Latest news with #IanMartin
BBC News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
What's happening at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta?
The annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta starts on Friday and sees the skies above the Somerset city filled with colourful hot air than 100 balloons are due to be launched as part of the fiesta with lots of other activities celebrating Bristol's ballooning history. The Bristol Balloon Fiesta - the biggest ballooning event in Europe - takes place over three days from Friday to Sunday, 8-10 free to attend and there is loads going on. Read on to find out more. What's happening at this year's fiesta? Over 100 hot air balloons are due to take part in this year's fiesta. The balloons are due to rise up in the early morning and early evening of each day of the both Friday and Saturday evenings, the special Nightglow event takes is when dozens of balloons tethered to the ground light up in time to Martin, the choreographer and director of the Nightglow event, said:"I always say that balloonists are showmen."We like to show off, we like to show the balloons, we like to entertain and we're proud of that."Nightglows are a great way for us to create a greater interest in ballooning and the fiesta itself." Special shaped balloons are always a big feature at the fiesta, and this year visitors can expect to see balloons in the shape of Thomas the Tank Engine, Sonic the Hedgehog, Astro the Alien, Rupert the Bear and Wallace & Gromit Moon Rocket.A new addition to the festival is In The Clouds, an immersive attraction where visitors can walk inside a cold-inflated air balloon, while hearing a soundscape that replicates the experience of pilots in flight. Also on the ground there will be live music performances, arts and crafts and the Rockets Children's Motorcycle Display Team who will perform stunts and tricks. There's also model aircraft demonstrations, model hot air balloon parades and chats with hot air balloon free-to-attend event takes place at Ashton Court Estate in has a long history of hot air balloons - the first modern hot air balloon, the Bristol Belle, was created in the first Bristol International Balloon Fiesta took place in 1979. Do like hot air balloons? Are you going to the Bristol Fiesta?Let us know in the comments...
Economic Times
29-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
8 Top-Rated Online Data Science Certification Courses for 2025
Synopsis Data Science certification courses equip individuals with practical, job-ready skills in the areas of analytics, programming, and machine learning. In addition to providing practical skills, these certifications demonstrate expertise to employers, enhance hiring potential, and give individuals an important edge in the accelerating areas of AI, data analysis, and business intelligence. Data Science certification courses are ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals who wish to advance their careers. Team ProductLine In today's data-driven environment, organisations in every sector are using data and analytics to make decisions, deliver innovations, and have a competitive advantage. As a result, the demand across all levels for those professionals, primarily data scientists, to understand and analyse data is higher than ever. Here comes Data Science certification courses—the best way to build, prove, and advance your capability in the rapidly developing world of data science. Whether you are an early career professional seeking a career change or an experienced professional wanting to reskill in this field, Data Science certification courses can provide you with the best framework and hands-on experience in tools (e.g., Python, R, SQL, Tableau, and machine learning) to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and what businesses need data professionals to know. Moreover, obtaining a Data Science certification can improve your employability and earning potential as the need for skilled data scientists grows in popularity. Data Science certification courses can be delivered in flexible, self-directed formats and have you working on authentic projects, so getting a jump on your or a new career is attractive and less detailed. Robert Jack, the co-founder of Ian Martin, recognises that obtaining a Data Science certification is not only a credential, but it is a job enhancer along your journey into the digital economy—one important investment, for yourself and your an era where data is central to decision-making, data science certifications offer credibility and structure to your learning journey. They are essential for building a strong foundation and staying competitive in the modern workforce. High Demand in the Industry: This field is one of the fastest-growing areas of study, offering career opportunities across nearly all industries and paying exceptionally well. This field is one of the fastest-growing areas of study, offering career opportunities across nearly all industries and paying exceptionally well. Technical Skill Validation: Certifications serve as proof of your technical skills, indicating to employers that you are ready for practical challenges. Certifications serve as proof of your technical skills, indicating to employers that you are ready for practical challenges. Helps Fill the Gap: Certifications help fill the gap between academic learning and industry practical needs. Certifications help fill the gap between academic learning and industry practical needs. Great for Career Change: Certifications help work professionals transitioning from a non-technical background into a data role. Certifications help work professionals transitioning from a non-technical background into a data role. Staying Current: Certifications help ensure you stay up to date in terms of tools, technologies, and trends in the field of data science. The Data Science Certification Courses don't just teach theory—they equip you with hands-on skills needed to solve real-world problems. Whether you're starting fresh or upskilling, certifications pave the way for better roles and higher earning potential. Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and tasks using Python, SQL, R, and machine learning skills. Gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and tasks using Python, SQL, R, and machine learning skills. Better Employability: Helps your resume stand out for recruitment and hiring personnel in data-related positions. Helps your resume stand out for recruitment and hiring personnel in data-related positions. Increased Confidence: Helps to develop your confidence to work independently on data-oriented projects. Helps to develop your confidence to work independently on data-oriented projects. Flexible Learning: Many of these courses are self-paced and online, therefore suitable to fit into your schedule. Many of these courses are self-paced and online, therefore suitable to fit into your schedule. A Stepping Stone for Future Roles: You will be qualified for analytics, AI, machine learning, or business intelligence jobs. You will be qualified for analytics, AI, machine learning, or business intelligence jobs. A Seamless Transition to Further Study: Can be a launch pad to higher post-graduate degrees or specialisations in data science Course Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description: Become proficient in Python rapidly with ChatGPT! In this six-hour course, beginners and future programmers can develop critical programming skills with the use of AI. You'll learn how to write, debug, and create real-world applications, while also learning essential Python concepts to advanced concepts like object-oriented programming (OOP), automation, and error handling with AI assistance. Course details Course Title: Master's in Python Language Quickly Using the ChatGPT Open AI Master's in Python Language Quickly Using the ChatGPT Open AI Language: English English Duration: 6 hours 6 hours Price: ₹1,649 (One-time payment) ₹1,649 (One-time payment) Learning Format: HD video lectures, coding exercises, AI-guided challenges HD video lectures, coding exercises, AI-guided challenges Support: Hands-on assignments and real-world projects Hands-on assignments and real-world projects Platform Requirement: Internet-enabled device What you'll learn How to use ChatGPT effectively to learn and write in Python To program in Python that is clean, efficient, and scalable. To understand core Python concepts: syntax, variables, data types, and control flow. To create reusable code through functions. To handle errors and validate user inputs. To understand and implement object-oriented programming (OOP), including inheritance, encapsulation and polymorphism. To create real-world applications and interactive projects. To automate tasks and solve real-world coding problems. To use Python for business automation, web development, and data science. To develop problem-solving skills using AI-powered coding practice. Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Beginners with zero programming background, Students exploring tech and AI tools, Aspiring software developers, Data analysts, freelancers, and tech enthusiasts, Anyone looking to build or shift to a Python-focused career Beginners with zero programming background, Students exploring tech and AI tools, Aspiring software developers, Data analysts, freelancers, and tech enthusiasts, Anyone looking to build or shift to a Python-focused career Course focus: Hands-on coding with the aid of AI, Real-world project building, Foundation to advanced-level Python skills, Practical applications in automation and AI development Hands-on coding with the aid of AI, Real-world project building, Foundation to advanced-level Python skills, Practical applications in automation and AI development Prerequisites: A device with internet access, Willingness to learn and explore coding, no prior programming experience required Explore: Python Language Quickly Using the ChatGPT OpenAI course here Course Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description: Accelerate your Python programming journey with AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine! Get the knowledge and the skills to implement Tabnine's intelligent code completion in your workflow, save coding speed and structure, and master Python core concepts, OOP, and generative AI tools, all for just ₹799 in this hands-on course for beginners. Course details Course Title: AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills Price: ₹799 (One-time payment) ₹799 (One-time payment) Language: English English Learning Mode: Step-by-step tutorials, real-world examples, AI-assisted practice Step-by-step tutorials, real-world examples, AI-assisted practice Support: Code troubleshooting, project-based learning Code troubleshooting, project-based learning Key Tools Used: Tabnine AI Assistant Tabnine AI Assistant Access Requirements: Internet-enabled device, IDE with Tabnine installed What you'll learn Understand what Tabnine is and how it speeds up Python development Learn the basics of Python: variables, data types and type casting Be introduced to the object-oriented programming concepts of inheritance and polymorphism Increase coding efficiency using an AI code completion with whole-line & function-level suggestions Learn about generative AI tools for creating complex Python code Incorporate Tabnine into your regular coding workflow Experience best practices for maximising productivity with AI-driven development Mitigate coding mistakes using intelligent AI suggestions Become confident in writing clean, structured Python code quickly Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Beginners looking to start coding with smart AI help, Intermediate Python learners eager to code faster and better, AI and machine learning enthusiasts exploring AI in software development, Data science learners interested in AI-driven coding solutions, Developers aiming to streamline and speed up daily programming tasks Beginners looking to start coding with smart AI help, Intermediate Python learners eager to code faster and better, AI and machine learning enthusiasts exploring AI in software development, Data science learners interested in AI-driven coding solutions, Developers aiming to streamline and speed up daily programming tasks Course focus: Fast, clean Python coding with the aid of Tabnine, Real-world coding automation and AI integration, boosting productivity and accuracy with intelligent code suggestions Fast, clean Python coding with the aid of Tabnine, Real-world coding automation and AI integration, boosting productivity and accuracy with intelligent code suggestions Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Python (helpful but not mandatory), A computer with internet access, Willingness to learn and try AI-assisted development tools Explore AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills course hereCourse Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description: Learn MySQL from the ground up, and take your data science career to the next level. This introductory course will teach you how to write SQL queries, how to manage databases, and how to mine that data for insights to help you make better business choices. You will develop these skills through hands-on exercises, starting from creating databases, to learning how to run advanced queries, and much more. This course is geared towards aspiring data analysts, business professionals and students looking to learn new skills. Course details Course Title: MySQL for Beginners: Learn Data Science and Analytics Skills MySQL for Beginners: Learn Data Science and Analytics Skills Instructor: Metla Sudha Sekhar Metla Sudha Sekhar Language: English English Duration: 6.2 hours 6.2 hours Price: ₹2,499 (One-time payment) ₹2,499 (One-time payment) Learning Format: HD video lessons, practical exercises, downloadable resources HD video lessons, practical exercises, downloadable resources Software Used: MySQL Server, MySQL Workbench MySQL Server, MySQL Workbench Hands-on Tools: Excel/CSV data import-export, SQL Query Writing Excel/CSV data import-export, SQL Query Writing Support: Real-world projects, backup & restore techniques What you'll learn Install MySQL Server and Workbench on your machine Understand relational databases and MySQL's architecture Create databases and tables using keys and indexing Master basic SQL commands: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE Use WHERE, ORDER BY, and GROUP BY to filter, sort, and summarise Manipulate tables with JOINs (INNER, LEFT, RIGHT, and FULL) Create data-driven reports and business insights Import/export data as Excel or CSV files Write advanced SQL queries for analytics Learn backup, security, and restoration of databases Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Beginners, students, professionals, and entrepreneurs eager to explore MySQL and gain essential data skills for real-world analytics. Beginners, students, professionals, and entrepreneurs eager to explore MySQL and gain essential data skills for real-world analytics. Course focus: Practical SQL skills, data querying, business intelligence, and MySQL tools to empower decision-making and launch data science careers. Practical SQL skills, data querying, business intelligence, and MySQL tools to empower decision-making and launch data science careers. Prerequisites: No coding experience needed—just a computer with internet access, curiosity to learn, and interest in using data effectively. Explore MySQL for Beginners: Learn Data Science and Analytics Skills course hereCourse Expert: Prince Patni Course Description: In this beginner-friendly course, you will learn to master Power BI with Microsoft Fabric, beginning with the basics and progressing to advanced features. You will learn how to build powerful, dynamic reports, perform real-time analytics, and use a variety of tools, such as Data Lakes and AI-driven insights. This course will ready you for roles in data analytics, business intelligence, or cloud-based services, where your skill set can be applied to real-world challenges. Course details Course Title: Learn Power BI with Microsoft Fabric: Complete Course Learn Power BI with Microsoft Fabric: Complete Course Instructor: Prince Patni Prince Patni Language: English English Learning Mode: Video lectures, live examples, real-world projects Video lectures, live examples, real-world projects Structure: Step-by-step tutorials from beginner to advanced Step-by-step tutorials from beginner to advanced Key Tools Covered: Power BI, Microsoft Fabric, Data Lake, AI Insights Power BI, Microsoft Fabric, Data Lake, AI Insights Access Requirements: Internet-enabled device, browser-based learning Internet-enabled device, browser-based learning Total Lectures: 34 (approx.) 