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September 30, 2023
UNESCO showcases Advancements in Skills Recognition, Qualifications, and Prior Learning Credit.
Photo: Unesco Director-General at the inauguration of the monumental work of Portuguese graffiti and street artist VHILS at the Unesco Headquarters in Paris. July 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Christelle ALIX. [File Photo]
Paris, September 30, 2023 — UNESCO has been a leading advocate for recognizing skills, qualifications, and prior learning. It plays a crucial role in shaping policies and practices that facilitate mobility, enhance employability, and broaden access to education and training opportunities.
On September 27, 2023, UNESCO hosted a webinar attended by around 180 participants to showcase recent work in skills recognition, qualifications, and recognition of prior learning. The event provided a platform for sharing research findings, discussing best practices, and facilitating global dialogue on these critical topics.
During the webinar, participants learned about the findings of a cross-country analysis of qualifications frameworks presented in the recently published Global Inventory of Regional and National Qualifications Frameworks, Volume II: National and Regional Case Studies. This publication, created in collaboration with partners Cedefop and the European Training Foundation (ETF), offers policy-makers, educators, researchers, and experts information on recent developments in this field.
Volume II includes 79 national qualifications framework country chapters from all continents and four regional qualifications frameworks. A cross-country analysis of case studies examines the objectives, functions, and characteristics of national qualifications frameworks and their contributions to broader educational and training systems.
The webinar also featured presentations on the upcoming UNESCO Manual for Recognition of Prior Learning. It is a practical guide for stakeholders involved in planning, developing, and implementing recognition of prior learning systems. The manual draws insights from country experiences and offers valuable lessons and policy considerations.
UNESCO believes education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for more inclusive and sustainable societies. Recognizing skills and qualifications, including those acquired informally, is crucial to this mission. Learning often occurs outside the traditional classroom through life experiences, informal employment, and self-directed study. UNESCO acknowledges the value of non-formal and informal learning experiences and works towards their recognition and validation.
Through its initiatives, research, and collaborative efforts with Member States, UNESCO continues to pave the way for individuals to harness their talents, access educational opportunities, and thrive in a rapidly changing global job market. As we look to the future, the work of UNESCO remains essential in unlocking the potential of learners and workers worldwide.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The editor, a Member of the Association of Higher Education Professionals, is a UNESCO IIEP certified HE Planning Consultant.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:02 AM | View the original post
September 29, 2023
FILA and VR46 celebrate a remarkable victory in India for Marco Bezzecchi
Photos: FILA and VR46 celebrate a remarkable victory in India for Marco Bezzecchi. Images provided by & copyright © FILA.
FILA and VR46 have achieved a remarkable victory in the 13th round of the MotoGP World Championship, held in India. The Mooney VR46 Racing Team secured a win in the inaugural edition of the Indian Grand Prix, held at the Buddh International Circuit, with Marco Bezzecchi taking the podium’s top step.
FILA has been a leading player in the MotoGP world since the early 2000s. For the past two years, the Biella, Italy-based company has partnered with the VR46 Riders Academy, founded by Valentino Rossi, to help nurture talented riders as they rise to the pinnacle of MotoGP.
This partnership has been highly successful, as evidenced by the remarkable achievements of FILA-sponsored riders Marco Bezzecchi and Luca Marini in 2022, especially Bezzecchi, who won the ‘Rookie of the Year’ award by a wide margin.
For the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, this marks their third victory this season. Bezzecchi’s success has significantly reduced the gap in the overall championship standings, with only a 44-point difference from the leader, Francesco Bagnaia, and a 31-point gap from Jorge MartÃn.
The Indian GP weekend was not without its challenges, as a collision between the two Tavullia team riders during the Sprint Race resulted in Luca Marini’s fall and Marco Bezzecchi’s dropping to the rear positions. However, Bezzecchi regained fifth place during the Sprint Race, securing a spot in the second row for Sunday’s primary race. In the main race, Bezzecchi took an early lead in the first lap and held onto it until the end, delivering a stellar performance.
The Mooney VR46 Racing Team and FILA will now continue their commitment with the next round of the championship, scheduled to take place in Motegi, Japan, on the weekend of September 30th and October 1st.
Fila, a leading sportswear brand, was established in Biella, Italy, in 1911. The company produces high-quality sporting and lifestyle shoes and apparel, combining Italian design with modern performance wear.
Source: FILA
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:05 AM | View the original post
September 28, 2023
Oxford University is the World's Top University for a record Eighth Year as Times Higher Education announces its World University Rankings 2024
• Oxford University is the world’s top University for a record eighth year as Times Higher Education announces its world university ranking for 2024.
Photo: Oxford. Image credit: Bernard Blanc.
London, September 27, 2023 — Oxford University has again demonstrated exceptional performance by securing the top position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for the eighth consecutive year. The University’s achievement is a testament to the impactful research and excellent teaching standards that have earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most distinguished institutions of higher learning.
Stanford University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) follow the University of Oxford. They are placed second and third in the THE World Rankings 2024.
The rankings, announced in Sydney, Australia, evaluated 1,904 universities from 108 countries worldwide.
Professor Irene Tracey, the Vice-Chancellor of Oxford, expressed her joy at the University’s ranking and commended her colleagues for making the institution an exceptional place of learning.
