’s economic activity by men as a potential source of dowry for a future co-wife was very common.  It was recommended that the Government strengthen the legal and institutional framework for the protection of the rights of women and girls by ratifying the Maputo Protocol.  The Government should also adopt a specific law against female genital mutilation, with effective implementation and monitoring mechanisms.

    According to the 2023 activity report of the Ministry of Women and Early Childhood, there were 241 cases of female genital mutilation, 500 cases of rape, 537 cases of sexual assault, 469 cases of sexual exploitation and 780 cases of early and forced marriage.  Female genital mutilation was still widely practised despite recommendations.  It was important for the Chadian Government to accelerate the adoption, promulgation and popularisation of the Code of the Family and its implementing decree.

    Statement by a Non-Governmental Organization on Botswana

    The speaker on Botswana said Botswana’s history as a peaceful democratic republic post-independence continued to shield its regressions in the respect and fulfilment of human rights.  Unequal distribution of income, electricity cuts, water shortages, and prohibitive connection of utilities for freehold land tenures continued to aggravate poverty. All the while, Botswana was characterised by femicide, technology assisted gender-based violence through social media, the criminalisation of sex workers, narrow legal provisions for abortion, unavailability of safe sex commodities in prisons, corruption, marital rape, and the lack of justiciability of socioeconomic rights despite ratifying the Maputo Protocol.

    Survivors of gender-based violence continued to be ignored and erased whilst also enduring police harassment and brutality at roadblocks despite some protections in law for gender diverse people.  Despite employment laws protecting termination from specific grounds of discrimination, no law protected the worker during probationary periods. Social protection gaps remained for women who were not poor enough for State provisions but were too poor to sustain any dignified life.  There needed to be better conditions, including ensuring that the Committee’s recommendations were accelerated, socialised with grassroots communities, and entrenched within the national gender machinery.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert asked representatives from Afghanistan for critical analysis regarding the positive decrees, including the ban on forced marriages.  What kind of threats did women in exile face? 

    What obstacles were there to fighting female genital mutilation and child marriage in Chad? How were women’s inheritance rights impacted in Chad? 

    Another Expert asked about the status of the draft Code of the Family in Chad?  How was the plurality of laws playing out with a new Government?  What was the evaluation of the women, peace and security plan? 

    Regarding Botswana, what did the criminalisation of prostitution look like on the ground? Was there any information regarding the trafficking of women and girls?

    A Committee Expert asked if women in Afghanistan could own any property?  With the new law on guardians, how were women engaging with economic institutions? What was the level of participation of women in exports and trade? 

    For Chad, how was gender captured in the macro-economic policies of the country? Were there gender-formative actions, including for procurement and taxation?

    What was the status of the national human rights institution in Botswana?  Had the institution been able to register and become fully compliant with the Paris Principles?  What services did women receive from this institution? 

    Another Expert asked if women in Botswana could transfer cases from the customary court to the magistrate’s court, as per the amended act?

    Responses from Non-Governmental Organizations from Afghanistan

    Speakers from Afghanistan said for women human rights defenders in exile, the Taliban used their families and friends in the country as a weapon against them.  Those who lobbied for the Taliban in Europe also participated in acts of sexual violence and harassment.  The ban of forced marriages was an announcement and not true; the Taliban themselves forced girls into early marriage. 

    Women who had participated in the business sector were facing high taxation costs, and had a limited ability to attend trade events within and outside the country.  In Afghanistan, the sector was predominately operated by male business owners, meaning there was a lack of opportunities for women business owners.  Many women with disabilities now lacked access to the market and livelihood support. 

    Responses from Non-Governmental Organizations from Chad

    Speakers from Chad said women and girls continued to be victims of discrimination inside the family. The Persons and Families Code still had not been adopted.  It had been returned to the administration by the parliament for a rereading.  There were factors, including religious beliefs, which were oppressive; these remained obstacles to adopting this legislation. 

    Family matters were governed by a mix of local customs and civil codes inherited from the colonial period, exposing women and children to discriminatory practices.  Women were generally excluded from decision-making when it came to the peace process and typically participated only as figureheads. Just one woman had participated in peace negotiations.  If women participated in the economy, their savings were used as a dowry and men used this to acquire another woman.   

    There were legal texts in Chad but it was their application which was the issue. Impunity was an everyday issue, including for cases of gender-based violence.  The reform of the Family Code was still a big challenge.  The issue of gender was not understood as a concept in Chad and a lack of political commitment meant gender was not addressed in Chadian society.  There were obstacles and challenges when it came to female genital mutilation and child marriage.  While texts and laws set out punishments, in many communities these practices continued. Customary law trumped Government law. 

    Responses from a Non-Governmental Organization from Botswana

    The speaker from Botswana said petty crimes and other laws were used to detain sex workers. There had been documented evidence of sex workers experiencing sex harassment.  Discrimination against transgender and gender diverse sex workers was compounded.

    Botswana was a transit country, and it was easy to be mobile across border countries, where there was a limited tracking of movement.  The Office of the Ombudsman had been expanded to include a human rights mandate, but it was believed it was not fully compliant with the Paris Principles. Women human rights defenders were not explicitly covered, especially in terms of reports covered by the Ombudsman. Community knowledge remained low regarding certain legislation, and systemic data remained unavailable.

    ___________

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

     

     

    CEDAW.25.016E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Intern Took Career from Car Engines to Cockpits

    Source: NASA

    Some career changes involve small shifts. But for one NASA engineering intern, the leap was much bigger –moving from under the hood of a car to helping air taxis take to the skies.
    Saré Culbertson spent more than a decade in the auto industry and had been working as a service manager in busy auto repair shops. Today, she supports NASA’s Air Mobility Pathfinders project as a flight operations engineer intern at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, through NASA’s Pathways program.

    Saré Culbertson
    NASA Intern

    “NASA has helped me see opportunities I didn’t even know existed,” she said. “I realized that being good at something isn’t enough – you have to be passionate about it too.”
    With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering – earning a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, Antelope Valley Engineering Program – she graduated magna cum laude and delivered her class’s commencement speech. Culbertson also earned two associate’s degrees, one in engineering and one in fine arts.

    Before making the switch to aeronautics, she worked at car dealerships and independent car repair facilities while in college. She also led quality control efforts to help a manufacturer meet international standards for quality.
    “I never thought land surveying would have anything to do with flying. But it’s a key part of supporting our research with GPS and navigation verification,” Culbertson said. “GPS measures exact positions by analyzing how long signals take to travel from satellites to ground receivers. In aviation testing, it helps improve safety by reducing signal errors and ensuring location data of the aircraft is accurate and reliable.”
    A musician since childhood, Culbertson has also performed in 21 states, playing everything from tuba to trumpet, and even appeared on HBO’s “Silicon Valley” with her tuba. She’s played in ska, punk, and reggae bands and now performs baritone in the Southern Sierra Pops Orchestra.

