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Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Beyond elite universities: How Trump's funding cuts threatened the survival of tribal colleges in the US
A sign of welcome at Little Priest Tribal College in Winnebago, Nebraska. When conversations around higher education funding in the United States turn political, the spotlight usually falls on elite institutions such as Harvard or Columbia. But as The New York Times reported, this spring, the financial anxieties stirred by the Trump administration's budget proposals were felt most acutely far from Ivy-covered campuses. They landed hardest on the country's 37 tribal colleges and universities, institutions almost wholly reliant on federal support to survive. A fragile funding ecosystem The Nebraska Indian Community College (NICC), chartered by the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska and the Santee Sioux Nation, stands along a two-lane highway near the Iowa border. It is one of the tribal colleges that depend on the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE), which has historically underwritten these institutions under federal laws and treaties. When the Trump administration proposed cutting the BIE's budget for tribal colleges to 22 million US dollars from 183 million, leaders at schools like NICC were forced to contemplate scenarios where classrooms might simply fall silent. NICC president Michael Oltrogge told The New York Times that even with one of the strongest reserve funds in tribal higher education — valued at about 5 million US dollars — the college could only keep its doors open for a year if the cuts materialised. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Nearby, Little Priest Tribal College president Manoj Patil estimated his institution could stretch six months longer. 'There's billions and billions of dollars of money out there, and you're looking at the smallest speck, and you're taking that by 83%?' he said incredulously, noting that most tribal colleges 'don't have much of anything.' Congressional pushback, but lasting unease Two congressional committees rejected the proposed cuts last month, signalling that the reductions were unlikely to pass in any final federal budget. Yet the episode underscored what The New York Times described as 'the fragile finances of America's tribal colleges.' Even when budgets are preserved, administrators live with deep uncertainty, aware that annual funding remains at the mercy of shifting political priorities. Ahniwake Rose, president of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, told the Times that the real damage often extends beyond accounting sheets: 'It's students not knowing: 'Do I even start school right now? What's the point?'' Anchors of education and culture The stakes are particularly high because tribal colleges serve roles that go far beyond conventional higher education. They often act as community anchors in rural areas where no other college-level teaching exists for dozens of miles. Programs range from chemistry and truck driving to Indigenous language preservation. Little Priest Tribal College, chartered by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, is the only college in the US that teaches Ho-Chunk, the language of the Winnebago people. At NICC, some classes meet in an earth lodge, and this fall the institution will debut its second baccalaureate degree, focused on Indigenous environmental health. Enrollment has been rising. The Times reported that NICC had 273 Native students last fall, more than doubling from 109 in 2018. For many, the choice is not simply academic but personal. Student Rosalind Grant explained that after struggling with 'culture shock' at a state university, she found belonging at NICC. 'It helped me create my sense of my Native American identity,' she said. A contested responsibility The administration offered little explanation for its proposal, which also included cuts to K-12 and construction budgets within the Bureau of Indian Education. The Interior Department later issued a statement, quoted by The New York Times , promising commitment to 'academic excellence, student well-being and culturally relevant instruction.' But for many educators, the episode raised deeper questions about the government's recognition of treaty obligations. Wynema Morris, who teaches Native American studies at NICC, described the proposal as evidence of disregard for commitments made under duress. 'We gave up the real estate — at the point of a gun and treaties,' she said. 'But what did we ever get for it in return, except death, disease and destruction?' The road ahead For now, congressional intervention has kept tribal colleges afloat. Yet administrators remain cautious. 'Tribal colleges live paycheck to paycheck,' Patil told the Times , capturing the precarious balance between resilience and vulnerability that defines these institutions. As the policy debate continues in Washington, the larger reality is clear: While the national conversation gravitates toward elite universities, the survival of tribal colleges — small in scale, but profound in cultural and educational importance — depends on decisions made in federal budgets year after year. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Health
- Business Recorder
HPV vaccination campaign: NICC seeks joint efforts from all stakeholders
ISLAMABAD: The National Inter-Agency Coordination Committee (NICC) has stressed the need for collaborative efforts of all stakeholders for the upcoming Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign. The NICC meeting held here on Friday under the chairmanship of State Minister for National Health Services and Regulations (NHSR&C), underscored the campaign's critical importance, noting that cervical cancer caused by HPV is the third most common cancer among women in Pakistan and that timely vaccination can save countless lives. The meeting gathered senior government officials, provincial representatives, donor agencies and international development partners to review key initiatives for strengthening the national immunisation programme and preparedness for the HPV campaign. Participants reaffirmed their collective commitment to ensuring that every child has access to life-saving vaccines. The chair in consultation with all the NICC members endorsed the guidelines and preventive measures for the HPV campaign 1st phase, while the committee unanimously endorsed the proposed shift from Penta-1 to Penta-10 dose vial for routine immunisation. Dr Bharath stressed the importance of conducting refresher training for vaccinators prior to any campaign to ensure high-quality service delivery. He highlighted that maintaining a strong focus on routine immunisation, coupled with targeted outreach to underserved communities, is vital for achieving the nation's health objectives. He also commended the continued support of development partners in driving these priorities forward. Hamed Yaqoob Shaikh, Secretary MoNHSR&C shared that while we have been actively contributing to Pakistan's efforts to eliminate diseases, important tasks still remain. He emphasised the need to continue working collectively to fulfill the country's national commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Shaikh underscored the importance of ensuring that the HPV vaccination campaign reaches both school-going and out-of-school girls, noting that this inclusive approach is essential to achieving the health impact. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment and pledged his full support toward making the campaign a resounding success. Responding to this point, Dr Soofia Yunus, director general FDI, shared that all phase one provinces and federating areas, in close collaboration with the Federal Directorate of Immunization and with the technical and operational support of WHO and UNICEF, have already initiated a series of capacity building and advocacy sessions. She informed that all the planned campaign activities are progressing according to schedule, ensuring that the outreach and vaccination targets remain on track. As a high-level platform, the NICC continues to review progress, address challenges, and align national strategies for immunisation. Friday's meeting reinforced the Government of Pakistan's resolve to achieve high vaccination coverage and protect the health and well-being of its people. Dr Bharath expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and valuable contributions, with special appreciation for donor partners including WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and others who have played a pivotal role in shaping the future health of Pakistan. He acknowledged that, as the secretary MoNHSR&C mentioned, challenges still remain; however, he reaffirmed his confidence that, with the continued support of partners and the dedication of the team, the planned goals will be successfully achieved. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia confirms Eid al-Adha. See Columbus Eid prayer times, locations
The Islamic holiday Eid al-Adha commemorates the 10th day of the final month of Dhul Hijjah. Many Muslims are observing the first days of the blessed month, while others are preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. With Saudi Arabia confirming the date of Eid al-Adha as June 6, nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide and roughly 1% of Ohioans who are Muslim will celebrate. Muslims will hug their friends and family and greet them with 'Eid Mubarak,' meaning 'blessed festival' in Arabic. Looking for Eid prayer locations in Columbus? Find one near you below. According to the Quran, Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, for the sake of God, but God stopped him and sent a ram to be sacrificed instead. Eid is a time of prayer and celebration, and Columbus, Ohio, has multiple locations hosting gatherings. Date: June 6 Location: Ohio Expo Center, Bricker Hall, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus Takbeer: 8:30 a.m. Salat: 9:00 a.m. Prayer will NOT be at any of the NICC locations. More information can be found on the NICC website. Date: June 6 Address: Bill McDonald Sports Complex, 4990 Olentangy River Road, Columbus First Eid prayer: 9 a.m. Second Eid prayer: 10:45 a.m. Prayer will NOT be at the Polaris Masjid location. More information can be found on Polaris' Instagram page. Date: June 6 Address: Columbus Crew Stadium, One Black and Gold Blvd., Columbus Doors open: 7 a.m. Eid Salat: 9 a.m. Masjid Ibnu Taymiyah will only have ONE prayer. More information can be found on its Instagram. Date: June 6 Address: 4615 Northtowne Blvd., Columbus First Prayer: 7 a.m. Second Prayer: 8:30 a.m. Third Prayer: 9 a.m. Date: June 6 Address: 4501 Refugee Road, Columbus, First Prayer: 7 a.m. Second Prayer: 8 a.m. Third Prayer: 9 a.m. Fourth Prayer: 10 a.m. Date: June 6 Address: Valleydale Ballroom, 1590 Sunbury Rd, Columbus Eid Salat: 8 a.m. Date: June 6 Address: 591 Industrial Mile Road, Columbus First Prayer: 7:30 a.m. Second Prayer: 8:30 a.m. Third Prayer: 10 a.m. This may be updated with more Eid prayer locations in Columbus. Is your local Columbus mosque having an Eid al-Adha prayer? Please contact Mariyam Muhammad with event information. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Saudi Arabia confirms Eid al-Adha. See Columbus Eid prayer times, locations
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Triple-I: Resilience, Collaboration and Investment Essential to Mitigate Growing Wildfire Risk in US
SAN DIEGO, May 19, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) today published its latest wildfire Issues Brief highlighting how fire risk is escalating across all regions of the U.S. Triple-I's report showed the number of wildfires reported and acres burned nationwide in 2024 was noticeably higher than five- and 10-year averages, according to the National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC). "Resilience, collaboration and investment are what's needed to ensure that our communities are safe from wildfire," said Sean Kevelighan, CEO, Triple-I. "The insurance industry is working with all stakeholders to predict and prevent devastating losses from wildfires." Kevelighan added it is also important that property/casualty insurers proactively engage with diverse stakeholder groups to promote investment in mitigation and resilience. "This goes for all climate-related perils, but it is particularly important in the case of wildfire," Kevelighan stressed. Highlights of Triple-I's Issues Brief included: 64,897 wildfires were reported across the U.S. in 2024, compared to 56,580 wildfires reported in 2023, NICC reported in its Wildland Fire Summary and Statistics Annual Report 2024. Reported wildfires consumed 8,924,884 acres last year, compared to 2,693,910 acres in 2023. Seven out of the 10 geographic areas experienced above average numbers of wildfires and acres burned, NICC said. The Southern Area had the highest number, while the Northwest Area had the greatest number of acres burned. Nationally, 4,552 structures were reported destroyed by wildfires in 2024, including 2,406 residences, 2,066 minor structures and 80 commercial/mixed residential structures. Triple-I's Issues Brief noted one homeowner's investment in pre-emptive mitigation of fire damage can be quickly undone by the failure of neighbors to invest in similar measures. With more people moving into the wildland urban interface (WUI), communities must work together. Insurers are well-suited to inform and support these efforts, but homeowners and businesses need to present a united front to drive adoption of modern building and land-use codes. RELATED LINKS: Article:California Wildfires Update 2025 Facts and Statistics:Wildfires Triple-I/Capgemini Report:Tamping Down Wildfire Threats: How Insurers Can Mitigate Risks and Losses (November 2022) Videos:Building for Wildfire Resilience Managing Wildfire Risk About the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) Since 1960, the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) has been the trusted voice of risk and insurance, delivering unique, data-driven insights to educate, elevate and connect consumers, industry professionals, policymakers and the media. An affiliate of The Institutes, Triple-I represents a diverse membership accounting for nearly 50% of all U.S. property/casualty premiums written. Our members include mutual and stock companies, personal and commercial lines, primary insurers and reinsurers – serving regional, national and global markets. About The Institutes The Institutes® are a not-for-profit comprised of diverse affiliates that educate, elevate, and connect people in the essential disciplines of risk management and insurance. Through products and services offered by The Institutes and nearly 20 affiliated business units, people and organizations are empowered to help those in need with a focus on understanding, predicting, and preventing losses to create a more resilient world. The Institutes is a registered trademark of The Institutes. All rights reserved. View source version on Contacts California Press Office Janet Ruiz 707-490-9365 JanetR@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
19-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Triple-I: Resilience, Collaboration and Investment Essential to Mitigate Growing Wildfire Risk in US
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) today published its latest wildfire Issues Brief highlighting how fire risk is escalating across all regions of the U.S. 'Resilience, collaboration and investment are what's needed to ensure that our communities are safe from wildfire." Triple-I's report showed the number of wildfires reported and acres burned nationwide in 2024 was noticeably higher than five- and 10-year averages, according to the National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC). 'Resilience, collaboration and investment are what's needed to ensure that our communities are safe from wildfire,' said Sean Kevelighan, CEO, Triple-I. 'The insurance industry is working with all stakeholders to predict and prevent devastating losses from wildfires.' Kevelighan added it is also important that property/casualty insurers proactively engage with diverse stakeholder groups to promote investment in mitigation and resilience. 'This goes for all climate-related perils, but it is particularly important in the case of wildfire,' Kevelighan stressed. Highlights of Triple-I's Issues Brief included: 64,897 wildfires were reported across the U.S. in 2024, compared to 56,580 wildfires reported in 2023, NICC reported in its Wildland Fire Summary and Statistics Annual Report 2024. Reported wildfires consumed 8,924,884 acres last year, compared to 2,693,910 acres in 2023. Seven out of the 10 geographic areas experienced above average numbers of wildfires and acres burned, NICC said. The Southern Area had the highest number, while the Northwest Area had the greatest number of acres burned. Nationally, 4,552 structures were reported destroyed by wildfires in 2024, including 2,406 residences, 2,066 minor structures and 80 commercial/mixed residential structures. Triple-I's Issues Brief noted one homeowner's investment in pre-emptive mitigation of fire damage can be quickly undone by the failure of neighbors to invest in similar measures. With more people moving into the wildland urban interface (WUI), communities must work together. Insurers are well-suited to inform and support these efforts, but homeowners and businesses need to present a united front to drive adoption of modern building and land-use codes. Wildfires Videos: Managing Wildfire Risk About the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) Since 1960, the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) has been the trusted voice of risk and insurance, delivering unique, data-driven insights to educate, elevate and connect consumers, industry professionals, policymakers and the media. An affiliate of The Institutes, Triple-I represents a diverse membership accounting for nearly 50% of all U.S. property/casualty premiums written. Our members include mutual and stock companies, personal and commercial lines, primary insurers and reinsurers – serving regional, national and global markets. About The Institutes The Institutes® are a not-for-profit comprised of diverse affiliates that educate, elevate, and connect people in the essential disciplines of risk management and insurance. Through products and services offered by The Institutes and nearly 20 affiliated business units, people and organizations are empowered to help those in need with a focus on understanding, predicting, and preventing losses to create a more resilient world. The Institutes is a registered trademark of The Institutes. All rights reserved.