Phil Baty, THE’s chief global affairs officer, recognized the University of Oxford’s outstanding achievement, stating that the University’s consistent performance across all 18 performance indicators is unparalleled in the history of the World University Rankings.
The rankings evaluate universities based on their performance in teaching, research, international outlook, and industry links. Oxford University excelled in all areas, particularly in a research environment and quality, education, and industry, based on the frequency with which its research is cited in patents.
This announcement follows Oxford getting number 1 rank in the inaugural European QS rankings, further consolidating its position as a leading institution of higher learning.
Source: Oxford University, Times Higher Education
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:49 AM | View the original post
India retains 40th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2023., while Switzerland, Sweden, and the U.S. lead the Global Innovation Ranking.
• India retains 40th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2023.
New Delhi, September 28, 2023 — India maintained its 40th rank out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index 2023 rankings published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This rank is the outcome of India’s immense knowledge capital, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and remarkable work by research organizations.
NITI Aayog has worked to optimize policy-led innovation in various areas, monitored and evaluated India’s position in the global rankings, and expanded the innovation ecosystem in states and districts.
The Global Innovation Index is a reliable tool for governments to assess innovation-led social and economic changes. The virtual launch of the Global Innovation Index 2023 will be hosted by NITI Aayog, in partnership with the CII and WIPO, on September 29, 2023.
Source: NITI Aayog
|GlobalGiants.Com|
• Switzerland, Sweden, and the U.S. lead the Global Innovation Ranking.
Geneva, Switzerland, September 28, 2023 — According to the Global Innovation Index (GII) released by WIPO, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States lead the world’s most innovative economies in 2023.
The report tracks global innovation trends in more than 130 economies using 80 indicators, providing policymakers and business leaders with guidance on stimulating human ingenuity.
The GII top 30 features only one middle-income economy - China, ranking 12th, while Israel (14th) is back among the top 15. The ranking also highlights a group of middle-income economies that have emerged as the fastest climbers over the past decade, including Indonesia (61st), Türkiye (39th), India (40th), Viet Nam (46th), the Philippines (56th), and the Islamic Republic of Iran (62nd).
The report identifies an increasingly uncertain outlook for venture capital (VC) that helps transform human ingenuity into new products and services. Last year, the global value of VC funding marked a significant plunge.
The annual ranking reveals that focusing on the innovation ecosystem can make a difference and that emerging economies consistently climb the GII ranks.
The report urges policymakers worldwide to leverage the rich and trusted source of data and information provided by GII to craft pro-innovation policies that unleash the innovative potential of their people.
Source: WIPO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The editor is a WIPO Academy alumnus.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:47 AM | View the original post
September 26, 2023
Minister for External Affairs of India, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, addresses the United Nations General Assembly
Photo: Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister for External Affairs of India, addresses the general debate of the General Assembly’s seventy-eighth session. September 26, 2023. New York. United States of America. UN Photo/Cia Pak.
Photo: Secretary-General António Guterres (right) meets with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India. September 25, 2023. New York. United States of America. UN Photo/Rick Bajornas.
Photo: Dennis Francis (right), President of the seventy-eighth session of the General Assembly, meets with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India. September 25, 2023. New York. United States of America. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe.
• Following is the full text of the Speech of Mr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, at the UN General Assembly on September 26, 2023:
Mr. President, Excellencies,
Distinguished Members of the General Assembly,
Namaste from Bharat!
Let me begin by expressing our felicitations to the President of the General Assembly, H.E. Dennis Francis. And our fullest support to the 78th UNGA’s theme of “Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity”.
This is an occasion to take stock of our achievements and challenges even while sharing our aspirations and goals. And indeed, in regard to both, there is much that India has to share.
Mr. President, the world is witnessing an exceptional period of turmoil. As it is, structural inequities and uneven development have imposed burdens on the Global South. But stresses have been aggravated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the repercussions of ongoing conflicts, tensions, and disputes. As a result, the socio-economic gains of recent years have been rolled back.
Resources for sustainable development are severely challenged. And many countries really struggle to make ends meet. Navigating the future appears even more daunting.
At this juncture, it was with a sense of exceptional responsibility that India took up the Presidency of the G20. Our vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ sought to focus on the key concerns of the many, not just the narrow interests of a few.
In the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it was to bridge divides, dismantle barriers, and sow seeds of collaboration that nourish a world, where unity prevails over discord and where shared destiny eclipses isolation. The New Delhi G-20 Leaders’ Declaration articulates our collective ability to do so.
Excellencies, at a time when East-West polarization is so sharp and the North-South divide so deep, the New Delhi Summit also affirms that diplomacy and dialogue are the only effective solutions. The international order is diverse, and we must cater to divergences, if not differences. The days when a few nations set the agenda and expected others to fall in line are over.
As the United Nations symbolizes, finding common ground is imperative. To listen to others and to respect their viewpoints is not a weakness; it is the basics of cooperation. Only then can collective efforts on global issues be successful.
Recognizing that growth and development must focus on the most vulnerable, we began the G20 Presidency by convening the ‘Voice of the Global South’ Summit. This enabled us to hear directly from 125 nations and place their concerns on the G20 agenda.
As a consequence, the issues which deserve global attention got a fair hearing. More than that, the deliberations produced outcomes that have great significance for the international community.