    The NASA Pathways internship, she says, changed everything. Culbertson was recently accepted into the Master of Science in Flight Test Engineering program at the National Test Pilot School, where she will be specializing in fixed wing performance and flying qualities.
    Her advice for anyone starting out?
    “Listen more than you talk,” she said. “Don’t get so focused on the next promotion that you forget to be great at the job you have now.”
    During her internship, Culbertson is making meaningful contributions toward NASA’s Urban Air Mobility research. She collects location data for test landing sites as part of the first evaluation of an experimental commercial electric vertical takeoff landing aircraft, a significant milestone in the development of next generation aviation technologies. From fixing cars to helping air taxis become a reality, Saré Culbertson is proof that when passion meets persistence, the sky isn’t the limit – it’s just the beginning.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom honors fallen Los Angeles Police Sergeant

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 23, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Sergeant Shiou Deng:

    “Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the loss of Sergeant Deng, who dedicated more than 26 years to serving the Los Angeles community with pride and purpose. We join his family, friends, and fellow officers in mourning, and in honoring his memory. May his service never be forgotten.” 

    On June 23, LAPD Sergeant Deng was fatally injured while assisting at a crash on southbound I-405 near Getty Center Drive. After stopping to help, he was struck by another vehicle that collided with the original crash. Despite lifesaving efforts by the California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles Fire Department, Sergeant Deng succumbed to his injuries. 

    Sergeant Deng, 53, has been with the LAPD for over 26 years. During his career, he spent 17 years in the Mental Evaluation Unit, a specialized team within the LAPD that handles calls involving individuals experiencing mental health crises. Two years ago, he was promoted to sergeant and assigned to the West Los Angeles Division.

    He is survived by his wife and parents. 

    In honor of Sergeant Deng, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

    Press releases, Public safety

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism Strategy Committee holds fourth meeting (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tourism Strategy Committee holds fourth meeting  
         Members expressed their recognition to the KTSP since its commissioning, which was well received by both the tourism industry and the visitors. Members put forward suggestions for optimising the transportation and catering arrangements during mega events as well as strengthening cross-sector collaboration with the tourism industry.
     
         Regarding the preliminary land use proposal of the sites around Hung Hom Station and its waterfront areas, members considered that with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, the waterfront areas were well-positioned to be re-planned and developed into a new harbourfront landmark that would integrate leisure and entertainment, dining and retail, and water-friendly elements. As for the utilisation of water body, members agreed that the water body adjacent to the former Hung Hom Freight Yard site should be put to good use. The proposed world-class yacht berthing facilities to be provided thereat could be integrated with land-based facilities for retail, dining and entertainment so as to promote yacht tourism. Members also recommended the Government to provide space for setting up land-side ancillary facilities to support the operation of the yacht berthing facilities. The DEVB is currently consulting the public and stakeholders on the preliminary land use proposal. The consultation period will end on July 5, 2025. The Government will take into account members’ recommendations and the feedback received during the consultation period when refining the development proposal and finalising the detailed development parameters. The target is to commence the relevant statutory procedures in the second half of 2026.
     
    In addition, members also exchanged views with Hong Kong Tourism Board’s representatives regarding Hong Kong’s latest tourism performance and relevant statistics. For the first five months of 2025, Hong Kong received more than 20 million visitor arrivals, a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. Among the visitors, about 15 million came from the Mainland, a 10 per cent rise year-on-year. Growth momentum is sustained across various non-Mainland markets, with around 5 million visitor arrivals in the first five months, an 18 per cent rise year-on-year. Number of visitor arrivals from Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan and increasing more than 20 per cent year-on-year respectively. For Australia, a significant growth of more than 30 per cent was recorded.
     
    The Committee is tasked to provide the Government with strategic advice and foster collaboration among different stakeholders in tourism and related sectors for further promoting the long-term and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s tourism industry. Members include prominent figures and key leaders from the tourism and other related sectors such as culture, sports, retail and catering.
    Issued at HKT 21:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Anesthesia Delivery Systems Recall: GE HealthCare Issues Correction for Certain Carestations due to Risk of Ineffective Ventilation When Used in Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) Mode 

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves correcting certain devices and does not involve removing them from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it without correction.  
    Affected Product
    •    Product Names: Carestation 620/650/650c and 750/750c Anesthesia Systems

    Full List of Affected Devices

    Product

    Ref Number

    UDI Number

    Carestation 620 A1  

    1012-9620-200  

    00195278439536  

    Carestation 650C A1  

    1012-9655-200  

    00195278439543  

    Carestation 650 A1  

    1012-9650-200  

    00195278439529  

    Carestation 620 A1  

    1012-9620-000  

    00840682103985  

    Carestation 650 A1  

    1012-9650-000  

    00840682103947  

    Carestation 650c A1  

    1012-9655-000  

    00840682103954  

    Carestation 620 A2  

    1012-9620-002  

    00840682124546  

    Carestation 650 A2  

    1012-9650-002  

    00840682124560  

    Carestation 650c A2  

    1012-9655-002  

    00840682124539  

    Carestation 650 SE A2  

    1012-9650-012  

    00195278569684  

    Carestation 620 SE A2  

    1012-9620-012  

    00195278569677  

    Carestation 750 A1  

    1012-9750-000  

    00840682145596  

    Carestation 750c A1  

    1012-9755-000  

    00840682146425  

    Carestation 750 A2  

    1012-9750-002  

    00840682146470  

    Carestation 750c A2  

    1012-9755-002  

    00840682146463  

    What to Do
    On March 21, 2025, GE HealthCare sent all affected customers an urgent medical device correction notice recommending the following actions:  

    Ensure users are made aware not to use Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode on the device until the device has been corrected by GE HealthCare. 
    Ensure all potential staff in your facility are made aware of this safety notification and the recommended actions.
    Complete and return the Medical Device Notification Acknowledgement Response Form.  
    Perform the Ventilation Screening Test for each affected Carestation system. 

    If the Carestation system passes the Ventilation Screening Test, you can continue to use the device in accordance with the instructions in the User Reference Manual (URM). 

    If the Carestation system fails the Ventilation Screening Test and must be used prior to the system being corrected by GE HealthCare, follow these instructions:

    Use the device in accordance with the instructions in the URM with these changes: 

    Use only Pressure Control Ventilation (PCV) or Pressure Control Ventilation Volume Guarantee (PCV-VG) mode to mechanically ventilate a patient.  
    Do not use Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode to mechanically ventilate a patient. 

    NOTE: Manual mode of the anesthesia system can be used to provide manual ventilation or allow spontaneous ventilation of the patient.  
    Reason for Correction
    GE HealthCare is correcting certain Carestation devices due to the risk that they may not provide effective ventilation when used in Volume Control Ventilation (VCV) mode. In these systems, effective ventilation can be achieved in Pressure Control Ventilation (PCV) or Pressure Control Ventilation Volume Guarantee (PCV-VG) modes or with manual ventilation. If this issue occurs, it will be apparent to the user through observation and multiple alarms. The inflated bellows, visible through transparent glass, will stop moving and an audible alarm and visual Unable to Drive Bellows message will alert the user. Additional alarms including Apnea, EtCO2 low, MVexp low, RR low, and TVexp low will also alert the user to inadequate ventilation.
    The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including failure of ventilation resulting in hypoxia (inadequate oxygen levels) and death.  
     At this time, GE HealthCare has reported no serious injuries or deaths related to this issue.
    Device Use
    Intended use of the Carestation is to provide monitored anesthesia care, general inhalation anesthesia and/or ventilatory support to a wide range of patients (neonatal, pediatric, and adult). The anesthesia systems are suitable for use in a patient environment, such as hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics by a clinician qualified in the administration of general anesthesia.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact GE HealthCare Service at 1-800-437-1171.  
    Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. 