34 (approx.) Pricing: ₹399 (One-time payment) What you'll learn Examine Microsoft Fabric and its integrations Microsoft Fabric Power BI Environment walkthrough Building reports with published datasets in Power BI Creating visuals and dashboards from scratch Using reporting time savers such as copy and paste Loading and managing files within Power BI Experience Understanding how to generate items in Power BI, such as dashboards, visuals, etc. Finding out about the advanced features of Power BI in Microsoft Fabric Understanding real-time analytics, AI insights, Data Lakes, etc. Bringing your learning into practice on real-world data projects Who Should Enrol Target Audience: IT professionals, students, Power BI users, and cloud/data enthusiasts seeking to master Microsoft Fabric and data analytics tools. IT professionals, students, Power BI users, and cloud/data enthusiasts seeking to master Microsoft Fabric and data analytics tools. Course focus: Equips learners with skills in Power BI reporting, Microsoft Fabric integration, data visualisation, and real-time analytics for career advancement. Equips learners with skills in Power BI reporting, Microsoft Fabric integration, data visualisation, and real-time analytics for career advancement. Prerequisites: No prior experience required—just a device with internet access and a keen interest in data analytics and Microsoft cloud tools. Explore Learn Power BI with Microsoft Fabric: Complete Course hereCourse Expert: Rafael Irizarry Course Description: Accomplish demanding data science skills with HarvardX's Professional Certificate in Data Science. Gain the abilities needed to use R programming, perform statistical analysis, data wrangling, visualisation, and machine learning with real-world case studies. This self-paced program is a solid foundation for aspiring professionals in data analysis, research, or machine learning in almost any field. Course details Course Title: Professional Certificate in Data Science Professional Certificate in Data Science Institution: HarvardX (via edX) HarvardX (via edX) Platform: edX edX Pace: Self-paced Self-paced Time Commitment: 2–3 hours per week 2–3 hours per week Price: $1,481 $1,481 Difficulty: Introductory Introductory Credit: Premier Certificate Premier Certificate Subjects: Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science Data Science, Mathematics, Computer Science Topics Covered: Data Mining, Data Analysis, Data Visualisation, Probability, Statistics, R Programming What you'll learn Core R programming for data science applications Key statistical concepts: probability, inference, and modelling Data visualisation with ggplot2 and wrangling with dplyr using the tidyverse Use of essential data science tools: Unix/Linux, Git, GitHub, and RStudio Implementation of machine learning algorithms Application of data science through real-world case studies, including health, economics, finance, sports, and politics Writing reproducible, well-documented data science reports and analyses Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Ideal for aspiring data scientists, analysts, researchers, and professionals from any domain wanting to gain strong foundational data skills. Ideal for aspiring data scientists, analysts, researchers, and professionals from any domain wanting to gain strong foundational data skills. Course focus: Emphasises hands-on experience in R, real-world data application, and practical skills essential for statistical analysis and machine learning. Emphasises hands-on experience in R, real-world data application, and practical skills essential for statistical analysis and machine learning. Prerequisites: No prior experience in programming or statistics needed—just curiosity, commitment, and access to a computer with internet connectivity. Explore Professional Certificate in Data Science By Harvard University course hereCourse Expert: Ryan Rosario, Sameera Poduri, Eric Rynerson Course Description: Embark on your data science career with this immersive, 100% online Data Science Bootcamp! You will learn job-ready skills in Python, machine learning, and data storytelling. You will have 1-on-1 mentorship, finish capstone projects, and graduate in as little as 6 months—part-time. Plus, there is a job guarantee or your money back. Learn AI tools made to have a real-world impact. Course details Course Title: Data Science Bootcamp Data Science Bootcamp Duration: 6 months (part-time) 6 months (part-time) Learning Mode: 100% online 100% online Support: 1-on-1 mentorship + career coaching 1-on-1 mentorship + career coaching Job Guarantee: Yes (or money-back