Mr. President, it was also noteworthy that at India’s initiative, the African Union was admitted as a permanent member of the G20. By doing so, we gave voice to an entire continent that has long been denied its due.
This significant step in reform should inspire the United Nations, a much older organization, to also make the Security Council contemporary. Broad representation is a prerequisite for both effectiveness and credibility.
The New Delhi G20 Summit outcomes will surely resonate for years ahead. Among them is the Action Plan for Sustainable Development Goals, a crucial need of the day. Equally important are the High Principles of Life (Lifestyle for Environment) and the Green Development Pact, as they shape our approach to our planet’s future.
The transformative role of digital public infrastructure has also finally been recognized. As has the salience of women-led development in building an inclusive and progressive society. The reform of international financial institutions (IFI) has been given due weight, as has the resolution of debt vulnerabilities.
Friends, the New Delhi G20 outcomes are expressed as larger policies and specific initiatives. They could be building cities for tomorrow or fighting corruption and eliminating hunger or delivering quality education and ending plastic pollution or preserving the ocean-based economy. And for that matter, enhancing food security or even mapping global skills.
Some address longstanding issues like the gender divide and climate action. Others focus on new concerns, such as the responsible harnessing of Artificial Intelligence. All in all, we have placed for the world’s consideration a set of actionable propositions, constructive solutions, and new directions.
Even as we encourage collective endeavors, India seeks to promote cooperation with diverse partners. From the era of non-alignment, we have now evolved to that of Vishwa Mitra (a friend to the world). This is reflected in our ability and willingness to engage with various nations. And, where necessary, harmonize interests.
It is visible in the rapid growth of the Quad, a mechanism so relevant to the Indo-Pacific. It is equally apparent in expanding the BRICS grouping of independent-minded nations. Or, in fact, the emergence of the I2U2 combination.
Recently, we hosted the creation of the India-Middle East- Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The forging of the Global Biofuels Alliance was another notable development. This willingness to work open-mindedly on specific domains is a defining characteristic of the emerging multipolar order.
Mr. President, all countries pursue their national interests. We, in India, have never seen that as contradictory with global good. When we aspire to be a leading power, this is not for self-aggrandizement but to take on greater responsibility and make more contributions. The goals we have set for ourselves will make us different from all those whose rise preceded ours.
India demonstrated this during the Covid through the Vaccine Maitri initiative. Our endeavors, like the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure have gathered wide support. Our espousing of the International Year of Millets is enhancing global food security today.
We have built development partnerships with 78 nations across geographies. We have also been First Responders in disaster emergencies. The people of Turkiye saw that in February, as did those in Syria.
Our commitment is understandably even greater, closer home. When Sri Lanka experienced a severe economic crisis, India first stepped forward. But even in distant regions, partners such as the Pacific Islands have appreciated our contributions to meet their health, technology, and climate action needs.
Mr. President, the most populous nation and the fifth largest economy, knows that its progress makes a real difference to the world. Especially when so many nations identify with us for reasons of history, geography and culture. They follow our experiences closely and evaluate our solutions for their larger relevance.
Last week the United Nations assessed progress towards achieving SDGs. The mood reflected the struggle to overcome challenges, especially those of resource scarcity. At this mid-way, we must expand our capacities and regain our confidence. As the largest contributor to meeting SDG targets, India &’s achievements should give heart to others on this journey.
The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index records that we have halved the global MPI value in the last 15 years, lifting 415 million people out of poverty. That progress has now moved on to a higher level, with ambitious socio-economic initiatives covering financial inclusion, food and nutrition, health and water supply, as well as energy and housing. We are seeking to demonstrate that social welfare need not be the sole prerogative of the developed world.
Excellencies, programs underway in India highlight the transformational role of digital delivery of public goods. It has facilitated scaling up, enhanced efficiency and combated corruption. The national objective of Leaving No One Behind is forging ahead in so many dimensions. Moreover, the democratization of technology has opened mindsets, instilled confidence and inspired innovations.
Excellencies, in our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also invoked. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor will it continue to go unchallenged.
A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule makers do not subjugate rule takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all.
Mr. President, we must never again allow an injustice like vaccine apartheid to recur. Climate action too cannot continue to witness an evasion of historical responsibilities. The power of markets should not be utilized to steer food and energy from the needy to the wealthy.
Nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non- interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry picking.
When reality departs from rhetoric, we must have the courage to call it out. Without genuine solidarity, there can never be real trust. This is very much the sentiment of the Global South.
Next year, the United Nations will be hosting the Summit of the Future. This should serve as a serious opportunity to drive change, champion fairness and reform multilateralism, including the expansion of the Security Council memberships. We must address global challenges imbued with the conviction that we are one earth and one family, with one future.
Excellencies, India has entered the Amrit Kaal, a quarter century where greater progress and transformation awaits us. We are confident that our talent and creativity, now so visibly unleashed, will power us forward. The world saw a glimpse of what is to come when our Chandrayaan-3 landed on the moon.
Today, our message to the world is in digitally enabled governance and delivery, in the widening ambit of amenities and services, in rapidly growing infrastructure, and in our energetic Startup culture. It is visible too in vibrant cultural expressions, such as in the arts, yoga, wellness, and lifestyle.
Our latest assertion is in a pathbreaking legislation to reserve one-third of the seats for women in our legislatures.