    Content current as of:
    06/23/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update on Public Safety Efforts Amidst Ongoing Conflict

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul updated New Yorkers on ongoing public safety efforts amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Before I take questions about our energy announcement today, I want to address the conflict in the Middle East, and I know it’s a great time of uncertainty and fear in so many communities across the State of New York. And just to reaffirm, as we monitor this by the second, there are no credible threats against New York at this time.

    Just a short time ago, I convened over 100 religious and community leaders on a call to be able to let them know all the steps we’ve taken since I first became aware of the situation and immediately convened my top security team: counterintelligence, State Police, all of our partners and Homeland Security to talk about what we can do.

    Now, we also put all of our State agencies on high alert: talking about the Thruway Authority, the DOT, the subway system downstate New York — the MTA, all of our trains, our airports, water systems, utilities, NYPA. So all these are actually vulnerabilities, but it’s not something that hasn’t been contemplated. We tabletop exercises. We drill. We have highly professional individuals who are stepping up to do what they’ve been trained to do, and that is to protect our homeland and to protect the people of the State of New York.

    Also, I want to make sure we know we’re protecting all the bridges and tunnels, passenger lines and preparing for attacks on cyber infrastructure. These enormous facilities are run on technology. Cyber attacks can be crippling. We’ve had counties, hospitals under the State of New York that were attacked with ransomware threats. There’s no easy way out of those. So that’s why as the Governor, I’ve invested millions of dollars to give money to different counties so they can harden their assets and make sure that they can protect critical data that’s used to deliver services to New Yorkers.

    And also, there’s a lot of people feeling scared. They have family members in the Middle East. Religious groups, whether it’s the Jewish or Muslim communities, we have the largest groups in the State of New York of anywhere in the country, and we’re going to continue letting them know we’ll defend and fight against hate crimes. Our State Police Hate Crimes Task Force is on high alert, ready to assist anyone who needs help. So we’ll be increasing our patrols and already have at houses of worship as well.

    Lastly, I want to say this is an opportunity for New Yorkers to come together, put aside political differences and all the hatred that’s spewing online. Knowing that we have vulnerable assets. We are a vulnerable place. We are a place that has been attacked before. We are the financial capital of the world, the head of the cultural center for our country and indeed the world as well, and a place again that has withstood attacks in the past. So, as we remain on high alert, I want New Yorkers to remain on high alert, and get back to that tried and true phrase, “If you see something, say something.”

    There have been a number of attacks that have been thwarted because of vigilant individuals — our civilians who’ve stepped up and reported what they’ve seen, and we need them activated and engaged right now. But we will get through this time, and let us not forget the brave men and women of our [armed] services who are putting themselves in harm’s way every single day, and pray for them and a speedy de-escalation of this conflict and ultimately peace in the region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Learning Refuge: How women-led community efforts help refugees resettle in Cyprus

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Suzan Ilcan, Professor of Sociology & University Research Chair, University of Waterloo

    A grassroots organization in Paphos, Cyprus, is bringing women together to address the needs of refugees in the city. (Shutterstock)

    Since 2015, the Republic of Cyprus (ROC) has seen a steady rise in migrant arrivals and asylum applications, primarily from people from Middle Eastern and African countries like Syria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon.

    But many asylum-seekers face significant challenges. Refugees formally in the asylum system are often denied residency permits, which means they face persistent insecurity, poverty and isolation

    These conditions are compounded by restrictive and limited services for asylum-seekers. This deepens the precarity and exclusion refugees face within a political and economic system that treats them more like economic burdens than as human beings with rights who need help.

    In response to these institutional failures, citizens, volunteers and refugees themselves have begun to build grassroots networks of care and solidarity in the ROC and beyond to support refugee communities.

    In 2022 and 2023, we conducted interviews with women volunteers and refugees affiliated with The Learning Refuge, a civil society organization in the city of Paphos in southwest Cyprus that cultivates dialogue and collaboration among these two diverse groups.

    Women-led initiatives

    Many displaced people first arrive on the island of Cyprus through the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). However, the absence of a functioning asylum system or international legal protections leaves them in limbo.

    With no viable path to status in the TRNC, most cross the Green Line that bifurcates Cyprus into the ROC, where European Union asylum frameworks exist but remain limited in practice.

    Women-led community-building is often a response to the negative effects of inadequate state support and humanitarian aid for refugees. In Cyprus, this situation leaves many refugees without access to sufficient food, satisfactory health care, accommodation, employment, clothing and language training. In this current environment, refugees are increasingly experiencing insecure and fragile situations, especially women.

    In Cyprus, ss in many other countries, a variety of community-building efforts are important responses to limited or restricted state support and humanitarian aid for refugees.

    Women-led efforts offer opportunities to deliver educational activities and establish networks, and to help improve the welfare and social protection of refugee women, however imperfectly.

    These and other similar efforts highlight how women refugees and volunteers can mobilize to foster dialogue and collaboration.

    The Learning Refuge

    Founded in 2015, The Learning Refuge began as community meetings in a city park. The organization then used space from a nearby music venue to conduct support activities, and later, established itself in a dedicated building.

    Organizations like The Learning Refuge emerged to address the limited state support and humanitarian assistance services available to refugees.

    The Learning Refuge cultivates dialogue and collaboration among a diverse group of community volunteers.
    (Suzan Ilcan)

    As Syrian families began arriving in Paphos in 2015, local mothers started working with Syrian children, assisting them with homework, providing skills-training opportunities and language classes.

    The Learning Refuge cultivates dialogue and collaboration among a diverse group of community volunteers, including schoolteachers, artists, musicians, local residents, refugees and other migrants.

    With the aid of 20 volunteers, the loosely organized groups provide women refugees with material support and resources to enhance collective activities, including art and music projects, while also engaging in educational and friendship activities.

    While modest in scale, the organization has formed partnerships with local and international organizations, including Caritas Cyprus, UNHCR-Cyprus and the Cyprus Refugee Council to extend its outreach to various refugee groups.

    The organization has also launched creative initiatives aimed at cultivating additional inclusive civic spaces. One such effort, “Moms and Babies Day,” was developed in response to the rising number of single mothers from Africa arriving on the island. These women often face poverty and isolation, and struggle with language barriers.

    These efforts highlight how grassroots responses — especially those led by women — can offer partial but vital educational and emotional support to refugees struggling to find their footing in a new country.

    Negotiated belonging

    Through participation in The Learning Refuge, refugee women in Paphos engage in a dynamic process of negotiated belonging, navigating challenges like language barriers, gendered isolation, domestic violence and poverty while contributing to broader community-building efforts.

    For example, Maryam, a Syrian woman and mother of three, told us how The Learning Refuge helped her children establish friendships and learn Greek. She also highlighted that it helped her form close ties with volunteers and other Syrian women living in Cyprus, and find paid work in the city.

    The volunteers and women refugees participating in The Learning Refuge’s activities emphasized not only their capacity to develop new forms of belonging and solidarity; they also help reshape communal knowledge and generate supportive spaces for women from various backgrounds.

    Our research shows that women-led community-building is an effective, though short-term, response to insufficient state support and humanitarian aid systems that leave many refugees in precarious situations.

    In varying degrees, these efforts offer women and their families spaces to learn and cultivate new relationships, and foster collective projects and better visions of resettlement and refuge.

    Suzan Ilcan receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada.