policy) Yes (or money-back policy) Capstone Projects: Included Included AI Learning Units: Included (NEW! AI for Data Professionals) Included (NEW! AI for Data Professionals) Partnerships: Industry collaboration, including DataCamp Industry collaboration, including DataCamp Curriculum Type: Project-based learning with videos, articles, and hands-on practice Project-based learning with videos, articles, and hands-on practice Optional Prep Track: Foundations to Core (for beginners) What you'll learn The Six-Step Data Science Method (DSM): Defining the problem to documenting the project The Python stack for analysis and model building Data wrangling strategies for cleaning and reshaping data Machine learning: algorithms, evaluation, and implementation Telling a data story and communicating findings AI tools for automating analysis and detecting patterns Real-world experience through capstone projects and industry-inspired challenges Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Aspiring data scientists, career switchers, or tech professionals looking to gain full-stack data skills with industry mentorship. Aspiring data scientists, career switchers, or tech professionals looking to gain full-stack data skills with industry mentorship. Course focus: Practical, job-ready data science and AI skills using real-world projects, mentorship, and personalised career guidance to land roles. Practical, job-ready data science and AI skills using real-world projects, mentorship, and personalised career guidance to land roles. Prerequisites: Basic coding in Python or another general-purpose language; familiarity with stats. Beginners can start with the Foundations to Core track. Explore Data Science Bootcamp By Springboard course hereCourse Expert: Professor Chris Anderson Course Description: Gain your Data Analytics Certificate from Cornell University and gain a command of analytical decision-making. You'll learn how to collect, visualise, and analyse business data based on scientific methods. With an emphasis on project-based learning and expert instruction, you will create a decision-making framework based on data literacy, giving you the opportunity to make data-driven recommendations that enrich organisational performance across functions. Course details Program Title: Data Analytics Cornell Certificate Program Data Analytics Cornell Certificate Program Institution: Cornell University (via eCornell) Cornell University (via eCornell) Instructor: Professor Chris Anderson Professor Chris Anderson Format: Fully Online Fully Online Time Commitment: 9 weeks (3–5 hours per week) 9 weeks (3–5 hours per week) Cost: $3,900 → $2,730 (with code LEARN30) $3,900 → $2,730 (with code LEARN30) Certificate: Premier Certificate upon completion Premier Certificate upon completion Learning Format: Video lectures, hands-on exercises, facilitated peer discussions Video lectures, hands-on exercises, facilitated peer discussions Live Sessions: Yes (small-class format) Yes (small-class format) Real-World Application: Yes, with projects tied to workplace data Yes, with projects tied to workplace data Support: Personalised feedback from expert facilitators What you'll learn Understand and utilise summary statistics and descriptive analytics Explore beyond averages to find meaningful insights in your data Create a methodology for effective decision-making in your business Learn to identify uncertainty and reduce uncertainty through variable selection Align statistical evidence with business meaning or intuition for best results. Identify and select the correct data and relationships for modelling Improve decision-making by utilising predictive models Effectively communicate your data-driven insights or information to your stakeholders. Leverage help sheets and toolkits to assist with data management and interpretation. Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Business professionals, analysts, and managers aiming to strengthen their decision-making skills using real-world data and structured analysis. Business professionals, analysts, and managers aiming to strengthen their decision-making skills using real-world data and structured analysis. Course focus: Emphasises functional literacy in analytics, combining statistics with business intuition to support impactful, data-driven decision-making in any role. Emphasises functional literacy in analytics, combining statistics with business intuition to support impactful, data-driven decision-making in any role. Prerequisites: Familiarity with Excel and basic statistics; must complete Understanding and Visualising Data before taking advanced modules in this program. Explore Data Analytics Cornell Certificate Program course hereCourse Description: Advance your career in data science with Eastern's fully online, self-paced Certificate in Data Science. Ideal for both beginners and professionals, this 12-credit program teaches Python, SQL, R, and Tableau. Complete the certificate in as little as 4 months and apply credits toward a Master's in Data Science or Analytics. Course details Program Title: Certificate in Data Science Certificate in Data Science Institution: Eastern Eastern Format: 100% Online | Self-Paced 100% Online | Self-Paced Duration: 12 credits (finish in as little as 4 months) 12 credits (finish in as little as 4 months) Start Dates: Every 7 weeks Every 7 