Mr. President, I speak for a society where ancient traditions of democracy have struck deep modern roots. As a result, our thinking, approaches and actions are now more grounded and authentic. As a civilizational polity that embraces modernity, we bring both tradition and technology equally confidently to the table. It is this fusion that today defines India, that is Bharat.
I thank you, Mr. President.
Source: United Nations
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:00 PM | View the original post
Prime Minister Modi addresses G20 University Connect Finale.
Photo: Prime Minister Modi addressing at the inauguration of the G20 University Connect Finale at Bharat Mandapam, in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi on September 26, 2023.
Photos: Gathering at the inauguration of the G20 University Connect Finale at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on September 26, 2023. Prime Minister Modi addressed the meeting.
New Delhi, September 26, 2023 — The final G20 University Connect program event occurred at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a speech. G20 University Connect aimed to promote an understanding of India’s G20 Presidency among young people and encourage participation in various G20 events.
The Prime Minister also released four publications:
- “The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership, Inclusive Approach”
- “India’s G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”
- “Compendium of G20 University Connect Programme”
- “Showcasing Indian Culture at G20”
In his speech, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s growing international profile and the new opportunities, friends, and markets it had brought. He emphasized the importance of positivity, openness, and ambition in achieving progress and urged young people to aim high and seize every opportunity.
The Prime Minister praised youth participation in the G20 University Connect program, which engaged over 1 lakh university students across India. He noted that India’s people think big and deliver even grander.
The Prime Minister emphasized the success of the Chandrayaan mission, which had received global recognition and put India on the map. He also highlighted the government’s ability to bring all member nations to a common ground in a globally polarized atmosphere, noting that the unanimous New Delhi Declaration had received worldwide attention.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that the entire world is looking towards India with hope, recognizing the potential of India and its youth. He emphasized that the progress of India and its youth is vital for the world’s progress. Finally, he spoke about India’s approach to the G20 summit, which was transformed from a mere diplomatic event to a people-driven national movement showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage.
The G20 University Connect initiative aims to educate India’s youth about India’s G20 Presidency and encourage their involvement in G20 events. Over 100,000 students from universities across the country participated in the program, initially planned to commemorate India’s 75 years of independence with 75 universities but later included 101 universities.
The G20 University Connect initiative hosted several programs nationwide, with extensive participation from higher education institutions. The program initially targeted universities, but it eventually grew to include schools and colleges, reaching an even wider audience.
Approximately 3,000 students, faculty members, and Vice-Chancellors from participating universities in and around New Delhi attended the G20 University Connect Finale, while students from across India joined the event live.
Source: Ministry of Education, Government of India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:52 AM | View the original post
September 25, 2023
Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address G20 University Connect Finale Programme on September 26
Photo: G20 flags at the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
New Delhi, September 25, 2023 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak at the G20 University Connect Finale program on September 26, 2023, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, starting at 4 PM.
The G20 University Connect initiative aims to educate India’s youth about India’s G20 Presidency and encourage their involvement in G20 events. Over 100,000 students from universities across the country participated in the program, initially planned to commemorate India’s 75 years of independence with 75 universities but later included 101 universities.
The G20 University Connect initiative hosted several programs nationwide, with extensive participation from higher education institutions. The program initially targeted universities, but it eventually grew to include schools and colleges, reaching an even wider audience.
Approximately 3,000 students, faculty members, and vice chancellors from participating universities in and around New Delhi will attend the G20 University Connect Finale. Additionally, students from across India will join the event live.
Sources: Prime Minister’s Office, UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:39 PM | View the original post
September 24, 2023
Marco Bezzecchi of Mooney VR46 Racing Team wins the IndianOil Grand Prix of India
Photo: Pedro Acosta at Indian MotoGP, World Championship, September 23, 2023, Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: David Alonso at Indian MotoGP, World Championship, September 23, 2023, Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: Ayumu Sasaki at Indian MotoGP, World Championship, September 24, 2023, Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: Jorge Martin at Indian MotoGP, World Championship, September 24, 2023, Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: Alex Marquez at Indian MotoGP, World Championship, September 24, 2023, Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
New Delhi, September 24, 2023 — Marco Bezzecchi of Mooney VR46 Racing Team put in a dominant performance and won the IndianOil Grand Prix of India at Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, by a convincing 8.649 seconds. Jorge Martin of Primac Pramac Racing finished second after a fierce battle with Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati Lenovo Team and Fabio Quartararo of Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™. Martin’s second-place finish helped him reduce the Championship lead to only 13 points. Quartararo managed to finish third after a fantastic last-lap scrap.
Bezzecchi fell behind Martin and Bagnaia at the start. Bagnaia moved on Martin, who couldn’t resist the pressure and dropped to fourth. Bezzecchi took advantage of the situation and overtook Martin to move into second place. Bezzecchi then began to pull away, setting the fastest lap times and putting pressure on Bagnaia.
Bezzecchi was one second ahead of the pack, and Bagnaia was trying to defend himself from Martin, who was pushing hard to take second place. Martin moved with 17 laps to go, and Bagnaia tried to fight back. Unfortunately, Bagnaia went down with eight laps to go, which dealt a massive blow to his title hopes.
Quartararo was lurking in fourth place and moved up to third after Bagnaia’s crash. Bezzecchi continued to dominate the race and won by a comfortable margin. Martin struggled in the closing stages but managed to hold off Quartararo to finish second. Brad Binder of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing finished fourth after an epic battle with Joan Mir of the Repsol Honda Team.
