January 29, 2024

Tissot presents Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport

Photos: Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport. Images provided by & copyright © TISSOT.

Tissot is known for its ability to merge style and functionality, and their latest offering, the Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport, is no exception. Building on the success of the T-Touch Connect Solar, this new unisex sports watch is for active individuals who value their well-being and want a high-quality timepiece on their wrist.

The Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport features a quartz movement and is recharged by solar power. With a 43mm diameter, the watch has high-performance solar cells on the dial that capture light and store energy in an accumulator, allowing it to run for months without needing to be charged. The watch also has tactile sapphire glass and an AMOLED screen responsive to touch or side pushers, providing a versatile interactive experience.

Source: TISSOT

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January 26, 2024

India celebrates its 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024, with a Parade in New Delhi.

Photos: India celebrated its 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024, with a Parade in New Delhi.

Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India

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January 25, 2024

Attention: Vice Chancellors of Universities in India. If your University has not yet registered with the National Testing Agency (NTA) for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for Uniform Postgraduate Admissions, it may do so now.

January 25, 2024

Attention, Vice-Chancellors of Universities in India!

If your University has not yet registered with the National Testing Agency (NTA) to participate in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for Postgraduate Admissions, you can apply to the NTA and join the system. It will enable your University to benefit from the CUET program and provide a fair and transparent entrance process for postgraduate students.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry of Education have entrusted the National Testing Agency (NTA) with the responsibility of conducting the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for admission to postgraduate courses. This move aims to simplify the admission process and ensure equal opportunities for all students.

To add your University to the NTA’s list of participating institutions, you can register with the NTA. The NTA regularly updates the list of Universities on its website. After registration, it will soon include your University’s name on the list.

Photo: UGC advises the Vice Chancellors of Universities in India to register with the National Testing Agency (NTA) for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for Postgraduate Admissions.

Source: UGC

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— The Editor is a Higher Education Professional.

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:16 AM | View the original post

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January 24, 2024

United Nations Headquarters Event on International Day of Education, January 24, 2024

Photo: Jinan Lorenzio Wu from the Juilliard School in New York performs during the event “Learning for Lasting Peace” on the International Day of Education (January 24). United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) organized the event. January 24, 2024. New York. United States of America. UN Photo/Loey Felipe.

Source: United Nations, New York

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January 23, 2024

Academy announces Oscars Nominations 2024

Photo: Salma Hayek arrives on the red carpet of the 95th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Richard Harbaugh / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]

LOS ANGELES, CA, January 23, 2024 - Actors Zazie Beetz and Jack Quaid announced the 96th Oscars nominations from the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater via a global live stream, an international satellite feed, and broadcast media.

Beetz and Quaid announced the nominees in 8 categories, followed by the remaining 15 at the live event attended by international media and industry guests.

The Academy members of each of the 18 branches vote to determine the nominees in their respective categories. It means that actors nominate actors, film editors nominate film editors, and so on. However, the Academy selects nominees by a vote of multi-branch screening committees in the Animated Feature Film, International Feature Film, and Live live-action Short Film categories. All voting members are eligible to choose the Best Picture nominees. This year’s voting participation was at an all-time high, with members submitting ballots from 93 countries.

NOMINATIONS FOR THE 96th ACEDEMY AWARDS

• Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role

• Bradley Cooper in “Maestro”
• Colman Domingo in “Rustin”
• Paul Giamatti in “The Holdovers”
• Cillian Murphy in “Oppenheimer”
• Jeffrey Wright in “American Fiction”

• Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role

• Sterling K. Brown in “American Fiction”
• Robert De Niro in “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• Robert Downey Jr. in “Oppenheimer”
• Ryan Gosling in “Barbie”
• Mark Ruffalo in “Poor Things”

• Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role

• Annette Bening in “Nyad”
• Lily Gladstone in “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• Sandra Hüller in “Anatomy of a Fall”
• Carey Mulligan in “Maestro”
• Emma Stone in “Poor Things”

• Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role

• Emily Blunt in “Oppenheimer”
• Danielle Brooks in “The Color Purple”
• America Ferrera in “Barbie”
• Jodie Foster in “Nyad”
• Da’Vine Joy Randolph in “The Holdovers”

• Best Animated Feature Film of the Year

• “The Boy and the Heron” Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki
• “Elemental” Peter Sohn and Denise Ream
• “Nimona” Nick Bruno, Troy Quane, Karen Ryan, and Julie Zackary
• “Robot Dreams” Pablo Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé and Sandra Tapia Díaz
• “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Amy Pascal

• Achievement in Cinematography

• “El Conde” Edward Lachman
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Rodrigo Prieto
• “Maestro” Matthew Libatique
• “Oppenheimer” Hoyte van Hoytema
• “Poor Things” Robbie Ryan

• Achievement in Costume Design

• “Barbie” Jacqueline Durran
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Jacqueline West
• “Napoleon” Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
• “Oppenheimer” Ellen Mirojnick
• “Poor Things” Holly Waddington

• Achievement in Directing

• “Anatomy of a Fall” Justine Triet
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Martin Scorsese
• “Oppenheimer” Christopher Nolan
• “Poor Things” Yorgos Lanthimos
• “The Zone of Interest” Jonathan Glazer

• Best Documentary Feature Film

• “Bobi Wine: The People’s President” Moses Bwayo, Christopher Sharp, and John Battsek
• “The Eternal Memory” Nominees to be determined
• “Four Daughters” Kaouther Ben Hania and Nadim Cheikhrouha
• “To Kill a Tiger” Nisha Pahuja, Cornelia Principe and David Oppenheim
• “20 Days in Mariupol” Mstyslav Chernov, Michelle Mizner, and Raney Aronson-Rath

• Best Documentary Short Film

• “The ABCs of Book Banning” Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
• “The Barber of Little Rock” John Hoffman and Christine Turner
• “Island in Between” S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
• “The Last Repair Shop” Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers
• “Nai Nai & Wai Po” Sean Wang and Sam Davis

• Achievement in Film Editing

• “Anatomy of a Fall” Laurent Senechal
• “The Holdovers” Kevin Tent
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Thelma Schoonmaker
• “Oppenheimer” Jennifer Lame
• “Poor Things” Yorgos Mavropsaridis

• Best International Feature Film of the Year

• “Io Capitano” Italy
• “Perfect Days” Japan
• “Society of the Snow” Spain
• “The Teachers’ Lounge” Germany
• “The Zone of Interest” United Kingdom

• Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling

• “Golda” Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby, and Ashra Kelly-Blue
• “Maestro” Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou, and Lori McCoy-Bell
• “Oppenheimer” Luisa Abel
• “Poor Things” Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier and Josh Weston
• “Society of the Snow” Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martí and Montse Ribé

• Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original score)

• “American Fiction” Laura Karpman
• “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” John Williams
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Robbie Robertson
• “Oppenheimer” Ludwig Göransson
• “Poor Things” Jerskin Fendrix

• Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original song)

• “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot”
• Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
• “I’m Just Ken” from “Barbie”
• Music and Lyric by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
• “It Never Went Away” from “American Symphony”
• Music and Lyric by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
• “Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)” from “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• Music and Lyric by Scott George
• “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie”
• Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell

• Best Motion Picture of the Year

• “American Fiction” Ben LeClair, Nikos Karamigios, Cord Jefferson, and Jermaine Johnson, Producers
• “Anatomy of a Fall” Marie-Ange Luciani and David Thion, Producers
• “Barbie” David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner, Producers
• “The Holdovers” Mark Johnson, Producer
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas, Martin Scorsese and Daniel Lupi, Producers
• “Maestro” Bradley Cooper, Steven Spielberg, Fred Berner, Amy Durning and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
• “Oppenheimer” Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and Christopher Nolan, Producers
• “Past Lives” David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler, Producers
• “Poor Things” Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone, Producers
• “The Zone of Interest” James Wilson, Producer

• Achievement in Production Design

• “Barbie” Production Design: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
• “Killers of the Flower Moon” Production Design: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis
• “Napoleon” Production Design: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Elli Griff
• “Oppenheimer” Production Design: Ruth De Jong; Set Decoration: Claire Kaufman
• “Poor Things” Production Design: James Price and Shona Heath; Set Decoration: Zsuzsa Mihalek

• Best Animated Short Film

• “Letter to a Pig” Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
• “Ninety-Five Senses” Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
• “Our Uniform” Yegane Moghaddam
• “Pachyderme” Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
• “WAR IS OVER! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko” Dave Mullins and Brad Booker

• Best Live-action Short Film

• “The After” Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
• “Invincible” Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
• “Knight of Fortune” Lasse Lyskjær Noer and Christian Norlyk
• “Red, White and Blue” Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
• “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” Wes Anderson and Steven Rales

• Achievement in Sound

• “The Creator” Ian Voigt, Erik Aadahl, Ethan Van der Ryn, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
• “Maestro” Steven A. Morrow, Richard King, Jason Ruder, Tom Ozanich, and Dean Zupancic
• “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One” Chris Munro, James H. Mather, Chris Burdon and Mark Taylor
• “Oppenheimer” Willie Burton, Richard King, Gary A. Rizzo and Kevin O’Connell
• “The Zone of Interest” Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn

• Achievement in Visual Effects

• “The Creator” Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Andrew Roberts, and Neil Corbould
• “Godzilla Minus One” Takashi Yamazaki, Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi and Tatsuji Nojima
• “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” Stephane Ceretti, Alexis Wajsbrot, Guy Williams and Theo Bialek
• “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One” Alex Wuttke, Simone Coco, Jeff Sutherland and Neil Corbould
• “Napoleon” Charley Henley, Luc-Ewen Martin-Fenouillet, Simone Coco, and Neil Corbould

• Adapted Screenplay

• “American Fiction” Written for the screen by Cord Jefferson
• “Barbie” Written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach
• “Oppenheimer” Written for the screen by Christopher Nolan
• “Poor Things” Screenplay by Tony McNamara
• “The Zone of Interest” Written by Jonathan Glazer

• Original Screenplay

• “Anatomy of a Fall” Screenplay - Justine Triet and Arthur Harari
• “The Holdovers “Written by David Hemingson
• “Maestro” Written by Bradley Cooper & Josh Singer
• “May December” Screenplay by Samy Burch; Story by Samy Burch & Alex Mechanik
• “Past Lives” Written by Celine Song

Active members of the Academy are eligible to vote for the winners in all 23 categories beginning Thursday, February 22, through Tuesday, February 27.

The 96th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.

Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

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January 22, 2024

Prime Minister Modi participates in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ramlalla in the newly built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya.

• Representatives of the country’s major spiritual and religious sects attended the Pran Pratishtha ceremony.

Photos: Prime Minister Modi at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shree Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh on January 22, 2024.

Photos: Glimpses of Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shree Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh on January 22, 2024.

New Delhi, India, January 22, 2024 — On January 22, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the consecration ceremony (Pran Pratishtha) of Shri Ramlalla in the newly constructed Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir located in Ayodhya. The Prime Minister had received an invitation from the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Trust for the ceremony.

Representatives of the country’s major spiritual and religious sects attended the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony. In addition, people from various tribal communities and all walks of life also participated in the event. The Prime Minister addressed this distinguished gathering on this significant occasion.

The Prime Minister interacted with the Shramjeevis, who were associated with the construction of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He also visited the Kuber Tila, an ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiva, and performed Pooja and Darshan at this restored temple.

The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in the traditional Nagara style. It has a length of 380 feet (east-west), a width of 250 feet, and a height of 161 feet. Three hundred ninety-two pillars and 44 doors support the temple. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. The main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor contains the idol of Shri Ramlalla, which depicts the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram.

The main entrance to the Mandir is on the eastern side. To reach it, you must climb 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. The Mandir has five halls known as Mandaps - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. There is also a historic well called Sita Koop located near the Mandir. This well dates back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, you can find Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

The foundation of the Mandir has been built using roller-compacted concrete (RCC) that is 14 meters thick, giving it the appearance of an artificial rock formation. The entire structure has been constructed without the use of iron. A 21-foot-high plinth has been built using granite to protect against ground moisture. The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station. The construction of the Mandir was carried out using traditional and indigenous technology of the country.

Source: Prime Minister’s Office

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January 19, 2024

UGC India publishes the List of Defaulting Universities that have not appointed Ombudspersons per the University Grants Commission Redressal of Grievances of Students Regulations.

New Delhi, India, January 17, 2023 — The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a PUBLIC NOTICE, which lists the Names of Universities that have failed to appoint Ombudspersons in compliance with the University Grants Commission Redressal of Grievances of Students Regulations, 2023.

On April 11, 2023, UGC notified the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023, in the Official Gazette. Following this, the UGC sent a letter to universities on April 12, 2023, asking them to appoint ombudspersons within 30 days.

The list contains the names of more than 300 universities that have defaulted on appointing Ombudspersons per the regulations.

Photo: UGC Public Notice announcing the List of Defaulting Universities that have not appointed Ombudspersons in compliance with the University Grants Commission Redressal of Grievances of Students Regulations, 2023.

Source: UGC

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January 18, 2024

India reinforces its status as a Resilient Global Economy and a Preferred Investment Destination at Davos.

Photo: Impressions from the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. January 11, 2024. Image provided by & copyright © World Economic Forum/Pascal Bitz.

New Delhi, January 18, 2024 — The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) takes place from January 15 to January 19, 2024, in Davos, Switzerland, with India being the center of attention under the theme “Building Trust.” WEF’s workstreams align with India’s vision of growth, carbon neutrality, sustainability, a robust economy, and the concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The World Is One Family,” which India championed during its G20 presidency. India’s presence at Davos reinforces its status as a resilient global economy and a preferred investment destination.

Smriti Irani, Minister of Women & Child Development; Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Housing & Urban Affairs; Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics & IT; and RK Singh, Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry will lead the Government of India. They will participate in various sessions of the World Economic Forum, discussing topics such as Education, Biofuels, Gender Gaps, Renewables, Semiconductors, and Manufacturing alongside other global political and business leaders.

India’s presence at WEF secures four distinct spaces, each dedicated to illuminating the India Opportunity and unfolding its Growth Story to global investors:

• India Engagement Centre: This lounge will showcase India’s digital public infrastructure, vibrant startup ecosystem, burgeoning energy sector and host fireside chats on globally significant pillars.

• Experience India Centre: This lounge will unveil the technological leaps powered by New India, its commitments to sustainability and inclusivity, and its vibrant culture.

• India Investment Centre: This will serve as a center for Government-to-Business (G2B) and Business-to-Business (B2B) networking, hosting roundtables, sessions, and panels on leading topics.

• We Lead Lounge: This year, a dedicated gender lounge, “We Lead Lounge,” will focus on women’s participation in various walks of life, financial inclusion, and bridging the digital gender gap.

The India centers started with a compelling panel discussion on “Beyond Borders: India’s Impact on the World Stage” on the first day. Organized as a cornerstone event, the panel delved into India’s evolving role in the global landscape. PHDCCI, in collaboration with Invest India, organized this panel, providing a comprehensive exploration of India’s contributions and influence worldwide, offering insights that resonate beyond geographical borders.

The India Engagement Centres will catalyze meaningful dialogues and initiatives, solidifying their role as pivotal hubs for fostering collaboration and business cooperation on international fronts.

At WEF, 21 sessions will be held over five days, showcasing India’s opportunities and opening doors for discussion on Manufacturing, Technology, Gender-based impact, Sustainability, Mobility, Startups, Healthcare, AI, etc.

In tandem with the India Lounges, the establishment of five State Lounges underscores India’s consolidated and prominent role at WEF, fostering collaboration and discourse on a global scale. The five states include Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.

The Indian business representatives number over 80, and a few Indian companies have established their presence through Lounges in Davos. CII would organize sessions and media panels to promote various aspects of India’s growth story and its successful leadership of the B20. In addition, PHDCCI is also actively participating in showcasing various strong themes representing opportunities in India.

Source: Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India

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January 16, 2024

The University Grants Commission in India instructs Universities to use Handloom Ceremonial Robes during Convocations and become Proud of their Indian Heritage.

New Delhi, India, January 16, 2024 — The University Grants Commission has sent a letter to all university vice-chancellors recommending using ceremonial robes made of Handloom during convocations. The Commission has also advised the universities to become proud of their Indian heritage.

This initiative presents an excellent opportunity for the universities in India to demonstrate their commitment to Indian traditions and culture while supporting the handloom industry. By adopting this approach, universities can contribute to the country’s economic growth and promote sustainable fashion.

Photo: The letter from the UGC instructing the Universities in India to use Handloom Ceremonial Robes during Convocations and become Proud of their Indian Heritage.

Source: UGC

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January 15, 2024

Deer. And Rabbits. And Owls. And Foxes.

U.S. Postal Service Issues Winter Woodland Animals Stamps.

Photo: U.S. Postal Service Issues Winter Woodland Animals Stamps. Deer. And Rabbits. And Owls. And Foxes.

WASHINGTON — The United States Postal Service commemorates four species that reside in North American woodlands with the release of the Winter Woodland Animals stamps. These species, including deer, rabbits, owls, and foxes, are some of the most recognizable wildlife found throughout America and remind us of the stunning natural environment surrounding us.

White-tailed deer are one of the most abundant species in North America and are admired for their beauty and agility. Rabbits often live near the edge of forests to easily find food from gardens, yards, and meadows. Foxes are tough and adaptable creatures that have learned to thrive in almost every environment. Owls are fascinating birds of prey that prefer to nest in tree cavities or abandoned nests of other birds.

The stamps feature whimsical, graphic illustrations of these creatures. Antonio Alcala, an art director for the Postal Service, designed the stamps with Katie Kirk, who illustrated them using geometric shapes of bold, solid color. Each animal appears with details of its habitat in winter, such as a full or crescent moon, snow-covered trees, holly branches with berries, and delicate snowflakes.

Source: U.S. Postal Service

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January 6, 2024

UNESCO-IIEP report titled "Partnering for Impact: Five Opportunities for 2024 and Beyond" outlines potential collaborations for the future.

Paris, France, January 06, 2024 — Partnerships are crucial in transforming education, as no single institution can do it alone. They are essential to ensuring comprehensive educational planning and accountable, effective management.

• UNESCO IIEP (UNESCO International Institute for Educational Planning) is the only United Nations agency with the mandate to support countries with educational planning and management.

To celebrate the beginning of 2024, UNESCO-IIEP has identified five critical partnership areas. UNESCO-IIEP discussed these areas during five panels in its last Donors’ Day event, which brought together partners and beneficiaries. The event’s purpose was to reflect on the power of planning to address evolving country needs and global urgencies.

• Strengthening systems for sustainable planning

• In the past two years, the International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP) has supported 19 education sector analyses and plans, impacting the education of over 109 million children and youth.

• These plans include simulation models, costed action plans, monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks. IIEP works with education actors at both centralized and decentralized levels to ensure that the process is nationally-led and participatory. This approach helps create a long-term and sustainable plan for effective implementation.

• Global Campus: To strengthen this system further, IIEP will launch a new Global Campus in 2024, including all its training programs and courses and a new micro-credential and diploma system.

• Taking gender equality to the next level

• The Gender at the Centre Initiative (GCI) promotes gender equality in sub-Saharan African countries. The program has supported eight countries over four years, establishing alliances within ministries to integrate gender equality into policies and plans.

• The first phase ended in 2023, and a second phase was launched with renewed funding to consolidate progress.

• Making education a critical solution to the climate crisis

• IIEP integrates climate action into planning, collaborating with more countries to implement adaptation and environmental sustainability measures.

• As part of the GPE initiative, they will provide climate-smart education system reforms emphasizing disaster risk reduction, cross-sectoral coordination, and climate-relevant training.

• Fostering south-south collaboration and sharing evidence

• IIEP’s Office for Latin America and the Caribbean has pioneered virtual Communities of Practice for education stakeholders to exchange knowledge and develop expertise.

• This network will be replicated globally in 2024 to enhance knowledge exchange in planning and management.

• Forging new partnerships for broader impact

• The last UNESCO-IIEP symposium underscored the importance of new partnerships and strategic alliances to address emerging and long-standing challenges.

• UNESCO-IIEP’s most recent collaborations include support for the 2024 Education Leadership Seminar and research on the middle tier, digital tools for accountability, and narrowing learner gaps.

Source: UNESCO IIEP

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— The editor is a Higher Education Professional with UNESCO IIEP certification.

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:19 AM | View the original post

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January 3, 2024

The University Grants Commission (UGC) warns Universities in India against collaborating with Foreign Higher Institutions not recognized by it.

New Delhi, India, January 03, 2024 — The University Grants Commission (UGC) has warned all universities in India against collaborating with foreign higher education institutions that the Commission does not recognize.

The UGC has observed that some universities are attempting to partner with foreign educational institutions that the Commission does not recognize. The UGC does not acknowledge such partnerships, and the Commission will not recognize any degrees conferred following such arrangements.

• In addition, all such collaborations must comply with “The University Grants Commission (Academic Collaboration between Indian and Foreign Higher Education Institutions to offer Twinning Programme, Joint Degree, Dual Degree Programmes) Regulations, 2022.”

Further, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has warned students and the public that opting for programs and degrees that do not have UGC recognition will result in consequences.

Furthermore, the UGC has alerted that it will take action against all defaulting Universities in India under applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Photo: The University Grants Commission (UGC) warns Universities in India against collaborating with Foreign Higher Institutions not recognized by it. The UGC has alerted that it will take action against all defaulting Universities.

Source: UGC

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January 2, 2024

Prime Minister Modi addresses the 38th Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.

Photo: Prime Minister Modi attends the 38th Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan University at Tiruchirappalli, in Tamil Nadu, on January 02, 2024.

New Delhi, January 02, 2024 — Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, delivered a speech at the 38th Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan University in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. During the ceremony, he congratulated the graduating students, their teachers, and parents and awarded the meritorious students of the University.

The Prime Minister highlighted the event’s significance, as it was his first public interaction of 2024. He expressed his happiness in being present in the beautiful state of Tamil Nadu and among the youth. Additionally, he mentioned that it was an honor for him to be the first Prime Minister to grace the convocation ceremony at Bharathidasan University.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of knowledge and education in Indian civilization, citing ancient universities such as Nalanda, Takshila, Kanchipuram, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Madurai. He also quoted Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, saying that education teaches us to live in harmony with all existence.

The Prime Minister urged the graduating students to ponder deeply about the purpose of education and how they can utilize it for societal benefit. He underlined the importance of giving back to society and working towards building a better country. He also acknowledged the role of the entire society in bringing the students to this day.

Source: Prime Minister’s Office

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January 1, 2024

Welcome 2024! Happy New Year!

Welcome 2024! Happy New Year!

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December 30, 2023

New York City Times Square is ready for New Year's Eve Celebrations.

Photos: Times Square is testing the Confetti Release. December 29, 2023. At Midnight on New Year’s Eve, thousands of kilos of confetti will be released from the rooftops of buildings, creating a blizzard of colorful confetti and pyrotechnic effects. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.

Photo: The Numerals 2-0-2-4 are delivered to Times Square by Kia. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.

Photos: Times Square Confetti Wishing Wall. People write their wishes on the confetti to be released on New Year’s Eve at Midnight. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.

New York, December 30, 2023 — Times Square in New York City has been the center of attention on New Year’s Eve for over a century, with the rooftop celebrations that began in 1904. The ball-lowering tradition that started in 1907 has now become a symbol of welcoming the New Year.

The Times Square Alliance has unveiled the New Year’s Eve Wishing Wall for the forthcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations. This unique feature gives people from all over the world a personal opportunity to be part of the festivities by writing their wishes for the upcoming year on confetti that will be released at Midnight.

At Midnight, the New Year’s Eve Ball lights will be turned off as the New Year “2024” numerals burst to life, shining high above Times Square.

The famous confetti release occurs from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square, creating a blizzard of colorful confetti and pyrotechnic effects. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide, hoping for peace, love, good health, and a better future in the new year.

NEW YEAR’S EVE IN TIMES SQUARE 2023 - 2024

SCHEDULE

THE EVENT

• 6:00 p.m. to 6:03 p.m.

• Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball

• The celebration begins atop One Times Square with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball, where representatives from Carnival Cruise Line and Times Square New Year’s Eve flip the giant switch that lights the New Year’s Eve Ball accompanied by special pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.

• 6:04 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.

• Times Square Reveler Stories

• Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

• 6:06 p.m. to 6:18 p.m.

• SAFA Chinese Cultural Performance

• The Sino-American Friendship Association (“SAFA”) presents a spectacular Chinese cultural performance titled “Cheers to 2024 with Harmony Wuliang.” A beautiful blend of modern and traditional music and dance to celebrate the Year of the Dragon on the Countdown Stage at Duffy Island between 46th and 47th Streets. The Chinese cultural performance will conclude with red and gold pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.

• 6:30 p.m.

• Times Square 2024 Hats, Balloons, Eyeglasses, Necklaces, Gloves and Scarves

• The sanitation crew of the Times Square Alliance, dressed in bright red uniforms, hands out tens of thousands of fun items to the revelers in Times Square to celebrate the New Year. Planet Fitness provides festive hats in purple, gold, and purple and yellow balloons tied with gold mylar ribbons. Fontainebleau Las Vegas provides eyeglasses in the shape of bowties and a commemorative 2024 chip. Carnival Cruise Line offers illuminated necklaces, while Kay Jewelers gives out warm blue gloves. Additionally, the Sino-American Friendship Association is providing beautiful red scarves.

• 6:57 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Hourly Kia Countdown with Jaymes Vaughan

• Jonathan Bennett and Jaymes Vaughan will appear on the Countdown Stage as we approach the New Year. They will wish the Times Square revelers a “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 7 o’clock hour. This countdown will be accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. Additionally, Jonathan will be reading several of the Confetti Wishes that will be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight, and he will also share his wish for the New Year.

• 7:01 p.m. to 7:02 p.m.

• Times Square Reveler Stories

• Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

• 7:05 p.m. to 7:17 p.m.

• New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Megan Thee Stallion

• Megan Thee Stallion performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

• 7:56 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• Hourly Kia Countdown with Gotham FC

• As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett, joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC, will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 8 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.

• They will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share their wish for the New Year.

• 8:01 p.m. to 8:02 p.m.

• Times Square Reveler Stories

• Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

• 8:03 p.m. to 8:08 p.m.

• New Year’s Eve Dance Performance by AGNEW

• New York dance group AGNEW will perform for the revelers on the Planet Fitness Center Stage on the Broadway Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets.

• 8:10 p.m. to 8:12 p.m.

• Highlights of Good Riddance Day

• The Times Square New Year’s Eve host, Jonathan Bennett, will share highlights from Good Riddance Day with the Times Square revelers from the Countdown Stage.

• 8:30 p.m. to 8:35 p.m.

• ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Tyla

• Tyla performs her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

• 8:37 p.m. to 8:55 p.m.

• Roaming Street Performance by Triad Brass

• 8:57 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

• Hourly Kia Countdown with Jeremy Hassell

• As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett, joined by Jeremy Hassell, will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 9 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wishes for the New Year.

• 9:02 p.m. to 9:05 p.m.

• Kia NYE Inspiration

• 9:10 p.m. to 9:29 p.m.

• New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Flo Rida

• Flo Rida performs his hit songs My House, Low, Wild Ones, GDFR, and the world premiere of his new highly anticipated single OMG on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

• 9:37 p.m. to 9:43 p.m.

• ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Sabrina Carpenter

• Sabrina Carpenter performs her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

• 9:49 p.m. to 9:52 p.m.

• Celebrate Every Kiss with Kay

• 9:57 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Hourly Kia Countdown with Planet Fitness

• As we approach the New Year, Planet Fitness spokesperson will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 10 o’clock hour accompanied by purple and yellow confetti release and colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.

• The spokesperson will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wish for the New Year.

• 10:01 p.m. to 10:02 p.m.

• Times Square Reveler Stories

• Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

• 10:04 p.m. to 10:08 p.m.

• Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Maria Becerra

• Maria Becerra performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

• 10:09 p.m. to 10:12 p.m.

• Carnival “Choose Fun” Moment

• 10:21 p.m. to 10:24 p.m.

• #KayKissCountdown TikTok Hashtag Challenge

• 10:34 p.m. to 10:40 p.m.

• ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Jelly Roll

• Jelly Roll performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

• 10:45 p.m. to 10:48 p.m.

• Kay’s New Year’s Eve Wish

• 10:57 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

• Hourly Kia Countdown with Raúl de Molina

• As we approach the New Year, Raúl de Molina will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 11 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wish for the New Year.

• 11:02 p.m. to 11:07 p.m.

• Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Yng Lvcas

• Yng Lucas performs a medley of his hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

• 11:08 p.m. to 11:11 p.m.

• Fontainebleau Las Vegas Celebrates

• 11:12 p.m. to 11:14 p.m.

• Times Square talks with NYC Mayor Eric Adams

• Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

• 11:16 p.m. to 11:20 p.m.

• The Associated Press Presents 2023 Year-In-Review Video Highlights

• The Associated Press, the world’s oldest and largest news-gathering organization, presents a news reel highlighting some of the most memorable events of 2023.

• 11:38 p.m. to 11:46 p.m.

• ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by LL Cool J

• LL Cool J performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

• 11:51 p.m. to 11:58 p.m.

• Exceptional Musical Performance by Paul Anka

• Paul Anka performs his legendary song My Way, and John Lennon’s Imagine on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

• 11:59 p.m.

• The Sixty-Second Countdown

• The Mayor of New York City, joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC, pushes the crystal button that signals the descent of the New Year’s Eve Ball and leads the final sixty-second countdown to the New Year on the Countdown Stage.

• The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball

• The lighted Ball descends 66.7 feet in sixty seconds. The Ball is a geodesic sphere, twelve feet in diameter, weighing 11,875 pounds. The Ball is covered with 2,688 crystal triangles and lit by 32,256 LEDs.

• Midnight (12:00 a.m.) — New Year’s Day

• 2024 Sign

• At the stroke of Midnight, the New Year’s Eve Ball lights are turned off as the New Year “2024” numerals burst to life, shining high above Times Square.

• Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic Effects

• The world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square, creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects. The three thousand pounds of confetti includes thousands of wishes from revelers worldwide, hoping for peace, love, good health, and a better future in the new year.

• 12:04 a.m. to 12:09 a.m.

• Fontainebleau 70th Anniversary Surprise Video Performance and Ball Re-lighting

• In honor of their 70th anniversary, Fontainebleau is presenting a surprise video countdown and musical performance to highlight the re-lighting of the Times Square Ball for 2024!!!

• 12:15 a.m. - End of Show.

Source: Times Square

|GlobalGiants.Com|

About one million revelers, equivalent to the population of Chandigarh in India, gathered in Times Square to celebrate the arrival of 2024.

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:43 PM | View the original post

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December 28, 2023

M.Phil. is not a Recognized Degree — University Grants Commission.

— UPDATED —

New Delhi, December 26, 2023.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has issued a PUBLIC NOTICE declaring that the M.Phil. degree is not recognized in the country. This announcement is per clause 14 of the University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022. It means that the M.Phil. degree is discontinued.

• Universities must immediately halt admissions to their M.Phil. programs, and students should refrain from applying for admission to them.

Photo: The UGC PUBLIC NOTICE declaring that the M.Phil Degree is not Recognized.

— UPDATE —

December 28, 2023

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has formed a Standing Committee to oversee whether universities comply with the UGC regulations in awarding Ph.D. degrees.

Upon initial review, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has decided to prohibit Ph.D. programs offered by OPJS University. The UGC has announced through a PUBLIC NOTICE that OPJS University can no longer enroll scholars in its Ph.D. programs. As a result, any Ph.D. awarded by the University will not be recognized and will be considered invalid for higher education and employment purposes.

Photo: The UGC Public Notice declares that any Ph.D. degree awarded by OPJS University will not be recognized or considered valid for higher education and employment.

Source: UGC

|GlobalGiants.Com|

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:18 PM | View the original post

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Coca-Cola extends its partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for Eight Years.

New Delhi, India, December 26, 2023 — Coca-Cola has extended its partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for another eight years. This partnership will establish Coca-Cola as a long-standing partner of the ICC and amplify global cricket experiences. The official signing ceremony occurred at ICC Headquarters and marked a historic milestone for the partnership. It demonstrated Coca-Cola’s commitment to sports and confirmed the collaboration as one of the longest-ever associations formed by the ICC with a single brand, spanning 13 years (2019 - 2031).

The partnership will see Coca-Cola’s brands becoming exclusive non-alcoholic beverage partners for all men’s and women’s events at the pinnacle of the sport, including the ICC Cricket World Cups, ICC T20 World Cups, and ICC Champions Trophies until the end of 2031. During the partnership, there will be a prominent international men’s and women’s event every year and a World Test Championship Final every two years.

During the recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023, Thums Up and Limca Sportz were the exclusive beverage and sports drink partners, activating a host of online and offline fan engagement activations. Additionally, Sprite took center stage with its captivating ‘Thand rakh’ campaign, aimed at elevating and sustaining the enthusiasm of cricket fans throughout the biggest World Cup ever.

Coca-Cola has been globally committed to supporting local sporting events and organizations worldwide. The Coca-Cola Company has an eight-decade-long association with the Olympics. Moreover, for over four decades, it has been associated with the FIFA and T20 World Cup and using the power of sports to bring people together and transform lives.

The Coca-Cola Company is a leading beverage company in India that offers consumers a variety of high-quality and refreshing drink options. The Company’s vision is to provide “Beverages for life,” it has a broad portfolio of products, including hydration, sports, sparkling water, coffee, Tea, nutrition, juice, and dairy-based products.

The Coca-Cola Company employs over 700,000 people globally, including its bottling partners, contributing to economic opportunities in local communities worldwide.

Source: Coca-Cola

|GlobalGiants.Com|

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:01 AM | View the original post

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December 27, 2023

Academy Snubs India's Official International Feature Film Entry "2018: Everyone is a Hero"; Announces 96th Oscars Shortlists in 10 Award Categories.

Photo: American television news reporter, news anchor, and model Jennifer Lahmers arrives on the red carpet of the 95th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Kyusung Gong / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]

Photo: American actress and talk show host Kelly Ripa arrives on the red carpet of the 95th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]

LOS ANGELES, CA - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the 96th Academy Awards Shortlists in 10 categories: Documentary Feature Film, Documentary Short Film, International Feature Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, Sound and Visual Effects.

India’s official entry in the international feature film category, “2018: Everyone is a Hero”, is out of the Oscars race. The film failed to make it to the shortlist of 15 films for the category.

The International Feature Film shortlist includes Amerikatsi (Armenia), The Monk and the Gun (Bhutan), Fallen Leaves (Finland), The Taste of Things (France), The Teachers’ Lounge (Germany), Godland (Iceland), Io Capitano (Italy), Perfect Days (Japan), Totem (Mexico), The Mother of All Lies (Morocco), Society of the Snow (Spain), Four Daughters (Tunisia), 20 Days in Mariupol (Ukraine), and The Zone of Interest (United Kingdom).

Films from 88 countries were eligible in the category. The shortlisted movies will advance to the next round of voting.

SHORTLISTS

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM

Fifteen films will advance in the Documentary Feature Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred sixty-seven films were eligible in the category. Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “American Symphony”
• “Apolonia, Apolonia”
• “Beyond Utopia”
• “Bobi Wine: The People’s President”
• “Desperate Souls, Dark City and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy”
• “The Eternal Memory”
• “Four Daughters”
• “Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project”
• “In the Rearview”
• “Stamped from the Beginning”
• “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie”
• “A Still Small Voice”
• “32 Sounds”
• “To Kill a Tiger”
• “20 Days in Mariupol”

DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM

Fifteen films will advance in the Documentary Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred fourteen films qualified in the category. Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “The A.B.C.s of Book Banning”
• “The Barber of Little Rock”
• “Bear”
• “Between Earth & Sky”
• “Black Girls Play: The Story of Hand Games”
• “Camp Courage”
• “Deciding Vote”
• “How We Get Free”
• “If Dreams Were Lightning: Rural Healthcare Crisis”
• “Island in Between”
• “The Last Repair Shop”
• “Last Song from Kabul”
• “Nai Nai & Wai Po”
• “Oasis”
• “Wings of Dust”

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM

Fifteen films will advance to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. Films from 88 countries and regions were eligible in the category.

The Academy invited members from all branches to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must have met a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category.

In the nominations round, Academy members from all branches are invited to opt in to participate and must view all 15 shortlisted films to vote.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by country, are:

• Armenia, “Amerikatsi”
• Bhutan, “The Monk and the Gun”
• Denmark, “The Promised Land”
• Finland, “Fallen Leaves”
• France, “The Taste of Things”
• Germany, “The Teachers’ Lounge”
• Iceland, “Godland”
• Italy, “Io Capitano”
• Japan, “Perfect Days”
• Mexico, “Totem”
• Morocco, “The Mother of All Lies”
• Spain, “Society of the Snow”
• Tunisia, “Four Daughters”
• Ukraine, “20 Days in Mariupol”
• United Kingdom, “The Zone of Interest”

MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING

Ten films will advance in the Makeup and Hairstyling category for the 96th Academy Awards. All Academy’s Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch members will be invited to view excerpts and interviews with the artists from each shortlisted film on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “Beau Is Afraid”
• “Ferrari”
• “Golda”
• “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• “The Last Voyage of the Demeter”
• “Maestro”
• “Napoleon”
• “Oppenheimer”
• “Poor Things”
• “Society of the Snow”

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)

Fifteen scores will advance in the Original Score category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred forty-eight scores were eligible in the category. Members of the Music Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.

The scores, listed in alphabetical order by film title, are:

• “American Fiction”
• “American Symphony”
• “Barbie”
• “The Boy and the Heron”
• “The Color Purple”
• “Elemental”
• “The Holdovers”
• “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”
• “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• “Oppenheimer”
• “Poor Things”
• “Saltburn”
• “Society of the Snow”
• “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
• “The Zone of Interest”

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)

Fifteen songs will advance in the Original Song category for the 96th Academy Awards. Ninety-four songs were eligible in the category. Members of the Music Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.

The original songs are listed below in alphabetical order by film title:

• “It Never Went Away” from “American Symphony”
• “Dear Alien (Who Art In Heaven)” from “Asteroid City”
• “Dance The Night” from “Barbie”
• “I’m Just Ken” from “Barbie”
• “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie”
• “Keep It Movin’” from “The Color Purple”
• “Superpower (I)” from “The Color Purple”
• “The Fire Inside” from “Flamin’ Hot”
• “High Life” from “Flora and Son”
• “Meet In The Middle” from “Flora and Son”
• “Can’t Catch Me Now” from “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes”
• “Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)” from “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• “Quiet Eyes” from “Past Lives”
• “Road To Freedom” from “Rustin”
• “Am I Dreaming” from “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”

ANIMATED SHORT FILM

Fifteen films will advance in the Animated Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. Ninety-three films had qualified in the category. Short Films and Feature Animation Branch members vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “Boom”
• “Eeva”
• “Humo (Smoke)”
• “I’m Hip”
• “A Kind of Testament”
• “Koerkorter (Dog Apartment)”
• “Letter to a Pig”
• “Ninety-Five Senses”
• “Once upon a Studio”
• “Our Uniform”
• “Pachyderme”
• “Pete”
• “27”
• “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko”
• “Wild Summon”

LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM

Fifteen films will advance in the Live Action Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred eighty-seven films had qualified in the category. For the first time, the Academy invited its members from all branches to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must have met a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category.

In the nominations round, Academy members from all branches are invited to opt in to participate and must view all 15 shortlisted films to vote.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “The After”
• “The Anne Frank Gift Shop”
• “An Avocado Pit”
• “Bienvenidos a Los Angeles”
• “Dead Cat”
• “Good Boy”
• “Invincible”
• “Invisible Border”
• “Knight of Fortune”
• “The One Note Man”
• “Red, White and Blue”
• “The Shepherd”
• “Strange Way of Life”
• “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar”
• “Yellow”

SOUND

Ten films will advance in the Sound category for the 96th Academy Awards. All eligible members of the Sound Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees. Academy members will be invited to view excerpts from each shortlisted film beginning Thursday, January 11, 2024, in the San Francisco Bay area, followed by London, Los Angeles, and New York. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “Barbie”
• “The Creator”
• “Ferrari”
• “The Killer”
• “Killers of the Flower Moon”
• “Maestro”
• “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One”
• “Napoleon”
• “Oppenheimer”
• “The Zone of Interest”

VISUAL EFFECTS

Ten films remain in the running in the Visual Effects category for the 96th Academy Awards. The Visual Effects Branch Executive Committee determined the shortlist. All members of the Visual Effects Branch will be invited to view excerpts and interviews with the artists from each shortlisted film on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.

The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:

• “The Creator”
• “Godzilla Minus One”
• “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”
• “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”
• “Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One”
• “Napoleon”
• “Poor Things”
• “Rebel Moon - Part One: A Child of Fire”
• “Society of the Snow”
• “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”

Nominations voting begins on Thursday, January 11, 2024, and concludes on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

The Academy will announce the Nominations for the 96th Academy Awards on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.

The 96th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on A.B.C. and in more than 200 territories worldwide.

Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

|GlobalGiants.Com|

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:53 AM | View the original post

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December 25, 2023

UNESCO Announces Winners of its Future Designer International Innovation Design Awards

Photo: A speaker at the “(Re)thinking Common Good, Acting Together” high-level discussion at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Marie ETCHEGOYEN.

Paris, December 23, 2023 — Eighty-three teams of university students and their mentors from 19 countries are the first winners of the Future Designer International Innovation Design Awards at the Science for the Sustainable Development Goals Innovation Contest.

The winning designs range from an Air Ionizing-Humidifier with an Indoor Air Pollutant Detector to a solar-powered public bench, reusable LED bulbs and tubes with a replaceable cartridge, and sustainable fashion in the form of bags made from ‘green’ materials that are produced using a three-dimensional (3D) printer.

Ralph Benedict Capili developed the humidifier with his mentor, Evelyn Marinas, from the University of Doha for Science and Technology in the Philippines. SolSeatz, the solar-powered public bench, is the brainchild of Saber Aragh and his mentor, Hamid Naghd Bishi, from the Pars University of Architecture and Art in Iran. Shreya Chopra and her mentor Nanita Chopra from Amity University Noida in India won a silver award for GLED, the reusable LED bulbs and tubes. Eszter Borsodi and her mentor Tamasi Kinga from the University of Miskolc in Hungary produced the sustainable fashion.

Another team of five students from the Universitat Politecnica de Valencia in Spain designed a self-regulating nest for sea turtles.

About 30% (25) of the 83 teams won gold awards. Another 29 teams won silver and 29 bronze awards. Each winning team will receive a certificate.

The 83 winning teams come from the following 24 countries: Argentina, Austria, Belarus, China, Costa Rica, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Philippines, Japan, Rwanda, Spain, Sri Lanka, Russian Federation, Ghana, Kenya, Palestine, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine.

Unesco selected the winning teams from over 1,500 applications from 48 countries, with 228 entries advancing to the final evaluation stage.

The awards were open to undergraduate and postgraduate students worldwide. The aim was to solicit innovative, creative works from young people worldwide to raise awareness of the critical role that Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Source: UNESCO

|GlobalGiants.Com|

— The Editor is a Higher Education Professional & Consultant with diverse certifications from the world’s top institutions, including the UNESCO International Institute for Educational Planning Paris, Universities of Harvard, Oxford, Cornell, UC Berkeley, Dartmouth, International Monetary Fund, and the World Intellectual Property Organization Academy, Geneva.

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:22 PM | View the original post

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Season's Greetings!

Season’s Greetings!

|GlobalGiants.Com|

Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:09 AM | View the original post

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