Latest news with #CIC
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Minister inaugurates Centrally-funded Common Incubation Centre for coconut value-addition at TNAU
The Centrally-funded Common Incubation Centre (CIC) for processing coconut products was commissioned at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, by M. Anbarasan, State Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), on Friday. The CIC functioning out of the Department of Food Process Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, on the TNAU campus is envisaged to play a supportive role for coconut farmers, Food Processing Organisations, NGOs, and start-ups on custom-hiring basis. M. Balakrishnan, Professor and Head, Department of Food Process Engineering, TNAU, Coimbatore, explained and demonstrated various processing lines of coconut products to the Minister and senior officials. Atul Anand, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, MSME Department; L. Nirmal Raj, Industries Commissioner and Director of Industries and Commerce; and R. Thamizh Vendan, Registrar and Acting Vice- Chancellor, TNAU, Coimbatore, took part. The State Level Technical Institute (SLTI) and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, are the State Nodal Agency (SNA) of PMFME Scheme. At another function, the TNAU signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Food and Biotech Industries. The Biotech Council for Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology (CoEB) in the university fosters research and development activities under public-private partnership mode to develop super active enzymes/biomolecules, biobased products, hormones for fruit ripening, plant growth stimulants and similar bio-inputs for the commercial benefit of farmers. Prof. Thamizh Vendan said the MoA was signed with two established companies: M/s. Pechi Foods Private Limited, Coimbatore, and M/s. Innogreen India Marketing, Madurai, for facilitating the knowledge space to develop research activities.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
The CIC Launches "Centre for Future Construction"
Drive Innovation and Empower the Next Generation Workforce HONG KONG, May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Construction Industry Council (CIC) yesterday celebrated the official opening of the "Centre for Future Construction" (CFC), marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong's construction industry development. The ceremony took place at the Hong Kong Institute of Construction - Kowloon Bay Campus, officiated by Ir Joseph LO, Head of Project Strategy and Governance Office, Development Bureau, together with Ir Prof. Thomas HO, Chairman of the CIC, Ir Albert CHENG, Executive Director of the CIC, Prof. Jack CHENG, Chairperson of Centre for Future Construction Project Steering Committee, and Mrs. LO LEE Oi-lin, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Management Board, bringing over 2,000 experts, leaders, government officials, and industry professionals to support the event both online and offline and to celebrate this historic moment. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the CFC features five interconnected zones, including the Digital Twin Hub, 4S Hub, AI Hub, Robotic Hub, and Immersive Cave. Each zone showcases advanced construction technologies such as digital twin applications, AI-powered safety solutions, robotics, and Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR) immersive training tools. By fostering collaboration and providing hands-on learning opportunities, the CFC aims to equip young talents with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the evolving construction sector. The opening ceremony commenced with welcome remarks from Ir Prof. Thomas HO, Chairman of the CIC. He emphasised the importance of embracing the AI era and developing a new quality productive force. "Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to revolutionise the construction industry and prepare our future generations to embrace cutting-edge technologies," he stated. "We hope that the Centre for Future Construction will be the beacon of innovation for the construction industry in Hong Kong, guiding the way for the talents of the construction industry." Ir Joseph LO, Head of the Project Strategy and Governance Office at the Development Bureau, delivered the opening address, "The Government is fully committed to spearheading transformative changes within our industry. In this transformative journey, the CIC has always been our closest partner. The CFC will nurture our new generation and will foster a culture of professionalism for the HK construction industry. So, I call upon everyone to unite our expertise and collaborative efforts to lead our industry into a new era of future construction." Prof. Jack CHENG, Chairperson of Centre for Future Construction Project Steering Committee, introduced the CFC's mission to serve as an industry-wide collaborative and learning platform. The event featured keynote presentations from four industry pioneers, Mr. Kevin O'BRIEN, Chief Executive of Gammon Construction Limited, Mr. Alex KWAN, Chief Executive Officer, Asia of Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc., Mr. Peter LEE, Head of Commercial Business of Microsoft Hong Kong, and Mr. Raymond JIAN, Director and Partner of RoboticPlus. Their insightful sharing reveals how AI can be leveraged to explore the transformative potential of technology by thinking out of the traditional mindsets, building smarter infrastructure, and propelling industry success. Ir Albert CHENG, Executive Director of the CIC, concluded the event with closing remarks, reaffirming the CIC's commitment to fostering a digitally advanced and safe construction sector. "We anticipate that the Centre for Future Construction will attract over 24,000 visits annually. These facilities will be utilised in more than 100 of our existing courses, including master classes, advanced diplomas, diplomas, and various short-term courses, providing them with a dynamic environment to explore the future of construction," he added. The ceremony was followed by an exhibition, allowing attendees to explore the CFC's innovative facilities and how the industry can collaborate with the centre and the opportunities for training initiatives. The CFC aims to empower the workforce of tomorrow by providing hands-on training and fostering partnerships with industry leaders. By integrating advanced technologies and innovative training programmes, the CFC is poised to shape the future of the construction industry, driving productivity and safety. An Overview of the Centre for Future Construction The Centre for Future Construction is located on the 3/F of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction - Kowloon Bay Campus, covering over 10,000 square feet and divided into five zones. 