The race was a disaster for the reigning World Champion, Francesco Bagnaia, as he lost a podium and 20 crucial Championship points to his major title rivals. The Championship battle has been turned on its head once again, and MotoGP™ now turns its attention to the Mobility Resort Motegi in Japan for the Motul Grand Prix of Japan from September 29 to October 1.
Source: MotoGP
|GlobalGiants.Com|
The race winning trophy presented by the Honourable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, @myogiadityanath! ðŸ†#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/7Ufi1JzevC
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 24, 2023
Bez makes history in India with a dominant victory! 🥇
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 24, 2023
Hats off! ðŸ‘#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/cpi10BeAZt
🚦 LIGHTS OUT IN INDIA! 🚦
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 24, 2023
Again it's @88jorgemartin that gets the holeshot! 🔥#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/UvW0dZvFdy
🚦 IT'S GO FOR #Moto3! 🚦@jaume_masia gets a great launch! He leads! 🚀#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/4R3om1EIUL
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 24, 2023
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:57 PM | View the original post
September 23, 2023
Bagnaia goes through into tomorrow's Q2 qualifying with seventh-quickest time in free practice for the GP of India.
— UPDATE September 23, 2023 —
Indian GP: Bagnaia settles for the runner-up slot behind Martin in the Sprint. Pirro 14th.
Photo: Francesco Bagnaia at the Buddh International Circuit, Noida, India. September 23, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Ducati.
New Delhi, September 23, 2023 — Francesco Bagnaia finished second in the Saturday Sprint race at the Buddh International Circuit, behind fellow Ducati rider Jorge Martin. The race occurred on a mostly dry track after a complicated day with torrential rainfall. Bagnaia now leads Martin by 33 points. Michele Pirro finished 14th. Ducati Lenovo Team riders will warm up on Sunday before the Grand Prix of India, which has been reduced to 21 laps from 24 due to heat concerns.
Photo: Michele Pirro was placed 22nd in the practice race at Noida, India. September 22, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Ducati.
New Delhi, September 22, 2023 — Francesco Bagnaia ended the first day of free practice for the GP of India at the Buddh International Circuit in seventh place, securing a spot in tomorrow’s Q2 qualifying session with a best lap time of 1:45.280 on his Desmosedici GP23. The morning’s 70-minute session allowed the riders to get familiar with the new layout, and Bagnaia continued to search for the best set-up for his bike in the afternoon session, trying his time attack in the last ten minutes. On his second run with new tires, he placed himself half a second behind today’s fastest rider, Luca Marini (VR46 Racing Team).
Team-mate Michele Pirro, standing in for the injured Enea Bastianini, had a difficult first day and could only manage the 22nd. Bagnaia initially struggled with getting the bike to brake but solved the issue with a lot of work. With the used tire in the second practice, he placed himself in P4. While in the time attack, he could lap as fast as the leaders, but unfortunately, he only had one lap available. The track is beautiful but very technical, and the heat is problematic in some areas.
Bagnaia said, “It was a positive day. I’m happy; we’re close to the leaders and can work well tomorrow.” Pirro said, “It was a difficult day for me, and the heat didn’t help. We’ll look at the data this evening and try to work out where we are going wrong to improve for tomorrow.”
The Ducati Lenovo Team will be on track again at the Buddh circuit on Saturday morning for the second free practice session at 10:40 local time.
Source: DUCATI
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Like a boss 😎
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 22, 2023
Just @PeccoBagnaia goon riding to wrap up Friday! 😂#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/FOzXP1Y0k8
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:57 PM | View the original post
New Levi's® Campaign celebrates Moments of Instincts featuring Deepika Padukone.
Photos: New Levi’s® Campaign ‘For Now, For A Lifetime’ celebrates Moments of Instincts featuring Deepika Padukone.
MUMBAI, India, September 22, 2023 — Levi’s® has launched a new campaign titled ‘For Now, For A Lifetime,’ which focuses on following our instincts. The campaign highlights how our decisions made on instinct can turn into memories that shape us and stay with us forever. The campaign features Deepika Padukone, who embodies the spirit of the movement by taking an impromptu adventure, which inspires other characters to follow their instincts.
The campaign showcases Levi’s® new offerings, including relaxed and baggy fits for men and women, overdyed and colored jeans, and a wide range of graphic tees. The Levi’s® brand continues to build on its product legacy and heritage while meeting fashion-conscious consumers with on-trend and relevant products.
Amisha Jain, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, South Asia-Middle East, Africa, and Non-EU markets (SAMEA), Levi Strauss & Co., said that the ‘For Now, For A Lifetime’ campaign celebrates what it truly means to live in Levi’s® and how their products are deeply weave into their consumers’ lives. The brand strives to enable its consumers to be their most authentic selves, from how they create their products to how they bring them to life for their consumers.
Levi Strauss & Co. is one of the world’s largest brand-name apparel companies and a global leader in jeans wear. The company designs and markets jeans, casual wear, and related accessories for men, women, and children under the Levi’s®, Dockers®, Signature by Levi Strauss & Co.™, Denizen®, and Beyond Yoga® brands. Its products sell in more than 110 countries worldwide through chain retailers, department stores, online sites, and a global footprint of approximately 3,200 brand-dedicated stores and shop-in-shops.
