Latest news with #WorldCreativityandInnovationDay
Hamilton Spectator
22-05-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Saudia Unveils New Plans to Support Hajj Spiritual Journey
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world to partake in this spiritual journey. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as a sacred and obligatory once-in-a-lifetime worship experience for those who are capable, representing a profound act of spiritual submission, unity, and humility before God. In 2025, Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-9, depending on lunar observations. This year, the minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and all pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa to attend. For those considering participating in Hajj or visiting Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines (Saudia) provides a world-class travel experience to support your spiritual journey. As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudia's non-stop service from New York, Washington, Toronto, and Los Angeles offers an easy entry point from the United States and Canada to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Saudia Group has announced its ambitious plans for the 2025 Hajj season, marking its official entry into the Hajj services sector with the aim of transforming the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, Saudia will act as a comprehensive Hajj service provider, expanding its offerings beyond air travel to encompass a wide array of innovative services that address every aspect of the pilgrim journey. On World Creativity and Innovation Day, Saudia unveiled 'The Coolest Ihram,' a revolutionary, high-tech garment developed with Landor and brrr® to cool the body during Hajj and Umrah rituals. The Coolest Ihram uses advanced cooling technology to lower skin temperature by 1 – 2 degrees Celsius and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, creating a comfortable microclimate for pilgrims. This innovation reinforces Saudia's leadership in enhancing the religious tourism experience. Saudia is allocating over one million seats utilizing a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. With a projected market share of up to 35%, the airline will serve pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience is designed to maximize comfort and efficiency, from ticket issuance to streamlined arrival and departure processes. Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilized to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window. Further enhancing the luxury experience, Saudia Group will introduce Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges at the holy sites. To improve the overall pilgrimage experience, Saudia provides a range of services, including easy boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights, supported by multilingual staff for seamless communication. Onboard, pilgrims can enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated educational programs developed with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additional services for individuals with special needs, such as transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services, will also be available, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive journey for all. About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit . Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Yahoo
Saudia Unveils New Plans to Support Hajj Spiritual Journey
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world to partake in this spiritual journey. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as a sacred and obligatory once-in-a-lifetime worship experience for those who are capable, representing a profound act of spiritual submission, unity, and humility before God. In 2025, Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-9, depending on lunar observations. This year, the minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and all pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa to attend. For those considering participating in Hajj or visiting Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines (Saudia) provides a world-class travel experience to support your spiritual journey. As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudia's non-stop service from New York, Washington, Toronto, and Los Angeles offers an easy entry point from the United States and Canada to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Saudia Group has announced its ambitious plans for the 2025 Hajj season, marking its official entry into the Hajj services sector with the aim of transforming the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, Saudia will act as a comprehensive Hajj service provider, expanding its offerings beyond air travel to encompass a wide array of innovative services that address every aspect of the pilgrim journey. On World Creativity and Innovation Day, Saudia unveiled "The Coolest Ihram," a revolutionary, high-tech garment developed with Landor and brrr® to cool the body during Hajj and Umrah rituals. The Coolest Ihram uses advanced cooling technology to lower skin temperature by 1 – 2 degrees Celsius and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, creating a comfortable microclimate for pilgrims. This innovation reinforces Saudia's leadership in enhancing the religious tourism experience. Saudia is allocating over one million seats utilizing a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. With a projected market share of up to 35%, the airline will serve pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience is designed to maximize comfort and efficiency, from ticket issuance to streamlined arrival and departure processes. Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilized to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window. Further enhancing the luxury experience, Saudia Group will introduce Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges at the holy sites. To improve the overall pilgrimage experience, Saudia provides a range of services, including easy boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights, supported by multilingual staff for seamless communication. Onboard, pilgrims can enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated educational programs developed with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additional services for individuals with special needs, such as transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services, will also be available, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive journey for all. About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@ in to access your portfolio
Malay Mail
28-04-2025
- Health
- Malay Mail
Smiles, science, and spark: Why creativity matters in dental education — Azwatee Abdul Aziz
APRIL 28 — Every year on April 21st, the world observes World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID) – a day designated by the United Nations to encourage creative thinking and innovation as essential tools for solving global challenges. In an era marked by rapid technological transformation, WCID holds increasing significance for academic fields that must continuously adapt to shifting landscapes—and dental education is no exception. As dentistry integrates emerging tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, the need for creative and forward- thinking approaches in dental academia has never been more urgent. Creativity and innovation in dental education Dental education is undergoing a metamorphosis, driven by evolving technologies, societal needs, and new healthcare challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, necessitated remote learning innovations and accelerated the adoption of digital platforms. But beyond crisis adaptation, there'S a broader call for integrating creativity into the foundation of dental Education. Creativity, defined as the generation of novel and useful ideas, is essential for developing innovative pedagogies that respond to modern demands such as interprofessional collaboration, sustainability, and equity in dental care. Byrne and Glasser (2023) emphasise that cultivating creativity in dental academics is key to ensuring that future dental professionals are not only technically proficient but also adaptive and reflective thinkers capable of addressing diverse community needs. Recently, these ideals were powerfully embodied during the 26th Dental Students' Scientific Conference (DSSC) and the 2nd Dental Students' Talent & Innovation Competition (DSTIC) 2025 with the theme 'Innovate, Educate, Elevate: Digital Technology Impact on Learning and Research in Dentistry'. It is an annual event where final-year dental students from the Universiti Malaya showcase their research findings through oral or poster presentations. These events brought together forward-thinking students and academics to showcase innovative research, technology-driven projects, and creative approaches to dental practice and education. From AI-based diagnostic tools to artistic interpretations of oral health awareness, the conference echoed the very spirit of WCID: celebrating originality, curiosity, and bold thinking in academic spaces. The celebration of WCID thus becomes more than a symbolic gesture. It serves as an annual checkpoint for dental institutions to assess how well they are nurturing creativity and innovation within their programs. Fields (2022) underscores that WCID has inspired educational initiatives worldwide that combine fun, imagination, and hands-on problem-solving to stimulate learning environments that foster original thinking. Dental robots offer incredible precision and efficiency, but the author notes they lack the ability to make empathetic, ethical, and context-driven decisions — elements that remain at the heart of patient-centred care. — Unsplash pic The Rise of Robotics and AI The rise of robotics and artificial intelligence represents one of the most exciting yet debated advancements in dental innovation. With machines capable of conducting procedures with unmatched precision and consistency, the question arises: Can robots replace human dentists? The integration of robotics into dentistry is already well underway. Robots are being used for implant placement, orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery, and even routine diagnostics. A recent review by Xia et al. (2024) details how robotics, paired with AI, can automate complex procedures, minimise human error, and improve patient outcomes — creating a paradigm shift in oral healthcare delivery. However, most researchers argue that robots will augment, not replace, human dentists. Kathuria (2024) notes that while dental robots offer incredible precision and efficiency, they lack the ability to make empathetic, ethical, and context-driven decisions — elements that remain at the heart of patient-centred care. Another example, AI algorithms can analyse radiographs and clinical data to assist in early detection of dental caries, pulp diseases, and structural anomalies. This allows for faster and more accurate diagnoses in operative procedures like fillings, root canals, and restorations (Pandey & Lakhanam, 2024). This viewpoint is echoed by Lubart et al. (2021), who present a model in which robots act not as independent replacements, but as collaborators—or 'Humbots'— in a creative partnership with human professionals. This co-creative model sees robots supporting dental practitioners by handling repetitive tasks and enhancing the precision of complex procedures while leaving diagnosis, ethical judgment, and interpersonal care to humans. The Gap Between Perception and Practice Despite the technological promise, there remains a significant gap in knowledge and acceptance among dental professionals. A 2023 study found that while a majority of dental practitioners believe that AI will improve dental care, over 50% fear it could eventually replace human dentists. Yet, most respondents lacked practical experience with these technologies (Alanya-Beltran et al., 2023). This calls for an urgent curriculum shift. Dental schools must not only teach the technical use of robotics but also foster critical and creative thinking to explore the ethical, social, and psychological implications of these tools. Creativity is not optional — it's a necessity for navigating the complexities of a technology-driven future. Events like DSSC and DSTIC 2025 offer a blueprint for this shift. By providing platforms where students can apply creativity to real-world challenges, these conferences go beyond theory and stimulate active innovation. They affirm that the next generation of dentists will need to be innovators, communicators, and collaborators—not just clinicians. Conclusion: A Future Forged in Creativity World Creativity and Innovation Day is a powerful reminder that progress in dental education must be fuelled by imaginative thinking, technological literacy, and ethical insight. As robotics and AI continue to revolutionise clinical practice, dental academics are called to lead with innovation, not fear. By embracing creativity, dental educators can ensure that future dentists are not only technically equipped but also humanistically grounded — ready to collaborate with machines, not be replaced by them. The success of events like DSSC and DSTIC 2025 underscores that creativity is already thriving in dental education — and with the right support, it can shape the future of the profession. * The author is associate professor at the Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, and may be reached at [email protected] ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
Hans India
22-04-2025
- Business
- Hans India
T-Innovation Mahotsavam celebrated across State
Hyderabad: On the occasion of World Creativity and Innovation Day, Telangana Innovation Cell (TGIC), in collaboration with the Panchayat Raj Department on Monday concluded the State-wide T-Innovation Mahotsavam (TIM) 2025. The main aim was to raise awareness about its importance and connecting market-ready solutions with rural communities to address critical livelihood challenges in 33 districts of Telangana. The core of TIM 2025 was at the village level, spearheaded by respective Sarpanches and Secretaries. According to the TGIC officials, the initiative successfully cultivated a deeper understanding of the significance of innovation within rural communities, empowering residents to identify and develop solutions for their daily challenges. Across the State, villagers actively participated in discussions centred on the necessity of innovation, the pressing issues affecting their lives, and brainstorming of practical solutions. Strategic collaborations with district administrations, educational institutions, and community platforms drove a substantial increase in participation and engagement for TIM 2025. Notably, TGIC Host Institutions actively celebrated TIM, becoming crucial centres for fostering grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship. The partnership with TGSRTC extended Mahotsavam's impact by showcasing TIM awareness posters and audio-visuals at bus stands Statewide. 'Our vision for TIM 2025 is to not only to celebrate and recognise the innovative spirit across Telangana but also equip our rural communities with the tools and knowledge to overcome their livelihood challenges. By strengthening our innovation ecosystem and broadening our outreach, we are ensuring that the transformative power of innovation is accessible to every citizen', said Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, ITE&C. 'TIM 2025 is about bringing innovation to the heart of Telangana's communities. We are not just celebrating creativity, we are deploying it to solve real-world problems. By connecting market-ready solutions with those who need them most, we are ensuring that innovation translates into tangible impact,' said Meraj, CEO of TGIC.
Business Recorder
22-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Minister launches Season-2 of Uraan innovation hub
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal officially launched Season-2 of Rs10 billion URAAN Pakistan Innovation Hub during a ceremony held here on Monday. The event marked a renewed national commitment to advancing innovation, creativity, and collaboration as essential tools for economic and social transformation. In his opening remarks, the minister reflected on the success of URAAN Pakistan Innovation Hub Season 1, calling it a flagship initiative, and his personal brainchild born from a strong belief in the ingenuity of the Pakistani people. Karachi must take the lead for Uraan Pakistan's flight to success: Ahsan Iqbal He highlighted the achievements of the Pakistan Innovation Fund, which has already disbursed Rs147 million to 39 awardees across the country. These initiatives span key sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and technology, contributing to tangible socio-economic progress. The minister linked the launch to the global observance of World Creativity and Innovation Day, emphasising that creativity and innovation are no longer just buzzwords but are central to national competitiveness in the modern economy. He noted that we live in an age of rapid technological advancement— what once took decades to achieve can now unfold within years, underscoring the urgency for Pakistan to accelerate its pace of innovation and reform. Looking ahead to the centenary of Pakistan's independence in 2047, the minister called for a renewed focus on performance and progress. 'In the next two decades, we don't just need to catch up; we need to sprint,' he said, stressing that Pakistan must push its limits and pursue innovation-led growth to not only stay relevant but to lead in the global arena. While recognising the brilliance, creativity, and resilience of Pakistani minds worldwide, the minister candidly addressed the challenge of inconsistent policy execution in the past. He pointed out that national plans like Vision 2010 and Vision 2025 were well-conceived but fell short in implementation. 'That era must end now,' he asserted, framing URAAN Pakistan not merely as a program but as a movement aimed at propelling the country forward. A special focus of the initiative is on youth empowerment, with 60 per cent of the population under the age of 30. The Innovation Fund was established to provide seed capital to young professionals and change makers, enabling them to turn ideas into scalable ventures with real-world impact. The minister emphasised that innovation must also serve economic priorities—particularly export growth. He outlined a vision to increase Pakistan's exports from $32 billion to $100 billion over the next decade, arguing that economic independence hinges on earning foreign exchange through globally competitive products and services. 'True success is not launching products locally, but competing globally,' he said, noting that transformation does not happen overnight but is the result of consistent, incremental progress across all sectors. He referenced the experiences of countries such as China, Korea, and Malaysia, whose economic 'miracles' were the outcome of decades of small revolutions driven by their citizens. Highlighting the potential of Pakistan's creative industries— including music, art, design, gaming, and culture— Minister Iqbal announced that these sectors will be brought under the umbrella of URAAN Pakistan. A national workshop will be held in the coming weeks to chart a strategic roadmap for developing the country's creative economy, which he identified as a key driver of future growth. The minister also reiterated the government's commitment to the 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan—Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment and Climate Change, Energy and Infrastructure, and Equity and Empowerment. Through the National Economic Transformation Unit, the plan ensures that every policy and investment is aligned with measurable outcomes and national growth objectives. In conclusion, he reaffirmed that Pakistan's true identity lies not in challenges but in its creativity, resilience, and excellence. He called on all sectors of society—especially the youth—to take part in this movement of transformation, declaring that URAAN Pakistan is the nation's flight toward a brighter, more innovative future. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
