Latest news with #STEMeducation
Associated Press
7 hours ago
- Business
- Associated Press
NetDragon's Chairman Dr. Liu Dejian Attended UN High-level Expert Group Meeting, Advocating "On-Demand Learning" ModeI and Reshaping Global Learning with AI+Education
HONG KONG, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited ('NetDragon' or the 'Company"; Hong Kong Stock Code: 777), a global leader in building internet communities, is excited to announce that Dr. Liu Dejian, Founder and Chairman of NetDragon, was invited to attend the United Nations ('UN') High-level Expert Group Meeting held at UN Headquarter in New York from June 3rd to 4th. Dr. Liu discussed topics related to establishing an Online University for STEM education in the Least Developed Countries ('LDCs') with UN officials and global educational leaders. As a special guest, Dr. Liu also delivered a keynote speech at the opening session, highlighting how 'AI + Education' can promote equitable and high-quality education in LDCs. Dr. Liu also shared NetDragon's various innovations and successful experiences in AI+ education, receiving warm feedback and strong recognition from the attendees. In response to the key topics of the meeting, Dr. Liu Dejian proposed an 'On-Demand Learning' framework for STEM education and three key initiatives: encourage global developers to co-create open-source tools under the UN's leadership; call for global sharing of standardized STEM curricula and case studies; and encourage profound involvement from companies offering STEM-related career opportunities worldwide. The proposed framework features five core principles: breaking down complex tasks into clear steps, incorporating essential background knowledge in each step, embedding learning in real-world tasks, evolving in line with industry advancements, and being fully adaptable for localized content—aiming to create practical and inclusive STEM educational tools. These web-based tools are designed for both online and offline use, enabling learners to quickly apply what they have learned through real-world tasks, lowering entry barriers and building confidence. The concept aligns with the UN Online University's mission of promoting digitalized open education, while also coinciding with NetDragon's strategic vision in AI+Education: AI Production Center: The 'Engine' of NetDragon's AI + Education Strategy. NetDragon has established an AI Production Center, powered by cutting-edge large language models (LLMs) and specialized AI tools. This system drives the creation of high-quality educational content through a fully automated, structured pipeline—from demand analysis to content generation and large database building. Each node-level AI agent functions independently, guided entirely by AI-defined rules without human intervention. Drawing from expert knowledge bases, these agents enable fully automated output. Currently, 100% of the Company's educational content creation involves AI assistance, with the production time for a typical high-quality lesson reduced to just one hour and marginal production costs lowered to the level of hundred RMB. The system also dramatically reduces the size of the employee team and the overall percentage of human intervention. 3E High-Quality Educational Content: The 'Arsenal' of NetDragon's AI+ Strategy. NetDragon defines its next-generation educational content by the '3E' standard: Effective, Efficient, and Engaging. These are the core goals of its R&D efforts, aiming to provide comprehensive, high-quality learning content across all subjects and stages to learners worldwide. Certain early-stage versions of 3E content have been publicly released through initiatives like 'Future Labs' and educational resource granules, which have received extensive welcome in the education community. The ultimate form of 3E content will be interactive educational games designed to foster immersive, learner-centered, exploratory education—delivering disruptive innovation to traditional teaching models. EDA Education Metaverse: The 'Battlefield' of NetDragon's AI+ Strategy. Looking ahead, NetDragon's AI Production Center will feed a growing repository of 3E educational content into EDA—its vision for an education metaverse. EDA aims to build a borderless global learning community rooted in three principles: technology democratization, resource co-creation, and the incentive mechanism. EDA seeks to redefine the essence of learning through an intelligent learning system, enabling on-demand learning with 'learning as entertainment' as the ultimate goal. The MHESI Skill platform ( ), an AI education platform co-developed by NetDragon and Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation ('MHESI'), has been officially launched recently. It offers EV-focused training programs to the youth in Thailand. This platform represents a highly customized and locally deployed model of EDA. EDA aims to achieve co-management by global users and create a decentralized learning community in the future. Every learner's contribution will be recorded and converted into verifiable digital assets. Through a dual reward system—combining digital assets and achievement badges—EDA will incentivize continued contribution to and growth of the community. This blockchain-powered ecosystem also ensures that NetDragon's continued R&D efforts can be fully converted to market value. Dr. Liu Dejian, Founder and Chairman of NetDragon, commented: 'This UN meeting gave us the opportunity to introduce a forward-looking framework that aligns closely with NetDragon's vision and experience in tackling STEM education challenges in LDCs. It also marked the first time we publicly presented our strategic vision of EDA on the international stage. Moving forward, our AI Production Center will deliver 3E educational content and immersive, exploratory learning environments to learners worldwide. These innovations will transform traditional teaching practices, potentially attracting tens of millions of global users. Through a highly innovative community ecosystem, we expect to create tremendous commercial and social value. In the desktop and mobile internet eras, we created two ultra-active online communities— and 91 Wireless. Today, we are just as confident and excited about building a super large global learning community in the AI era.' About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China's first online gaming portal, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless. Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, Conquer Online and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its online education business both domestically and globally, and its overseas education business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries. For investor enquiries, please contact: NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited Ms. Maggie Zhou Senior Director of Investor Relations Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Website: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
The Herald
2 days ago
- General
- The Herald
From California to an Eastern Cape village — a volunteer's story
When C alifornia-born teacher Janet Wolfertz arrived in the small village of Viedgesville, she turned heads. 'At first, I think my presence in Viedgesville was understandably a bit of an anomaly. What is this strange old white lady doing walking the streets with her overloaded backpack and a massive tote bag full of toilet paper rolls? 'But it didn't take long for me to be welcomed wholeheartedly by the school staff, learners and the broader Viedgesville community. 'From the hugs from workers at the Wholesale and KwikSpar, to the honour of being asked to speak to the ikrwala (a young man who has just graduated from initiation school) at an ulwaluko (initiation) ceremony, to the squeals of learners rushing to help me carry my stuff to school in the mornings — I couldn't ask for a more powerful sense of warmth, love and acceptance.' Wolfertz, a Peace Corps volunteer and veteran teacher with a career spanning more than two decades, arrived at Viedgesville Primary School in April 2024 and spent a year teaching science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). She left the school on April 29 this year. Speaking before her farewell, Wolfertz said she could hardly believe she had spent a year at the school. 'When I arrived in Viedgesville, I was excited for the opportunity [and the challenge] to collaborate with Xhosa teachers and learners and discover new, practical and engaging ways to teach science, technology, engineering, art and maths,' she said. 'Originally from California, I have a strong background in education, software development and stage and film production. 'I've always been passionate about travelling, experiencing other cultures and working with children to explore hands-on, creative learning.' Her work at Viedgesville Primary included creating and teaching lessons in STEM and arts, developing classroom materials using local and recycled items and co-planning with teachers. ' Whether we're creating cardboard looms for measurement, investigating circuits with foil and old Christmas lights, or building rockets out of used soda bottles, the focus is always on making learning meaningful and accessible. 'Students respond eagerly to activities that let them explore and create. 'Our projects are often improvised — using paper to simulate coding blocks, learners to represent robots, and recycled materials to design structures and experiments. 'The lessons may not look like they come from a well-equipped STEM lab, but the students' excitement and growth show me that the learning is impactful. 'Each day, I watched their confidence grow as they tackled challenges that stretched their thinking — often while my own understanding of the Eastern Cape curriculum was evolving alongside theirs,' Wolfertz said. She said her time at Viedgesville Primary was interesting and challenging. 'As I've delved deeper into my role, I've encountered challenges that required flexibility and a willingness to shift focus. 'Limited resources are ongoing, infrastructure issues constrain the feasibility of projects and occasional disconnects between the curriculum and learners' realities mean that not every idea works. 'For instance, the grade 7 technology curriculum is often out of sync with what's practical or relevant to the learners. So, the children and I often explored new concepts together, learning side by side.' Collaboration and community engagement were key and she would often involve the broader community in the learning process, connecting with neighbouring schools to share resources and ideas. 'Despite my limited isiXhosa, I've joined fellow teachers in presenting maths to parents, hoping to spark greater shared investment in education.' Wolfertz said what she found most inspiring about the school was the pupils' curiosity and creativity. 'There's a strong oral tradition here and students are eager to share stories. 'While many struggle with English, I've seen meaningful growth in their efforts to communicate, especially in understanding technical vocabulary and concepts. 'That being said, I also strongly believe, and research supports, that immersing young learners in a second language early on is essential for their success. 'What a gift it is to be fluent in two languages. While I'm not a literacy teacher, I've tried to support literacy through story-based science lessons, and by encouraging learners to write and share stories with younger learners. 'I believe literacy is more than just reading — it's about giving students the tools to understand their world and express their ideas. 'The road to Viedgesville Primary School hasn't always been easy to navigate, but with the vision and dedication of Ms [Pindelwa] Mda, the support of the Peace Corps, the contributions of this incredible community and the pure joy and eagerness of the learners, I am constantly reminded that this journey has given me far more than I could ever hope to give in return,' Wolfertz said as she bade the school farewell. This special report into the state of literacy, a collaborative effort by The Herald, Sowetan and Daily Dispatch, was made possible by the Henry Nxumalo Foundation
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
ADU elevates innovation at the 12th URIC, MENA's premier undergraduate research competition
Over 650 submissions received from 14 countries, reinforcing ADU's role as a regional hub for innovation and youth-led research Sponsored by RTX for the third consecutive year in support of STEM education Abu Dhabi, UAE: Under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) hosted the 12th edition of the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Competition (URIC) on May 29 at its main campus in Abu Dhabi. For the third consecutive year, the event was sponsored by RTX, demonstrating the company's ongoing commitment to supporting STEM education and fostering innovation in the UAE and beyond. The hybrid annual event brought together exceptional undergraduate talent from around the world to present breakthrough research and creative solutions across 27 academic disciplines, including engineering, business, education, law, and health sciences. This year's competition drew 650 research submissions from approximately 1,300 students representing 105 universities across 14 countries, reaffirming URIC's position as the largest undergraduate research platform in the GCC and MENA region. The event celebrated a diverse range of pioneering projects, including innovations in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Sciences, Cybersecurity, Finance, Fintech, E-commerce, and Digital Marketing, Sustainable and Renewable Energy, highlighting the breadth and depth of innovation led by undergraduate students. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, commented: 'URIC continues to shine a spotlight on the ingenuity and research excellence of our youth. At ADU, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of discovery that empowers students to drive meaningful change. Through initiatives like URIC, we bridge academia with real-world impact - nurturing young innovators who will shape the UAE's future as a knowledge-based, sustainable economy. RTX's sustained partnership with URIC has been invaluable in providing students with the resources and opportunities to translate their innovative ideas into tangible solutions. Their commitment directly contributes to the development of a skilled workforce ready to tackle future challenges.' He added: 'We are immensely proud of all participating students and grateful to the faculty mentors, judges, and strategic partners who help bring this event to life each year.' Professor Montasir Qasymeh, Associate Provost for Research, Innovation, and Academic Development at Abu Dhabi University, said: 'This year's competition has hosted startup companies and witnessed significant interest from stakeholders, including government agencies, the private sector, and venture capital firms. Students were actively involved in various aspects of innovation and entrepreneurship. This is a significant experience for students, helping them mature to a competitive level by gaining hands-on expertise.' Fahad Al Mheiri, Managing Director of Raytheon Emirates, an RTX business, stated: "We are proud to partner with Abu Dhabi University for the third consecutive year and cultivate the next generation of STEM talent through URIC. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and providing opportunities for students to develop advanced solutions through research, we aim to support the UAE's ongoing efforts to diversify the economy and build a thriving, knowledge-based future." In addition to the core research competition, ADU reintroduced the dedicated Innovation Track, open to UAE-based students with high-potential business ideas. Three winning teams were awarded seed funding, mentorship from industry leaders, and access to ADU's incubation hub to support the development of viable, market-ready ventures. Now in its twelfth year, URIC has become a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi University's commitment to championing youth-driven research and entrepreneurship. The competition aligns closely with the UAE's vision to empower emerging talent, foster knowledge creation, and build a more inclusive and sustainable future. In 2024, URIC attracted nearly 600 research submissions spanning 27 disciplines, with participation from 1,400 students representing 78 universities across 16 countries in the MENA region and beyond. Delivered in a hybrid format, the competition continues to grow its global reach while cultivating a vibrant platform for students to innovate, collaborate, and lead. For more information about Abu Dhabi University, please visit: About Abu Dhabi University: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is one of the region's leading academic institutions, translating the UAE Government's National Agenda to deliver internationally accredited academic programs and world-class research. Established in 2003, with campuses across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai, the University serves around 8,700 students from over 100 nationalities. The University is home to five colleges across different disciplines including arts and sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law, while offering a diverse range of over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, ADU ranks 191 globally. Additionally, it ranks fourth in the UAE and 172nd globally for its research quality, and it is among the top three universities in the UAE, while holding the number one position in the teaching pillar. Additionally, THE Rankings has recognized the University's Business and Economics subject area as number one in the UAE and the Arab region. The University has made an impressive performance in THE Young University Rankings 2024, ranking in the 60th position globally among the world's best universities that are 50 years or younger. Furthermore, the University jumped to the 70th place in the prestigious THE Asia University Rankings 2025 and was ranked first in the UAE for graduate employability as per the Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24. Parallelly, ADU ranks in 501 globally, according to the 2025 edition of the QS World University Rankings, advancing 79 places. ADU continues to empower faculty and students with state-of-the-art resources, facilities, and learning opportunities that foster innovation and support research-based problem-solving. The University maintains strong international collaborations with leading academic institutions and public and private sector organizations, with institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges' Senior College and University Commission (WASC). To know more about ADU, follow on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. Media Contacts Weber Shandwick for Abu Dhabi University Reem Al Taiertaie@
Arab News
7 days ago
- General
- Arab News
Saudi robotics deal supports STEM learning
RIYADH: The Saudi Federation for Robotics and RC Sports partnered with VEX Robotics and the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation to support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education in the Kingdom. The initiative aims to introduce advanced robotics technologies into classrooms and competitions, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. It supports Saudi students by providing educational tools aligned with Vision 2030's focus on technology and youth development. The program encourages students to explore robotics, develop skills, and participate in global competitions, the SPA reported. Abdullah Alsunaydi, CEO of the Saudi federation, said: 'This partnership supports our mission to build a knowledge-based society and create opportunities for youth.' Tony Norman, CEO of VEX Robotics, said that the partnership aims to equip the next generation with tools to succeed in a changing world. VEX Robotics offers a hands-on educational program called VEX Continuum, for students from elementary to university levels. The REC Foundation organizes robotics competitions that encourage students to apply learning, solve problems, and collaborate. The partnership will provide teacher training and resources, organizing competitions to expand access to robotics education and inspire interest in STEM careers.
Associated Press
28-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Metro Schools, Ohio State and Battelle Celebrate Restored Metro@Indianola Campus, Enrollment Up 40 Percent
COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 28, 2025-- At an official grand opening ceremony today, leaders from Metro Schools, The Ohio State University, Battelle and other key partners will open the doors of the historic Indianola Middle School—now the Metro@Indianola campus. The event will celebrate the completion of a top-to-bottom restoration that brought the 1929 landmark up to LEED Silver sustainability standards. The building at 420 E. 19th Avenue now houses 40 flexible classrooms and a community health clinic. Combined with Metro's plan to convert its original Kenny Road location into a dedicated elementary school, Metro will serve 40 percent more students this fall. 'Today, we move from blueprints to bright futures,' said Meka Pace, superintendent of Metro Schools. 'All Central Ohio kids deserve world-class STEM opportunities right in their own neighborhood and, after today, many more will have that opportunity.' Under a 30-year, no-cost lease, Ohio State owns the 9.38-acre property while Metro operates the school. The project was funded by the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission at $15 million, Battelle at $13.5 million, and other community donors. 'Metro@Indianola is a shining example of what's possible when partners across the community come together around a shared vision to invest in students and the future of our state,' said Walter 'Ted' Carter Jr., president of The Ohio State University. 'After today, Metro@Indianola will be able to do even more to prepare a strong pipeline of STEM talent for Ohio's workforce. Ohio State is proud to be a partner in Metro Schools' success story and we look forward to this new chapter of growth.' Metro's expansion is part of Battelle's philanthropic mission grow STEM educational opportunities. Metro opened in 2006 as one of Ohio's first STEM schools through a partnership with Ohio State, Battelle and local schools. Students from across the region apply to join the diverse, tuition-free school. Fully 80 percent of Metro students in the Class of 2025 earned college credit before graduation. 'Battelle is proud to be a co-founder of the Metro School with Ohio State and steadfast in our support of a model that delivers life-changing opportunities for the school's students,' said Lou Von Thaer, President and CEO of Battelle. 'This renovation allows more students to benefit from a STEM education and shape the future of our region.' The building was designed by famed architect Howard Dwight Smith and its alumni include celebrated author Wil Haygood and the late Curt Moody, founder of America's largest Black-led architectural firm. In 1980, the U.S. Department of the Interior listed the building on the National Register of Historic Places. About Battelle Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit or contact Katy Delaney at (614) 424-7208 or [email protected]. View source version on CONTACT: Katy Delaney (614) 424-7208 [email protected] KEYWORD: OHIO UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: EDUCATION OTHER EDUCATION UNIVERSITY PRIMARY/SECONDARY SOURCE: Battelle Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 05/28/2025 10:10 AM/DISC: 05/28/2025 10:09 AM