Source: Levi’s India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:07 PM | View the original post
September 21, 2023
UGC India asks all Higher Education Institutions to observe Vigilance Awareness Week (October 30, 2023, to November 5, 2023), take Preventive Vigilance Measures, and submit their report to the Central Vigilance Commission.
New Delhi, September 20, 2023 — To promote a culture of vigilance and integrity in Indian higher education institutions, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all institutions to observe the upcoming Vigilance Awareness Week from October 30, 2023, to November 5, 2023.
Further, the UGC has directed the universities to submit a report on their preventive vigilance measures to the Central Vigilance Commission and also upload it to the UGC University Activity Monitoring Portal.
By following the above UGC instructions, higher education institutions can demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability. Let’s work together to strengthen our education system and build a brighter future for all.
Source: UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:44 AM | View the original post
QS Announces World University Rankings: Europe 2024
First-ever QS Rankings of Europe’s Best Universities Revealed.
LONDON, Sept. 20, 2023 — QS Quacquarelli Symonds, the global higher education expert, has released the first-ever QS World University Rankings: Europe 2024. The rankings evaluate universities based on international recognition, research prowess, teaching resources, internationalization, and employment outcomes. The list includes 688 institutions across 42 members of the Council of Europe, with 106 universities ranked by QS for the first time.
The University of Oxford tops the list, followed by ETH Zurich and the University of Cambridge. The UK dominates the list with 107 institutions, while Turkey and Germany trail with 73 and 53, respectively.
According to Ben Sowter, QS Vice-President, “While the UK remains a standout, especially with Oxbridge’s global prominence and influential research ties, excellence permeates the European region. The data highlights diverse strengths, from enticing international talent in faculty and students to forging potent research alliances and expanding teaching horizons.”
• QS World University Rankings: Europe 2024 - Top 20
2024 Rank
- University of Oxford, UK
- ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Cambridge, UK
- Imperial College London, UK
- UCL, UK
- The University of Edinburgh, UK
- Université PSL, France
- The University of Manchester, UK
- EPFL, Switzerland
- King’s College London, UK
- Technical University of Munich, Germany
- LSE, UK
- Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
- University of Glasgow, UK
- University of Leeds, UK
- University of Bristol, UK
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
- The University of Warwick, UK
- Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Germany
• Regional Spotlights:
Austria: Celebrates the third-highest proportion of international faculty.
Belgium: Stands out for research collaboration, claiming third place regionally.
Czech Republic & Poland are the only Eastern European countries showcasing the top 100 placements with Charles University and the University of Warsaw.
Denmark and Sweden Clinch first and second positions for Sustainability, respectively.
Finland: Achieves fourth spot in research partnerships.
France: Asserts regional research leadership, with four universities among Europe’s elite for international collaboration.
Germany: A research powerhouse with numerous institutions dominating the regional top 10 and top 50 for research output.
Italy: Research stands out, ranking third for scholarly contributions per faculty, with 25 institutions in the top 100 for this indicator.
Lithuania is third regionally in drawing international exchange students.
Netherlands: Distinguished for academic and employer reputation, with nearly half its institutions within the top 100.
Norway and Ireland: Secure third and fourth place, respectively, for Sustainability.
Portugal: Achieves its top result in Sustainability, ranking 7th regionally.
Slovenia: Leads for Employment Outcomes, reflecting its graduates’ standing among employers.
Spain: Leads in student mobility, highlighted by IE University’s richly diverse student composition.
Switzerland: Balances research excellence and academic diversity, excelling in research citations and international faculty representation.
Turkey: Room to climb. Despite its robust university count (73), none of its universities are among the top 100.
UK Institutions shine, claiming seven of the top ten spots. Their prowess is especially evident in reputation, backed by insights from 144,000 academics and 98,000 employers.
Source: QS Quacquarelli Symonds
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:07 AM | View the original post
September 20, 2023
IndianOil will be the title sponsor for MotoGP Bharat, the inaugural Indian Grand Prix.
Photo: Pedro Acosta leads Moto2 race, San Marino MotoGP, September 10, 2023, Misano, Italy. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: Rico Salmela leads at the race start, Red Bull Rookies Cup race 2, San Marino MotoGP, September 10, 2023, Misano, Italy. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
Photo: Angel Piqueras leads Red Bull Rookies Cup, Race 2, San Marino MotoGP, September 10, 2023, Misano, Italy. Image provided by Photographer Credit & Copyright © Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool.
New Delhi, September 19, 2023 — As the country opens to the world’s most exciting sport, MotoGP™, the first Indian Grand Prix will be named the ‘IndianOil Grand Prix of India.’
IndianOil is a diversified, integrated energy company with a presence across oil, gas, petrochemical, and alternative energy.
Besides being the ‘Energy of India,’ the Fortune 500 company has been catalyzing the vision of making India a sporting nation.
The IndianOil Grand Prix of India will feature 42 teams and 84 riders. The race will see some of the biggest names in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, such as Francesco Bagnaia, Marc Marquez, Marco Bezzecchi, Brad Binder, Jack Miller, Jorge Martin, and Fabio Quartararo, among others, in action.
Last week, the first batch of motorcycles, engines, tires, and safety barriers arrived in New Delhi via air freight. The organizers transported them to the Buddh International Circuit, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, under heavy police security. The remaining bikes and equipment will arrive in the next lot.
IndianOil Grand Prix of India will occur at Buddh International Circuit in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, from the 22nd to the 24th of September. The event will kick off with the Tissot Sprint on September 22 at 15:30 (GMT +5:30), followed by the Grand Prix race on September 24 at 15:30.
MotoGP Bharat, the event’s promoter, has expressed its excitement at having IndianOil as the title sponsor for MotoGP Bharat. Pushkar Nath Srivastava, founder and COO of Fairstreet Sports, said the association with one of India’s energy giants excites the event.
The race will be live-streamed on Jio Cinema and Sports18 in India, and tickets for the event are available on BookMyShow. Last month, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath unveiled the tickets for the event. The tickets cost Rs 800 to Rs 40,000. MotoGP Bharat will be the biggest motorsport event in India since the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix.
Sources: MotoGP, MotoGP Bharat
|GlobalGiants.Com|
All set for the first-ever #IndianGP 🇮🇳! 🙌
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 17, 2023
A historic weekend awaits at Buddh International Circuit! ✊#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/GZGDKmadlI
New country, new track, and new challenges await Michelin and the riders this weekend. Get ready for a thrilling #IndianGP ahead! See you there 🇮🇳ðŸ
— Michelin Motorsport (@Michelin_Sport) September 19, 2023
Get our raceguide here https://t.co/mPUOXUF544#MichelinMotoGP pic.twitter.com/mzbETlUTbo
What is the approach like with a new circuit? 🆕
— MotoGP™ðŸ (@MotoGP) September 19, 2023
Let's delve into the three keys to mastering Buddh with @marcmarquez93! 🔎#IndianGP 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/cvcVyev8UA
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:19 AM | View the original post
September 19, 2023
Politicians Square Off Against the Press in Annual National Press Club Spelling Bee.
WASHINGTON, DC, September 18, 2023 — On September 20, 2023, the National Press Club in Washington, DC, will host the Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee. This fun and friendly competition between lawmakers and reporters has been held since 1913 and is an excellent opportunity to bring people together through a friendly rivalry.
The competition will feature confirmed contestants from both sides. The politicians’ team includes Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-MI).
Meanwhile, the press team includes defending champion Amy Wang, National Political Reporter for The Washington Post; Catalina Camia, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Industry Group; Mark Walker, Investigative Reporter at The New York Times; James Graff, Justice and Judiciary Editor at The Wall Street Journal, and Fawn Johnson, News Director at Bloomberg Industry Group.
Axios’ Eileen O’Reilly will host this year’s Bee, and Dr. Jacques Bailly, the Scripps National Spelling Bee’s official pronouncer, will officiate. 2023 Bee Champion Dev Shah will also join the event.
Both teams are eager to win this year’s Bee. Team Press has won four out of the last five competitions and wants to continue their winning streak. Meanwhile, the politicians are determined to win this year’s Bee and take home the trophy.
The Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee has a rich history from 1913. It has become an annual Washington tradition since its reinstatement on its 100th anniversary in 2013. This event is a great way to build relationships between politicians and the media covering them and promote the importance of spelling and good communication.
Source: National Press Club
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The Editor is a National Press Club Member.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:08 AM | View the original post
September 18, 2023
UNESCO inscribes India's Santiniketan on UNESCO World Heritage List
Photo: Interiors of Upasana Mandir, Santiniketan. Image provided by & copyright © Abha Narain Lambah Associates / UNESCO.
Paris, France, September 17, 2023 — Santiniketan, a cultural site in Birbhum district, West Bengal, India, has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site is well-known for the university town of Visva-Bharati, established over a century ago by poet Rabindranath Tagore.
The announcement was made on Sunday by UNESCO on ‘X,’ congratulating India on getting the UNESCO tag for Santiniketan. The country had been working towards securing this recognition for a long time.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee included Santiniketan in the UNESCO World Heritage List during its 45th session in Saudi Arabia. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) had made the recommendation. ICOMOS is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to conserving and enhancing heritage sites worldwide.
Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned poet and philosopher, founded Santiniketan in rural West Bengal in 1901. The institution’s primary goal was to promote the unity of humanity, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. In 1921, the institution became a “world university” named “Visva Bharati,” further solidifying its vision of creating a global community that values unity and diversity.
Visva-Bharati, located in Santiniketan, is one of the most prestigious universities in India, with degree courses in humanities, social science, science, fine arts, music, performing arts, education, agricultural science, and rural reconstruction. Visva-Bharati was declared a central university and an institution of national importance by an Act of Parliament in 1951. The Prime Minister of India is the University’s Chancellor.
Sources: UNESCO, Santiniketan
|GlobalGiants.Com|
🔴BREAKING!
— UNESCO ðŸ›ï¸ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳 (@UNESCO) September 17, 2023
New inscription on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List: Santiniketan, #India 🇮🇳. Congratulations! ðŸ‘ðŸ‘
âž¡ï¸ https://t.co/69Xvi4BtYv #45WHC pic.twitter.com/6RAVmNGXXq
• UPDATE September 18, 2023
Photo: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala’ in Karnataka, India, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Image provided by & copyright © INTACH Bengaluru Chapter / UNESCO.
‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala,’ the Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somnathapura in Karnataka, India, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The world body announced in a post on X on Monday, a day after Santiniketan, the famed place in West Bengal where poet Rabindranath Tagore built Visva-Bharati over a century ago, received the coveted tag.
“Just inscribed on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, #India. Congratulations!” UNESCO posted on X.
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:20 PM | View the original post
UGC India invites Higher Education Institutions to apply for a Sports Anti-Doping Research Grant, as India is a Signatory to the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sports.
New Delhi, September 18, 2023 — UGC (University Grants Commission) India has communicated to all higher education institutions that they can apply for a sports anti-doping research grant.
India is a Signatory to the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sports.
The grant aims to promote research on anti-doping in sports. Interested institutions can apply for funding to conduct research that contributes to developing anti-doping policies and practices. It is an excellent opportunity for institutions to advance their research in this crucial field.
Source: UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:12 AM | View the original post
September 15, 2023
UNESCO invites Applications for its 2023 Young Professionals Programme.
Photo: UNESCO Headquarters Paris. Digital Learning Week. September 04, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Lily CHAVANCE.
Paris, France, September 15, 2023 — UNESCO has launched the Young Professionals Programme 2023 and is inviting Applications.
The Programme aims to achieve four objectives:
- Improve the geographical representation at the UNESCO Secretariat in Paris
- Promote gender balance at an international professional level
- Provide opportunities for young people to learn and gain professional experience
- Enrich and Diversify UNESCO.
UNESCO has asked the National Commissions of various Countries to collect and submit a maximum of 15 qualified applications that meet the required criteria.
Source: Indian National Commission for Cooperation with UNESCO, Government of India, Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:56 AM | View the original post
September 14, 2023
America Ferrera will Join the Mainstage at Blackbaud's "bbcon 2023" Tech Conference.
In a Keynote Conversation, the Actress, Activist, and Author will share Perspectives on Belonging, Expectations and Going after Big Goals.
Photo: In October, America Ferrera will join the main stage at “bbcon”, Blackbaud’s annual tech conference.
CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 14, 2023 — Blackbaud, the leading Social Impact software provider, has announced that actress, activist, and author America Ferrera will join the main stage at “bbcon 2023”, Blackbaud’s annual tech conference in Denver, Colorado, from October 22-24.
Ferrera’s work advocating for social justice and equality has amplified her acting, producer, and activist career. Her foundation, HARNESS, and non-profit, Poderistas, have addressed inequality and inspired action.
The three-day agenda offers networking, innovation, and inspiring keynotes for thousands of attendees, with over 150 breakout sessions and workshops.
“bbcon 2023” will welcome thousands of Blackbaud users and those interested in learning more about how to use Blackbaud’s software to fuel their social influence.
Blackbaud is a leading software provider exclusively dedicated to powering Social Impact.
In addition, Blackbaud’s software accelerates impact in fundraising, non-profit financial management, digital giving, grant-making, corporate social responsibility, and education management.
Source: Blackbaud, Inc.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:38 AM | View the original post
September 12, 2023
NAAC India Standing Committee approves two dual-mode Universities, Lovely and Panjab, for Certification.
Bangalore, India, September 12, 2023 — In its latest meeting, the NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) Standing Committee authorized various higher education institutions for Certification. The approved institutions include two dual-mode universities: Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, and Panjab University, Chandigarh. Both received the Top Grade A++ with a CGPA of 3.68 on a Four Point Scale.
Source: NAAC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:17 AM | View the original post
September 11, 2023
G20 New Delhi Leaders' Declaration reaffirms World's Commitment to Equitable and Sustainable Education — Education Minister of India.
Photo: India’s Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, releases the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023, at Shastri Bhawan, in New Delhi on June 02, 2023. [File Photo]
New Delhi, September 11, 2023 — The Education Minister of India, Dharmendra Pradhan, has stated that the New Delhi G20 Leaders’ Declaration provides a roadmap for an equitable and sustainable future through education. The declaration reflects the Education Working Group’s priorities on digital transformation, green transition, and women-led development. It highlights the importance of investing in human capital development, lifelong learning, and strengthening collaborations in research and innovation among higher education institutions.
Mr. Pradhan also said India is actively pursuing research collaborations with several countries. Joint initiatives, such as the MoUs between the Council of Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) and the Association of American Universities (AAU), will establish the India-U.S. Global Challenges Institute to advance new science and technology frontiers.
Other emerging multi-institutional collaborative education partnerships include those between New York University and IIT Kanpur Advanced Research Center, the Joint Research Centers of the State University of New York at Buffalo and IIT Delhi, Kanpur, Jodhpur, and BHU, and IIT Bombay joining the Chicago Quantum Exchange.
India is exploring university-level collaborations with other countries like Australia, UAE, Taiwan, and the UK in critical areas.
The skill sector focuses on sanitizing transnational standards with member countries by creating an International Reference Classification of occupations based on skill and qualification requirements, leading to better cross-country comparability and mutual recognition of qualifications. This commitment includes mutually establishing well-managed, regular, and skills-based migration pathways benefiting origin and destination countries.
According to Mr. Pradhan, India’s G20 presidency has provided an acceleration and a platform for demonstrating long-term systemic policy vision. By fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovative approaches, India and its G20 partners have created impetus for further coordinated action on futuristic education and training systems.
Source: Ministry of Education, Government of India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:45 PM | View the original post
