Latest news with #Sustainable
Scoop
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Govt Driving Away Kiwi Innovators And Scientists
The Government continues to obliterate science and innovation in New Zealand. 'New Zealand's world leading crown research institutes are being left to dwindle, and New Zealand's best scientists are losing their jobs and leaving the country,' Labour science and innovation spokesperson Reuben Davidson said. 'National's decision to cut Callaghan Innovation has lost the country at least 60 skilled science jobs, meaning the expertise to commercialise great New Zealand innovations has evaporated. 'GNS Science has axed nearly 10 percent of its workforce, despite its important work on seismic and climate research. ESR – the Institute of Environmental Science and Research – slashing eight percent of its workforce because of government cuts. NIWA was also proposing 13 percent of its workforce would have to go. 'Cuts to the Marsden Fund, which supports important research at universities, will mean less research in public health, nursing, law, education, Māori studies, and public policy. 'The Government has also closed the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund and replaced it with a new, smaller fund, and decided not to award new funding through the Endeavour Fund in 2026. 'They've taken a total of $90 million out of grants and funds in Budget 2025. This is incredibly short-sighted, and gambles with New Zealand's technology future. 'National is happy to turn up to events like the Hi-Tech awards and congratulate winners when the cameras are rolling in Budget week, but behind the scenes they are cutting the funding that got lots of our best innovators there,' Reuben Davidson said.
New Straits Times
26-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Young Asean voices set agenda for a sustainable tomorrow
KUALA LUMPUR: Delegates of the 4th Asean Youth Dialogue 2025 have urged Asean leaders to demonstrate clear commitment and awareness in addressing the pressing challenges faced by the region. In their 4th Asean Youth Statement 2025, themed "Youth for a Sustainable Future: Empowering Inclusion and Driving Change in Asean," the delegates called on leaders to adopt nine key policy recommendations aimed at ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable youth participation in driving socioeconomic development. These matters were among the key topics raised during the Asean Leaders' Interface with Representatives of Asean Youth held at the 46th Asean Summit. Central to the recommendations was a call for renewed efforts to empower young people in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and realising the Asean Community Vision 2025. The statement also highlighted the importance of enhancing youth health and wellbeing, advocating improved mental health services, comprehensive reproductive health education, and affordable access to healthcare — measures seen as vital for equipping the next generation to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world. Education and skills development were also prioritised, with delegates calling for improved digital literacy and proficiency in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. In addition, the delegates urged Asean member states to foster innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting start-ups, mentorship schemes, and providing accessible funding opportunities. They also stressed the importance of targeted policies to uplift marginalised groups, including persons with disabilities, rural communities, and women. Delegates further stressed the need for investment in sustainable infrastructure to bridge the urban–rural divide, and called for unified action to address the climate crisis, including prioritising climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and intercultural exchange programmes to promote regional solidarity and understanding. Malaysia's youth delegate Muhammad Izzat Afifi said Asean's youth were ready to lead. "We are not only advocating for ourselves, but for a future in which inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation are the foundation of our region's development," he said. Meanwhile, the Philippines' delegate Michelle Ann M. Villanueva, from its National Youth Commission, hailed the dialogue as a groundbreaking opportunity for youth voices to be recognised. "This is a testament that we are valued, we are heard, and we matter," she said, highlighting the importance of platforms that allow young people to convey their needs and aspirations directly to Asean leaders. As the Asean Work Plan on Youth 2021–2025 nears its conclusion, the dialogue reaffirmed the importance of institutionalising youth participation in policymaking. Delegates expressed hope that their recommendations would serve as a blueprint for action, inspiring Asean leaders to build a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Borneo Post
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Len Talif: ITTO agreed to Upper Baram Forest Area project's termination, sole focus on Penan community undermined area's harmony
Datuk Len Talif Salleh KUCHING (May 20): The International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) agreed with the termination of the Upper Baram Forest Area (UBFA) project, said Datuk Len Talif Salleh. The Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment explained that the project titled 'Management of Upper Baram for Conservation and Sustainable Development with Involvement of Local Communities', which involved Bruno Manser Fonds (BMF), was terminated during the Steering Committee Meeting on Oct 10 last year. According to him, the project's termination was justified due to several reasons. 'BMF failed to comply with the conditions set by the Sarawak government by focusing solely on one ethnic group, the Penan, even though other communities such as the Kenyah, Kelabit, and Saban also have significant interests in the area. 'This approach risks undermining the harmony among the communities,' he explained during the question-and-answer session in the State Legislative Assembly today. He was responding to Dennis Ngau (GPS-Telang Usan), who had asked the ministry to clarify the termination of the UBFA project as well as the government's actions and plans for the communities within the affected area. Len Talif said BMF also intended to designate the area as a 'Purely Conservation Area' solely for the survival of the Penan community, even though a Totally Protected Area (TPA) already exists nearby. According to him, the project's termination would not adversely affect the livelihood of the communities in the area. 'This includes the Penan community, as various development projects and programmes aimed at improving their standard of living have been and will continue to be implemented by the Forest Department, ministries, departments, and other government agencies across various sectors,' he said. The Sarawak government has signed four Project Agreement Letters of Consent with the ITTO – two projects on March 20, 2023 and another two on Sept 9, 2024. Three of the projects are in Ulu Baram, while the fourth project is in Sungai Menyang, Lubok Antu. Since 1992, the Sarawak Forest Department has never cancelled any project signed with ITTO except for UBFA.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mapping Young Minds: The Neuroscience Behind Babilou Family Singapore's Revolutionary Education Model
SINGAPORE, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The foundation of a child's lifelong learning and well-being is built in the early years. Babilou Family Singapore (BFS) applies neuroscience-backed principles to early education, creating an environment where curiosity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are nurtured. By integrating 20th-century educational theories with modern 21st-century research, BFS's Sustainable Education® framework empowers children with essential tools to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Parenting as a Model for Education As both a father and leader, CEO Benjamin Busse understands that active listening and understanding are fundamental for effective education and leadership. Drawing from his personal experiences as a parent, Busse emphasises the transformative power of being fully present and creating an environment of genuine connection. "At BFS, we strive to ensure every child and educator feels heard, valued, and empowered to grow," he explains. "When children feel secure and know that their opinions are valued, they naturally become engaged learners, and the same principle applies to our educators." Research from Harvard University's Center on the Developing Child backs this philosophy. Studies show that secure attachment in early childhood lays the foundation for long-term cognitive and emotional development and overall well-being. This belief is reflected in BFS's approach to education, where child-led inquiry and teacher mentorship blend to create an enriching learning environment. Sustainable Education®: Blending Neuroscience Research with Pedagogy BFS's Sustainable Education® framework is the result of decades of educational evolution, merging classical pedagogies from early childhood theorists such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky with the latest breakthroughs in neuroscience. Studies confirm that early experiences shape neural pathways, influencing lifelong learning potential and capabilities. BFS's educational model is firmly rooted in cognitive science, with teaching methods that are adapted to how young minds learn best. By leveraging extensive research into how children learn and what they need to develop and thrive, BFS continuously refines its curriculum to enhance learning outcomes and holistic development. Grounded in evidence-based methodologies, BFS's Sustainable Education® approach prioritises cognitive development, emotional well-being, and effective learning strategies. Sustainable Education® is built on six fundamental principles: Physical Safety and Emotional Security, Natural Curiosity, Nature-Based Learning, Respecting Children's Natural Rhythms, Inclusion and Diversity, and Family Partnerships. "Sustainable Education® focuses on long-term solutions for early childhood challenges, ensuring children have a strong foundation and the resources they need for the future," explains Rowena Ramos, Head of Curriculum at BFS. "Our role is to prepare children for a fast-changing world, and by embedding Sustainable Education® into our curriculum, we are equipping children with the skills and mindset to thrive while keeping up with the changing educational landscape." Digital Well-Being and Sustainable Learning: Preparing Children for a Connected World Recognising that society is advancing quickly into the digital age, science has shown us the importance and need for digital well-being. Young children learn best and make quality neuro-connections when they experience or learn using their senses, which screens, on the other hand, might not be able to offer. BFS advocates screen-free activities that actively engage a child's creativity, curiosity, and social skills. Screens are only used in the classrooms for educational purposes (such as introducing new concepts) and with guidance. BFS carefully balances digital exposure with nature exploration, hands-on activities, and opportunities for social interaction to ensure that children have a well-rounded learning experience. "We help families strike a balance," says Ramos. "Children benefit most from hands-on, sensory experiences rather than passive screen time." Nonetheless, digital opportunities are inadvertently shaping early childhood experiences. BFS's screen-free practices were affirmed when Singapore launched the Grow Well SG initiative. Recent guidelines released by the Ministry of Health recommend that children under 18 months not be exposed to screens, including background screen use, while older children should have limited exposure and only to interactive, high-quality content. A Parent's Perspective: Learning Beyond the Classroom For many parents, BFS's approach to education has been transformative. Dawn Koh, whose sons Josh and Jude have both attended KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, shares her experience: "Josh constantly looks forward to school. He tells us that he enjoys the company of his teachers and friends. When we interact with the staff, we can see why Josh thrives: they have an openness that allows each child to be uniquely themselves and inculcates discipline that helps the kids forge strong values. A child's enjoyment of learning is the most precious thing and the hardest to cultivate. We love that KiddiWinkie has provided an open and conducive environment for that to happen, and we couldn't ask for more!" About Babilou Family Singapore Babilou Family Singapore is a subsidiary of Babilou Family Group, a France-incorporated Early Childhood organisation with a network of more than 1,000 nurseries and a presence in 10 countries around the world. Babilou Family Singapore has now grown to 61 education and learning centres island-wide. This includes preschool brands KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse and Little Footprints Preschool, and student care brand Learning Leap. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Babilou Family Singapore Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mapping Young Minds: The Neuroscience Behind Babilou Family Singapore's Revolutionary Education Model
SINGAPORE, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The foundation of a child's lifelong learning and well-being is built in the early years. Babilou Family Singapore (BFS) applies neuroscience-backed principles to early education, creating an environment where curiosity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are nurtured. By integrating 20th-century educational theories with modern 21st-century research, BFS's Sustainable Education® framework empowers children with essential tools to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Parenting as a Model for Education As both a father and leader, CEO Benjamin Busse understands that active listening and understanding are fundamental for effective education and leadership. Drawing from his personal experiences as a parent, Busse emphasises the transformative power of being fully present and creating an environment of genuine connection. "At BFS, we strive to ensure every child and educator feels heard, valued, and empowered to grow," he explains. "When children feel secure and know that their opinions are valued, they naturally become engaged learners, and the same principle applies to our educators." Research from Harvard University's Center on the Developing Child backs this philosophy. Studies show that secure attachment in early childhood lays the foundation for long-term cognitive and emotional development and overall well-being. This belief is reflected in BFS's approach to education, where child-led inquiry and teacher mentorship blend to create an enriching learning environment. Sustainable Education®: Blending Neuroscience Research with Pedagogy BFS's Sustainable Education® framework is the result of decades of educational evolution, merging classical pedagogies from early childhood theorists such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky with the latest breakthroughs in neuroscience. Studies confirm that early experiences shape neural pathways, influencing lifelong learning potential and capabilities. BFS's educational model is firmly rooted in cognitive science, with teaching methods that are adapted to how young minds learn best. By leveraging extensive research into how children learn and what they need to develop and thrive, BFS continuously refines its curriculum to enhance learning outcomes and holistic development. Grounded in evidence-based methodologies, BFS's Sustainable Education® approach prioritises cognitive development, emotional well-being, and effective learning strategies. Sustainable Education® is built on six fundamental principles: Physical Safety and Emotional Security, Natural Curiosity, Nature-Based Learning, Respecting Children's Natural Rhythms, Inclusion and Diversity, and Family Partnerships. "Sustainable Education® focuses on long-term solutions for early childhood challenges, ensuring children have a strong foundation and the resources they need for the future," explains Rowena Ramos, Head of Curriculum at BFS. "Our role is to prepare children for a fast-changing world, and by embedding Sustainable Education® into our curriculum, we are equipping children with the skills and mindset to thrive while keeping up with the changing educational landscape." Digital Well-Being and Sustainable Learning: Preparing Children for a Connected World Recognising that society is advancing quickly into the digital age, science has shown us the importance and need for digital well-being. Young children learn best and make quality neuro-connections when they experience or learn using their senses, which screens, on the other hand, might not be able to offer. BFS advocates screen-free activities that actively engage a child's creativity, curiosity, and social skills. Screens are only used in the classrooms for educational purposes (such as introducing new concepts) and with guidance. BFS carefully balances digital exposure with nature exploration, hands-on activities, and opportunities for social interaction to ensure that children have a well-rounded learning experience. "We help families strike a balance," says Ramos. "Children benefit most from hands-on, sensory experiences rather than passive screen time." Nonetheless, digital opportunities are inadvertently shaping early childhood experiences. BFS's screen-free practices were affirmed when Singapore launched the Grow Well SG initiative. Recent guidelines released by the Ministry of Health recommend that children under 18 months not be exposed to screens, including background screen use, while older children should have limited exposure and only to interactive, high-quality content. A Parent's Perspective: Learning Beyond the Classroom For many parents, BFS's approach to education has been transformative. Dawn Koh, whose sons Josh and Jude have both attended KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, shares her experience: "Josh constantly looks forward to school. He tells us that he enjoys the company of his teachers and friends. When we interact with the staff, we can see why Josh thrives: they have an openness that allows each child to be uniquely themselves and inculcates discipline that helps the kids forge strong values. A child's enjoyment of learning is the most precious thing and the hardest to cultivate. We love that KiddiWinkie has provided an open and conducive environment for that to happen, and we couldn't ask for more!" About Babilou Family Singapore Babilou Family Singapore is a subsidiary of Babilou Family Group, a France-incorporated Early Childhood organisation with a network of more than 1,000 nurseries and a presence in 10 countries around the world. Babilou Family Singapore has now grown to 61 education and learning centres island-wide. This includes preschool brands KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse and Little Footprints Preschool, and student care brand Learning Leap. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Babilou Family Singapore Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
