Latest news with #thrive
Sassy Mama
4 days ago
- General
- Sassy Mama
Students At This School Gain A Competitive Edge At Universities With College-level Academics (+ $500 Off!)
Discover how the International Community School's Advanced Placement (AP) courses prepare students for university and beyond through rigorous, college-level academics – with students consistently outperforming global benchmarks! Looking for a school that equips your child with the right skills and foundation for university and beyond? Choosing the right school plays a big part in helping your child reach their full potential, and preparing them for success at the right university is just as important. At the International Community School (ICS) in Singapore, students don't just excel academically, they also grow into confident individuals who are prepared to thrive in any environment. With a globally recognised American curriculum, ICS equips them with the tools, values, and real-world experience they need to thrive. Recognising students' potential for academic success and beyond ICS offers 25 Advanced Placement (AP) courses that challenge students with college-level academic work in high school. With an average score of 4 out of 5, ICS students consistently outperform global averages, giving them a competitive edge when applying to top universities. These strong results also often allow students to earn early college credit. As the Class of 2025 prepares to graduate, their university acceptances reflect not just academic excellence but also personal growth and a readiness to lead in a rapidly changing world. This year's seniors are heading to prestigious universities across the United States, United Kingdom, Asia, and more. Alumni like Sann Nu Wai (PhD from Imperial College London) and Nathan Low, who has earned his B.A., cum laude, from UC Berkeley and his Juris Doctor (JD) from UCLA School of Law, further amplify that ICS prepares students for success in every field. Yushi Liao (Class of 2024) is studying Materials Science at City University of Hong Kong and contributing to sustainability projects. 'ICS taught me that service is action,' she says, emphasising the school's focus on purposeful learning. Personalised pathways with a supportive community At ICS, every student is encouraged to explore their passions and goals. With one-on-one academic counselling, students receive the personalised guidance they need to plan and prepare for university applications. A low student-to-teacher ratio also means students get the individual attention they need every step of the way. The school's supportive community doesn't end at graduation, many ICS alumni stay connected to the community, with some even returning to teach, coach, and guide the next batch of students! Ready to explore how ICS can prepare your teen for university? Sign up for their upcoming virtual Open House on 4 June 2025 to learn more! Join ICS's Virtual Open Houses to enjoy a $500 waiver on your application fee! Secure your spots here. International Community School (ICS), 27a Jubilee Road, Singapore 128575,
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
MPIDC plans to start bookings, site visit for IT Park 4 soon
Indore: The Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation (MPIDC) is gearing up to initiate bookings and site visits for under-construction IT Park-4 in Pardeshipura. This new facility is anticipated to generate approximately 1500 new jobs. In a bid to inform potential investors, MPIDC has planned to organise a camp dedicated to providing insights about the IT Park and facilitating site visits. The park, which is being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 42 crore, will be located within the Electronic Complex in Pardeshipura. MPIDC executive director Himanshu Prajapati said, "Our goal is to create a conducive environment for industries to thrive in Madhya Pradesh. The development of IT Park-4 and the Plug and Play Park will not only enhance employment opportunities but also establish our state as a hub for innovation and industrial growth." Prajapati on Wednesday toured key industrial areas including the Electronic Complex, Readymade Complex, and Namkeen Cluster to review the progress of ongoing projects, including the Plug and Play Park and IT Park-4. During his visit, Prajapati assessed the development of the multi-storey Plug and Play Park, a project valued at Rs 167 crore within the Readymade Garment Complex. This facility will be the state's first multi-storey garment park, comprising 184 production units, 94 sales offices, and 48 small shops. Prajapati also engaged with women working in the garment park, discussing work culture and the overall environment. At the Namkeen Cluster, manufacturers expressed the need for additional land for a new cluster and space for a testing lab in the existing setup. Namkeen Cluster Association president Vipin Jain highlighted the interest from new investors wanting to establish businesses in the area, alongside requests from existing units looking to expand. Jain also urged for enhancements including coverage of the wastewater recycling plant, installation of an RO water plant to provide filtered water for namkeen production, and improved street lighting on the access road to the cluster. In response, Prajapati assured manufacturers of the development of necessary facilities and instructed officials concerned to address the demands promptly.
Boston Globe
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
‘How to Read by Moonlight' has a lot of light to go with the darkness
The immersion into the themes the show explores starts outside in the hallway, where a snack stand sells ube-filled crackers, and materials from organizations such as Audience members can also share their reactions to the show on moon-shaped yellow sticky notes, read more about The story (in English and Tagalog) is rife with serious themes augmented by a montage of news segments with headlines about ICE and the president projected onto boxes onstage. However, Eddie's joy and the fun he has with his imaginary friend (Jude Torres)—decked out in a bright outfit by designer Mikayla Reid that looks like a fun mash-up between the popular Rainbow Brite doll of the 80s and a unicorn—overshadows the seriousness of what his family is up against. Advertisement It's easy to get caught up in the elements the play offers, which also stars Alfredo Reyes (Tatay) and Nicholas Papayoanou (Missus Josie, the landlord, Jason and others). There's lots of music, under the direction of Jeffrey Song, who also did the arrangements, and an imaginative set from the show's director and scenic designer, Natsu Onoda Power. The set cleverly evokes its various locations, with skyline-painted boxes where the windows light up, a wood pallet for Eddie's bed, and small seating areas on a second level where Tatay calls from the Philippines from one side of the stage and Asunción narrates from the other. The props designer, Kelly Smith, and puppet designer Amanda Gibson do great working bringing the story to life. There's also clever depictions of turtles and snowflakes from Smith and Gibson's navy blue and silver flying dragon puppet is lovely. The whole creative team, including the lighting (Ashley Ting Yung), sound (Anna Drummond) and projection (Grace Kroeger) designers have packed the show with awe-inspiring moments. Sometimes, though, the emotion gets lost in the wonder. 'Learning How to Read by Moonlight' is one of several recent productions highlighting the experiences of underrepresented communities and questions of assimilation. ' Advertisement Tatay and Nanay have conflicting ideas. While Eddie's parents hope that their child's life is better in the U.S., when Eddie seems to speedily assimilate in America thanks to his mastery of English, it seems bittersweet for them. In the program, Trinidad explains that 'learning to speak multiple languages is to cradle within yourself multiple souls, each immersed in histories and cultures,' in an interview with dramaturg Michelle M. Aguillon. As Eddie and his mom figure out how to thrive in America, this audience member can't help but hope that these characters, and those of others in the same situation, hold on to all the languages, histories, and cultures dear to them. LEARNING HOW TO READ BY MOONLIGHT Play by Gaven Trinidad, directed by Natsu Onoda Power, dramaturg and tour direction, Michelle M. Aguillon, music direction, Jeffrey Song. Presented by CHUANG Stage and Company One, at the
The Star
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
University of Johannesburg launches UJ Digital initiative for flexible learning
The University of Johannesburg has launched its UJ Digital project, a digital learning initiative that positions the institution as Africa's leader in industry-relevant, flexible, and accessible online education. This strategic initiative aligns with UJ's 2035 Strategic Plan, addressing the growing demand for innovative learning solutions that empower learners across the continent and beyond. With universities facing increasing pressure to accommodate a rising number of students, many aspiring learners struggle to secure admissions. UJ Digital presents a timely solution by providing alternative pathways to higher education through Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) and non-subsidised Whole Programmes (WPs). These programmes, offered in high-demand fields such as communications, business, engineering, health, IT, law, and languages, equip graduates with highly sought expertise, enhancing employability and addressing Africa's critical skills gaps. In addition, UJ's free-to-the-public online SLPs offer a range of topics, from upskilling in the workplace to enhancing general knowledge in fields such as financial literacy, the sustainable development goals, and artificial intelligence. Highlighting the significance of the project, UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, says: 'UJ Digital is a testament to our commitment to delivering inclusive, flexible learning opportunities that equip students with future-ready skills while meeting industry demands. "As global demand for online higher education continues to grow, UJ is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation.' Beyond local impact, UJ Digital leverages the increasing global demand for online education, expected to surge significantly by 2035. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, UJ aims to establish itself as a key player in the international education market while driving social and economic development across Africa. Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi is upbeat about the transformative role of UJ Digital in the higher education sector. 'This bold initiative ensures that UJ remains at the forefront of educational innovation, creating accessible pathways to higher education and equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. UJ Digital is not just a step forward for UJ but a leap for higher education in Africa.' For more information about the UJ Digital Initiative and its upcoming programmes, please visit
Boston Globe
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Boston Globe
Trump alleges ‘genocide' in South Africa. White Afrikaner farmers reject that.
The late Some at the agricultural fair said fleeing the country isn't one of them. Advertisement 'I really hope that during the upcoming visit to Washington, (President Cyril Ramaphosa) is going to be able to put the facts before his counterpart and to demonstrate that there is no mass expropriation of land taking place in South Africa, and there is no genocide taking place,' John Steenhuisen, minister of agriculture, told The Associated Press. He will be part of the delegation for Wednesday's meeting. Advertisement The minority white Afrikaner community is in the spotlight after the U.S. granted refugee status to at least 49 Afrikaners claiming to flee racial and violent persecution and widespread seizures of white-owned land — despite evidence that such claims are untrue. While many at the agricultural fair raised serious concerns about the safety of farmers and farm workers, others were quick to point out that crime targeted both Black and white farmers and farm workers, as shown by South Africa's crime statistics. Thobani Ntonga, a Black farmer from Eastern Cape province, told the AP he had been attacked on his farm by criminals and almost kidnapped but a Black neighbor intervened. 'Crime affects both Black and white. ... It's an issue of vulnerability,' he said. 'Farmers are separated from your general public. We're not near towns, we are in the rural areas. And I think it's exactly that. So, perpetrators, they thrive on that, on the fact that farms are isolated.' White farmers echoed his thoughts and called for more resources and policing — but said there wasn't any genocide that would make them flee South Africa. 'Crime especially hits small-scale farmers worse because they don't have resources for private security,' said Afrikaner farmer Willem de Chavonnes Vrugt. He and other farmers wondered why they would leave the land where they have been rooted for decades. 'We are not interested in going anywhere,' he added. 'The thing we want to do is be part of this country.' Ramaphosa, himself a cattle farmer, also visited the agricultural fair for the first time in about 20 years — to buy equipment but also do outreach as many in South Africa puzzle over the Trump administration's focus on their country. Advertisement 'We must not run away from our problems,' the president said during his visit. 'When you run away, you're a coward.' Applying to be a refugee The fast-tracking of the Afrikaners' refugee applications has raised questions about a system where many seeking asylum in the U.S. can languish for years, waiting. The State Department has not made details of the process public, but one person who has applied to be resettled told the AP the online application process was 'rigorous.' Katia Beeden, a member of an advocacy group established to assist white South Africans seeking resettlement, said applicants have to go through at least three online interviews and answer questions about their health and criminal background. They are also required to submit information or proof of being persecuted in South Africa, she said. She said she has been robbed in her house, with robbers locking her in her bedroom. 'They've already warned that you can't lie or hide anything from them. So it's quite a thorough process and not everyone is guaranteed,' she said. By the numbers Violent crime is rife in South Africa, but experts say the vast majority of victims are Black and poor. Police statistics show that up to 75 people are killed daily across the country. Afrikaner agriculture union TLU SA says it believes farmers are more susceptible to such attacks because of their isolation. Twelve murders occurred on farms in 2024, police statistics show. One of those killed was a farmer. The rest were farm workers, people staying on farms and a security guard. The data don't reflect the victims' race. Overall across South Africa last year, 6,953 people were killed. Government data also show that white farmers own the vast majority of South Africa's farmland — 80% of it, according to the 2017 census of commercial agriculture, which recorded over 40,000 white farmers. Advertisement That data, however, only reflects farmers who have revenue of $55,396 a year, which excludes many small-scale farmers, the majority of them Black. Overall, the white minority — just 7% of the population is white — still owns the vast majority of the land in South Africa, which the World Bank has called 'the most unequal country in the world.' According to the 2017 government land audit, white South Africans hold about 72% of individually owned land — while Black South Africans own 15%. ___ Associated Press writer Michelle Gumede in Johannesburg contributed to this report. ____ Follow AP's Africa coverage at:
