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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN deputy chief: Strong food systems can deliver progress for everyone, everywhere

    Source: United Nations 2

    SDGs

    In a series of meetings in Nairobi, Kenya, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed spearheaded discussions on fortifying global food systems and advancing sustainable development, setting the stage for the upcoming fourth UN Food Systems Summit.

    Ms. Mohammed’ s high-level meetings, which took place between 22 and 25 February, aimed at addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time: the transformation of global food systems.

    These discussions are a precursor to the much-anticipated UN Food Systems Summit +4 (UNFSS+4), scheduled for July 28-30, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and co-hosted by the governments of Ethiopia and Italy.

    Ms. Mohammed emphasized the critical need for a holistic approach to food systems. “Transforming our food systems is essential to driving progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and delivering for everyone, everywhere,” she stated.

    Her words resonated deeply with the diverse group of stakeholders present, including government officials, private sector leaders, and representatives from civil society.

    ‘We need all hands on deck’

    The meetings in Nairobi were not just about dialogue; they were a call to action. Ms. Mohammed highlighted the importance of public-private-community partnerships in achieving sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems. “We need all hands on deck to reach food systems transformations with the impact to advance on the 2030 Agenda,” she urged.

    One of the key themes of the discussions was the urgent need to enhance financial mechanisms to support food systems transformation. The UN deputy chief underscored the significance of securing concessional finance, investments, budget support, and debt restructuring. She pointed to the proposed SDG Stimulus of $500 billion a year as a potential game-changer, offering fiscal space and resources to drive this transformation.

    Ms. Mohammed also addressed the challenges posed by rising living costs, social inequalities, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. She stressed that these global issues require a coordinated and comprehensive response. “Our efforts must be integrated and inclusive, ensuring that no one is left behind,” she said.

    During her visit, Ms. Mohammed engaged with member states, private sector leaders, and National Convenors of Food Systems Pathways from 27 countries, both in person and virtually. These sessions, held over two days, emphasized the urgency of collective action to transform food systems.

    Food security and education for all

    As part of her engagements in Nairobi, the Deputy Secretary-General visited Giga Kitchen, an initiative by Food4Education led by Wawira Njiru, the UN in Kenya Person of the Year in 2021.

    Food4Education has demonstrated the power of innovation and collaboration in tackling food insecurity. In just two years, the organization has scaled up from feeding 10,000 children per day to 500,000, proving that community-driven initiatives, when supported by strategic partnerships, can achieve transformative impact at scale.

    By leveraging technology, efficient supply chains, and innovative community engagement, Food4Education has not only expanded access to nutritious meals but also created a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both children and small-scale farmers. Through direct sourcing from smallholder farmers, the initiative has ensured a consistent market for local producers, strengthening food systems while promoting economic empowerment.

    This model highlights how innovative, community-driven solutions can effectively and sustainably address food insecurity when integrated with government support and multi-stakeholder collaboration. By rethinking traditional approaches and embracing scalable, technology-driven solutions, initiatives like Food4Education set a precedent for sustainable development in food security and nutrition.

    © UNEP/Ahmed Nayim Yussuf

    Upcoming UN summit

    Looking ahead to the UNFSS+4, Ms. Mohammed expressed optimism about the potential for meaningful progress. “We have the opportunity to reshape the global narrative around food systems, making them a key lever to accelerate and reinforce SDG progress,” she remarked.

    The summit, she noted, will build on the momentum generated by previous efforts and set the stage for a new era of food systems transformation.

    In concluding her mission, the Deputy Secretary-General convened a kick-off meeting hosted at AGRA Headquarters in Nairobi to launch the preparatory process for the UNFSS+4.

    AGRA, an agency driving a food system-inspired inclusive agricultural transformation across Africa, brought together the UN Food Systems Advisory Group, high-level experts, and thought leaders to define the vision, strategy, and roadmap for the Summit. National convenors in participation shared insights on breakthroughs, priority needs, and expectations, shaping the direction of the UNFSS+4 programme.

    While still at AGRA, Ms. Mohammed engaged with more than 200 staff members, commending them for their commitment to transforming African agriculture. She acknowledged AGRA’s African-led approach, which has been instrumental in scaling agricultural innovations to improve the lives of smallholder farmers.

    “AGRA stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience, offering uniquely African solutions to the challenges faced by smallholder farmers,” she remarked. “Your work is not just about increasing agricultural productivity – it is about empowering communities, ensuring food security, and building sustainable livelihoods.”

    Reflecting on AGRA’s achievements since its inception in 2006, she noted that its proven solutions have played a pivotal role in strengthening African food systems, improving farmer incomes, and fostering economic growth. She urged continued innovation, investment, and collaboration to accelerate progress toward sustainable agriculture and food security across the continent.

    As the world faces increasing challenges in food security, UNFSS+4 represents a critical opportunity to rally global action, foster innovation, and strengthen partnerships to create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems for the future.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after teenage boy was shot in Clapham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met has launched a murder investigation after a boy was shot in Clapham.

    Police were called at 15:21hrs on Tuesday, 4 March to reports of a shooting in Paradise Road, SW4.

    Officers attended the scene along with London’s Air Ambulance and London Ambulance Service.

    Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, the 16-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Officers are working at pace to identify the teenager and contact his next of kin.

    Superintendent Gabriel Cameron, who is leading the local policing response, said:

    “This is an enormously shocking incident which I imagine will cause huge distress to the local community.

    “Our thoughts are with the young boy’s family at this devastating time.

    “Local officers are on the scene gathering CCTV and speaking to witnesses to piece together what has happened. They will be supported by specialist homicide investigators shortly.

    “Please rest assured we will work around the clock to identify and find those responsible.”

    No arrests have been made at this early stage of the investigation.

    A crime scene and cordons remain in place while emergency services undertake their enquiries, which are ongoing.

    If you were a witness or have any information, please call police on 101 with the reference 4116/4MAR.

    You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 if you want to remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: 10/2025・Trifork Group AG – Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 10 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 4 March 2025


    Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Pursuant to the Market Abuse Regulation Article 19, Trifork Group AG (Swiss company registration number CHE-474.101.854) (“Trifork”) hereby notifies receipt of information of the following transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities in Trifork.

    1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities/person closely associated
    a) Name Jørn Larsen
    2. Reason for the notification
    a) Position/status CEO
    b) Initial notification/
    Amendment    		 Initial notification
    3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor
    a) Name Trifork Group AG
    b) LEI 8945004BYZKXPESTBL36
    4.1 Details of the transaction(s)
    a) Description of the financial instrument, type of instrument

    Identification code

    		 Shares

    ISIN CH1111227810
    b) Nature of the transaction Sale
    c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s)
    DKK 83.55 60,000
    d) Aggregated information
    —
    Aggregated volume —
    Price    		 Total volume: 60,000

    Total price: DKK 83.55

    Total value: DKK 5,013,000
    e) Date of the transaction 3 March 2025
    f) Place of the transaction Nasdaq Copenhagen (XCSE)


    Investor and media contact
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director, frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17


    About Trifork
    Trifork is a pioneering global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative solutions. With 1,229 professionals across 73 business units in 16 countries, Trifork delivers expertise in inspiring, building, and running advanced software solutions across diverse sectors, including public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. Trifork Labs, the Group’s R&D hub, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic and high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is a publicly listed company on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Popular cycle path set for extension this summer

    Source: City of Plymouth

    The existing path at Broxton Drive

    Works on an extension to one of Plymstock’s most popular off-road walking and cycling routes will begin later this year.

    The addition to the path will extend the well-used route that runs from the Laira Bridge all the way past Saltram Meadow by opening an old blocked-off bridge under Colesdown Hill and providing a new crossing across Elburton Road.

    The attractive, traffic-free route will be accessible to walkers, cyclists, mobility scooters and parents with pushchairs. The proposal also includes lighting and a crossing of the quarry access road to ensure that the path is safe and convenient for all users.  

    This is part of a three kilometre route which has been completed in phases, as funding has allowed, since the opening of Laira Rail Bridge in 2015 to walkers and cyclists.

    Work is scheduled to begin this summer, following the approval of a £1.15million budget, funded from Section 106 contributions.

    Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Transport and Infrastructure, said: “I’m thrilled to be able to deliver this crucial piece of sustainable transport infrastructure.

    “We always promised that this section would be done in stages and this is the next crucial piece of the puzzle, allowing pedestrians and cyclists a traffic free route over a number of miles.

    “I look forward to work beginning.”

    The new funding will complement an existing £2.8million pot, which has been obtained from grant and Section 106 funding.

    Over the next few months, a contractor will be appointed and planning permission will be finalised before residents in the area are directly notified of a precise start date.

    With 30 per cent of our carbon emissions coming from transport, encouraging walking and cycling for all abilities is crucial to Plymouth’s overall net zero aspirations.

    More information on Plymouth’s walking and cycling programme can be found at https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/plymotion

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Research Cultures Strategy unveiled by University of Aberdeen The University of Aberdeen has today launched a new Research Cultures Strategy designed to foster an inclusive environment and provide a purposeful approach to strengthening how colleagues work together.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen has today launched a new Research Cultures Strategy designed to foster an inclusive environment and provide a purposeful approach to strengthening how colleagues work together.
    The Strategy recognises and supports the diverse research cultures that already exist at the University, while looking for opportunities to find synergies between them and to connect these to the broader institutional vision.
    Drawing on conversations with colleagues across the University to understand priorities within diverse research cultures, the Strategy focusses on embedding four positive ways of working: 
    The Strategy responds to important developments across the sector on improving research culture for all. It embodies the belief that how research is done is as important as the research itself, and is a strategy that includes all staff who undertake and enable research across the University.
    The Strategy aligns closely with Aberdeen 2040, the University’s overarching strategic vision, which seeks to create a university that is more connected, inclusive and sustainable – breaking down boundaries within and beyond the institution.

