In response to the devastating floods that have impacted over 14.8 million people in Bangladesh, the UK government has announced a £30,000 humanitarian aid package to support affected communities in Sylhet. The funding will be managed by Start Fund Bangladesh and implemented by Caritas Bangladesh, providing essential aid such as cash assistance, clean drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene supplies. This assistance will complement the ongoing efforts of the Bangladeshi government to address the flood crisis. In addition to the direct aid, the UK is also a major contributor to global humanitarian pooled funds, including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) and the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). These funds are allocating a total of £5.9 million to support flood-affected populations in northern Bangladesh with food, water, sanitation, shelter, health care, and cash assistance. Sarah Cooke, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, said: “The UK stands beside all of those affected by the current flooding in Bangladesh. I am pleased to announce the UK is providing humanitarian assistance to support those affected.” “This includes £30,000 (BDT 4.5 crores) through START Fund Bangladesh to provide vital supplies to over 5,000 people in Sylhet,…
UNESCO is partnering with the Government of the Maldives to review the Maldives’ Information and Communication Technology in Education Master Plan 2 for 2021-2024 and develop a new national digital learning policy. The Maldives, a small island nation, faces significant challenges and opportunities in its digital transformation and climate crisis. The review process involved over 1,360 teachers, 79 schools, and 50 stakeholders from various government institutions, schools, universities, and companies. The review aims to assess the outcomes of the Master Plan, identify key priorities, and synthesize lessons learned for the design of the next version. Dr Abdul Latheef Mohamed Minister of State for Education, Government of the Maldives, said: “We can link our current initiatives and the ongoing transformation in the digital era. Taking into consideration the digital innovations, we have to make the necessary changes in the new master plan.” UNESCO Programme Specialist Jian Xi Teng presented an overview of the review process, highlighting the key educational issues that technology should address. He emphasized the need for a learner-centered approach that engages all stakeholders and focuses on lifelong learning. Dr Ahmed Mohamed, Minister of State for Education, recognized that “one of the main areas [for the Maldives] is digitalization…
Photo credit: © UNESCO / M. Etchegoyen Huawei announced the implementation stage of the Technology-enabled Open Schools for All Phase II project at Digital Learning Week, UNESCO’s flagship event on digital education. The initiative aims to support the digital transformation of education in Brazil, Egypt, and Thailand through innovative open school models. Building upon the successes of Phase I in Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ghana, Phase II will focus on establishing flexible, resilient, inclusive, and quality learning environments that blend offline and online learning. The project will leverage technology innovations and human capabilities to create a transformative educational experience. The announcement was made during the Technology-enabled Open Schools for All Forum hosted by UNESCO and Huawei. Distinguished guests included education ministers from Egypt, Ghana, and other participating countries, as well as representatives from UNESCO and Huawei. “In Egypt, we have embarked on a transformative journey in education rooted in the belief that technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for unlocking potential, nurturing creativity, and expanding opportunities for both educators and learners. The success of the first phase of this project is a testament to the dedication of our educators and partners,” said H. E. Mohamed Abdel-Latif, Minister of…
Honeywell Automation India Limited (HAIL) has successfully commissioned a microgrid Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) Lakshadweep Islands project. This marks a significant step towards decarbonizing the energy supply of these remote islands. Honeywell’s BESS technology, integrated into the microgrid of Kavaratti Island, supports SECI’s initiative to use renewable power to meet the energy needs of Lakshadweep. The BESS includes a complete end-to-end solution that controls automation, safety, and efficiency aspects, enabling remote operations for battery modules and grid management systems. For the Lakshadweep project, Honeywell is providing its Energy Management System (EMS)/Microgrid controller, Power Plant Controller, and a range of BESS subsystems. These technologies help manage the distribution of renewable energy and ensure efficient grid operation. “We are committed to supporting India’s energy transition and energy self-reliance initiative by driving constant technology and software innovation to participate in the country’s Net Zero 2070 goal. To get there, new power/energy sources will be required, including renewables. Honeywell’s BESS technology is one of the fundamental enablers of this transition. The integration of our BESS technology into the Lakshadweep microgrid system is a positive step forward in this journey, and we are proud to play…
Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) and TotalEnergies have announced a strategic joint venture (JV) to manage a portfolio of solar projects totaling 1,150 MW. The projects are located at the world’s largest renewable energy plant in Khavda, Gujarat. This partnership reinforces AGEL and TotalEnergies’ commitment to accelerating India’s transition to clean energy. AGEL will contribute its current assets to the new JV, while TotalEnergies will invest USD 444 million to expedite the development of these solar projects. The electricity generated from the 1,150 MW solar projects will be sold through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and on the wholesale market. AGEL is developing the world’s largest renewable energy plant at Khavda, covering an area five times larger than Paris. With a cumulative capacity of 2,250 MW solar and wind energy already operational, the plant will supply affordable clean energy to over 16 million homes, create over 15,200 green jobs, and avoid about 58 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. The signing and completion of the transaction are subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals.
Pakistan Customs has initiated a comprehensive transformation project aimed at modernizing its operations and enhancing trade facilitation. The project, supported by the World Bank, will see the implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions to replace the existing WeBOC system and streamline customs processes. A recent three-day workshop, attended by senior customs officials and international experts from Maersk and KGH, focused on designing the future strategy for Pakistan Customs. The workshop built upon the success of the previous business process mapping exercise conducted in June 2024. Recognizing the evolving global trade landscape and the need to adapt to technological advancements, Pakistan Customs is committed to transforming its role from a traditional border control agency to a strategic partner in facilitating trade and economic growth. The project aims to align customs operations with international best practices, as outlined in the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Key components of the transformation project include: The project is overseen by a Steering Committee headed by the Finance Minister to ensure its successful implementation.
EcoMatcher Limited, a leader in digital tree-planting technology, and VNV Advisory Services, a renowned expert in sustainable development, have announced a strategic partnership to launch TREES+, a new initiative offering certified, transparent tree planting projects. The TREES+ program will provide customers with the ability to track and manage individual trees through EcoMatcher’s innovative platform while ensuring the highest environmental standards through Verra or Gold Standard certification. By combining EcoMatcher’s advanced technology with VNV’s expertise in sustainable development, the partnership aims to empower businesses to engage in impactful reforestation efforts. TREES+ projects will offer detailed information on each tree, including species, planting date, and location, enabling customers to offset their carbon footprint with verified and validated emission reductions. Initial TREES+ projects will be launched in Egypt, India, Indonesia, and Madagascar, with a focus on creating measurable and long-term environmental benefits. The Verra or Gold Standard certifications will guarantee the highest level of credibility and transparency for each project. “Our partnership with VNV, a global leader in carbon credit projects, marks a significant milestone in our mission to make tree planting transparent and impactful,” said Bas Fransen, CEO of EcoMatcher. “By ensuring that the projects are certified by Verra or Gold Standard,…
Colliers India, a leading real estate professional services firm, has successfully completed two major projects for Bengaluru-based developer, Fortius Infra. The projects, Fortius Origin and Under the Sun, exemplify the successful partnership between the two companies. Fortius Infra, led by industry veteran Gopi Krishnan, has a strong reputation for delivering exceptional real estate projects. The developer has consistently chosen Colliers India as its project management partner due to the firm’s proven track record and expertise. “The strategic expertise and execution capabilities of Colliers, supported by a broad network of professionals and vendors, have been critical to our success. Their commitment enabled us to complete both projects ahead of schedule, demonstrating a level of professionalism and efficiency that has strengthened our market position,” said Gopi Krishnan, Founder and Chairman. Fortius Origin, a commercial development spanning 1.80 lakh square feet, is a prime example of Colliers’ project management capabilities. Located in the heart of Koramangala, the state-of-the-art office space features an impressive modern façade. Colliers India also provided office leasing and facilities management services for the property, further solidifying the partnership. “A city center project often comes with several operational challenges and restrictions. Additionally, the site area had a high-water table, making deep…
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and FutureWater have embarked on a collaborative project to address climate change challenges in Turkmenistan. An initial delegation visit to Ashgabat in early July involved consultations with key government ministries to outline the project’s scope and objectives. The project aims to enhance Turkmenistan’s capacity to adapt to climate change through sustainable agricultural practices and improved environmental management. Key components include strengthening institutional frameworks, implementing climate adaptation measures, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, leveraging digital technologies in water management, and promoting space technology applications. FutureWater will conduct a comprehensive assessment of climate-related hazards and vulnerabilities to inform the project’s focus areas. The project’s structure will encompass monitoring and modeling, implementation of targeted interventions, and capacity building in modern practices. ADB and Turkmen officials emphasized the importance of a practical and collaborative approach to maximize the project’s impact. Turkmenistan highlighted its previous successful partnerships with the ADB in nature conservation, food production, and agriculture, expressing confidence in the potential of this new collaboration. This initiative marks a significant step towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for Turkmenistan.
CONINCO, a Vietnamese construction supervision company, and HANLIM Group (Korea), a prominent construction and architectural firm, announced a strategic cooperative partnership this month. The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held at CONINCO headquarters on July 16, 2024. The partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both companies and create new opportunities in consulting services for projects in Vietnam and beyond. High-Level Attendance The signing ceremony featured distinguished representatives from both parties. HANLIM was represented by Mr. Park Jin Sun, Chairman of HANLIM Group Korea, Mr. Yoo Kyung Kwon, Director of HANLIM Vietnam Company, and Ms. Nguyen Thuy Anh, Senior Architect. CONINCO’s delegation included Mr. Phan Ngoc Cuong, Member of the Board of Directors and General Director, Mr. Nguyen Manh Tuan, Member of the Board of Directors and Deputy General Director, and other senior management personnel. Building a Strong Foundation In a collaborative atmosphere, Mr. Phan Ngoc Cuong and Mr. Park Jin Sun expressed their satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the importance of the partnership. The ceremony involved discussions on goals, development directions, and specific actions for collaboration. These discussions ensured a comprehensive and effective partnership aligned with both companies’ strategic goals. Areas of Cooperation The Memorandum of Understanding…