4S Hub Displays Smart Site Safety System (4S) - related equipment, such as Central Management Platform, AI alert system, and offers visitors to try on the smart wearable devices, including safety helmets and smart watches. AI Hub Hosts technology-related workshops and showcases the Safety Large Language Model developed in collaboration with the industry, allowing participants to experience the latest AI applications that being used in construction projects. Digital Twin Hub Brings the concept of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to City Information Modelling (CIM) and showcases successful projects and technologies including BIM, Geographic Information System (GIS), IoTs and connectivity technologies to help the industry understand the development of smart cities. Immersive Cave Utilises Reality Capture and Mixed Reality technologies including Virtual Reality (VR) Cave and AR mobile app for interactive learning, deepening the understanding of how BIM can integrate with physical environment. Robotic Hub Features advanced construction robots, such as automated drilling robots and wall finishing robots, allowing trainees to operate and experience their efficiency and safety benefits. - End – About the Construction Industry Council The Construction Industry Council (CIC) was formed in 2007 under the Construction Industry Council Ordinance (Cap. 587). The CIC consists of a chairman and 24 members representing various sectors of the industry including employers, professionals, academics, contractors, workers, independent persons and Government officials. The main functions of the CIC are to forge consensus on long-term strategic issues, convey the industry's needs and aspirations to the Government, provide professional training and registration services, and serve as a communication channel between the Government and the construction industry. Please visit for further details. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Construction Industry Council
North Wales Live
6 days ago
- Business
- North Wales Live
Beauty spot overwhelmed with volunteers after fallout from holiday park firm's administration
Local residents have offered to help with the maintenance of an Anglesey beauty spot now that its owners have entered administration. Campaigners were worried the picturesque Penrhos Coastal Park could deteriorate but volunteers have flooded in from nearby Holyhead. The overwhelming response followed the loss of a contractor that had managed the picturesque site for 25 years. Kehoe Countryside, from Talybont in Gwynedd, was told its services were no longer needed by DJC Leisure, a 79th Group subsidiary that, in January, acquired 18 parcels of Penrhos CP land from former site owner Land and Lakes. On May 2 the Southport-based company was placed in administration. In an online message to the Penrhos supporters, Kehoe Countryside claimed it was owed more than £23,000 and its Penrhos wardens hadn't been paid. Since 2011, the 200-acre coastal park has been at the centre of a bitter planning dispute after consent was awarded for almost 500 luxury lodges, bars and a 'tropical swimming pool'. DJC Leisure had announced a £250 million development starting this summer but the company's collapse into administration, allied to a police investigation, has placed the park's future in limbo. Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday Keen to ensure the park's bins were emptied, a plea was issued for local volunteers. 'I had private messages through the night, it was incredible,' said Penrhos stalwart Hilary Paterson-Jones. 'As well as offers to help with the bins, people said they would bring ride-on mowers to cut the grass. Others volunteered to maintain fencing on the park. They will have to do at their own risk as they won't be covered by insurance.' Since then, joint administrators for DJC Leisure have funded the re-employment of a single warden to empty bins and open the park toilets - but not to man the entrance gates, which will stay open around the clock. To support his efforts, 90 locals got together last weekend to stage a community litter pick in the park's woodland and on its beach. The news came amid delayed plans to launch a Community Interest Company (CIC). Now set to be constituted tomorrow (Thursday, May 29) with seven local directors, this will explore opportunities that may arise from the collapse of DJC Leisure. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Ultimately, this could even culminate in a community bid to buy the land to ensure its original remit is not diminished. 'That is our dream,' said Hilary Paterson-Jones. 'Much depends on the outcome of criminal cases – we've been told this could take up to a year or even longer. "The CIC will enable us to start formal fundraising with the ultimate ambition of purchasing the park. Were that to happen, I honestly believe things will have turned full circle: when the park first opened, it was the local community that made it into what it is today.' As rescinding planning consent is unlikely, the new CIC will be examining other avenues to block attempts to build a holiday complex on the site. It will also explore alternative revenue opportunities amid concerns that the loss of a treasure amenity will go hand in hand with the destruction of woodland that's a refuge for red squirrels. Fundraising efforts are set for a boost when the inaugural Penrhos Fun Day is staged on Sunday, June 15, 9am-5am. Held on a field next to Penrhos Beach, bouncy castles and children's games are among a host of activities planned, along with stalls and a raffle. Entry is free. Save Penrhos campaigners have already met the joint administrators and have asked for a meeting with Anglesey Council. Its chief executive, Dylan J Williams isn't publicly commenting on the case while 'the ownership and future of the Penrhos site remain unclear'. In late February, the City of London Police announced it had launched a fraud investigation into the 79th Group, a holding company that raised cash by offering investors high returns over a fixed period. Four people connected to the company were arrested and bailed as part of 'Operation Mold '. A collective civil recovery process has since been launched on behalf of worried investors. The company has denied any wrongdoing. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, former employees said they were promised wages after being being informed of redundancies in early April. However eight companies linked to the 79th Group filed for administration the day before they were due to be paid, leaving them without money owed. The joint administrators have since engaged an ERA specialist to handle employee claims. In an earlier statement to the Echo, following news of the fraud inquiry, a spokesperson for the 79th Group said: 'The Seventy Ninth Group categorically denies any wrongdoing following claims recently made public by the City of London police. 'Since the events of last week, we have been working diligently with our legal advisers to address the claims made as part of the investigation, while also providing information to business partners and other stakeholders. 'The company has also appointed independent forensic accountants to conduct a comprehensive review of the business. The Seventy Ninth Group remains committed to servicing its clients in the UK and across the globe.'
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
CM Regent® Expands Leadership Bench With Accomplished Insurance Executive
MECHANICSBURG, Pa., May 28, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CM Regent Insurance Company® welcomes Christine West as vice president – chief underwriting officer, education, reporting to Jeff Zehr, senior vice president – underwriting, admitted business. West will lead CM Regent's efforts to strengthen the company's Education Center of Excellence, to deepen its commitment to educational entities in the states it currently serves and expand its reach into new markets. "I'm honored to join the team and assume leadership of the CM Regent brand," West said. "Having devoted the past seven years to working with organizations dedicated to helping others, it's a privilege to now work for a purpose-driven company that shares this commitment." With more than 20 years of industry experience, West brings deep experience in the education insurance market. Her background includes underwriting, distribution engagement and portfolio management. She most recently served as lead director for educational institutions at The Hanover Insurance Group. "Bringing Christine on board with this level of experience is a game changer for us," said Pam Rushing, president of CM Regent. "We're excited not just for what she knows, but for the momentum she will help us build." West holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Georgia and earned her Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation from the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance. About CM Regent This affiliate company of Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I.1 leverages Church Mutual's insurance expertise to meet the unique needs of K-12 school districts, colleges and universities. To learn more, visit About Church Mutual Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., founded in 1897, offers specialized insurance for religious organizations of all denominations, public and private K-12 schools, colleges and universities, secular and non-secular camps and conference centers, and nonprofit and human services organizations throughout the United States. To learn more, visit 1Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer. View source version on Contacts Contact: Jennifer JohnsonTitle: Senior Corporate Communications SpecialistPhone: (715) 539-5797Email: jmjohnson@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
CM Regent® Expands Leadership Bench With Accomplished Insurance Executive
MECHANICSBURG, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CM Regent Insurance Company® welcomes Christine West as vice president – chief underwriting officer, education, reporting to Jeff Zehr, senior vice president – underwriting, admitted business. West will lead CM Regent's efforts to strengthen the company's Education Center of Excellence, to deepen its commitment to educational entities in the states it currently serves and expand its reach into new markets. 'I'm honored to join the team and assume leadership of the CM Regent brand,' West said. 'Having devoted the past seven years to working with organizations dedicated to helping others, it's a privilege to now work for a purpose-driven company that shares this commitment.' With more than 20 years of industry experience, West brings deep experience in the education insurance market. Her background includes underwriting, distribution engagement and portfolio management. She most recently served as lead director for educational institutions at The Hanover Insurance Group. 'Bringing Christine on board with this level of experience is a game changer for us,' said Pam Rushing, president of CM Regent. 'We're excited not just for what she knows, but for the momentum she will help us build.' West holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Georgia and earned her Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation from the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance. About CM Regent This affiliate company of Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. 1 leverages Church Mutual's insurance expertise to meet the unique needs of K-12 school districts, colleges and universities. To learn more, visit About Church Mutual Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., founded in 1897, offers specialized insurance for religious organizations of all denominations, public and private K-12 schools, colleges and universities, secular and non-secular camps and conference centers, and nonprofit and human services organizations throughout the United States. To learn more, visit 1 Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer.