weeks Cost: $3,960 total ($330 per credit x 12 credits) $3,960 total ($330 per credit x 12 credits) Financial Aid: Eligible for federal aid and military benefits Eligible for federal aid and military benefits Progression Path: Credits count toward MS in Data Science or Data Analytics Credits count toward MS in Data Science or Data Analytics Support: Faculty-led guidance with flexible pacing Faculty-led guidance with flexible pacing Tools Covered: Python, R, SQL, Tableau What you'll learn Learn to code in Python from the ground up Gain hands-on experience with Tableau for data visualisation Master SQL for querying and managing relational databases Build practical knowledge of R for statistical computing Apply data skills across business, marketing, and tech fields Work at your own pace with expert faculty support Prepare for graduate study or immediate career entry Build a strong foundation in analytics and data storytelling Who Should Enrol Target Audience: Ideal for beginners and working professionals seeking flexible, foundational training in data science and a pathway to graduate study. Ideal for beginners and working professionals seeking flexible, foundational training in data science and a pathway to graduate study. Course focus: Teaches industry-standard tools—Python, R, SQL, Tableau—via a self-paced, credit-bearing program designed for career advancement or academic transition. Teaches industry-standard tools—Python, R, SQL, Tableau—via a self-paced, credit-bearing program designed for career advancement or academic transition. Prerequisites: No prior experience required; suitable for any background. Must hold a bachelor's degree to qualify for this post-baccalaureate certificate. Explore Certificate in Data Science By eastern university course here Ans. An online data science certification course is a structured learning program that teaches data science tools and techniques, such as Python, SQL, R, statistics, machine learning, and data visualisation—typically through video lessons, assignments, and real-world Anyone interested in pursuing a career in data science or upskilling in analytics can benefit—this includes students, working professionals, IT professionals, engineers, business analysts, and career No, many beginner-friendly courses require no prior experience. Some may recommend basic knowledge of statistics or programming, but many also include foundational modules to get you You'll typically learn Python, R, SQL, Tableau, statistics, machine learning, data wrangling, data visualisation, and how to work with real datasets using industry-relevant Course duration varies. Some can be completed in 4–6 weeks, while others may take 3–6 months, depending on the depth and your pace. The above content is an initiative by Times Internet content team to explain product features and simplify jargons for its users. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. Times Internet may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
The National
10-07-2025
- Politics
- The National
UNRWA review warns Palestinian aid group could collapse
A review of the operations of the struggling UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has laid out four possibilities for its future, including closure. It comes ahead of a vote by UN member states on whether UNRWA should continue its operations. Commissioned by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, the review headed by former senior UN official Ian Martin concluded the discrepancy between UNRWA's mandate and its lack of financial support would mean major changes. The review was prompted by "political and financial pressures" that are preventing UNRWA from fully carrying out its mandate, its director of external relations and communications Tamara Al Rifai told The National. Four options were put forward for the agency. The first was to cut back on services, according to Reuters, which saw the document. The second was to create an executive board to advise and support UNRWA 's commissioner general in an effort to enhance accountability and secure more funding. A third option was to transfer some services to governments and the Palestinian Authority. The final scenario was closure. The UN General Assembly is set to vote on renewing UNRWA's mandate at the end of this year. Only the 193-member assembly can change it. The review of its options has been distributed to all the member states. Created in 1949, UNRWA provides aid, health care and education for millions of Palestinians in the occupied territories as well as Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. But in recent months it has lost US funding and been banned by Israel. The organisation is dealing with a deficit of about $200 million as a result of the US pausing funding last year. The deterioration of UNRWA's position has been hastened by an Israeli campaign against the agency in which it accused members of colluding with Hamas in the October 7 attacks. UNRWA launched an investigation into the claim and suspended staff suspected of involvement. Israel's Knesset then passed a vote to ban the work of the agency altogether. "While we continue to implement our mandate given to us by the General Assembly, we never do it comfortably – especially since the war in Gaza ... where Israel has made the dismantling of UNRWA one of its objectives," Ms Al Rifai said.