    Seçil Daǧtaș receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. The Learning Refuge: How women-led community efforts help refugees resettle in Cyprus – https://theconversation.com/the-learning-refuge-how-women-led-community-efforts-help-refugees-resettle-in-cyprus-252682

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Anchor Unlocks Industry-First Auto-Billing for Any Time Tracking Software

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Anchor, the free-to-use autonomous billing and collection platform for accounting and professional-service businesses, today introduced a first-to-market deep integration to QuickBooks Online (QBO) that turns tracked hours from any time-tracking tool connected to QBO into payments, pre-approved by the client.

    When used with Anchor’s Pre-approved hourly services, every hourly engagement carries a cap the client has already approved. In one click, time entries from QuickBooks Time, Big Time, Toggl, Harvest, or any other tracker that syncs with QBO flow into a matching invoice in Anchor, where they can be reviewed and adjusted before the invoice is issued and the payment is processed automatically.

    “Our customers wanted a faster path from time tracking to payment, and this industry-first release delivers it,” said Rom Lakritz, Co-founder and CEO of Anchor. “No other solution offers this capability within one unified billing hub, giving accountants unmatched speed and certainty for their cash flow in the most simple and automatic way.”

    Key benefits

    Automatic sync – Instantly pulls every billable entry from any time tracker connected through QBO Time Activities straight into the correct invoice in Anchor.

    Works with any tracker – if it syncs to QBO, it syncs to Anchor; support for non-QBO trackers is coming soon.

    One-click billing – Tracked time from any QBO-synced tracker is checked against the pre-approved hourly cap, appears on the invoice with its notes, duration, and service name, can be edited in Anchor for last-minute tweaks, then is sent and paid in seconds with no back-and-forth.

    Zero manual entry – Streamlines billable hours directly into invoices, eliminating copy-paste workflows and spreadsheet rework while cutting time spent and error risk.

    Map once, bill forever – Anchor links each client and service to its QBO counterpart so every hour lands in the right place.

    Data integrity maintained – Edits in Anchor never touch the original record in QBO, and invoiced entries are auto-marked as converted to prevent double billing. Each QBO entry keeps its notes, duration, and service name.

    “Firms can keep tracking time in whatever tool they love, open Anchor, and watch the invoice write itself,” added Tal Ben Bassat, COO of Anchor. “Firms no longer need to juggle spreadsheets or copy-paste timesheets, it’s true hands-free billing, from proposal to payment, with zero extra clicks. This launch is part of a much larger effort to let them get paid in any way they can imagine.”

    Availability and pricing

    The new feature is live for all Anchor customers today, joining the Pre-approved Hourly Cap and hundreds of other features. Anchor remains free to use, with no subscription or credit card fees, and the same flat $5 fee per transaction we’ve maintained for the past four years. Users can activate the integration in seconds under Integration Settings.

    Ready to get paid faster – no matter how you track time? Sign up at www.sayanchor.com to start billing automatically. Follow Anchor on Facebook or LinkedIn for product updates.

    QuickBooks, QuickBooks Online, and QuickBooks Time are registered trademarks of Intuit Inc. Any other brand names or product names are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective holders.

    About Anchor

    Anchor is reinventing financial workflows for accounting and professional service businesses by simplifying proposals, agreements, invoicing, and payments. By replacing rigid document-based workflows with interactive agreements, Anchor helps firms eliminate revenue loss, improve cash flow, and grow profits. Trusted by thousands of firms, Anchor collects its five-dollar flat fee only when customers are paid. Learn more at www.sayanchor.com.

    Media Contact
    Company Name: Anchor
    Contact Person: Elad Shmilovich
    Email: elad.sh@sayanchor.com
    Country: United States
    Website: https://www.sayanchor.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The spectacular frenzy of 28 Years Later offers a new breed of pandemic storytelling

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucyl Harrison, PhD Candidate, School of Humanities, University of Hull

    Twenty-three years on from director Danny Boyle’s unforgettable film 28 Days Later, and five years on from COVID, horror is having a spectacular renaissance. With 28 Years Later, the franchise has returned to cinema as a mouthpiece for the unique pressures Britain is facing post-pandemic and post-Brexit.

    In 2020, speculative architect and director Liam Young said: “I’m sure the scripts for a new genre of virus fictions or ‘Vi-Fi’ are already in the works and perhaps that is the real opportunity of this present moment, to imagine the potential fictions and futures, and to prototype the new worlds that we all want to be a part of when the viral cloud lifts.” Well, here that vision is.

    In this film, Europe has contained the “rage virus” to Britain. There are French boats on quarantine patrols, Swedish soldiers mocking remaining mainlanders and St George’s flags burning.

    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.

    28 Years Later is set on Holy Island, off the coast of the UK. There, an isolated community is protected by tides which conceal and reveal a causeway through which islanders can leave to get to the mainland to forage.

    One of the film’s most adrenaline-spiking scenes comes in the form of a terrifying chase back to the island. A young boy named Spike (Alfie Williams) is hurrying back after performing his rite of passage ceremony in which he is instructed to kill infected people on the mainland. It’s sound-tracked to the transcendental tones of Wagner’s Das Rheingold prelude.

    Twenty-eight years on from the events of the first film, the infected have evolved. Boyle has re-imagined them in even more monstrous forms. Gore-lovers will enjoy the menacing new brand of infected – seven-foot “alphas” – who rip heads from the living and dangle their severed spines.

    An ode to COVID

    Talking about how the pandemic inspired 28 Years Later, Boyle told Sky News:

    Suddenly everybody’s capital city, everywhere around the world was the same. And what was incredible about it was obviously just this idea which had previously only really belonged to films, like our film, where culture is suddenly just stopped dead.

    Danny Boyle speaks about 28 Years Later.

    The film’s stars, Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor Johnson, meanwhile have both said that they drew from their real-life experiences of pandemic isolation for their roles as Spike’s Geordie parents. As Taylor explained:

    My son was 13, the same age as Alfie was when we were making this movie. I know what it was like to protect your family but also to not understand what was happening around us. And I thought it was interesting whilst reading this that an audience is going to understand that journey […] I drew upon a lot of those scenarios.

    The film ushers in a new age of “Vi-Fi” without succumbing to pulpy pandemic storytelling. Boyle gives us an antidote to cultural amnesia around the pandemic through Dr Kelson, the mad doctor played by Ralph Fiennes.

    Dr Kelson pushes against cultural erasure through his construction of a temple of bones: totems of tibias and a spire of skulls that honour the virus victims.

    The trailer for 28 Years Later.

    He touchingly explains that we are to remember death and remember love: “Every skull is a set of thoughts, these sockets saw, and these jaws swallowed.” Fiennes is adept at rendering this “crazy” loner character who has a knack for turning up at the right time; the effortlessness of his humanity is a pleasure to watch.

    Boyle explained: “The COVID memorial wall opposite parliament is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen … it sort of inspired Ralph Fiennes’ character and what he’s building as a gesture towards remembering everyone as a way of actually looking forwards, not a way of looking back.”

    After the creative inertia brought on by the COVID lockdowns, I’ve detected tectonic shifts in pandemic storytelling in my interviews with COVID authors.

    Stories like 28 Years Later that “quietly” insert the pandemic and push COVID into the background are considered the easiest to digest. These stories are part of a new, radical literary avant-garde that has emerged in contemporary literature to chronicle the COVID era.

