Latest news with #AICS
Zawya
15 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
The NCSC announces the third edition of the Arab International Cybersecurity Conference & Exhibition 2025
On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, a press conference was held to officially announce the third edition of the Arab International Cybersecurity Conference & Exhibition (AICS). The conference will be held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister. The event is scheduled to take place from 5 to 6 November 2025 at the Exhibition World Bahrain. For the third consecutive year, the event is organized by Faalyat, a leading company specializing in international event management. His Excellency Sheikh Salman bin Mohammed AlKhalifa, CEO of the NCSC, affirmed in his statement during the conference that it is an honor to host the third edition of AICS, held under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister, and in continued collaboration with Faalyat, emphasizing the shared commitment to reinforcing the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a leading global hub in the field of cybersecurity. In his statement during the conference, His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, CEO of the NCSC, expressed his honor in hosting the third edition of AICS, under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister, reinforcing the continued commitment to positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain's as a leading global cybersecurity hub. His Excellency emphasized that the partnership between the NCSC and DEF CON provides a unique platform for exchanging international expertise and forging strategic partnerships. The event will showcase the latest solutions and technologies, in enhancing cybersecurity readiness and strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem, both regionally and globally, against increasingly complex and evolving cyber threats. He also praised the ongoing collaboration between the National Cyber Security Centre and the main organizing company, Faalyat, which brings its deep expertise in stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, and experiential design reflecting a shared commitment to positioning Bahrain as a global leader in cybersecurity. The CEO highlighted the remarkable success of the previous two editions, reflected in the high participation levels and diverse training workshops and panel discussions led by cybersecurity experts worldwide. This success underscores Bahrain's growing positioning as a premier destination for specialized international technology events. The CEO added that the third edition of the conference builds upon the Center's vision to enable secure digital transformation and promote innovation. It also aims to develop future defense mechanisms to address escalating cyber threats and to strengthen regional and international cooperation to enhance Bahrain's cybersecurity ecosystem. During the press conference, the NCSC and DEF CON formally signed a partnership agreement at the press conference, announcing the regional launch of DEF CON Villages. These specialized villages will focus on artificial intelligence, space, cloud security, and industrial control systems, in addition to interactive Demo Labs that will offer innovative technical and hands-on experiences. The initiative aims to create opportunities for researchers, students, and startups to showcase their innovations and projects to a global group of experts in a dynamic, interactive environment. Additionally, the NCSC and the Bahrain Institution of Banking and Finance (BIBF) signed a cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing efforts and collaboration in cybersecurity capacity building. The agreement will facilitate the development of specialized training programs to equip current and future national talents for the upcoming conference. The press conference also unveiled DEF CON Group Bahrain, a community that unites leading experts, students, and those interested in digital safety and cyber resilience. The community focuses on discussing critical defensive cybersecurity practices within the Kingdom of Bahrain. The third edition of AICS is expected to attract over 10,000 participants from 50 countries to attend specialized panel discussions with more than 100 global cybersecurity experts. Additionally, it will include international pavilions and youth empowerment programs aimed at preparing the next generation of cybersecurity leaders through mentorship, training, and hands-on experiences. The conference will also host DEF CON Villages and interactive Demo Labs presented by a group of cybersecurity experts from around the world. Technical workshops and training programs designed to meet the needs of professionals and institutional entities will be offered, alongside an exciting Capture the Flag (CTF) competition and other cybersecurity contests. These activities aim to showcase local and international skills and talents in cybersecurity. Furthermore, the event will feature a technology exhibition showcasing the latest global solutions and innovations.
Biz Bahrain
17 hours ago
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
NCSC announces third edition of Arab International Cybersecurity Conference and Exhibition (AICS 2025)
On Tuesday morning, a press conference was held to announce the launch of the third edition of the Arab International Cybersecurity Conference and Exhibition (AICS 2025), under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister. The event is scheduled to take place from November 5 to 6 at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, officially organised by Faalyat, a leading company in international event management. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will host the third edition of the conference and exhibition in collaboration with the global DEF CON conference, one of the most prominent and specialised cybersecurity conferences worldwide. His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of the NCSC, expressed pride in hosting the third edition of AICS under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, which reflects the Kingdom of Bahrain's continued commitment to consolidating its position as a leading global centre in the field of cybersecurity. HE emphasised that the partnership between the NCSC and DEF CON provides an opportunity for exchanging international expertise and establishing strategic partnerships, in addition to showcasing the latest solutions and technologies that play a pivotal role in enhancing cybersecurity readiness both regionally and internationally to address escalating and evolving cyber threats. HE also commended the ongoing cooperation with the official organising company, Faalyat, recognising its deep expertise in stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, and experiential design, which reflects a shared commitment to positioning Bahrain as a global leader in cybersecurity. The CEO pointed out that the previous two editions achieved remarkable success in terms of participation numbers and the diversity and richness of training workshops and panel discussions led by distinguished cybersecurity experts from the region and worldwide, reflecting growing regional and international confidence in Bahrain's ability to host and organise specialised international technology events. HE added that the third edition aligns with the NCSC's vision to enable secure digital transformation, foster innovation, develop future defence mechanisms against rising cyber threats, and strengthen regional and international cooperation to enhance Bahrain's cybersecurity ecosystem. During the press conference, a partnership agreement was signed between the National Cyber Security Centre and the global DEF CON conference, announcing the regional launch of the specialised DEF CON Villages focusing on artificial intelligence, space, cloud security, and industrial control systems, alongside interactive Demo Labs offering innovative technical and practical experiences. This initiative aims to provide researchers, students, and startups with opportunities to showcase their innovations and projects before a global group of experts in an engaging environment. Additionally, a cooperation agreement was signed between the NCSC and the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) to enhance efforts and collaboration in cybersecurity capacity building through specialised training programmes to prepare current and future national talents for the upcoming conference. The press conference also announced the formation of DEF CON Group Bahrain, a community bringing together leading experts, students, and those interested in digital safety and cyber resilience, focusing on discussing key defensive cybersecurity practices within Bahrain. It is expected that the third edition of AICS will attract over 10,000 participants from 50 countries to attend specialised panel discussions featuring more than 100 global cybersecurity experts. The event will also include international pavilions and youth empowerment programmes aimed at preparing the next generation of cybersecurity leaders through mentorship, training, and practical experience. The conference will include DEF CON Villages and interactive Demo Labs presented by distinguished cybersecurity experts from around the world, technical workshops, and training programmes tailored to the needs of professionals and institutions. Furthermore, it will feature a Capture the Flag (CTF) competition and other exciting cybersecurity contests designed to showcase local and international cybersecurity skills and talents. The event will also host a technology exhibition displaying the latest global solutions and innovations. BNA(R)
Zawya
11-07-2025
- General
- Zawya
UN-Habitat Jordan holds meeting to review progress of green salt project
AMMAN — UN-Habitat Jordan last week held the first steering committee meeting of the "Green Salt: Public Spaces and Living Heritage for Socio-Economic Development" Project, jointly implemented with UNESCO. The meeting brough together several stakeholders, including the secretary general of the Ministry of Local Administration, mayor of the Greater Salt Municipality, and representatives from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and UNESCO. During the meeting, UN-Habitat and UNESCO teams discussed progress and the upcoming work plan, which focuses on enhancing public spaces and safeguarding Salt's living heritage as foundations for inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development, according to a UN-Habitat statement. Secretary General for Technical Affairs at the Ministry of Local Administration Wajdi Dulain praised UN-Habitat's ongoing support for local governance in Jordan. He said: "We are fully committed to creating more resilient and sustainable urban environments and promoting local development through partnerships like this." Head of UN-Habitat Jordan Programme Office Deema Abu Thiab highlighted the project's vision. "This project aims to make Salt more liveable by creating environmentally friendly public spaces for residents and visitors, supporting both local and tourism development," Abu Thiab said. Mayor of Greater Salt Municipality Mohammad Hiary commended the efforts of UN-Habitat, UNESCO and AICS, expressing appreciation for their commitment to enhancing community well-being and increasing green spaces in Salt. 'We are optimistic about the project's outcomes and deeply grateful to the Italian embassy and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation for their generous support," Hiary said. UNESCO Representative to Jordan and Head of Office Noha Bawazir stressed the importance of documenting and preserving Salt's intangible cultural heritage, saying: "Intangible heritage is an integral part of the city's identity. Through this project, UNESCO is working to safeguard and promote it as a living element of community life." The Green Salt project, funded by Italy through AICS, is jointly implemented by UN-Habitat and UNESCO Jordan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Local Administration, and the Greater Salt Municipality. This project aims to enhance the socioeconomic well-being of Salt, through the revitalisation of public spaces, according to UN-Habitat. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
The Hindu
02-07-2025
- Sport
- The Hindu
A look at India's sports policy journey post independence
The story so far: Sport in India can trace its roots back to pre-historic times, when physical skills that are now foundational to modern sports were then integral to daily life. As hunters and gatherers, humans relied on abilities like archery, wrestling, swimming, and climbing, not for recreation, but for survival. These have now evolved into the individual and team sports that we are familiar with today. How did sports do post 1947? India's sports policy journey since 1947 must be seen in the context of the nation's broader socio-economic development. Post the British Raj, India's prime focus was on rebuilding the nation by addressing poverty, health, and education. It is therefore understandable that sectors like sports did not feature prominently in the national agenda. Even so, India hosted the first Asian Games in New Delhi in 1951, a bold assertion of the country's regional aspirations and soft power. In 1954, the government set up the All-India Council of Sports (AICS) to advise on sports matters, support federations, and fund elite athletes. However, allocations were modest, resulting in athletes missing international competitions due to a lack of financial support. For nearly three decades, nothing notable transpired on the policy front. Yet, India's men's hockey team dominated the Olympics from 1920 to 1980. And Indian athletics saw stars emerge such as Milkha Singh (200/400m), Gurbachan Singh (decathlon), Praveen Kumar Sobti (discus and hammer throw), and Kamaljeet Sandhu, the first Indian woman to win an individual gold medal at the Asian Games. When did India's sports policy begin? The 1982 Asian Games catalysed change. The government created a dedicated Department of Sports under the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Riding the post-Games momentum, India finally unveiled its first National Sports Policy (NSP) in 1984. The NSP 1984 aimed to improve infrastructure, promote mass participation, and raise standards in elite sports. It also stressed the importance of integrating sports with education, which was formalised in the 1986 National Education Policy. That same year, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) was established to implement policy, and athlete development programs. While global sports ecosystems evolved rapidly between 1986 and 2000, they remained tepid in India. Sports is a 'State' subject in the Constitution and though the Union government had earmarked it a modest budget, the involvement of society and markets were minimal. Policies remained weak, and implementation inconsistent. India's economy too remained sluggish through the 1980s. However, 1991 marked a turning point, with the emergence of liberalisation. This economic shift coincided with cultural changes. Cable television, global exposure, and a rising middle class brought greater visibility and aspiration for sports. A Draft NSP in 1997 recognised this, proposing that States focus on broadbasing, while the Union concentrated on elite excellence. But it never went beyond the draft stage. How has sports evolved post-2000? In 2000, India created a dedicated Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS). A revised National Sports Policy was launched in 2001, setting clearer goals for mass participation and international excellence. This period also saw sports feature in the Union Budget, albeit with a small allocation. India's Olympic medal tally remained modest, with Rajyavardhan Rathore's silver (2004), Abhinav Bindra's gold (2008) and bronzes in boxing from Vijender Singh (2008) and Mary Kom (2012). In 2011, the National Sports Development Code (NSDC) was introduced, aiming to regulate and professionalise National Sports Federations (NSFs). It addressed governance, anti-doping, age fraud, betting, gender issues etc. but as always, implementation remained the hurdle. However, several impactful schemes were launched over the years — TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme 2014) provided elite athletes with coaching, nutrition, and infrastructure support; Khelo India (2017) conducted youth talent identification across schools and universities; and the Fit India Movement (2019) promoted physical activity and fitness as a public health priority. Can India host the Olympics? India's intent to host the 2036 Olympics has ignited momentum. In 2024, the government released both the Draft National Sports Policy and the Draft National Sports Governance Bill for public feedback. Whether these make it to law remains to be seen. The good news is that yesterday the NSP 2025 was announced, unveiled as ' Khelo Bharat Niti- 2025', reinforcing India's 2036 Olympic bid. Similarly, measures that have been deliberated for a while, like the Draft National Code for Good Governance in Sports, 2017 should be given the go-ahead. India had the ignominious distinction of topping the latest global doping list released by WADA. It's about time for all stakeholders to move beyond self-interest and enforce reforms for the larger good of Indian sport. We must now prioritise scientific coaching, physical literacy, and sports in education. Lasting change demands sustained action. Building a 'sporting nation' doesn't happen overnight. With Khelo Bharat Niti 2025, we have a golden opportunity to fast-track India's long-term sporting ambitions. The question is, are we game? Malathi Renati is Head of Policy School at the Takshashila Institution.
GMA Network
28-06-2025
- General
- GMA Network
DSWD: AICS not just for the poor
An official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Saturday debunked misconceptions that the agency's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) is "only for the poor." 'For AICS, wala kaming tinitignan it can be low or high income. It can be rich or poor. It can be professional or not, may trabaho o wala,' said DSWD Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) Director Edwin Morata at the Saturday News Forum. (For AICS, we don't look at anything, it can be low or high income. It can be rich or poor. It can be professional or not, with a job or not.) Morata emphasized that the AICS is a 'catch-all' stop-gap measure and assistance program being provided by the agency, which would depend on the situation being faced by a requesting individual. He also added that the initiative is not just a cash aid program but also includes psychosocial interventions such as psychological first aid, counseling, and others. These are on top of financial and other aid to help individuals cope with crisis situations like illness, death, or job loss. AICS provides medical assistance, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance or other support services or needs of a person or family experiencing crises. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