BBC News
22-06-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
Derbyshire County Show's return hailed as 'fantastic'
Organisers of the Derbyshire County Show say they are happy to be back, after having to cancel the event last year due to wet show ground at Elvaston was left under water in 2024 after a bout of persistent year, about 12,000 people are expected to attend the annual agricultural gathering, which has been running since Edward Hicklin told the BBC: "The weather beat us last year but this time the ground's in fantastic condition. It's the best it's looked for about five years. We're so happy. We're like a coiled spring ready to go again." Gates are due to open for visitors at 08:30 BST on Sunday."It's fantastic to be back. It's what the society is about. We put the show on each year, and if we can't it spoils it for everyone," said Mr said the weather was "completely the opposite" to last year and promised the hundreds of animals brought to the show would be kept safe."People that show the animals are professional exhibiters, and they know their animals. They know how to take care of them," he said."They bring shade and shelter and we've got lots of running water on show ground. No animals come before the day."Show ground manager Ian Martin added: "For people coming with animals, there are going to be dog baths around the place. "There's around 12 to 13 taps around the place, there's plenty of water and shade."New for the 2025 event is a drone racing Hicklin said: "They set big hoops and targets and an assault course for them to negotiate round. There's a display of that in the main ring." The event will also see shetland pony racing, vintage cars and tractors, a stunt team and a Q&A with Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Hicklin, 27, who volunteers at the event said: "She'll be in the main ring at about 12:20 doing a live Q&A session, but she'll also be walking round all day to do meet and greets. "It's really great, especially to have a young female farmer representing farming and all things agriculture. She's done a really good job to show that whatever boys can do, girls can do too."Organisers also revealed they had seen an increase in scammers trying to sell fake warned the Derbyshire County Show does not sell resale tickets and tickets are only sold through its official website.
The Journal
23-04-2025
- Politics
- The Journal
Israeli military intercepts missile launched from Yemen
ISRAEL'S MILITARY HAS reported a missile 'launched from Yemen', where the Houthi rebel group has attacked Israel during its war on Gaza. Shortly after 4am am local time (0100 GMT), the Israeli army announced that the missile triggered air raid sirens in Haifa and other communities in northern Israel. 'An interceptor was launched toward the missile, and the missile was most likely successfully intercepted,' it said on Telegram. Since Israel's war in Gaza began in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly fired missiles and drones at Israel in what they say is a show of solidarity with the Palestinians. The Houthi rebel group controls swaths of Yemen, and Israel has struck Houthi targets several times inside the country including in the capital Sanaa. Advertisement The rebels have also targeted ships they accuse of having ties to Israel as the freighters travel on the Red Sea — a vital waterway for global trade. The US military has been carrying out almost daily attacks for the past month, saying it was targeting the Houthi 'terrorists' to stop attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Meanwhile, the United Nations has appointed an envoy to complete a 'strategic assessment' of its agency charged with aiding Palestinians. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has appointed Ian Martin of the United Kingdom to review the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, or UNRWA, to gauge the 'political, financial, security' constraints the agency faces. Israel cut all contact with UNRWA at the end of January, and has accused 19 of its 13,000 employees in Gaza of being directly involved in the 7 October 2023 attacks. 'We're trying to see how in this very complex environment, UNRWA can best deliver for the Palestine refugees it serves. For the communities it serves, they deserve to be assisted by an organization, by an UNRWA that can work in the best possible manner,' spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters. © AFP 2025