    Pandemic fiction has become an oft-maligned genre; conversations on my podcast, Pandemic Pages, with emergency planner Professor Lucy Easthope and horror author Kylie Lee Baker confirm that literary festivals and agents have expressed reluctance to read or publish COVID fiction. Professor Easthope explained that many people just don’t feel ready to read about the pandemic.

    For Baker, it’s that many people simply find the associations too traumatic. However, judging from the reactions of cinema-goers when I saw 28 Years Later, there is an audience hungry for another serving of Boyle’s insatiable trilogy.

    Lucyl Harrison 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. The spectacular frenzy of 28 Years Later offers a new breed of pandemic storytelling – https://theconversation.com/the-spectacular-frenzy-of-28-years-later-offers-a-new-breed-of-pandemic-storytelling-259579

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The spectacular frenzy of 28 Years Later offers a new breed of pandemic storytelling

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucyl Harrison, PhD Candidate, School of Humanities, University of Hull

    Twenty-three years on from director Danny Boyle’s unforgettable film 28 Days Later, and five years on from COVID, horror is having a spectacular renaissance. With 28 Years Later, the franchise has returned to cinema as a mouthpiece for the unique pressures Britain is facing post-pandemic and post-Brexit.

    In 2020, speculative architect and director Liam Young said: “I’m sure the scripts for a new genre of virus fictions or ‘Vi-Fi’ are already in the works and perhaps that is the real opportunity of this present moment, to imagine the potential fictions and futures, and to prototype the new worlds that we all want to be a part of when the viral cloud lifts.” Well, here that vision is.

    In this film, Europe has contained the “rage virus” to Britain. There are French boats on quarantine patrols, Swedish soldiers mocking remaining mainlanders and St George’s flags burning.

    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.

    28 Years Later is set on Holy Island, off the coast of the UK. There, an isolated community is protected by tides which conceal and reveal a causeway through which islanders can leave to get to the mainland to forage.

    One of the film’s most adrenaline-spiking scenes comes in the form of a terrifying chase back to the island. A young boy named Spike (Alfie Williams) is hurrying back after performing his rite of passage ceremony in which he is instructed to kill infected people on the mainland. It’s sound-tracked to the transcendental tones of Wagner’s Das Rheingold prelude.

    Twenty-eight years on from the events of the first film, the infected have evolved. Boyle has re-imagined them in even more monstrous forms. Gore-lovers will enjoy the menacing new brand of infected – seven-foot “alphas” – who rip heads from the living and dangle their severed spines.

    An ode to COVID

    Talking about how the pandemic inspired 28 Years Later, Boyle told Sky News:

    Suddenly everybody’s capital city, everywhere around the world was the same. And what was incredible about it was obviously just this idea which had previously only really belonged to films, like our film, where culture is suddenly just stopped dead.

    Danny Boyle speaks about 28 Years Later.

    The film’s stars, Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor Johnson, meanwhile have both said that they drew from their real-life experiences of pandemic isolation for their roles as Spike’s Geordie parents. As Taylor explained:

    My son was 13, the same age as Alfie was when we were making this movie. I know what it was like to protect your family but also to not understand what was happening around us. And I thought it was interesting whilst reading this that an audience is going to understand that journey […] I drew upon a lot of those scenarios.

    The film ushers in a new age of “Vi-Fi” without succumbing to pulpy pandemic storytelling. Boyle gives us an antidote to cultural amnesia around the pandemic through Dr Kelson, the mad doctor played by Ralph Fiennes.

    Dr Kelson pushes against cultural erasure through his construction of a temple of bones: totems of tibias and a spire of skulls that honour the virus victims.

    The trailer for 28 Years Later.

    He touchingly explains that we are to remember death and remember love: “Every skull is a set of thoughts, these sockets saw, and these jaws swallowed.” Fiennes is adept at rendering this “crazy” loner character who has a knack for turning up at the right time; the effortlessness of his humanity is a pleasure to watch.

    Boyle explained: “The COVID memorial wall opposite parliament is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen … it sort of inspired Ralph Fiennes’ character and what he’s building as a gesture towards remembering everyone as a way of actually looking forwards, not a way of looking back.”

    After the creative inertia brought on by the COVID lockdowns, I’ve detected tectonic shifts in pandemic storytelling in my interviews with COVID authors.

    Stories like 28 Years Later that “quietly” insert the pandemic and push COVID into the background are considered the easiest to digest. These stories are part of a new, radical literary avant-garde that has emerged in contemporary literature to chronicle the COVID era.

    Pandemic fiction has become an oft-maligned genre; conversations on my podcast, Pandemic Pages, with emergency planner Professor Lucy Easthope and horror author Kylie Lee Baker confirm that literary festivals and agents have expressed reluctance to read or publish COVID fiction. Professor Easthope explained that many people just don’t feel ready to read about the pandemic.

    For Baker, it’s that many people simply find the associations too traumatic. However, judging from the reactions of cinema-goers when I saw 28 Years Later, there is an audience hungry for another serving of Boyle’s insatiable trilogy.

    Lucyl Harrison 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. The spectacular frenzy of 28 Years Later offers a new breed of pandemic storytelling – https://theconversation.com/the-spectacular-frenzy-of-28-years-later-offers-a-new-breed-of-pandemic-storytelling-259579

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arshin Adib-Moghaddam, Professor in Global Thought and Comparative Philosophies, Director of Centre for AI Futures, SOAS, University of London

    While there’s been much negative discussion about AI, including on the possibility that it will take over the world, the public is also being bombarded with positive messages about the technology, and what it can do.

    This “good AI” myth is a key tool used by tech companies to promote their products. Yet there’s evidence that consumers are wary of the presence of AI in some products. This means that positive promotion of AI may be putting unwanted pressure on people to accept the use of AI in their lives.

    AI is becoming so ubiquitous that people may be losing their ability to say no to using it. It’s in smartphones, smart TVs, smart speakers like Alexa and virtual assistants like Siri. We’re constantly told that our privacy will be protected. But with the personal nature of the data that AI has access to in these devices, can we afford to trust such assurances?

    Some politicians also propagate the “good AI” promise with immense conviction, mirroring the messages coming from tech companies.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    My current research is partly explained in a new book called the The Myth of Good AI. This research shows that the data feeding our AI systems is biased, as it often over-represents privileged sections of the population and mainstream attitudes.

    This means that any AI products that don’t include data from marginalised people, or minorities, might discriminate against them. This explains why AI systems continue to be riddled with racism, ageism and various forms of gender discrimination, for instance.

    The speed with which this technology is impinging on our everyday life, makes it very hard to properly assess the consequences. And an approach to AI that is more critical of how it works does not make for good marketing for the tech companies.

    Power structures

    Positive ideas about AI and its abilities are currently dominating all aspects of AI innovation. This is partly determined by state interests and by the profit margins of the tech companies.

    These are tied into the power structures held up by tech multi-billionaires, and, in some places, their influence on governments. The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, despite its recent souring, is a vivid manifestation of this.

    And so, the public is at the receiving end of a distinctly hierarchical top-down system, from the big tech companies and their governmental enablers to users. In this way, we are made to consume, with little to no influence over how the technology is used. This positive AI ideology is therefore primarily about money and power.

    As it stands, there is no global movement with a unifying manifesto that would bring together societies to leverage AI for the benefit of communities of people, or to safeguard our right to privacy. This “right to be left alone”, codified in the US constitution and international human rights law, is a central pillar of my argument. It is also something that is almost entirely absent from the assurances about AI made by the big tech companies.

    Yet, some of the risks of the technology are already evident. A database compiling cases in which lawyers around the world used AI, identified 157 cases in which false AI-generated information – so called hallucinations – skewed legal rulings.

    Some forms of AI can also be manipulated to blackmail and extort, or create blueprints for murder and terrorism.

    Tech companies need to programme the algorithms with data that represents everyone, not just the privileged, in order to reduce discrimination. In this way, the public are not forced to give into the consensus that AI will solve many of our problems, without proper supervision by society. This distinction between the ability to think creatively, ethically and intuitively may be the most fundamental faultline between human and machine.

    It’s up to ordinary people to question the good AI myth. A critical approach to AI should contribute to the creation of more socially relevant and responsible technology, a technology that is already trialled in torture scenarios, as the book discusses, too.

    The point at which AI systems would outdo us in every task is expected to be a decade or so away. In the meantime there needs to be resistance to this attack on our right to privacy, and more awareness of just how AI works.

    Arshin Adib-Moghaddam 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. Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-the-public-needs-to-challenge-the-good-ai-myth-pushed-by-tech-companies-259200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Business leaders have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy – a 10-year plan to promote growth.

    Business leaders from across the UK have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy. The Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services.

    Joint statement from business groups: 

    “The Industrial Strategy launched today marks a significant step forward and a valuable opportunity for the business community to rally behind a new vision for the UK—boosting confidence, sentiment, and enthusiasm for investment. 

    “From start-ups and small businesses to large corporates, businesses need a more attractive, stable environment that enables faster, easier, and more certain investment decisions.  

    “We welcome the Government’s engagement with businesses across the UK. Much of what we’ve shared has been heard and reflected in this strategy. While there’s more to do, we are ready to support the next steps. 

    “We encourage businesses nationwide to get behind this strategy and champion the UK as the best place to live, work, invest, and do business.” 

    Statement on behalf of: 

    • Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce 

    • Rain Newton-Smith, Director General, Confederation of British Industry 

    • Aaron Asadi, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Nation 

    • Tina McKenzie, Policy and Advocacy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses 

    • Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK 

    • Michelle Ovens, Founder, Small Business Britain 

    • Dom Hallas, Executive Director, Startup Coalition 

    Advanced Manufacturing 

    Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, Chief Executive, Royal Academy of Engineering:

    “We are delighted to see the announcement of new skills packages for tech, engineering and defence, recognising that the Industrial Strategy’s objectives simply cannot be delivered without a significant boost to investment in our engineering and tech talent base. These packages provide a much-needed opportunity for government to take a holistic view of the rapidly changing skills landscape, and to work with partners across industry and professional bodies to make sure the UK tackles its longstanding skills and diversity deficits in these crucial areas. Today is International Women in Engineering Day – a reminder that we still have much to do to deliver equitable participation in these high-value jobs, and better outcomes for people from all parts of the UK. 

    “The Royal Academy of Engineering looks forward to supporting government in taking forward these recommendations, including through our new Skills Centre. We also welcome the publication of the Technology Adoption Review and hope that this will result in meaningful action to increase the capacity of the UK’s industrial base and public sector to deploy existing technologies at the scale and pace demanded in today’s tech-driven world.” 

    John Harrison, General Counsel and Head of Public Affairs, Airbus:

    “Airbus welcomes the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy. Having worked closely with the Government to help shape this plan, we are delighted to see it deliver a long-term vision, built on a genuine partnership with industry.  

    “The firm long-term commitment to the full innovation lifecycle, from R&D in the Aerospace Technology Institute to a focus on commercialisation and supply chain resilience, provides the confidence and stability needed to fuel innovation and anchor high-value manufacturing in the UK for decades to come. The significant new investment in skills is also critical, creating a strong pipeline of engineering and digital talent, which will be the foundation for developing the sustainable technologies of the future, from hydrogen-powered aircraft to next-generation space systems. We stand ready to help turn this ambitious strategy into a reality for British industry.” 

    Clean Energy  

    Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK:

    “Energy UK welcomes the Government’s new Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries sector plan, which rightly recognise the pivotal role energy will play across the whole economy, powering growth through digitalisation and electrification, boosting regional prosperity and delivering economic security and resilience.   

    “Stable, affordable energy prices will help ensure that the UK remains a competitive place to do business, and in an increasingly uncertain global operating environment, clean power will deliver energy security. Focussing on priority technologies where the UK has global expertise will deliver a strong competitive advantage for our businesses and economy.   

    “We know the investment necessary to decarbonise the economy will mostly be funded by the private sector. Clarity on Government policy, removal of the barriers to investment and targeted support are all essential to meet this ambition.”     

    Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary, Prospect Union:  

    “Boosting clean energy is not only an important mission in its own right, it is central to the success of every other sector. It is welcome to see the government doubling down on this mission, focusing investment on key technologies like renewables and nuclear energy, and recognising the key role that trade unions play as partners in this strategy.  

    “Securing the investment is important, but perhaps the biggest challenge in this area is around the workforce. The energy workforce is undergoing an unprecedented transition, which creates opportunities for many but also serious challenges that need to be addressed.  

    “Delivering on this strategy in a way which creates prosperity and supports jobs will require the government’s forthcoming energy workforce plan to be as ambitious as possible and fully backed by all parts of government.”  

    Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive Designate, SSE plc:

    “The government’s industrial strategy is a welcome signal of long-term thinking and ambition – doubling down on homegrown energy is the right thing for security, resilience and affordability, making the most of the UK’s competitive geographical and technical advantages in renewables in particular. It’s exactly the kind of commitment that gives industry the confidence to deliver at pace and scale, and with important decisions on energy policy expected in the weeks ahead, we hope to see a continued focus on unlocking investment that drives growth. As the UK’s clean energy champion, SSE is investing £17.5bn over five years to 2027 – building the infrastructure, creating high-quality jobs, supporting the supply chain and driving the innovation needed to deliver a net zero economy.” 

    Creative Industries 

    Caroline Norbury, Chief Executive, Creative UK: 

    “The Sector Plan signals that the creative industries are central to the UK’s growth story. From freelancers to scale-ups, this is a step towards the joined-up support our sector needs – and Creative UK stands ready to work with government and industry partners to turn ambition into action.  

    “As we move into delivery mode, it’s essential that all parts of the sector – from cultural organisations to creative tech firms – are empowered to grow, invest and contribute fully to the UK’s economic future.” 

    Dana Strong, Sky Group CEO:  

    “We warmly welcome the Government’s support for the UK’s creative industries in today’s Industrial Strategy. The media and entertainment sector is a cultural powerhouse and a key driver of growth, with the potential to add £10 billion to the economy and create 40,000 jobs by 2033. Seizing this opportunity is vital to maintaining the UK’s global leadership in creativity.” 

    Alison Lomax, Managing Director, YouTube UK & Ireland:  

    “We welcome the Creative Industries Sector Plan’s commitment to a robust framework for creatives across the UK. It’s particularly encouraging to see the government acknowledge the digital creator economy’s vital role in driving growth for our creative industries. By embracing new distribution models that boost our cultural exports, this vision will solidify the UK’s position as a global cultural superpower.” 