    This is a living strategy that will continue to evolve in response to feedback and evidence. Together, we will drive positive change and achieve our ambitions for the future.” Professor Nick Forsyth, the University’s Vice-Principal for Research

    Professor Nick Forsyth, the University’s Vice-Principal for Research said: “We are proud of what we have achieved in co-developing this strategy and are excited about the journey ahead. This is a living strategy that will continue to evolve in response to feedback and evidence. Together, we will drive positive change and achieve our ambitions for the future.”
    Professor Ben Tatler, the University’s Dean for Research Culture said: “Research thrives when we provide the right conditions for people to work in. Our aim with this strategy was to talk to people involved in research across the University to understand how these conditions are changing and are likely to change. From these conversations, we have co-developed a strategy that can adapt as the needs of our research community change over time and can reflect the developing understanding of research culture in the sector. By focusing on how we work together we can build a research environment that is inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable.”
    Dr Liz Rattray, Director of Research and Innovation said “Our Research Cultures Strategy is both forward-looking and firmly aligned with national priorities. What sets our approach apart is its authenticity—shaped by the insights and experiences of our research community and designed to be both practical and progressive. By prioritising ways of working over fixed goals, we ensure that our strategy remains adaptable, innovative, and capable of driving meaningful change that benefits staff, students, and partners alike.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bite back and help stop loan sharks

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents are urged to join the Bite Back Week fight against loan sharks and to find out more on staying safe from illegal money lenders.

    The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is working with a host of partners, including the City Council, to stage Bite Back Week from Monday 10 March to Friday 14 March.

    It includes visits to venues across the city to raise awareness about the dangers of loan sharks and ways that people can borrow safely. There’s also advice and support to anyone who thinks they may have borrowed from a loan shark already.

    • Monday 10 March, the team will be at the Gentoo offices in City Hall, Plater Way, from 9.30am to noon and then at the Bread and Butter Thing at Chance, Rickerby Street, East End, from 1pm
    • Tuesday 11 March, they will be at the Beacon of Light School in Stadium Park
    • Wednesday 12 March,  from 10am to 1pm, the team, along with mascot Sid the Shark, will be at The Galleries Shopping Centre, Washington
    • Thursday 13 March, they will be visiting Sunderland College – Bede Campus from 9.30am to noon and City Campus from 1 to 3pm
    • Friday 14 March, they will be at the Bread and Butter Thing at Southwick Neighbourhood Youth Project, in Southwick Road, from 11am.

    The City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, Councillor Beth Jones said: “There is no place in our city for loan sharks who take advantage of people who are struggling with their household finances. Residents concerned about their bills and outgoings can always speak to commissioned advice providers (Get help and advice – Sunderland City Council) such as Citizens Advice Sunderland, ShARP and Sunderland West Advice Project or take up opportunities like these visits from the national team.

    “There are many and far more better ways of borrowing safely and managing money than going to a loan shark. Working together and with local information we can all help put a stop to the illegal lenders who prey on people. Borrowing money from a loan shark might seem easy, convenient or even tempting, but it can make financial problems much, much worse.”

    The Illegal Money Lending Team was created in 2004 to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders and support borrowers.

    Dave Benbow, head of the IMLT which is also known as Stop Loan Sharks, said: “Illegal lenders are often well known in communities and this Bite Back Week aims to reach anyone who might be vulnerable, or who might have been targeted already.”

    The IMLT is a national team that was created in 2004 to investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders and support borrowers.

    Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call its 24/7 confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Coface SA: Disclosure of total number of voting rights and number of shares in the capital as at 28 February 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COFACE SA: Disclosure of total number of voting rights and number of shares in the capital as at 28 February 2025

    Paris, 4 March 2025 – 17.45

    Total Number of
    Shares Capital    		 Theoretical Number of Voting Rights1 Number of Real
    Voting Rights2
    150,179,792 150,179,792 149,677,830

    (1)   including own shares
    (2)   excluding own shares

      Regulated documents posted by COFACE SA have been secured and authenticated with the blockchain technology by Wiztrust. You can check the authenticity on the website www.wiztrust.com.

    About Coface

    COFACE SA is a société anonyme (joint-stock corporation), with a Board of Directors (Conseil d’Administration) incorporated under the laws of France, and is governed by the provisions of the French Commercial Code. The Company is registered with the Nanterre Trade and Companies Register (Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés) under the number 432 413 599. The Company’s registered office is at 1 Place Costes et Bellonte, 92270 Bois Colombes, France.

    At the date of 31 December 2024, the Company’s share capital amounts to €300,359,584, divided into 150,179,792 shares, all of the same class, and all of which are fully paid up and subscribed.

    All regulated information is available on the company’s website (http://www.coface.com/Investors).

    Coface SA. is listed on Euronext Paris – Compartment A
    ISIN: FR0010667147 / Ticker: COFA

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TGS: VESTING OF 2023 RESTRICTED SHARE UNIT AWARD

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oslo, Norway (4 March 2025) – On 1 March 2025, 15,000 Restricted Share Units (RSUs) granted to Carel Hooijkaas on 1 March 2023, in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement, as approved by the Board of Directors of TGS ASA, and TGS Remuneration Policy, approved by the shareholders of TGS ASA, vested.  Each vested RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company’s common stock, with the shares to be issued from the Company’s treasury stock. The vested RSUs may be partially settled in cash using the fair market value of the shares as defined under the award agreement, to cover tax withholding obligations and other necessary deductions that arise in connection with the vest.

    The schedule attached reflects the holdings of the primary insider.

    About TGS
    TGS provides advanced data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. With leading-edge technology and solutions spanning the entire energy value chain, TGS offers a comprehensive range of insights to help clients make better decisions. Our broad range of products and advanced data technologies, coupled with a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, make TGS a trusted partner in supporting the exploration and production of energy resources worldwide. For further information, please visit www.tgs.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Innovative sensory library project launches in Coventry

    Source: City of Coventry

    A community-led project to set up a sensory library at Coventry Central Library has now launched.

    The library features a range of sensory equipment such as noise cancelling headphones, weighted lap pads and various sensory lights that can be borrowed free of charge with a library card. The sensory library is predominately aimed at adults with autism but is available for anyone to use.

    This project has been set up by Alex Hilton, a Coventry resident with autism, in collaboration with community group Coventry Resting spaces, supported by local charity Grapevine. It has been funded by Heart of England Community Foundation and supported by Coventry Central Library.

    The idea came about when Alex discovered that autistic sensory processing is not typically well catered for in society. Sensory stimuli can easily cause distress for people that have autism.

    Sensory equipment can also be expensive and it can be difficult for people to know what they need.

    Alex said: “If I’d have had the chance to borrow a pair of noise cancelling headphones for example, I would have realised how much they would help years earlier and been in a better position in my life.

    “I want to support people in my community and offer them the chance to try out a range of equipment so they can see what best meets their needs before they make a purchase.”

    The sensory resources at Central Library will be a very welcome addition, helping to enhance the sensory experience and wellbeing of the local community.

    Councillor Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “What a wonderful new addition to our already well-equipped Central Library. Everyone in the city deserves to have the opportunity to access equipment that is going to help their individual needs. I’m delighted that Alex has joined forces with local communities, charities and the library to make this idea a reality.

    “The new initiative is going to be beneficial to so many people in the city and I’d encourage anyone that thinks they could benefit from the sensory library to go ahead and use it. I’m looking forward to having a look myself.”

    Coventry Resting Spaces provide free, quiet spaces, in and around the city centre where people who need a resting space can have that. They are a group with lived experiences and now have four spaces around the city centre and nearby, including at Coventry Central Library. A fifth resting space is due to open at Herbert Art Gallery in July.

    The Resting Spaces team said: “The sensory library will fit really well with our work of enabling people with hidden disabilities to better participate in our local community, so we are thrilled to be working together.”

    To keep up to date with the latest news, sign up for our Your Coventry email newsletter or follow the Council on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 4 March 2025 Departmental update Lifelong learning in health: a global outlook from the WHO Academy

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Opened in December 2024, the WHO Academy is moving ahead with it ambition to become the global centre for lifelong learning in health. Last month, it held its inaugural conference in Lyon, France, where learning and health experts from around the world gathered to discuss the role of quality in health learning, training and capacity building.

    Currently, there are no widely accepted global standards for high-quality learning courses in health. Building on the World Health Organization’s 75 years of expertise in setting global norms and standards, the WHO Academy aims to promote quality assurance standards in developing, implementing and evaluating learning materials.

    “Quality is essential, and it is a key word for the entire operation of the Academy. Providing health and care workers with continuous access to upscaling and rescaling learning is crucial to achieving health for all,” explained Dr David Atchoarena, WHO Academy Executive Director, who also highlighted the Academy’s commitment to bringing together global expertise on learning in public health.

    In her keynote address, Professor Asha Kanwar from Beijing Normal University stressed the urgent need to address the projected global shortfall of 11 million healthcare workers by 2030. She also advocated for integrating technology into lifelong learning, including AI-generated and interactive content.

    A round table discussion featured global learning and health experts who shared best practices and success stories on improving learning opportunities and implementing online and blended courses. Through a series of in-person workshops in the afternoon, participants shared their inputs on the localization of learning content, the potential of team-based learning and assessments, and what learning recognition of WHO Academy courses could look like to ensure they are well-received by ministries of health or public accreditation bodies in their own contexts.

    “It is necessary to construct a shared vision for lifelong learning. Lifelong learning is a right for health workers. Health workers are committed to their training, so we have to take advantage of that. We need to make lifelong learning more relevant for their careers and ensure their training is more relevant. It is not a personal possession but a collective good,” explained conference participant Isabel Dure.

    Professor Janusz Janczukowicz from the Medical University of Lodz, Chair of the WHO Academy Quality Committee, concluded the conference by reiterating the importance of interprofessional and team-based learning in providing inclusive and high-quality patient care.

    The WHO Academy will promote the incorporation of best practices in learning in the design and delivery of training across WHO to optimize the impact of lifelong learning. The insights from the conference will inform the WHO Academy Quality Standards and Criteria for Learning Programmes, which will be published in 2025.

    The WHO Academy offers a range of free courses on its global online platform, open to anyone who would like to register at whoacademy.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Longer breastfeeding linked to blood-pressure lowering effects of certain infant gut bacteria

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Tuesday, March 4, 2025

    Nursing for at least six months may spur beneficial gut bacteria connected to better heart health years later.
    What
    An observational study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that infants who had more diverse bacteria in their gut had lower childhood blood pressure, and this protective association was stronger if they were breastfed for at least six months. The findings published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
    For the research, investigators reviewed data from 526 children enrolled in a prospective study in Denmark. They looked for connections between infant gut bacteria, which can be influenced by nutrition and supports a variety of health functions, and childhood blood pressure. To assess this, they collected fecal samples to analyze bacteria in the infants’ intestines during their first week, month, and year of life. Three and six years later, they measured the children’s blood pressure.
    The researchers found children with more diverse gut bacteria at one month had lower blood pressure six years later. They then assessed the influence of breastfeeding, which was measured in this study for durations of at least six months. They discovered that among children breastfed for at least six months, the blood-pressure lowering effect of having more diverse bacteria in their gut was even stronger. Specifically, those with a greater diversity of gut bacteria throughout the first month of life had systolic blood pressure that was about 2 mm Hg lower six years later if they were breastfed for at least six months.
    Researchers believe there may be several reasons for these associations. Certain gut bacteria have evolved specialized biologic machinery that allows them to convert otherwise indigestible carbohydrates in breast milk into calories and substances that can be used by the body. Specific Bifidobacterium species, including B. infantis, are superstars when it comes to breaking down these carbohydrates and turning them into short-chain fatty acids that may influence blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.
    In infants who are not breastfed, bacteria that do not have breast milk carbohydrates to feed on may instead break down carbohydrates that line the intestines. This could result in a condition called a “leaky gut,” where bacteria and fat could enter the bloodstream. A leaky gut has been linked to inflammation and increased blood pressure in adults.
    Additionally, the researchers found that some types of bacteria, including H. pylori, were present in some infants and these bacteria were linked to increased blood pressure years later. H. pylori, which can be passed from a mother to child, can create persistent levels of low inflammation and may influence a “leaky gut.”
    To make participants in the study as comparable as possible, the researchers accounted for a mother’s medical history, their diet during pregnancy, pregnancy complications, when and how a child was born, and how long they were breastfed.
    About 4% to 7% of children worldwide have high blood pressure, which can start when the fetus develops in the womb. These rates have doubled since 2020, which is why researchers are studying factors that may offset these risks and improve cardiovascular health.
    The study was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) grant K01HL141589.
    Who
    Charlotte Pratt, Ph.D., R.D., Acting Chief, Clinical Applications and Prevention Branch, NHLBI
    Study
    Liu T, Stokholm J, Zhang M, et al. Infant Gut Microbiota and Childhood Blood Pressure: Prospective Associations and the Modifying Role of Breastfeeding. J Am Heart Assoc. 2025; doi: 10.1161/JAHA.124.037447.  About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov.                            
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Billy Hickman Applauds Senate Passage of “Dignity and Pay Act”

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (March 4, 2025) — Yesterday, Senate Bill 55, the “Dignity and Pay Act,” was passed out of the Senate with a vote of 51 to 3. This legislation now moves to the Georgia House of Representatives for further consideration. SB 55 would prevent companies from paying employees with disabilities a subminimum wage and give a timeline for companies currently paying less than minimum wage to follow in phasing out the practice.

    “Currently, Georgians are receiving less than $1 an hour for their work,” said Sen. Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro), sponsor of the legislation. “The practice of subminimum payment just limits the potential of disabled Georgians and segregates them from the competitive workforce. With one of the strongest economies in the country, ensuring that all Georgians receive at least minimum wage is common sense and respectful of the work these employees do. Thank you to my colleagues on the other side of the aisle for supporting this bill. I look forward to seeing this legislation pass quickly through the House. Let’s help Georgia be a leader in fair employment.”

    SB 55 passed through the Senate chamber with bipartisan support. Should the bill pass, Georgia would join 13 other states who have phased out this practice. After July 1, 2027, no Community Rehabilitation Program employer in Georgia can pay a subminimum wage to disabled employees.

    SB 55 can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Billy Hickman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education and Youth. He represents the 4th Senate District which includes Bulloch, Candler, Effingham, and Evans County as well as a small portion of Chatham County. He may be reached at 404.463.1371 or by email at Billy.Hickman@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Minority Leader Harold Jones II Applauds Senate Passage of SB 145 to Provide a Sixth Judge to Augusta Judicial Circuit

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (March 4, 2025) — On Friday, Senate Bill 145 passed out of the Senate and now moves to the Georgia House of Representatives for further consideration. Sen. Harold Jones II (D–Augusta), Leader of the Democratic Caucus, co-sponsored the measure with Senators Max Burns (R–Sylvania) and Lee Anderson (R–Grovetown). SB 145 would provide a sixth judge to the superior courts of the Augusta Judicial Circuit.

    “I’m happy to see that SB 145 passed out of the Senate with bipartisan support,” said Leader Jones. “This is not a partisan issue but affects everyone in the Greater Augusta area. The current backlog of cases plaguing our circuit prevents those accused of a crime from receiving a fair and speedy trial. Adding a sixth judge will allow our judges to clear this backlog. I look forward to seeing this legislation pass swiftly through the House.”

    The Governor would appoint the additional position for a term beginning on January 1, 2026.

     SB 145 can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Vietnam sign joint communiqué at annual migration dialogue

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK and Vietnam sign joint communiqué at annual migration dialogue

    Today, the UK and Vietnam have signed a joint communiqué to build on joint work to tackle irregular migration.

    The UK has today (4 March) signed a joint communiqué with the Government of Vietnam at the third annual UK-Vietnam Migration Dialogue, hosted in Hanoi, agreeing to build on our joint work to prevent the exploitation of irregular migrants, disrupt criminal gang operations, strengthen intelligence sharing and return those with no right to be in the UK.  

    The joint communiqué includes a series of commitments to further co-operation.

    Preventing and responding to Vietnamese nationals migrating to the UK irregularly through:

    a) targeted deterrence communications

    b) raising awareness of legal routes

    c) working together to tackle human trafficking

    Strengthening co-operation in law enforcement, especially immigration crimes, through:

    a) increasing operational law enforcement co-operation

    b) co-operating with transit countries

    c) sharing information on human trafficking

    d) disrupting criminal gangs

    Returning Vietnamese nationals with no legal right to be in the UK to Vietnam through:

    a) expediting issuance of travel documents

    b) exploring further ways to improve returns co-operation

    c) holding regular returns working groups

    The UK and Government of Vietnam reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership and agreed to ensure progress on the aforementioned areas at the next migration dialogue, to be hosted by the UK in 2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consultation set to progress to next stage over future of Queensway Primary School

    Source: City of Leeds

    Discussions over the future of a primary school in Leeds will continue next week as the authority seeks approval to progress to the next stage of consultation on its possible closure.

    Due to low pupil numbers and an increasingly challenging budget position, Leeds City Council has identified that the long-term sustainability of Queensway Primary School in Yeadon is at risk.

    A consultation on a proposal to close the school from the end of this academic year took place last month and a report providing an update will be discussed at next week’s executive board meeting (Wednesday March 12).

    Senior councillors at the meeting will decide whether to progress to the next stage and publish a ‘statutory notice’ on the proposals, marking the start of a further four-week consultation period where views will continue to be sought.

    A final decision is anticipated to take place at the council’s executive board meeting in June 2025.

    The latest report highlights how, over the past five years, declining birth rates have led to a significant fall in pupil numbers across the Aireborough school area. Queensway Primary School has significantly felt the impact of reducing numbers, with only 81 children on its roll in October 2024, compared to its admission limit of 210.

    Since the number of children at a school determines the funding it receives, this ongoing situation has led to a sharp rise in the school’s budget deficit forecast, which is expected to grow from an estimated £608,000 at the end of 2025/26 to £1.35m by the end of the 2027/28 financial year.

    This increasing deficit means the school’s ability to fund the support for all pupils in the longer term, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), is at risk.

    The report to the executive board stresses that, should the school close, the council would work closely with partners to ensure families are able to secure alternative school places, with extensive tailored support for pupils with SEND and/or Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

    Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “Closing a school is not a decision we take lightly and we absolutely understand the strength of feeling among the school and wider community as these difficult conversations continue.

    “We fully recognise the tireless work of everyone involved in championing the school and improving its position. However the falling birth rate has led to an increasingly challenging budget situation and this has long-term implications for the school’s ability to support its pupils.  

    “As a local authority, we have a responsibility to consider the viability of the school and as such, we are now seeking to progress to the next stage of consultation.

    “If this is approved, there will be further opportunity for people to show their support or objection to the proposal during the new statutory notice period.

    “I would like to re-emphasise that, should the closure go ahead, we would work closely with all affected families, including providing comprehensive and bespoke support for children with SEND and/or EHCPs to ensure their needs continued to be met.”

    To view the report being considered by the executive board visit Council and democracy (agenda item nine).

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Connecting Leeds Transport Strategy marks major achievements over last three years – and outlines new action plan up to 2027

    Source: City of Leeds

    A report to senior councillors outlines the good progress being made on the council’s ambitious Connecting Leeds transport strategy, but highlights that more needs to be done and more funding allocated to meet its aims. 

    The report to the council’s Executive Board provides an update on progress on the Connecting Leeds transport strategy. Its vision is for Leeds to be a city where you don’t need a car, and where everyone has an affordable, accessible and zero carbon choice in how they travel, and since 2018 more than three quarters of a billion pounds has been invested in the city’s highways and transport network through the Connecting Leeds programme.

    The Connecting Leeds transport strategy’s initial action plan 2020 -2024 has delivered some key successes including:

    • Major highway improvements including the Armley Gyratory and the completion of the East Leeds Orbital Route, increasing road capacity to support changes in the city centre, along with other improvements to key transport corridors including the A647 and Outer Ring Road between Horsforth and Rodley.
    • Launching our Vision Zero Strategy which aims to eliminate all fatalities and serious injuries on Leeds roads by 2040. The number of people killed or seriously injured on Leeds roads has reduced since its launch.
    • Transforming City Square and wider public realm in the city centre, including the Headrow, Vicar Lane and the Corn Exchange, creating safer pedestrian-friendly spaces.  
    • The launch of Leeds City Bikes, the largest e-bike scheme in the UK which will see further roll-out later this year.
    • The Stourton Park & Ride has experienced continued growth since opening in late 2021, alongside the existing sites at Elland Road and Temple Green, and more than 90 electric buses are now serving the city’s busiest routes. Around 10,000 cars are taken off city roads each week with consistently over 20,000 passengers per week using the services and further improvements planned later in the year.
    • Improvements and significant funding in Leeds City Rail Station, with a significant increase in passenger numbers and footfall exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Local rail stations have experienced similar growth.
    • Fewer car commuters into the city centre since 2021, reducing congestion and improving local air quality.

    These successes have led to increasing numbers of people walking through the city centre, along with rising bus passenger numbers.

    Overall city centre footfall for the whole of 2024 increased by 1.3% compared to 2023, which in turn was up by 2.7% on 2022. Footfall at Leeds City Rail Station has also increased by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023, and with the city centre seeing significant and continued investment in its retail and hospitality offer it is hoped that footfall will keep rising and further boost the city’s economy.

    There has also been a 4.1% reduction in car mileage across the city since 2019, and a 6% year-on-year increase of public electric vehicle charging points.

    New Action Plan launched to 2027

    Some measures within the initial action plan are ongoing or still progressing, and are being taken forward with the launch of a new action plan which details our ambitions and activities up to 2027.

    This includes major schemes such as Dawson’s Corner and Stanningley Bypass, which has only recently secured c£36m government funding, the A660 improvements and the Lawnswood Roundabout scheme, along with more active travel and cycling schemes.

    The council will continue to support the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to progress the mass transit scheme and to implement bus reforms, and will continue its partnership work to deliver the Vision Zero strategy regionally.

    The challenges of delivering these measures is reflected in progress against the strategy’s ambitions. Although overall carbon emissions have reduced since 2019, the latest figures suggest that they have begun rising again and may reach pre-pandemic levels, so the council is still facing challenges to meet its net-zero targets by 2030.

    There was a significant decrease in motorists driving into the city centre between 2022 and 2023, and although this trend has not continued during the last year the number remains below 2022’s levels.

    Across the city the amount of HGV and LGV traffic is growing which is likely to relate to online shopping and home delivery trends.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Sustainable Development, said: “We have made significant progress towards our vision of creating a city where you don’t need to own a car, and we are proud of our achievements so far.

    “Our places are becoming more people-friendly, inclusive and welcoming, we are delivering infrastructure which is fit for the 21st century, and we are encouraging more people to use active and sustainable travel methods and public transport.

    “We have big ambitions for our city and we recognise that progress towards these hasn’t been easy. We’ve faced significant challenges along the way and there is much to do. When the council adopted this very ambitious strategy it was made with the knowledge that this would be underpinned by significant funding over a sustained period. Investment levels have been good in recent years and there is a need to maintain these in the coming years so we can achieve our goals alongside delivering general transport improvements.

    “By launching our new action plan to 2027 we are making clear how we will ensure we achieve our vision for everyone who lives, works and visits our city, working closely with our partners and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.”

    Exploring new funding opportunities

    The report states that the ‘current level of funding is insufficient to cover all aspects’ of the new action plan. As a result, the council will be looking for alternative funding to deliver these activities, and will be looking to work with partners including the combined authority, the Department for Transport and the private sector to achieved its shared objectives.

    As part of this, the council is exploring the possibility of introducing a workplace parking levy to generate revenue which would used as local contributions to major transport investments, principally mass transit.

    Such a levy could charge city centre businesses for parking places they offer for staff use, with revenue ring-fenced to support significant transport improvements.

    The report is seeking agreement to carry out exploratory work including surveys around how a workplace parking levy could potentially be applied in Leeds city centre. This would include engaging with key partners and businesses in the first instance, and developing a rationale around which premises should be exempt from the scheme such as the city’s hospitals which employ round-the-clock shift workers delivering a vital emergency service.

    Following this exploratory work, should the council intend to proceed with the introduction of a workplace parking levy a further report would be submitted to executive board for approval.

    Should this be granted, a business case would need to be submitted to the Department for Transport and approved by the Secretary of State.

    The full report can be viewed here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government releases £129m for reform of NI public services

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    UK Government releases £129m for reform of NI public services

    Secretary of State has welcomed the release of £129 million by the UK Government to support public service transformation in Northern Ireland.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP

    • The funding is the first tranche of the £235 million transformation fund committed to the Executive, and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to improving public services for people in Northern Ireland.
    • Targeted funding will support six Executive projects across the Departments of  Health, Justice, Education and Infrastructure. 
    • UK Government support to deliver Plan for Change.

    The funding will see £61m go towards expanding the multi-disciplinary team approach to primary care across Northern Ireland, and support five other projects across justice, education and infrastructure which represent key priorities in the Executive’s Programme for Government.

    This is the first tranche of funding to be allocated from the £235 million fund created by the UK Government as part of the financial package that led to the restoration of the Executive in February 2024. It comes in addition to a £1.5 billion increase through the Barnett formula, with £1.2 billion for day-to-day spending, and £270 million for capital investment. This investment shows the Government’s Plan for Change delivering reform and growth for the people of Northern Ireland. 

    Mr Benn said: “Everyone recognises that the task of stabilising and transforming Northern Ireland’s health and other public services is a priority. 

    “This allocation of UK Government funding is a really important step towards this, and in this UK Government, the Executive will always have a partner that is committed to supporting this work every step of the way.

    “I am delighted that Northern Ireland will this year receive its largest real terms financial settlement since devolution, supporting growth and investment. Today’s additional funding will go directly towards the transformation of public services, which the people of Northern Ireland want to see.”

    Background

    • The funding comes following the recommendations of the Public Sector Transformation Board to fund six projects across health, justice, education and infrastructure. 
    • The Board, comprising officials from the Northern Ireland Civil Service and UK Government, supported by independent experts, provides recommendations to the Executive about approval on £235 million ringfenced funding. 
    • Further funding decisions will be subject to the Public Sector Transformation Board’s recommendations, of which is led and agreed by the Northern Ireland Executive.
    • The transformation funding is part of the broader £3.3 billion restoration package for Northern Ireland.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/NIGERIA – Dramatic kidnapping of a priest and a seminarian

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – A dramatic kidnapping of a priest and a seminarian took place in Nigeria. Father Philip Ekeli and seminarian Peter Andrew were captured by armed men who entered the Catholic Church of St. Peter in the parish of Iviukwa, Etsako East district, Edo State (southern Nigeria) late on Sunday evening, March 2, around 11.30 p.m.During the attack, one of the kidnappers was killed by the security guards of the Catholic church after a firefight with the perpetrators. Despite the intervention of the security guards, the priest and the seminarian were captured and taken to the bush.Today, March 4, the local police confirmed the news and said that a joint search and rescue operation involving members of the 195th Battalion of the Nigerian Army, police officers, vigilante groups and local hunters is underway to rescue the victims and capture the kidnappers.Meanwhile, Father Matthew David Dutsemi of the Diocese of Yola and Father Abraham Saummam of the Diocese of Jalingo, kidnapped on February 22, are still in the hands of their kidnappers (see Fides, 24/2/2025). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 4/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Speech by President António Costa at the Emergency summit of the League of Arab States on Gaza

    Source: Council of the European Union

    European Council President António Costa travelled to Cairo for the Emergency summit of the League of Arab States on Gaza on 4 March 2025. In his speech, President Costa reaffirmed the EU’s full commitment to contributing to peace in the Middle East, supporting the two-state solution in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, and backing the efforts of the Arab States and the Palestinian Authority. The European Union firmly rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial changes in Gaza, in other parts of the world, or anywhere else.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to Role in $8 Million Federal Emergency Benefits Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenbelt, Maryland – On Friday, February 28, Newton Ofioritse Jemide, 47, a Nigerian national, pled guilty to a federal charge for wire fraud conspiracy.  Jemide, who was recently extradited from France, was involved in a scheme to fraudulently obtain federal benefits.

    Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); Acting Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Colleen Lawlor, Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of Inspector General – Philadelphia Field Division; and Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool, U.S. Secret Service – Washington Field Office.

    “Mr. Jemide and his co-conspirators’ greed and utter disregard for the suffering of those who need national emergency assistance, by stealing from the government, will not be tolerated,” said United States Attorney Hayes. “The District of Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners will continue to hold those accountable who try to defraud our government through fraud, waste, and abuse during times of crisis.”

    “Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that individuals who defraud the federal government for their own personal gain will be identified and held accountable,” said U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, PhD.  “DHS-OIG is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we continue fighting waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    During the timeframe covered by the indictment, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided emergency benefits and compensation for damages to victims affected by declared national emergency disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires.  Among other benefits, an individual in an area affected was immediately eligible for Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) to purchase life-saving or life-sustaining materials.  Victims could decide how to receive assistance payments, which included deposits on prepaid debit cards.

    According to the guilty plea, in 2016 and 2017, Jemide and others from Nigeria directed co-conspirators living in the United States to purchase hundreds of Green Dot Debit Cards.  Co-conspirators living in Nigeria then registered the cards with Green Dot using stolen personal information from identity theft victims around the United States.  Jemide and his co-conspirators used an encrypted messaging application and other means to communicate.

    In 2017, following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the California wildfires, Jemide, and other co-conspirators from Nigeria, used stolen personal information to apply online for FEMA and CNA benefits.  FEMA dispersed $500 per claim on the Green Dot Debit Cards that co-conspirators purchased for a total of at least $8 million.

    “Bringing these criminals to justice prevents further victimization of American taxpayers and abuse of the programs put in place as safety nets for the most vulnerable in our country,” said SAC McCool. “This investigation underscores the Secret Service’s global reach and steadfast commitment, in collaboration with our partner agencies, to combat cyber-enabled financial crimes and relentlessly pursue those committing them.”

    In addition to filing false disaster-assistance claims with FEMA, Jemide and co-conspirators also submitted false online claims for Social Security benefits, IRS tax refunds, and other government benefits using stolen identities of multiple individuals, including names, addresses, social security numbers, and other personal identifiers.

    “Newton Ofioritse Jemide and his co-conspirators misused Social Security numbers to steal government funds via SSA’s online services. The misuse of SSA’s e-Services to defraud SSA and rightful beneficiaries and recipients will not be tolerated at any level,” said Acting SAC Lawlor. “Our office will continue to investigate those who abuse SSA programs and operations, including its e-Services, for their own selfish gain. I thank our law enforcement partners for their assistance and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this complex case.”

    As a result of fraudulent submissions, FEMA and the other federal agencies deposited benefits onto the Green Dot Debit Cards.  The funds were deposited on the debit cards using multiple stolen identities, including identities different from the identities used to register the cards.  Jemide and select co-conspirators informed other co-conspirators when the fraudulent funds became available on the debit cards and gave them information to cash out the funds from the cards in exchange for a commission.  Additionally, the co-conspirators took steps to conceal their identities by enlisting others to make purchases and withdrawals; utilizing multiple store and bank locations and methods of withdrawal; and making money orders payable to other individuals and/or corporate entities.

    Jemide faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  Sentencing is currently scheduled for July 1, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., before U.S. District Court Judge Deborah K. Chasanow.  

    United States Attorney Hayes commended DHS-OIG, SSA-OIG, and USSS for their work in the investigation and thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the United States Marshals Service for their valuable assistance in securing the extradition of Jemide to the United States.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Wright and Darren Gardner who are prosecuting the federal case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Don’t miss the Family Hubs Festival for free family fun!

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council’s Family Hubs are holding a fantastic free event for children and young people. The first Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making.

    During the day, there’ll be loads of free fun for families with under-fives. Then, from 4pm, there will be youth activities galore for older children to enjoy.

    The event kicks off at 11am in the beautiful surroundings of the Museum’s Italian Mill. There’s no need to book – parents, carers and little ones can just turn up and join in with whatever they fancy.

    Together with our partners, we’ve planned a full programme of activities that will run until 3pm. These include:

    • Storytelling with Derby Libraries
    • Family Hub Programme information and taster sessions with our teams
    • Nature Connect Sessions with the University of Derby and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
    • A Family Hub treasure hunt around the museum
    • Creative literacy sessions with Bridge the Gap
    • Sensory Stay and Play for neuro-diverse children
    • Move Me! taster sessions with CANVAS
    • Health drop-in sessions with midwifery, health visitors and the infant feeding teams

    Plus much more – so why not drop in and join in with the fun? Children will also be provided with a free lunch, while parents and carers can relax with a free hot drink.

    Our Family Hubs aren’t just for younger children. From 4pm until 5.30pm you can discover what’s on offer for older ones too. The activities are aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children are welcome to come along with their parents and carers.

    There’ll be performances and a variety of workshops including music, sport, breakdancing, wellbeing, art and theatre – and it’s all free. You can even get free chips and hotdogs!

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

    The Family Hubs Festival is a brilliant opportunity for Derby families to come together and discover the wealth of free support and activities available right here in our city, for our youngest children right up to teenagers. 

    The sheer variety of activities on offer is testament to the strength of our partnerships. From storytelling to breakdancing, health drop-ins to nature sessions, this event shows the comprehensive support our Family Hubs provide. Come along and find out what’s on offer!

    The Family Hubs Festival takes place on Monday 10 March at the Museum of Making on Silk Mill Lane, Derby DE1 3AF. Families with under-fives are welcome from 11am until 3pm. From 4pm until 5.30pm, the activities will be aimed at 11-19-year-olds, but younger children can attend with a parent/carer. The free sessions are drop-in – no booking is required.

    You can find more information about Family Hubs on our website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A monument to Heydar Aliyev will appear in Moscow in honor of the anniversary of the construction of the BAM

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A memorial plaque was laid at the site of the installation of the monument to the outstanding statesman and political figure, Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers Commission for the Construction and Development of the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM), twice Hero of Socialist Labor Heydar Aliyev in the park next to the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Moscow. The ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Moscow Sergei Sobyanin, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Vitaly Savelyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation Rahman Mustafayev, General Director – Chairman of the Board of JSC Russian Railways Oleg Belozerov, Advisor to the General Director on a voluntary basis of JSC Russian Railways Gennady Fadeyev, President of the All-Russian public organization “BAM” Efim Basin.

    Sergei Sobyanin recalled that last year Russia celebrated a major anniversary – 50 years since the start of one of the most grandiose construction projects of the Soviet Union – the Baikal-Amur Mainline. The mainline still plays a huge role in the country’s economy.

    “The BAM Builders’ Association has asked to erect a monument to Heydar Aliyev, one of the main organizers of this construction project. The Russian government and Russian Railways have actively supported this request. The Moscow City Duma Commission has decided to support this request. Today, I have signed an order to build a monument to Heydar Aliyev here, in the park next to the Azerbaijani embassy,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    In total, about two million people were involved in the BAM construction project. For many of them, the construction and then work on the highway became a life’s work and a feat. Heydar Aliyev not only supervised this construction on behalf of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, he lived this construction, emphasized Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Vitaly Savelyev.

    “And today I am happy to welcome the BAM veterans who have dedicated most of their lives to this construction. Of course, this is a landmark object for us, and we will continue the construction of the BAM in a new composition. Because it is difficult to overestimate the significance of this construction, this railway for our country. The eternal memory of Heydar Alievich Aliyev will forever be in the hearts of our people,” noted Vitaly Savelyev.

    The BAM builders remember and honor the memory of Heydar Aliyev, Efim Basin emphasized. The monument dedicated to him will be a symbol of his great service to the country.

    “Especially since it was necessary not only to build a four thousand kilometer railway, but also to develop the territory of the BAM, and this is an area under which about a third of Russia’s natural resources lie – the entire periodic table. That is why the entire country built the BAM. And many villages were built by the efforts of the Union republics and large cities of Russia, such as, for example, Tynda, built by Moscow. Leningrad built Severobaykalsk, and Azerbaijani envoys built Ulkan. But not only the Ulkan station, but also an additional Angoya, on which today there is a plaque (at the station of this station) that this is the station named after Heydar Aliyevich Aliyev. This is important for us. Even today, when passing by, train drivers give a honk in memory of this great man,” noted Efim Basin.

    For modern railway workers, BAM is a construction site where they learn, adopting the experience of their predecessors – people with prophetic and strategic vision, Oleg Belozerov emphasized.

    “Without BAM, it is impossible to transport cargo to the East today. We are learning, we honor the memory of our predecessors and are very grateful to Heydar Aliyevich Aliyev. We even consider him our railwayman, since he devoted so much time to this project, and 1974 – well, first of all, 1984 – were very difficult years for the Soviet Union. In order to complete the construction, it was necessary to have outstanding management talents. We are currently adopting this experience. We remind young people how the facility was built, what a labor feat is. Well, and we, managers, of course, remember Heydar Aliyev and try to be like him. And this monument is a great honor for us,” said Oleg Belozerov.

     

    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation Rahman Mustafayev expressed his deep gratitude to the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of Moscow for their attention to the memory of the national leader of Azerbaijan. He recalled that Heydar Aliyev headed strategic areas of economic, scientific, cultural and educational development in high positions in the Soviet Union.

    “I believe that the monument that is being laid today is a memory not only of Heydar Aliyev, but it is also, to a large extent, a monument to Azerbaijani-Russian friendship,” the ambassador emphasized.

    Construction of BAM

    As First Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, Heydar Aliyev supervised a large-scale infrastructure project — the Baikal-Amur Mainline. Heading the government commission, he personally visited the BAM construction site many times and made a significant contribution to the project’s implementation at the final stage.

    The Baikal-Amur Mainline is a 4,324-kilometer-long railway running through Eastern Siberia and the Far East.

    One of the largest transport arteries in the world runs north of the Trans-Siberian Railway. The strategic advantage of the BAM is that it is located in the depths of the country at a distance of 700-1000 kilometers from the state border.

    The BAM plays a vital role in the development of Siberia, the Far East and the Far North. It has enabled the richest deposits of coal, iron ore, tin, gold, copper, molybdenum, oil and gas to be put into circulation, and this powerful raw material base to be used for the operation of plants, factories, plants and the long-term development of domestic industry. At the turn of the 21st century, the BAM helped open the markets of the Asia-Pacific region for the Russian economy and provided a reliable transit route for all of Eurasia. Together with the Trans-Siberian Railway, it has become a strategic transport corridor of not only national but also global significance.

    On April 26, 2023, a solemn ceremony was held at the Yaroslavsky railway station in the capital at the memorial plaque to the BAM builders. That same year, an exhibition dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev and his contribution to the implementation of the project opened at the Kazansky railway station.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/1244505/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: PKK leader’s call to disarm fuels hope for end to Kurdish conflict – but peace is not imminent

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Pinar Dinc, Associate Professor of Political Science, Department of Political Science & Researcher, Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University

    Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK), has called on the group to disarm and dissolve itself. In a letter read out by his political allies in Istanbul, Turkey, on February 27, he wrote: “I take on the historical responsibility for this call … All groups must lay down their arms and the PKK must dissolve itself.”

    Two days later, the PKK’s executive committee declared a ceasefire to its armed struggle against the Turkish state. The conflict, which began in 1984 with the aim of establishing an independent Kurdish state in response to state oppression, has claimed the lives of more than 40,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands more.

    Öcalan has been imprisoned on an island south of Istanbul since 1999, when he was captured by Turkish security forces in Kenya. But he has remained the leader of the PKK throughout and has kept his strong personality cult among the Kurdish freedom movement.

    He was the force behind the PKK’s shift away from its separatist goals in the 2000s. He argued that the solution to the Kurdish question in the Middle East was for greater autonomy and Kurdish rights through the idea of “democratic confederalism”, built on the pillars of direct democracy rather than a nation-state model.

    In his letter, Öcalan repeated this argument. He blamed the past 200 years of capitalist modernity for the break up of the alliance between the Kurds and the Turks. And he highlighted the importance of a truly democratic society and political space for a lasting solution to the Kurdish struggle.

    Öcalan’s letter mainly addressed the Turkish public and international community, and is likely to have been “approved” by the Turkish state. As such, it was rather short, at times vague, and did not propose a detailed framework about the peace process between Turkey and the PKK.

    But after Öcalan’s letter was read out, Sırrı Süreyya Önder, a member of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy party (DEM), shared with journalists an additional remark Öcalan had made.

    Öcalan had apparently said: “Undoubtedly, in practice, the laying down of arms and the dissolution of the PKK require the recognition of democratic politics and a legal framework”. This point suggests that Öcalan’s call to disarm is merely the beginning of a long process to bring the conflict to a close.

    The PKK has announced that, in order for disarmament and dissolution to be put into practice, Öcalan needs to lead this congress personally. This indicates an expectation for Öcalan to gain some sort of freedom to communicate and direct the process.

    Support for dissolution

    Leading figures from several pro-Kurdish groups have welcomed the order for the PKK to disarm. This has included Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and Salih Muslim, the former co-chairperson of the Democratic Union party (PYD) in Syria.

    Öcalan’s call has also received support from the international community. This includes the US and UK, which alongside many other nations, recognise the PKK as a terrorist organisation. On February 27, US National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes told CNN that the announcement was “a significant development” that “we believe will help bring peace to this troubled region”.

    Perhaps most importantly, Öcalan’s announcement has been welcomed almost unanimously by political parties in Turkey. Only the ultra-nationalist Good and Victory parties oppose the call to dissolve the PKK, seeing any negotiations with the group as compromising national integrity.

    But, despite this important step towards peace, it remains difficult to see an imminent end to the Kurdish struggle in Turkey. The Justice and Development party (AKP) and the Nationalist Movement party, which have ruled Turkey together since 2023, have been continuing their oppression of the democratic sphere.

    They have replaced elected Kurdish mayors with government officials, while also imprisoning democratically elected Kurdish politicians. And people in the media, civil society and other democratic movements, such as the People’s Democratic Congress, have been criminalised and detained.

    At the same time, Turkey considers the SDF and other Kurdish organisations like the People’s Protection Units (YPG) and the PYD as offshoots of the PKK. It has supported its militia force in Syria, the Syrian National Army, to stop the Kurdish autonomous region on its border from achieving political status, seeing it as a direct threat to national security.

    Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has warned the PKK of further action if the process of disarmament is stalled. In a post on X on March 1, Erdoğan wrote: “If the promises are not kept … such as delaying, deceiving, changing names … we will continue our operations, if necessary, until we eliminate the last terrorist”.

    This signals an expectation from the Turkish state that they want all of the groups they associate with the PKK, armed and non-armed, to also disband. However, Abdi has asserted that Öcalan’s call for the PKK to dissolve does not apply to the group he leads. “If there is peace in Turkey, that means there is no excuse to keep attacking us here in Syria”, Abdi said.

    The Syrian National Army has been launching attacks in northern Syria to capture territory from the SDF, with fighting particularly intense around the Tishreen Dam.

    The Turkey-backed SNA has been attacking SDF positions in northern Syria.
    Institute for the Study of War

    So far, the only positive approach from the Turkish government has been signalling a possible change in the constitutional definition of citizenship to go beyond ethnic criteria. This would be a first step towards a more pluralist and inclusive description of citizenship in Turkey, where people from several ethnic groups have lived for centuries.

    There are various concerns over the ways in which the dissolution process will be carried out. But the possibility of peace is valuable as it opens up democratic avenues for struggle. Resolving the Kurdish question, one of Turkey’s most pressing unresolved issues, will pave the way for progress in other areas such as democratisation and freedom of expression.

    Pinar Dinc is the principal investigator of the ECO-Syria project, which receives funding from the Strategic Research Area: The Middle East in the Contemporary World (MECW) at the Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University, Sweden.

    – ref. PKK leader’s call to disarm fuels hope for end to Kurdish conflict – but peace is not imminent – https://theconversation.com/pkk-leaders-call-to-disarm-fuels-hope-for-end-to-kurdish-conflict-but-peace-is-not-imminent-251281

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gifts from top 50 US philanthropists rebounded to $16B in 2024 − Mike Bloomberg; Reed Hastings and Patty Quillin; and Michael and Susan Dell lead the list of biggest givers

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David Campbell, Professor of Public Administration, Binghamton University, State University of New York

    Mike Bloomberg speaks at the Global Renewables Summit in September 2024. Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Bloomberg Philanthropies

    The 50 American individuals and couples who gave or pledged the most to charity in 2024 committed US$16.2 billion to foundations, universities, hospitals and more. That total was 33% above an inflation-adjusted $12.2 billion in 2023, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s latest annual tally of these donations. Media mogul and former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg led the list, followed by Netflix co-founder and chairman Reed Hastings, along with his wife, Patty Quillin. Businessman Michael Dell and his wife, Susan Dell, pledged the third most in 2024.

    Neither MacKenzie Scott nor Elon Musk, both of whom announced donations large enough to land them on this list, provided enough information for the Chronicle to include them. Musk didn’t name the nonprofits to which he gave stock, and Scott declined to confirm how much money she put into the donor-advised funds through which she gives. Known as DAFs, these funds are savings accounts reserved for charitable giving.

    The Conversation U.S. asked David Campbell, Lindsey McDougle and Susan Appe, three philanthropy scholars, to assess the significance of these gifts and to consider what they indicate about the state of charitable giving in the United States.

    What trends stand out overall?

    Appe: I think it’s good to see that eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, an Iranian-American entrepreneur born in France, with his wife Pam, are among the top 12 donors. Omidyar is the only foreign-born philanthropist on this list who reported giving to democracy promotion in the U.S. through his Democracy Fund. The Omidyars also funded the AI Collaborative, a group that promotes artificial intelligence governance based on democratic values, and their Omidyar Network, an organization promoting responsible technology.

    Given concerns about democratic backsliding around the world, which could arguably include President Donald Trump’s efforts to expand the executive branch’s power, I’m surprised not to see more top donors clearly funding democracy promotion.

    I study philanthropy by U.S. immigrants. They either give more or at the same rate as people born in the United States.

    Omidyar is one of seven immigrants among 2024’s top U.S. donors. The others are Herta Amir, who was born in what was then Czechoslovakia; Sergey Brin, a Russian immigrant; the Pagidipati family, which came from India; K. Lisa Yang, who was born in Singapore; Michele Kang, who immigrated from South Korea; and Joe Wen, a Taiwanese immigrant.

    In 2024, as in most years, many of these wealthy donors supported prestigious universities and large hospitals and stowed millions in their own foundations and donor-advised funds. Although it’s impossible to predict exactly what their foundations and DAFs will support in the future, history suggests that they’re unlikely to focus on addressing systemic issues such as economic inequality.

    McDougle: It doesn’t appear that any of these top 50 donors are Black or Latino. This lack of representation is undoubtedly a reflection of broader societal disparities and may influence how individuals from these groups perceive their own potential as philanthropists.

    Philanthropic capacity often correlates with wealth accumulation, and significant gaps in wealth between racial groups are likely to have a direct influence on who we see in the Philanthropy 50. Black families, for instance, possess just 15% of the wealth of white families, while Hispanic families have only about 22%. These wealth disparities likely prevent many Black and Latino Americans from having the wealth necessary to engage in large-scale philanthropy.

    This reality highlights the need for the nation’s leading philanthropists to fund initiatives that focus on addressing systemic barriers to economic equality. MacKenzie Scott has been doing this through the millions of dollars she has donated to support racial equity and economic mobility.

    Addressing these disparities also involves changing the narrative around who is considered a philanthropist. As I have argued before, underrepresented groups may not always see themselves as philanthropists, partly due to limited resources and the historical portrayal of philanthropy as the domain of the wealthy. But by redefining philanthropy to include a broader spectrum of giving, philanthropy can play a pivotal role in leveling the playing field and creating more opportunities for all.

    What surprises you about the biggest donors?

    Appe: The absence of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Google co-founder Larry Page and former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer also stands out due to the presence of many other tech billionaires, including Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, on this list.

    Campbell: In addition to Elon Musk, a South African immigrant, not making this list for the second year in a row – even though he is the richest person in the world – Jeff Bezos isn’t listed either. Few private citizens have sought to change American society more than they have – Musk most recently through his role in the so-called Department of Government Efficiency and Bezos through actions he takes as the owner of The Washington Post and the founder of Amazon, among other initiatives.

    I believe that it is worth asking why neither of these men, who rank among the wealthiest Americans, made the list this year. While Musk gave too little information to make the list, his previous giving choices raise questions about his commitment to philanthropy as a way to advance the public good. In 2022 and 2023, for example, his foundation gave away less money than required by law and supported organizations that benefit him and his interests, such as schools attended by his children.

    Bezos, by contrast, got a lot of attention in 2022 when he announced he would give away his fortune during his lifetime. Yet his giving has come in fits and starts since 2018, when he began to give away billions of dollars to support people experiencing homelessness, preschools for low-income children and efforts to fight climate change.

    Do you have concerns about the big gifts these donors provide?

    McDougle: The nonprofits receiving these large donations can end up in a precarious situation if that funding suddenly stops. When nonprofits rely too heavily on a few wealthy donors, they may be forced to make abrupt decisions like cutting crucial programs or laying off staff. Obviously, this underscores a core problem with overdependence on these types of major gifts: They can leave nonprofits in a bind and unable to sustain their operations without continued long-term support.

    This is particularly problematic if it affects a nonprofit’s ability to engage in long-term planning. As such, when focusing on the giving of the super rich, it is important to consider not just the immediate benefits of their generosity but also the potential instability it can create for the recipients if their gift is not managed strategically.

    Campbell: The total given by America’s top donors in 2024 was the sixth-highest in the past decade, after adjusting for inflation. I’d expected to see a larger amount, given that 2024 was the second straight year of stock market gains of 20% or more.

    In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began, the top donors gave nearly twice as much to charity as they did this past year; and they gave close to $8 billion more than that in 2021. Why haven’t the wealthiest Americans sustained that level?

    Giant gifts to universities, museums and hospitals are surely making a meaningful difference in America and the world. But I wonder why these donors tend not to focus on the challenges facing those who have the least.

    One significant exception is the $1 billion Ruth Gottesman gave the Bronx-based Albert Einstein College of Medicine to allow the school to become tuition-free. Gottesman, a former faculty member at the school, chose to honor and support the many first-generation and low-income students trained there. Bloomberg, upping his commitment to ease the tuition burden at Johns Hopkins University, made a similar gift to the medical school at his alma mater and four medical schools at historically black colleges and universities.

    To be sure, some of these philanthropists use the foundations they or their relatives control to help meet the basic needs of Americans struggling to get by and address issues such as poverty, disease prevention and criminal justice reform. Melinda French Gates, Warren Buffett, and John and Laura Arnold all directed much of their giving in 2024 to those kinds of foundations.

    What do you expect or hope to see in 2025 and beyond?

    Appe: The Trump administration has frozen most U.S. foreign aid, endangering the lives of millions of the world’s poorest people. There are calls for the wealthiest philanthropists to help to fill this void. I hope some big donors respond with large gifts to UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, and the WHO Foundation, which supports the World Health Organization.

    Top philanthropists have been slow to react so far. However, the MacArthur Foundation just announced plans to increase its giving over the next two years. MacArthur president John Palfrey said this is a response to what he called a “major crisis” brought on by the Trump administration’s spending cuts. I will observe whether other foundations or some of the wealthiest Americans follow suit.

    Still, philanthropy cannot fill all these gaps. The $60 billion in foreign aid cuts represent a sliver of the trillions the Trump administration wants to slice from the federal budget. If it succeeds, donors will have countless other priorities.

    Campbell: Events that took place during the first Trump administration, like the murder of George Floyd, the erosion of democratic norms and the separation of immigrant families, led philanthropists to embrace giving that addressed these issues, notably diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. In the early days of the second Trump administration, prominent donors like Mark Zuckerberg have enthusiastically backtracked on their own DEI policies. I am now watching how other donors position themselves relative to the Trump administration’s objectives – as cheerleaders, combatants or something in between.

    The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Arnold Ventures have provided funding for The Conversation U.S. in the past. The Gates foundation currently provides funding for The Conversation internationally.

    David Campbell receives grants from the Learning by Giving Foundation and the Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation to support the experiential philanthropy course he teaches at Binghamton University. He also serves as the chair of the Klee Foundation board.

    Lindsey McDougle and Susan Appe do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Gifts from top 50 US philanthropists rebounded to $16B in 2024 − Mike Bloomberg; Reed Hastings and Patty Quillin; and Michael and Susan Dell lead the list of biggest givers – https://theconversation.com/gifts-from-top-50-us-philanthropists-rebounded-to-16b-in-2024-mike-bloomberg-reed-hastings-and-patty-quillin-and-michael-and-susan-dell-lead-the-list-of-biggest-givers-250577

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni attends opening ceremony for the Carabinieri Officers’ School academic year

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    4 Marzo 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended today’s opening ceremony for the 2024/25 academic year at the ‘Scuola Ufficiali dell’Arma dei Carabinieri’ [‘Carabinieri Officers’ School’].

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We invite teachers of the State University of Management to participate in the All-Russian competition “Golden Names of Higher Education”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Applications for participation in the All-Russian competition “Golden Names of Higher Education” are accepted from March 1 to May 31, 2025. We invite the teaching staff of the State University of Management to participate in the Competition.

    The Golden Names of Higher Education Competition has been held by the Interregional Public Organization League of Higher Education Teachers with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation since 2017. It is aimed at identifying and supporting talented teachers and scientists who have made a significant contribution to the development of Russian higher education and science. Over the entire history of the Competition, more than 7 thousand teachers have taken part in it.

    This year, the Competition is held in 10 nominations, revealing various aspects of the teaching profession: educational, scientific, educational work, training of postgraduate students, project and international activities. In the nomination “For the implementation of innovative teaching methods” additional points are awarded to participants and winners of the International Film Festival of Educational Films and Innovative Educational Content “KinoIntellect”. There is also a special nomination for young teachers.

    Applications are accepted on the website https://goldennames.professorstoday.org/.

    The award ceremony for the competition winners will take place on Higher Education Teachers’ Day, November 19, 2025, at the National Center “Russia”.

    Let us recall that last year, the State University of Management organized the award ceremony, and the rector’s advisor Nikolai Mikhailov received the award in the nomination “For Contribution to Science and Higher Education.”

    All additional information about the Competition can be found in the attached information letter.

    Golden Names of Higher Education. Information Letter

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 03/04/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The triumph of our volleyball team

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On March 3, 2025, in another regular match as part of the 2nd stage of the XXXVII Moscow Student Sports Games, the men’s volleyball team of the State University of Management beat the team of the State University of Land Management.

    Our athletes demonstrated excellent team spirit and skill, confidently taking the lead in the first set and not relinquishing it until the very end of the match:

    Final score of the match: 3-0

    Set 1: GUU – GUZ 25-15 Set 2: GUU – GUZ 25-22 Set 3: GUU – GUZ 25-21

    Particularly noteworthy is the play of I.A. Romanov, who was recognized as the best player of the match! His accurate serves and defensive actions made an invaluable contribution to the overall victory of the team.

    Congratulations on a well-deserved victory! Keep it up!

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/04/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Event highlights the remarkable community support available to those in need

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    An event highlighting the vast network of organisations who are dedicated to the needs of the most vulnerable residents in the borough of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, was held recently at Lough Neagh Discovery Centre.

    Over one hundred people from schools, businesses and organisations attended the ‘Beyond Crisis’ community support networking event, to share good practice across a wide range of services and show the excellent support that is available to those who need it most.

    The event – themed ‘food and beyond’ – saw information presented on food insecurity, social supermarkets, suicide prevention, schools’ pastoral work, advice, debt management, social housing and more.It was a fantastic opportunity to show the extensive support that is in place to help those residents who find themselves in a difficult position – and that organisations working together is the way forward to achieve positive outcomes and solutions.

    “We are committed to supporting and developing the ‘food and beyond’ support structure and establishing and delivering a range of initiatives aimed at helping those residents who are most in need,” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy.

    “Life can be challenging, especially with the ongoing cost of living crisis, so it is important that our residents know that help is available and where they can find it. We are so fortunate in our borough to have dedicated and skilled people who have formed a support network meaning we can confidently keep moving forward and beyond each crisis.”

    The organisations taking part thoroughly enjoyed the day and new connections were made, ensuring that support continues to build and be available for those who need it.

    If you would like to find out more about community support in our borough or how you can play your part in helping others access services more easily, call 0300 0300 900 or visit: Social Supermarket – Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Data443 Completes Operational Expense Rationalization

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc. (OTCPK: ATDS) (“Data443” or the “Company”), an AI data security and privacy software company for “All Things Data Security,” today announced the completion of major operational expense rationalizations yielding immediate and long-term financial benefits.

    $3.1 Million in Annual Cost Savings Achieved

    “As part of our march toward profitability and operational efficiencies across all acquisitions, we have successfully eliminated over $3.1 million in annualized operational expenses from our current operations,” stated Jason Remillard, CEO of Data443.

    This cost optimization initiative follows the Company’s recent expansion in the AI sector, including an acquisition focused on email categorization and classification technologies and the launch of its innovative CAFAI™ training solution for AI large language models. Additionally, the newly established relationship with leading data center provider TierPoint, announced last week, has contributed significantly to these operational expense reductions.

    Renewed Focus on Efficiency and Growth

    “As the broader market recovers globally, we continue to identify new opportunities for a disciplined, optimization-focused approach in our operating reviews and deal structures, enabling us to deliver more unique, forward-leaning data security solutions for our customers,” Remillard continued. “These efficiencies drive higher quality and more focused product capabilities for customers while enabling greater investments in the business. Furthermore, as our recurring revenue continues to compound, the Company will realize additional cost savings around interest expense, which has historically been a significant financial burden.”

    The Company expects to maintain these efficiencies consistently for current business operations without incurring any one-time charges.

    These operational improvements coincide with significant market validation of AI-powered email security solutions, evidenced by Abnormal Security’s anticipated IPO and growing enterprise demand for intelligent security platforms such as Sailpoint.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by use of terms such as “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursuant,” “target,” “continue” or the negative of these words or other comparable terminology. Statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding Data443’s plans, objectives, future opportunities for Data443’s services, future financial performance and operating results, and any other statements regarding Data443’s future expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, financial conditions, assumptions or future events or performance, or regarding the anticipated consummation of any transaction, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are difficult to predict or are beyond Data443’s control. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. They may relate to the outcome of litigation, settlements and investigations; actions by third parties, including governmental agencies; volatility in customer spending; global economic conditions; inability to hire and retain personnel; loss of, or reduction in business with, key customers; difficulty with growth and integration of acquisitions; product liability; cybersecurity risk; anti-takeover measures in the Company’s charter documents; and the uncertainties created by global health issues, such as the ongoing outbreak of COVID, and political unrest and conflict, such as the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. These and other important risk factors are described more fully in the Company’s reports and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“the SEC”), including in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 17, 2024, and subsequent filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, Data443 undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

    “DATA443” is a registered trademark of Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc.

    All product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this press release are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks and brands does not imply endorsement.

    For further information:
    Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/data443-risk-mitigation-inc/
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZXDhJcx-XgMBhvE9aFHRdA
    Sign up for our Investor Newsletter: https://data443.com/investor-email-alerts/

    To learn more about Data443, please watch the Company’s video introduction on its YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/1Fp93jOxFSg

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matthew Abenante
    ir@data443.com
    919.858.6542

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple introduces iPad Air with powerful M3 chip and new Magic Keyboard

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple introduces iPad Air with powerful M3 chip and new Magic Keyboard

    March 4, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple introduces iPad Air with powerful M3 chip and new Magic Keyboard

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today introduced the faster, more powerful iPad Air with the M3 chip and built for Apple Intelligence. iPad Air with M3 brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to iPad Air for the first time — taking its incredible combination of power-efficient performance and portability to a new level. iPad Air with M3 is nearly 2x faster compared to iPad Air with M1,1 and up to 3.5x faster than iPad Air with A14 Bionic.2 Users will feel the speed of M3 in everything they do, from creating engaging content faster than ever to playing demanding, graphics-intensive games. Available in two sizes and four gorgeous finishes that users love, the 11-inch iPad Air is super portable while on the go, and the 13-inch model provides an even larger display for more room to be creative and productive. Designed for iPad Air, the new Magic Keyboard enhances its versatility and delivers more capabilities at a lower price. With iPadOS 18, support for Apple Intelligence, advanced cameras, fast wireless 5G connectivity, and compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), the new iPad Air offers an unrivaled experience.

    With the same starting price of just $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model, the new iPad Air is a fantastic value. And for education, the 11-inch iPad Air starts at just $549, and the 13-inch model starts at just $749. Customers can pre-order the new iPad Air with M3 and Magic Keyboard for iPad Air starting today, with availability beginning Wednesday, March 12.

    “iPad Air is so popular because of its unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “For everyone from college students taking notes with Apple Pencil Pro, to travelers and content creators who need powerful productivity on the go, iPad Air with M3, Apple Intelligence, and the new Magic Keyboard take versatility and value to the next level.”

    Supercharged Performance with M3

    iPad Air with M3 empowers users to be productive and creative wherever they are, from aspiring creatives using demanding apps and working with large files, to travelers editing content on the go. The powerful M3 chip offers a number of improvements over M1 and previous-generation models. Featuring a more powerful 8-core CPU, M3 is up to 35 percent faster for multithreaded CPU workflows than iPad Air with M1. M3 features a 9-core GPU with up to 40 percent faster graphics performance over M1. M3 also brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to iPad Air for the first time with support for dynamic caching, along with hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing. For graphics-intensive rendering workflows, iPad Air with M3 offers up to 4x faster performance than iPad Air with M1, enabling more accurate lighting, reflections, shadows, and extremely realistic gaming experiences.3

    The faster Neural Engine in M3 means iPad Air users can enjoy even more AI capabilities in iPadOS. Compared to M1, the Neural Engine in M3 is up to 60 percent faster for AI-based workloads. Other improvements over iPad models with A-series chips include support for Apple Intelligence, the choice of 11- and 13-inch sizes, and support for advanced accessories, including the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro.

    iPad Air: Built for Apple Intelligence

    iPad Air is built for Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence.4 In Photos, the Clean Up tool makes it easy to remove distracting elements in images, and natural language search allows users to search for just about any photo or video by simply describing what they are looking for. With Image Wand in the Notes app, users can make notes more visually engaging by turning rough sketches into delightful images, just by drawing a circle around the sketch with their Apple Pencil. Users can even circle empty space within a note, and Image Wand will gather context from the surrounding area to create a relevant image that complements the note and makes it more visual.

    Apple Intelligence helps users explore creative new ways to express themselves visually with Image Playground, create the perfect emoji with Genmoji, and make their writing even more dynamic with Writing Tools. Users can now type to Siri, and Siri is more conversational with the ability to follow along if users stumble over their words. Siri can also maintain context from one request to the next, and with extensive product knowledge, Siri can answer thousands of questions about the features and settings of Apple products, so users can learn how to do things like take a screen recording.

    With ChatGPT seamlessly integrated into Writing Tools and Siri, users can tap into ChatGPT’s expertise without jumping between applications, so they can get things done faster and easier than ever before. In addition, users can access ChatGPT for free without creating an account, and privacy protections are built in — their IP addresses are obscured and OpenAI won’t store requests. Users can choose whether to enable ChatGPT integration, and are in full control of when to use it and what information is shared with ChatGPT.

    Designed to protect users’ privacy at every step, Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing, meaning that many of the models that power it run entirely on device. For requests that require access to larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of iPad into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence. When using Private Cloud Compute, users’ data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill their request.

    All-New Magic Keyboard for iPad Air

    The all-new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air expands what users can do at an even lower price. The larger built-in trackpad brings greater precision for detail-oriented tasks, and a new 14-key function row allows easy access to features like screen brightness and volume controls. The new Magic Keyboard attaches magnetically, and the Smart Connector immediately connects power and data without the need for Bluetooth; a machined aluminum hinge also includes a USB-C connector for charging. Now starting at just $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch model, the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air features the magical floating design customers love and comes in white.

    iPad Updated with Double the Starting Storage and the A16 Chip

    Apple today also updated iPad with double the starting storage and the A16 chip, bringing even more value to customers. The A16 chip provides a jump in performance for everyday tasks and experiences in iPadOS, while still providing all-day battery life. Compared to the previous generation, the updated iPad with A16 is nearly 30 percent faster.5 In fact, compared to iPad with A13 Bionic, users will see up to a 50 percent improvement in overall performance,5 and A16 makes the updated iPad up to 6x faster than the best-selling Android tablet.6

    Powerful and Intelligent Features with iPadOS 18

    iPadOS 18 offers powerful features that enhance the iPad experience, making it more versatile and intelligent than ever:7

    • Designed for the unique capabilities of iPad, Calculator delivers an entirely new way to use Apple Pencil to solve expressions. With Math Notes, users are now able to write out mathematical expressions or type to see them instantly solved in handwriting like their own. They can also create and use variables, and add an equation to insert a graph. Users can access their Math Notes in the Notes app and use all of the math functionality in any of their other notes.
    • In Notes, handwritten notes become more fluid and flexible. Smart Script unleashes powerful new capabilities for users editing handwritten text, allowing them to easily add space or even paste typed text in their own handwriting. And as users write with Apple Pencil, their handwriting will be automatically refined in real time to be smoother, straighter, and more legible.
    • With new Audio Recording and Transcription, iPad can capture a lecture or conversation, and transcripts are synced with the audio, so users can search for an exact moment in the recording.
    • Users now have even more options to express themselves through the Home Screen. App icons and widgets can take on a new look with a dark or tinted effect, and users can make them appear larger to create the experience that’s perfect for them. A redesigned Control Center provides easier access to many of the things users do every day, including the option to organize new controls from third-party apps.

    Better for the Environment

    The new iPad Air and updated iPad are designed with the environment in mind. As part of Apple 2030, the company’s ambitious goal to be carbon neutral across its entire carbon footprint by the end of this decade, Apple is transitioning to renewable electricity for manufacturing, and investing in wind and solar projects around the world to address the electricity used to charge all Apple products, including the new iPad Air and iPad. Today, all Apple facilities run on 100 percent renewable electricity — including the data centers that power Apple Intelligence.

    To achieve Apple 2030, the company is designing products with more recycled and renewable materials, which further drives down the carbon footprint. The new iPad Air and iPad each feature at least 30 percent recycled content overall, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure and 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in all magnets. The batteries contain 100 percent recycled cobalt and — in a first for iPad — over 95 percent recycled lithium. The new iPad Air and iPad meet Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency, and are free of mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The packaging is also entirely fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal of removing plastic from its packaging by the end of this year.8

    Pricing and Availability

    • Customers can pre-order the new iPad Air with M3 starting today, March 4, on apple.com/store, and in the Apple Store app in 29 countries and regions, including the U.S. It will begin arriving to customers, and will be in Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers, starting March 12.
    • The 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air with M3 will be available in blue, purple, starlight, and space gray, with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations.
    • The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and $749 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The 13-inch iPad Air starts at $799 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi model, and $949 (U.S.) for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
    • For education, the new 11-inch iPad Air starts at $549 (U.S.), and the 13-inch model starts at $749 (U.S.). Education pricing is available to current and newly accepted college students and their parents, as well as faculty, staff, and home-school teachers of all grade levels. For more information, visit apple.com/us-hed/shop.
    • The new Magic Keyboard, available in white, is compatible with the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air. The 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $269 (U.S.), and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $319 (U.S.). For education, the 11-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $249 (U.S.), and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard is available for $299 (U.S.).
    • Customers can pre-order the new iPad with A16 starting today, March 4, on apple.com/store, and in the Apple Store app in 29 countries and regions, including the U.S. It will begin arriving to customers, and will be in Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Resellers, starting March 12.
    • The new iPad starts with 128GB of storage, and is also available in 256GB and a new 512GB configuration. Available in blue, pink, yellow, and silver, Wi-Fi models of the new iPad are available with a starting price of $349 (U.S.), and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at $499 (U.S.). For education, Wi-Fi models of the new iPad are available with a starting price of $329 (U.S.), and Wi-Fi + Cellular models start at $479 (U.S.).
    • Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad is available for $249 (U.S.) and comes in white. For education, the Magic Keyboard Folio is available for $229 (U.S.).
    • Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) are compatible with the new iPad Air. Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Apple Pencil (1st generation) are compatible with the new iPad. Apple Pencil Pro is available for $129 (U.S.), and $119 (U.S.) for education. Apple Pencil (USB-C) is available for $79 (U.S.), and $69 (U.S.) for education.
    • Apple offers great ways to save on the latest iPad. Customers can trade in their current iPad and get credit toward a new one by visiting the Apple Store online, the Apple Store app, or an Apple Store location. To see what their device is worth and for terms and conditions, customers can visit apple.com/shop/trade-in.
    • Customers in the U.S. who shop at Apple using Apple Card can pay monthly at 0 percent APR when they choose to check out with Apple Card Monthly Installments, and they’ll get 3 percent Daily Cash back — all up front. More information — including details on eligibility, exclusions, and Apple Card terms — is available at apple.com/apple-card/monthly-installments.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025. See apple.com/ipad-air for more information.
    2. Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad Air 11-inch (M3) and iPad Air 13-inch (M3) units as well as production iPad Air (4th generation) units. Tested with Procreate Dreams v1.0.14 by exporting a 29-second project. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad Air.
    3. Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad Air 11-inch (M3) and iPad Air 13-inch (M3) units as well as production iPad Air (5th generation) units. Octane X 2024.1.01 for iPad tested using a scene with 770,000 meshes and 8 million unique primitives, utilizing hardware-accelerated ray tracing on M3-based systems and software-based ray tracing on all other units. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad Air.
    4. Apple Intelligence is available on iPad mini (A17 Pro) and iPad models with M1 and later, in localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the U.S. Additional languages — including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (simplified), English (Singapore), and English (India) — will be available in April, with more languages coming over the course of the year, including Vietnamese. Some features, applications, and services may not be available in all regions or all languages.
    5. Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad (A16) units as well as production iPad (10th generation) units. Tested with a selection of tasks using Microsoft Excel for iPad v2.93. Performance tests are conducted using specific iPad units and reflect the approximate performance of iPad.
    6. Testing conducted by Apple in January and February 2025 using preproduction iPad (A16) units with Apple A16, as well as production Qualcomm SM6375-based Android tablet units with the latest version of Android 14 available at the time of testing. Best-selling Android tablet based on publicly available sales data over the last 12 months. Tested with common tasks in commercial applications and select industry-standard benchmarks. Performance depends on device settings, usage, environment, and many other factors. Performance tests are conducted using specific systems and reflect the approximate performance of iPad.
    7. Some features may not be available for all countries or all areas. For more information on iPadOS 18, visit apple.com/ipados/ipados-18.
    8. Based on retail packaging as shipped by Apple. Breakdown of U.S. retail packaging by weight. Adhesives, inks, and coatings are excluded from calculations of plastic content and packaging weight.

    Press Contacts

    Tara Courtney

    Apple

    tcourtney@apple.com

    Skylar Eisenhart

    Apple

    s_eisenhart@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

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