LONGi’s Lighthouse Factory: A Model for Intelligent Manufacturing

LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a global leader in solar technology, has illuminated the path towards a sustainable future with its groundbreaking “Lighthouse Factory.” This state-of-the-art facility, located in Jiaxing, China, embodies the company’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Recognized by the World Economic Forum as a global Lighthouse Factory, LONGi’s Jiaxing Production Base exemplifies the transformative power of digitalization and automation in the solar industry. By leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and cloud computing, the factory has achieved significant improvements in production efficiency, product quality, and energy consumption. One of the key innovations driving the success of the Lighthouse Factory is LONGi’s agile manufacturing approach. By adopting agile principles, the company can quickly adapt to changing market demands and customer needs. The factory’s flexible production lines enable it to efficiently produce a wide range of high-quality solar modules, including the highly acclaimed Hi-MO X series. The integration of artificial intelligence into the production process has revolutionized quality control and operational efficiency. AI-powered systems monitor every stage of production, from raw material inspection to final product testing, ensuring that only the highest quality products reach the market. This commitment to quality has solidified LONGi’s…
Data Visualization: A Catalyst for Agile Success

Data visualization has become an indispensable tool for modern software development teams, particularly those embracing Agile methodologies. By transforming complex data into easily understandable visual representations, teams can gain valuable insights, improve decision-making, and enhance overall project performance. One of the most significant benefits of data visualization in Agile environments is the ability to create real-time dashboards that provide a clear and up-to-date view of project progress. These dashboards allow teams to track key metrics, identify potential bottlenecks, and take corrective action promptly. Sprint burndown charts are another powerful tool that helps teams visualize their progress towards sprint goals. By tracking the remaining work over time, teams can identify potential risks and adjust their plans accordingly. Velocity charts provide insights into team productivity and capacity, enabling teams to set realistic goals and optimize their workflows. By analyzing velocity trends, teams can identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions. Data visualization also plays a crucial role in planning and retrospective meetings. Visual techniques like story mapping and retrospective visualizations help teams to break down complex tasks, identify lessons learned, and improve future performance. Moreover, data visualization can be used to enhance quality assurance and risk management. By visualizing code quality…
University of Oxford Expert Contributes to UNESCO’s Future of Education Project

Dr. Arathi Sriprakash, a researcher at the University of Oxford’s Department of Education, recently participated in UNESCO’s inaugural international forum on the Futures of Education. The forum, hosted by the UNESCO Korean National Commission in Suwon, South Korea, brought together policymakers, practitioners, and academics from around the world to discuss the future of education and explore innovative approaches to addressing global challenges. Dr. Sriprakash, who is also part of the Reparative Futures of Education (Repair-Ed) project, contributed to the discussions on mobilizing knowledge and research for just and sustainable futures. She emphasized the importance of dialogic and participatory approaches in shaping educational policies, highlighting the role of young people, teachers, parents, and communities as key stakeholders. Drawing on the insights from the Repair-Ed project, Dr. Sriprakash discussed the concept of “reparative pedagogies” and the need to address structural violence in global education policy. She emphasized the importance of aligning educational practices with broader societal goals of justice, equity, and sustainability. The Repair-Ed project, hosted at the University of Oxford, is a collaborative effort that brings together researchers from diverse backgrounds to explore the potential of education to address historical and contemporary injustices. The project’s interdisciplinary approach, which combines historical analysis,…
AP Asia Project Empowering Entrepreneurs in Central and South Asia

The Accelerate Prosperity in Central and South Asia (AP Asia) initiative, a joint effort between the European Union and the Aga Khan Foundation, has successfully empowered thousands of entrepreneurs across Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Over the past four years, AP Asia has supported more than 2,800 entrepreneurs, leading to the creation of 4,746 full-time jobs. This initiative has been instrumental in fostering economic growth and creating sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women and youth. Speaking at the AP Asia Dissemination Event held at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad, Head of Cooperation for the EU Delegation to Pakistan Jeroen Willems highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative. “Pakistan and countries in the region can bank on a lot of talented young entrepreneurs. They can create jobs, drive innovation, and spur growth. With EU-funded programs like AP Asia, we are helping unleash the full potential of start-ups by combining talent with expertise and soft loans,” Willems said. Akhtar Iqbal, CEO of AKF Pakistan, talked about the collaborative nature of the project. “By empowering entrepreneurs and facilitating access to essential resources, we are not only creating employment opportunities but also building resilient communities capable of driving long-term growth. AP Asia is a testament…
Aberdeen Science Centre Embraces Virtual Reality with Industry Support

Aberdeen Science Centre is set to revolutionize its visitor experience with the introduction of virtual reality (VR) technology. Thanks to the generous support of Mermaid Subsea Services UK, ETZ Ltd, and Peterson Energy Logistics, the centre will be able to offer immersive VR experiences that will transport visitors to new worlds and inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. The funding will enable the centre to purchase 38 VR headsets, which will be used in a variety of interactive activities, workshops, and science demonstrations. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the solar system, journey through the human body, and even experience the thrill of deep-sea exploration. Steph McCann, head of fundraising at Aberdeen Science Centre, welcomed the support the project has seen so far, and encouraged any other organisations interested in investing to get in touch. She said: “We are immensely grateful for the support of Mermaid, ETZ Ltd and Peterson, alongside AVC, which has allowed us to move forward with our plans to enhance our interactive activities and workshops with the addition of VR headsets. With this technology, we can transport our visitors to new worlds where they can explore our solar system, walk around a hydroelectric dam,…
New EU Project to Standardize Research Manager Training

The European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA) has secured EU funding for a new project aimed at developing a standardized approach to training research managers across Europe. The RM Framework project will establish a framework to guide policymakers, training providers, and research organizations in developing effective and sustainable research management training programs. By aligning training standards and practices, the project aims to improve the quality of research management and support the careers of research managers across the continent. The project will involve a consortium of 16 organizations from 10 countries, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Research-performing organizations will also be closely involved to ensure the framework meets the real-world needs of research managers. A key aspect of the project will be the use of design thinking to tailor training programs and accreditation processes to the specific needs of research managers. This human-centered approach will help to ensure that training is effective and relevant. The RM Framework project is expected to start in February 2025 and will run for two years. It has been allocated €1 million in EU funding. EARMA is also leading the ongoing RM Roadmap project, which…
Mapping the Human Body: A Revolutionary Scientific Breakthrough

Scientists are revolutionizing our understanding of the human body through the Human Cell Atlas project. This ambitious initiative aims to map all 37 trillion cells in the human body, revealing intricate details about how our bodies function. By analyzing over 100 million cells from 10,000 individuals, researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries. One such discovery is the identification of a new cell type in the gut, which may play a role in inflammatory bowel diseases. This insight could lead to the development of new treatments and therapies. Another significant finding is the detailed mapping of the human skeleton’s development. By studying the formation of cartilage and bone, researchers have gained valuable insights into conditions like osteoarthritis. The Human Cell Atlas is transforming our understanding of human biology and disease. By providing a comprehensive map of the human body, this project will enable scientists to develop more effective treatments for a wide range of conditions.
Groundbreaking health IT project wins top honours at NI’s leading IT awards

The 2024 Belfast Telegraph IT Awards, in partnership with Telefónica Tech UK & Ireland, recognized and celebrated the outstanding achievements of the Northern Ireland IT sector. The prestigious awards ceremony, held at the MAC Theatre in Belfast, saw a record number of entries and attracted a diverse range of talent and innovation. The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust was a standout performer, clinching multiple awards, including the prestigious Overall IT Team or Company of the Year Award. The trust’s successful implementation of the Encompass digital health records system was also recognized in the Best Public Sector or Third Sector IT Project category. One of the night’s most significant honors, the Outstanding Contribution Award, was bestowed upon Noel Brady, founder of NB1 Ltd. Mr. Brady’s exceptional career in the IT sector and his dedication to fostering innovation and growth in Northern Ireland were acknowledged with this prestigious award. Other notable winners included Allstate, Expleo, Options Technology, Mantle Services, and Covernet. The awards ceremony was a testament to the thriving IT industry in Northern Ireland, showcasing the region’s potential for technological advancement and economic growth. Mark Gorton, CEO of Telefónica Tech UK&I, expressed his delight at sponsoring the event, stating,…
University of Edinburgh and Dundee Secure £2.5 Million for Offshore Wind Research Project

A consortium of leading Scottish institutions, including the University of Edinburgh and the University of Dundee, has secured a £2.5 million funding boost from the UK Research and Innovation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The funding will be used to advance offshore wind technology and drive sustainable energy solutions. The project, led by the Forth and Tay Offshore (FTO) Cluster, aims to address critical challenges in offshore wind energy, including improving design and engineering practices and enhancing environmental impact assessments. By leveraging the expertise of researchers from both universities, the project seeks to accelerate the development of innovative technologies and sustainable practices. The east coast of Scotland, with its wealth of offshore wind resources and established supply chain, provides an ideal location for this research. The funding will support a range of activities, including field trials, laboratory experiments, and data analysis. Professor Alasdair McDonald, chair in Renewable Technologies at the University of Edinburgh, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “This funding will enable us to push the boundaries of offshore wind technology, from improved design and engineering practices to enhanced environmental impact analysis. “Our collaboration with the University of Dundee and the Forth and Tay Offshore Cluster will allow us…
The PMP Training Centre Leading the World with its On-Demand Virtual Classes

PMTraining is one of the US’s premier providers of PMI training, including the highly sought-after and popular Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. As well as the, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) and Program Management Professional (PgMP). However, what truly sets PMTraining apart is something that has been an industry secret since its inception in 2004. And in todays article we’ll find out why they are becoming globally recognised for there excellence in training for these very specialized industry accreditations. In an exclusive interview, Ron Ponce, Director of Training Services, explains why PMTraining has become a market leader and how their unique methods and learning approach are helping over 900 students a month, pass one of the most demanding certification exams in the project profession. Ron explained that he, and Founder and Managing Director Christopher Scordo, had almost stumbled upon the business by chance. Ron had been providing clients in-person PMP training using his specially tailored course based on his 30-years experience as PM practitioner. And Scordo, running a business an online training academy at the time. It was the perfect combination and PMTraining entered the market with a unique offering: completely…