    Defence 

    David Lockwood OBE, CEO, Babcock International:

    “We welcome the release of the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy today, setting out the strategic direction for critical sectors including advanced manufacturing, space and nuclear. The Government’s intent to back British businesses and invest in sovereign industries will lay the foundations for economic growth and unleash the potential of the growth sectors to drive prosperity across the UK. We look forward to the publication of the Defence Sector Plan, and working with the Government to bolster the British defence industrial base and safeguard our national and economic security.” 

    Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems: 

    “The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy rightly recognises the importance of investing in skills and developing a workforce for the future. The UK’s defence sector is a powerhouse of skilled employment and training. Across the supply chain, it’s critical that we continue to invest in our people, just as much as we invest in technology, to ensure we can deliver the capabilities our armed forces need to stay ahead in an era of increasing instability. 

    “That’s why, this year alone, BAE Systems is recruiting more than 2,400 new apprentices and graduates across the UK and we recognise the importance of government, industry and academia working together to develop the talent needed to support this critical high growth sector.” 

    Paul Livingston CBE, Chief Executive, Lockheed Martin UK & NATO: 

    “Lockheed Martin welcomes publication of the UK government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and especially its identification of defence, space, and digital technologies as core areas for driving economic growth and expanding mutually beneficial international partnerships with the United States, NATO and their allies. With 28 facilities spanning the length and breadth of the country we’re committed to combining the best skills, expertise and technologies from the UK and the United States to boost capacity, sustain jobs and deliver economic benefits in both countries.” 

    Digital and Tech 

    Antony Walker, Deputy CEO, techUK: 

    “Today, the government has outlined welcome measures to boost confidence for the UK tech sector and the wider economy. 

    “techUK has long called for the Industrial Strategy to focus on strengthening the conditions for growth of the UK tech sector and accelerating the adoption of new technologies across the economy and public services. 

    “In an era of rapid technological change, the government must now work in true partnership with business to bolster investment and digital adoption across the whole of the UK economy and secure the country’s competitive advantage in key markets, including semiconductors and AI. techUK, and our members, stand ready to support this government to do so.” 

    Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive, BT Group: 

     “Long-term plans which have positive impact pay.  

    “BT has invested over £24bn in the UK so far this decade and will invest a further £20bn before it’s done, to upgrade the country’s digital infrastructure.  

    “That’s why we welcome the Government’s Industrial Strategy for the decade ahead. 

    “And it’s great to see it give telecoms prominence: at the centre of a high-growth sector as well as a lever for growth in the wider economy.  

    “We look forward to working more with Government on steps they can take to unlock further growth, and make sure the UK’s record-breaking fibre success story is followed fast by an acceleration in 5G too.” 

    Emily Turner, UK CEO, HSBC Innovation Banking:

    “I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out positive steps to back the UK’s growth driving sectors, particularly Digital and Technologies. This ten-year strategy will help position the UK as an open and attractive destination for talent and investment, at a time when global competition is particularly acute.  ”We look forward to working closely with our clients and the government to ensure the effective implementation of the sector plans to help realise the full ambition of the UK’s industrial strategy, while ensuring that it remains flexible to keep pace with technological developments.” 

    Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK:

    “This is a really progressive plan from the Government. Cutting red tape, reducing energy costs, accelerating the delivery of new projects and ensuring the UK has a highly skilled workforce to take advantage of the AI economy. These are all critical factors in encouraging investment from businesses here in the UK and around the world.” 

    Vishal Marria, Founder and CEO, Quantexa:  

    “This Industrial Strategy is a key moment for the UK’s growth economy. By addressing structural headwinds like energy costs and grid access, the government is unlocking the potential of British industry. As a UK-founded data and AI company, we welcome the vision to make Britain the best place to build, scale, and invest. Lowering business electricity costs, accelerating clean energy, and prioritising digital skills are vital for sectors like technology, financial services, defence, and advanced manufacturing – all of which will rely on AI and trusted data to compete and lead. This strategy is the bold signal of confidence UK industry has been waiting for.” 

    Financial Services 

    Hannah Gurga, Director General, ABI:  

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy delivers a clear long-term growth vision, commitment to genuine partnership with business and the regulatory certainty firms need to thrive. We’re pleased that financial services has been recognised as a key growth sector and look forward to working with government on the detailed sector plan. 

    “The expansion of the British Business Bank’s capacity and its new £6.6 billion growth-capital commitment will unlock vital funding to support smaller UK businesses and drive growth.” 

    Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK:  

    “The ambitions of today’s Industrial Strategy are laudable, highlighting the priorities for national growth.  Financial and related professional services are crucial to its success, from unlocking private capital for innovative businesses to increasing investible opportunities across the regions and nations. 

    “We believe that supporting growth across whole country is particularly important and we are pleased to see the establishment of the Strategic Investment Opportunities Unit within the Office for Investment. This is the first critical step in the proposal we’ve been pushing to attract investors and capital. 

    “Transforming both the planning and public procurement processes, making it easier for businesses to bring in global talent whilst addressing the skills shortfall here in the UK, and strengthening global market partnerships are vital for future proofing the economy and are steps where our industry has long called for action. 

    “The detailed delivery plans for each of the eight sectors of the Industrial Strategy will be critical to realising its ambition. We look forward to seeing these. The vital issue now is delivery. We are committed to working closely with government and the regulators on the successful execution of these ambitions.” 

    James Alexander, CEO, UKSIF: 

    “We welcome the overarching ambition of the Industrial Strategy, which feels like a generational shift in thinking. This rightly recognises that government and investors need to work in partnership through a shared vision so we can make the UK the ‘sustainable finance capital of the world’.” 

    Life Sciences 

    Richard Torbett, Chief Executive, ABPI: 

    “This strategy sets out a clear vision for how to grow the UK economy and is rightly focused on many of the key inputs the country needs to get right to create the conditions for success. The task now must be to move quickly from planning to delivery, rapidly boosting UK attractiveness for investment and returning the country to international competitiveness.   “For UK life sciences, a successful strategy means ensuring the UK is not only a cutting-edge place to research and develop the medicine of the future, but also a country which seeks to embrace and use the life-changing innovations we are developing. This will be the key litmus test for success in the upcoming life science sector plan and the NHS 10-year plan, where we hope to see more detail.” 

    Steve Bates OBE, CEO, UK BioIndustry Association (BIA): 

     “The Industrial Strategy has prioritised the life sciences sector because it will disproportionately drive economic growth over the next decade and help deliver an NHS fit for the future. 

    “SMEs are the lifeblood of this innovative industry and a strength of the UK ecosystem, securing £3.7 billion investment last year, much of it from overseas. We are on the verge of creating a new generation of globally-impactful companies, so it is a smart move by Government to establish a dedicated support service to help 10–20 high-potential UK life science companies scale, attract investment, and remain headquartered in the UK. 

    “The £4 billion British Business Bank Industrial Strategy Growth Capital initiative will bring new agility to support fledgling companies and cutting-edge technologies as part of the pro-innovation Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Bank as they establish this programme for our sector. 

    “These, alongside improved health data resources for innovators, faster clinical trials, more streamlined and joined-up medicines regulation and access pathways, and investments in medicines manufacturing, mean this Industrial Strategy and the upcoming Life Sciences Sector Plan deliver across the breadth of BIA’s priorities on behalf of our members. These plans are just the beginning, however, as we will now get down to the serious work of delivering these commitments in partnership with the Government.” 

    Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President, Academy of Medical Sciences:   

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy represents a significant step forward for UK life sciences – placing the sector at the heart of our economic future and recognising health and wealth are inseparable. This bold vision acknowledges what the Academy of Medical Sciences has long argued: that our world-leading research institutions, the NHS and our exceptional scientific talent can drive national and regional renewal in ways no other sector can match.  

    “We are particularly encouraged by the Government’s ambitious goal to make the UK the leading life sciences economy in Europe by 2030, and the third most important globally by 2035. This scale of ambition, combined with over £2bn of committed funding, demonstrates the recognition that life sciences uniquely delivers both economic prosperity and improved health outcomes for all.   

    “The strategy’s focus on pillars for the life sciences – supporting world-class R&D, making the UK an outstanding place to start and grow life sciences businesses, and driving health innovation through NHS reform – provides the framework needed to unlock the sector’s full potential. We welcome the commitment to continue investing in discovery research alongside applied sciences, ensuring we maintain curiosity-driven research that underpins future breakthroughs.  

    “Alignment with the forthcoming NHS 10-Year Health Plan offers unprecedented opportunity to ensure that cutting-edge innovations deliver rapid benefits for patients whilst driving economic growth. We look forward to the detailed life sciences sector plan that will translate these ambitions into action, and will continue working with Government to deliver this vision where scientific excellence drives both patient benefit and national prosperity as the UK achieves its full potential as a global leader in life sciences.”   

    Professional and Business Services 

    Malcolm Gomersall, CEO, Grant Thornton UK:   

    “The publication of the Industrial Strategy is a welcome step forward in setting out a clear, long-term path for growth in the sectors that are powering our economy.   

    “The strategy and the Professional and Business Services plan reflect our own investment priorities for the future, such as increased tech and AI adoption, fostering a highly skilled workforce in areas such as cyber security, digital and net zero transition and growing our specialist capabilities which support the expansion of our clients into international markets. I welcome the clear intention that the wider sector deliver this strategy in partnership with the Government through the Professional and Business Services Council. 

    “As an employer of over 5,500 people in one UK’s fastest growing and most resilient sectors, ourown journey and track record over recent years has been remarkable. To achieve our ambitious growth plans, we know that we need to continue investing in the future, which means ensuring our people have the right skills and tools for a new era of business.” 

    Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner, KPMG: 

    “The UK is the second-largest exporter of professional and business services, making our industry central to this country’s economic strength. We are at the forefront of the AI revolution, we are major employers of diverse talent and we support businesses of all sizes across the country. As a global success story it’s only right that we’re recognised as a high growth sector.  

    “This industrial strategy makes bold choices and sets clear priorities. Its impact will come from a genuine partnership between Government and business, working together on wins to really unlock the growth, profitability and investment that will shape the UK’s future.” 

    Rachel Taylor, Government and Health Industries Leader, PwC: 

    “An industrial strategy without business is just a wish list. The UK Government’s new strategy sets a welcome direction – and business stands ready to turn ambition into action. 

    “Skills are the new growth currency. The Strategy sets out a bold plan to close the UK’s skills gap, and this will make important steps in addressing business leaders’ concerns that we are losing top talent to other countries. We must work together – government, business and our world-class education institutions – to build the workforce of the future and keep that talent here. 

    “Business is ready to lean in. With the right framework, we can unlock investment, drive innovation and deliver the growth and opportunity this strategy sets out to achieve.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth raises the flag, marking the start of Armed Forces Week

    Source: City of Plymouth

    The Armed Forces Flag was raised today following a ceremony outside Plymouth Guildhall, marking the start of Armed Forces Week.

    The ceremony was attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kathy Watkin and Captain Iain Ritchie representing the Naval Base Commander, alongside other military and civic leaders.

    The flag will be flown all week, as events take place across the city, including the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy on Thursday 26 June and Armed Forces Day in association with Babcock International, on Saturday 28 June, both on Plymouth Hoe.

    Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Events, said: “Plymouth is incredibly proud of its military history and Armed Forces based in the city. Armed Forces Week is an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to our military, from serving personnel to reservists, veterans and cadets, for all the admirable work they do.

    “On Thursday we are extremely privileged to be able to hold the Strength of Spirit Games, ahead of celebrating Armed Forces Day on Plymouth Hoe, which is looking to be a truly spectacular event.”

    Captain Iain Richie, HMNB Devonport’s Captain of the Base (COB) said: “Armed Forces Week in Plymouth is a celebration of the strong relationship between the Armed Forces based in and around the city and the community that supports us.  People will know that ships, submarines, Commandos, Gunners, and medical personnel from Plymouth are continually deployed to protect the UK and provide stability around the globe; none of that would be possible without the support of the people of Plymouth. Events this week will showcase our close bond with the city.”

    Visitors are encouraged to come along to Plymouth Hoe and watch the athletes compete in the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, sponsored by AECOM and Defence Recovery. The event starts with the swim at Tinside Lido, followed by the cycle and static row, before crossing the all-important finish line!

    For the second year running the games will include the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge, sponsored by AECOM, from 10am to 11.15am, also on Plymouth Hoe. This will see children from military families will take part in their own thrilling rowing challenge, representing 24 local primary schools.

    Darren Carlile, Head of National Security UK&I AECOM, said: “AECOM is proud to stand behind the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel and veterans. As a former member of the Corps of Royal Engineers and a colleague to many fellow veterans, I witness daily the exceptional skills and value they bring to our organisation.

    “We’re honoured to once again support the Strength of Spirit Games, including the inspiring Rehabilitation Triathlon, and we’ll be cheering on all the remarkable athletes taking part. We’re also thrilled to back the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge and wish every student competing the very best of luck.”

    There will be plenty more interactive displays, military equipment, thrilling demonstrations, and entertainment to enjoy at Armed Forces Day, delivered in association with Babcock , on Saturday, from 10am. Visitors can get up close to the Merlin Mk4 helicopter and chat to the aircrew, and watch an air demonstration from 4pm, with the Swordfish W5856, Yak-52 and the Black Cats Helicopter Display. (Subject to weather).

    John Gane, Site Managing Director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, said: “Celebrating the significant contribution that our Armed Forces bring to the nation through this series of events is fantastic. As a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, an employer of veterans and reservists, and one of the UK’s largest defence businesses, it is a privilege to support Plymouth Armed Forces Day again this year.

    “We’ve got an action-packed display planned on 28 June, featuring plenty of hands-on activities for all ages, including a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) challenges to try, and where you can find out more about the wide range of career opportunities available, including our award-winning apprenticeships.”

    Armed Forces Day will see ‘villages’ set up across the Hoe, from each Military Service, Emergency Services and the Veterans Village supported by the Royal British Legion Devon County, which includes over 100 charities and organisations offering information and advice, plus lots of hands-on activities to try.

    There will be a range of live music performances throughout the day, finishing with a free evening concert, sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring: Company B, Not the Cowboys, Be Here Now and Good Times.

    Both military events are supported by sponsors and partners – thank you to Babcock International, Royal British Legion Devon County, C&G Catering, Foster for Plymouth, South West Highways, Plymouth Citybus and Ivor Dewdney for supporting Armed Forces Day. And AECOM, Defence Recovery with delivery partners: South West Highways, Plymouth Active Leisure and Samworth Brothers Cornwall for supporting the Strength of Spirit Games.

    For all the latest information about Plymouth Armed Forces Day including the full programme, and the Strength of Spirit Games, visit: plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –