Jamaica Secures $30 Million from World Bank for STEM School and Enhanced Teaching Practices

Jamaica Secures $30 Million From World Bank For Stem School And Enhanced Teaching Practices

Jamaica’s government and the World Bank have entered into a significant agreement worth $30 million aimed at enhancing teaching practices, inclusivity, learning conditions, and decision-making processes within the country’s education system. The project intends to benefit approximately 150,000 secondary students, 6,000 teachers, school principals, Ministry of Education and Youth personnel, as well as education policymakers and practitioners.

One of the key aspects of the project is the establishment of a new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) secondary school, which will cater to around 2,400 students. At least half of the beneficiaries will be girls. The STEM school aims to address existing gaps, particularly for vulnerable students, including boys, residing in underserved areas where schools are currently operating beyond capacity.

While acknowledging Jamaica’s progress in education, challenges such as completion rates, inequity, and low student performance persist in secondary education. The World Bank’s Country Director for Caribbean countries, Lilia Burunciuc, stated that the new project seeks to strengthen the Jamaican education system by improving access for disadvantaged students and enhancing educational outcomes.

The project will also focus on equipping teachers with effective instructional practices to deliver the existing curriculum and enhancing the use of assessments to support student learning. Special attention will be given to the development of digital and socio-emotional skills within the classroom.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to human capital development, Nigel Clarke, Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and the Public Service, emphasised the importance of equitable access to quality education for the country’s growth and development. Minister Clarke expressed satisfaction in partnering with the World Bank on this crucial project, which is expected to significantly improve education outcomes.

Furthermore, the project will facilitate the creation of an efficient information system to enhance the management of the education system. This system will enable the implementation of targeted early intervention strategies aimed at improving student retention, with a specific focus on secondary education.

The $30 million loan, provided by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, was signed by Minister Nigel Clarke, Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams, and World Bank Country Director for Caribbean countries, Lilia Burunciuc. The collaboration between the Jamaican government and the World Bank underscores their joint commitment to addressing educational challenges and fostering an inclusive and high-quality education system in Jamaica.

South Africa’s Ports Suffer Severe Congestion, Disrupting Trade Routes

South Africa's Ports Suffer Severe Congestion, Disrupting Trade Routes

Durban and Cape Town ports in South Africa are facing a deepening crisis as congestion reaches unprecedented levels, causing significant delays and disruptions to trade routes. Reports indicate that Durban harbour is currently grappling with thousands of stranded containers aboard ships, exacerbating the congestion problem.

Transnet, the State-owned entity responsible for managing the country’s ports, revealed that over 60 ships are currently anchored at the Port of Durban, and it could take anywhere between seven to 15 weeks to clear this backlog. Of the 63 ships destined for Durban, 20 are intended to dock at the Durban Container Terminals (DCT) Pier 1 and Pier 2.

Transnet has taken proactive measures to address the mounting backlog and alleviate the crisis. The company announced on Friday that it expects Pier 1 to clear the backlog within seven weeks using various initiatives, while Pier 2 is projected to take 15 weeks or less. However, the challenges are not limited to Durban alone, as delays have also been reported at the Cape Town Port due to issues within Transnet.

Business Live reports that Cape Town is experiencing delays of up to 14 days in unloading cargo from docked ships. The Danish shipping conglomerate Maersk has decided to remove Cape Town as a port of call, opting to utilise Mauritius instead. Under the new arrangement, all cargo destined for Cape Town will be transhipped in Port Louis, Mauritius, and then transported in smaller shipments to the Cape. Outgoing cargo from Cape Town will undergo the same process.

Maersk further announced that, beginning in the first week of December, the Far East-West Africa (FEW2, FEW3, and FEW6) routes will have updated rotations. Additionally, a new feeder service called Cape Town Express will be introduced, connected to the updated SAFARI service. These changes aim to enhance reliability and transit time, ensuring seamless connections between the Far East and West Africa.

The ongoing delays in Durban and Cape Town are expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming festive season. As the situation develops, stakeholders in the shipping industry and businesses reliant on efficient port operations are closely monitoring the situation for further updates.

Please note that this is a developing story, and additional information may emerge in the coming days.

 

Source: IOL

President Bola Tinubu Urges German Investment in Nigerian Economy’s Key Sectors

President Bola Tinubu Urges German Investment In Nigerian Economy's Key Sectors

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has called for German investment in critical areas of the Nigerian economy, particularly in the fields of electricity and rail transportation. The president made this request during a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin on Monday, outside the G20 Compact with Africa Economic Conference.

In a statement released by the president’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu emphasised the need for German investment in growth-enabling sectors such as transportation, energy, and the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power. He highlighted the importance of accelerating the implementation of the Presidential Power Initiative, backed by Siemens, which aims to address Nigeria’s power challenges.

Tinubu expressed his commitment to pursuing all aspects of the Siemens power project and emphasised the potential skill development opportunities for Nigerian youth in sustaining the industry. He also suggested that Siemens could contribute to Nigeria’s rail network by supplying cutting-edge trains and railroads, drawing inspiration from the company’s ongoing project in Egypt, where it is constructing a 2,000 km ultra-high-speed rail network spanning 60 towns.

In response, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his willingness to move forward with the investment proposals. However, he emphasised the importance of addressing financial and administrative obstacles resulting from governance issues within the sector.

During the meeting, Tinubu also raised the topic of value-added processing in Nigeria’s solid minerals, agriculture, automotive industry, and other job-generating sectors. He highlighted the potential for enhancing these sectors through German collaboration, further emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to economic growth and job creation.

The meeting between President Tinubu and Chancellor Scholz reflects the mutual interest in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and Germany. As discussions continue, both countries aim to explore avenues for collaboration and investment that will drive sustainable economic development and benefit the people of Nigeria.

This development marks an important step forward in attracting foreign investment and fostering partnerships to promote economic growth and address key challenges facing Nigeria’s infrastructure and industrial sectors.

President Ruto Explores Employment Opportunities for Kenyans in Germany, Strengthening International Labour Agreements

President Ruto Explores Employment Opportunities For Kenyans In Germany, Strengthening International Labour Agreements

President William Ruto is currently in Germany on a mission to explore employment opportunities for Kenyan citizens in the European nation. This initiative comes in response to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to Kenya in May, where he unveiled plans to welcome 250,000 Kenyan professionals, skilled laborers, and semi-skilled workers to address Germany’s significant labour needs.

Speaking to a congregation in Sotik, Bomet County, President Ruto highlighted the importance of international labour agreements and their role in combating the rising cost of living. He emphasized that youth employment is a crucial factor in achieving this goal and pledged to continue pursuing such agreements with various countries around the world.

President Ruto revealed that he is actively working with Labour Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore to establish bilateral labour agreements that would enable Kenya to send 3,000 workers abroad every week. The objective is to generate income for the country’s transformation and provide opportunities for Kenyan citizens.

While the president did not provide a specific timeline for the deployment of Kenyan workers under these agreements, he expressed his commitment to the cause. Addressing critics who questioned his frequent foreign trips, President Ruto stated that his travels are not for tourism but rather to work tirelessly for the welfare of Kenyans. He reiterated his understanding of the reasons he was elected to office.

In addition to his efforts in Germany, President Ruto recently announced that he had secured agreements with prominent American tech giants, including Amazon, Intel, and Google, during his US-Kenya roadshow in September. These agreements are expected to create thousands of digital job opportunities for Kenyan youth, contributing to the country’s economic growth. However, specific details regarding the number of jobs pledged by each corporation were not disclosed.

President Ruto’s initiatives to explore employment opportunities in Germany and forge international labour agreements demonstrate his commitment to addressing unemployment and improving the livelihoods of Kenyan citizens. These efforts are expected to create avenues for Kenyans to showcase their skills and contribute to the economies of both Germany and Kenya.

 

Source: Capital News

Global Summit in Nairobi Concludes with Divisions on Plastic Pollution Treaty

Global Summit In Nairobi Concludes With Divisions On Plastic Pollution Treaty

A week-long summit held at the United Nations Environment headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, focused on addressing the urgent issue of global plastic pollution, concluded on Sunday. With over 2,000 delegates in attendance, the discussions aimed to draft a binding treaty to combat the escalating problem of plastic pollution.

Last year, 175 countries committed to reaching a binding agreement by 2024 to address plastic pollution. The Nairobi meetings marked the third of five sessions planned to be completed by next year, with the goal of adopting the treaty in 2025.

However, as the summit came to a close, delegates remained divided on the substance of the treaty. Plastic pollution has become pervasive, affecting ecosystems from oceans to mountaintops, with production projected to triple by 2060. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) emphasized the need to focus on reducing plastic production rather than relying solely on recycling. They called for a 75% reduction in production by 2040. On the other hand, oil-producing countries and plastic industry lobbies, also represented at the summit, advocated for recycling and improved waste management.

UNEP executive director Inger Andersen stressed the importance of addressing the entire life cycle of plastics, from production to final disposal. She stated, “We cannot recycle our way out of this mess.” Nonetheless, a “low ambition coalition” composed of oil-producing nations such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain faced accusations from environmental groups of impeding progress in the negotiations.

Kenya, one of the 60 “high ambition” nations, called for binding rules to reduce plastic use and production. President William Ruto urged negotiators to make significant progress in the discussions, emphasizing the limited time remaining until the 2024 deadline and the importance of the upcoming meetings.

Following the conclusion of the Nairobi negotiations, the discussions will continue in April 2024 in Canada and conclude in South Korea later that year. The timing of these negotiations aligns with the upcoming COP 28 climate conference in the United Arab Emirates, which aims to address greenhouse gas emissions and support developing countries in dealing with the consequences of climate change.

The global summit in Nairobi highlighted the pressing need for a comprehensive and effective treaty to combat plastic pollution. While divisions remained on the approach to tackling the issue, the discussions served as a crucial platform for raising awareness and fostering international cooperation in finding solutions.

 

Source: Africa News

Air Peace Granted Approval for Direct Flights to Dubai as Emirates Airlines Plans Return to Nigeria

Air Peace Granted Approval For Direct Flights To Dubai As Emirates Airlines Plans Return To Nigeria

In a significant development for the aviation industry, the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has granted Air Peace, a Nigerian airline, the approval to operate direct flights to Dubai. The announcement was made by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, who revealed that Emirates Airlines, which had previously suspended operations to Nigeria due to challenges repatriating earned dollars, also expressed its readiness to resume direct flights to the country.

During the recently concluded Dubai Airshow, the management of Emirates Airlines confirmed its intention to reinstate flight services to Nigeria. This news comes as a boost to the Nigerian aviation sector, as it signals the return of a major international airline to the country.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace’s Head of Press, Odutayo Oluseyi, issued a statement highlighting Minister Keyamo’s meeting with Airline Executive’s CEO, Dana Hatcic. Airline Executive expressed interest in establishing a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria, demonstrating confidence in the country’s aviation industry.

Furthermore, Minister Keyamo expressed his vision for organizing the inaugural Nigeria Air Show in November 2024, making Nigeria the first African country to host such an event. This will provide a platform for showcasing the nation’s aviation capabilities and attracting global participation.

During his visit to the Dubai Airshow, Minister Keyamo also explored the pavilions of leading aviation and aerospace companies. His objective was to examine cutting-edge technologies and modern infrastructure that could contribute to his 5-Point Agenda for Nigeria’s aviation industry. The agenda focuses on enhancing infrastructure, promoting innovation, and fostering creativity in civil aviation.

The Dubai Airshow, held from November 13 to November 17, 2023, witnessed the participation of numerous industry specialists from around the world. It served as a gathering point for aviation and aerospace experts, facilitating networking and the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The approval for Air Peace to operate direct flights to Dubai and the readiness of Emirates Airlines to return to Nigeria mark positive developments for both countries’ aviation sectors. These initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity, boost trade and tourism, and further strengthen bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria.

 

Source: Vanguard

France Issues Arrest Warrant for Bashar al-Assad and Three Generals Over Chemical Attacks That Killed 1,000

France Issues Arrest Warrant For Bashar Al Assad And Three Generals Over Chemical Attacks That Killed 1,000

France has issued an arrest warrant for Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and three of his generals in connection with the devastating chemical attacks that claimed the lives of approximately 1,000 people. The warrants, which were confirmed by legal sources in Paris on Wednesday, come as a result of the ongoing investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the August 2013 attacks.

The chemical attacks, which involved rockets filled with sarin gas, targeted the Damascus suburbs of  Douma and Ghouta. The United Nations investigators described the Ghouta attack as the deadliest use of chemical weapons since the Iran-Iraq War, with clear and convincing evidence pointing to the use of sarin gas. A subsequent UN report concluded that significant quantities of sarin were used in a well-planned indiscriminate attack on civilian-inhabited areas, causing mass casualties.

The arrest warrants not only target Bashar al-Assad but also include three of his generals who were allegedly involved in the gassing of their own citizens. While it is highly unlikely that they will be brought to trial in Paris, the warrants serve as a symbol of France’s commitment to holding international war criminals accountable.

The names of the accused will be placed on Interpol’s red list, making travel outside Syria extremely dangerous for them. This move further isolates al-Assad and his associates from the international community and underscores the gravity of the charges against them.

Bashar al-Assad, who has ruled Syria with an iron fist for many years, has been heavily involved in a civil war that has led to the deaths of thousands of people and left countless others living in fear, danger, and poverty. Despite allegations of horrendous human rights violations, he managed to secure his re-election in 2021 with an official vote count of 95.1 percent, according to Syrian officials. Throughout his reign, al-Assad has enjoyed the support of Russian leader Vladimir Putin, a fellow despot who has also faced accusations of human rights abuses.

The warrants issued by France serve as a reminder that justice can still be pursued, even for those who wield significant power and influence. While bringing the accused to trial may prove to be a formidable challenge, the legal action taken by France underscores the importance of accountability and the determination to hold international war criminals responsible for their actions.

 

Source: Independent

UK Supreme Court Rejects Contentious Rwanda Migrant Policy, Dealing Blow to Prime Minister Sunak

Uk Supreme Court Rejects Contentious Rwanda Migrant Policy, Dealing Blow To Prime Minister Sunak

The UK Supreme Court rejected the government’s controversial plan to send migrants to Rwanda. The court upheld a previous ruling by the Court of Appeal, declaring the policy unlawful and incompatible with the country’s international obligations.

The five-judge panel unanimously agreed with the lower court’s assessment that sending migrants to Rwanda would expose them to a real risk of ill-treatment. The judges concurred with concerns that Rwanda could forcibly return asylum seekers and refugees to their countries of origin, where they might face persecution.

The rejected plan, signed as a deal with Rwanda in April of last year, aimed to establish interim centre’s in Rwanda for undocumented migrants. The initiative sought to address the issue of “illegal” immigration via small boats crossing the English Channel, which the ruling Conservative party considered a pressing concern ahead of the next general election.

The Supreme Court’s decision effectively nullifies the agreement with Rwanda and leaves Prime Minister Sunak’s immigration agenda in disarray. The ruling is also expected to deepen divisions within the Conservative Party between right-wing lawmakers advocating for more assertive measures and moderates seeking a balanced approach.

While acknowledging that the outcome was not desired, Sunak assured that the government had been working on a new treaty with Rwanda, taking into account the court’s judgment. He expressed readiness to revise domestic laws and reconsider international relationships if obstacles persist.

Critics of the Rwanda plan have denounced it as cruel, costly, and difficult to implement. The Rwandan government expressed disagreement with the ruling, asserting that it is a safe third country for migrants.

The UK government contends that the policy is vital to deter migrants from crossing the English Channel from France using unsafe vessels. Although the number of migrants making the journey has decreased this year compared to previous years, it still falls short of Sunak’s commitment to “stop the boats.”

The government argues that reducing both regular and irregular immigration is necessary to alleviate pressure on government-funded services, including healthcare and housing for asylum seekers. The current backlog of asylum cases in the UK stands at 122,585, down 12 percent from the record high in February. Meanwhile, net migration, the difference between people leaving and arriving in the country, reached a record 606,000 last year.

Given the limitations imposed by the Supreme Court’s ruling, the government may explore alternative agreements with other countries to address the issue of “illegal” arrivals. Newly-appointed Interior Minister James Cleverly suggested that other European nations were inclined to follow the UK’s approach.

The decision is likely to reignite calls from right-wing politicians, such as former Interior Minister Suella Braverman, for the UK to withdraw from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). However, Sunak has thus far refrained from endorsing such a drastic move. Braverman criticized Sunak’s immigration policies, accusing him of betrayal and lacking the necessary resolve.

Deputy Chairman of the Tory party, Lee Anderson, called for defying the laws and immediately deporting migrants upon arrival. He characterized the court ruling as a dark day for the British people and urged the government to proceed with sending migrants to Rwanda.

The main opposition party, Labour, capitalized on the ruling, criticizing Sunak’s perceived lack of a serious plan to address dangerous boat crossings. Labour’s senior MP Yvette Cooper described the plan as unworkable and excessively costly, highlighting the government’s failure to formulate a robust and practical policy.

Migrant advocates welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, viewing it as a victory for the rights of individuals seeking safety and protection. The Refugee Council expressed satisfaction with the ruling, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rights of men, women, and children fleeing persecution.

 

Source: ABC News

Uganda’s Rising Disease Burden Linked to Climate Change: A Looming Public Health Crisis

Uganda's Rising Disease Burden Linked To Climate Change

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is facing a mounting public health crisis as its disease burden continues to rise, with climate change emerging as a significant contributing factor. The East African nation, known for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, is experiencing the direct and indirect impacts of a changing climate, leading to the proliferation of diseases that pose a threat to both human and animal populations.

One of the most pressing concerns in Uganda is the increased incidence of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and West Nile virus. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have created favourable breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, expanding their geographic range and intensifying transmission rates. Communities that were once considered low-risk areas are now grappling with the burden of these diseases, putting a strain on the already fragile healthcare system.

Malaria, in particular, remains a major public health challenge in Uganda. With over 90% of the population at risk, the country accounts for a significant portion of global malaria cases and deaths. Climate change-induced factors such as warmer temperatures and altered rainfall patterns have not only prolonged the transmission season but also created conducive conditions for mosquito breeding. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including floods and droughts, further exacerbate the situation by disrupting malaria control interventions and leading to population displacement, which facilitates disease spread.

Beyond vector-borne diseases, climate change is also linked to other health concerns in Uganda. Waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid are on the rise due to the contamination of water sources during heavy rainfall or flooding events. Prolonged droughts and changing precipitation patterns also contribute to water scarcity, compromising proper sanitation and hygiene practices, which in turn increases the risk of diarrheal diseases.

Furthermore, climate change affects agricultural systems and food security, indirectly impacting public health in Uganda. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and increased pest infestations pose significant challenges to crop production and livelihoods, leading to malnutrition and vulnerability to diseases. The resulting food insecurity can weaken immune systems, making individuals more susceptible to various illnesses.

Recognizing the urgency of addressing this emerging crisis, the Ugandan government, in collaboration with international partners, is taking steps to mitigate the impacts of climate change on public health. Efforts include strengthening disease surveillance systems, improving access to healthcare services, and implementing climate-resilient agricultural practices. Additionally, initiatives are being undertaken to raise awareness about the links between climate change and health, empowering communities to adapt and build resilience.

However, addressing Uganda’s rising disease burden linked to climate change requires a multi-sectoral and collaborative approach. It necessitates increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, research, and technology, as well as policy interventions that prioritize climate change mitigation and adaptation. International support and funding are vital to enable the country to implement effective strategies and build capacity to tackle these interconnected challenges.

Uganda’s rising disease burden is a stark reminder of the profound impact climate change can have on public health. Urgent action is needed to mitigate the effects, protect vulnerable communities, and secure a sustainable future for the people of Uganda. Only through concerted efforts, both locally and globally, can we hope to address this pressing issue and protect the health and well-being of Uganda’s population.

 

Source: NilePost

 

Traffic Changes Implemented in Glasgow’s West End Following Urban Realm Improvements

Traffic Changes Implemented In Glasgow's West End Following Urban Realm Improvements

In response to the Byres Road and Church Street Urban Realm improvements, Traffic Scotland has confirmed several changes that will be implemented, aiming to enhance traffic flow and facilitate smoother transportation in Glasgow’s West End. These modifications are scheduled to take effect on Sunday, November 5, at 8 am.

One of the key changes involves Church Street, which will transition into a one-way operation, specifically southbound, spanning its entire length. Additionally, access from Dumbarton will no longer be permitted. To improve traffic management, new traffic signals will be installed at the junction of Dumbarton Road, Church Street, and Thurso Street.

Another alteration will take place on Torness Street, where the direction of travel will be reversed, shifting from westbound to eastbound. This adjustment aims to optimise traffic patterns and improve overall efficiency in the area.

Furthermore, a new right turn has been introduced on Byres Road, allowing vehicles travelling westbound on Dumbarton Road to make the turn onto Byres Road. This addition seeks to enhance accessibility and provide motorists with increased flexibility in their routes.

To assist drivers during the transition and ensure clarity, new direction signage will be strategically placed, helping them navigate the modified road layouts effectively.

The implementation of these traffic changes follows recent reports by the Glasgow Times, which highlighted the frustrations expressed by West End residents and business owners. They voiced their discontent after witnessing the unnecessary excavation and reconstruction of two pavements on Church Street, a mere three years after their initial completion.

The alterations made to the road infrastructure aim to address traffic concerns and improve overall transportation in the West End. By optimising traffic flow and providing clearer directions, these changes are expected to enhance the commuting experience for both residents and visitors to the area. Traffic Scotland remains committed to ongoing improvements and ensuring efficient road networks throughout Glasgow.