ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): The Pakistan Education Academy (PEA) hosted its Academic Excellence Award Ceremony at the Oud Metha auditorium in Dubai to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of exceptional students and teachers.
In his keynote speech, the Chief Guest, Consul General of Pakistan Hussain Muhammad, praised the academic achievements of the students and teachers, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping future leaders, according to a press release received here.
He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the award-winning students and high-performing teachers, commending their dedication and hard work. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of families, friends, and faculty members in the success of the students.
During his address, the Consul General emphasized that the achievements recognized were only the beginning of a journey filled with limitless potential. He encouraged the students to continue pursuing knowledge in a rapidly evolving world, driven by technological advances. He urged them to remain curious, keep learning, and become change-makers for a better future.
Hussain also underscored the value of education, stating that it equips individuals with the tools to create a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. He reminded the students that true success is not only measured by personal accomplishments but also by the positive impact one has on others.
The event also featured an engaging cultural segment, where young school children performed on national songs of Pakistan.
The Consul General congratulated Muhammad Rashid Ashraf, Chairman of ETC Group, Hasan Hukal, Chairman of the PEA’s Cultural Board, Madam Shamaela Ahmad Principal, and the entire management of PEA for arranging the event for acknowledgment of hardworking teachers and students.
PEA honors exceptional achievements at academic excellence awards
Police intensifies social media crackdown, JIT targets key figures behind anti-state campaign
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Law enforcement authorities tightened their grip on individuals orchestrating organized propaganda against the government and state institutions.
According to sources, a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) meeting was held on Saturday under the chairmanship of Inspector General (IG) of police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, to assess the prevailing situation.
The JIT has already interrogated eight individuals linked to the online anti-state campaign. It was discussed in the meeting that Gibran Ilyas, a prominent figure in the movement, was summoned for questioning in the next meeting. They claimed that Gibran Ilyas played a central role in the subversive activities targeting state institutions and the government.
The investigators discovered crucial evidence connecting more individuals to the online efforts led by Ilyas. The JIT is reportedly collecting further data on these associates to broaden its inquiry.
The JIT found out that Gibran Ilyas was identified as a key player in the anti-state campaign, working in collaboration with both domestic and foreign elements. It was suggested that he had been active in various efforts to destabilize public order and spread discontent within the country. His involvement in the coordinated use of social media platforms to undermine the government’s authority has drawn the attention of law enforcement agencies, it added.
While further details regarding Gibran’s network continue to emerge, investigators remain focused on gathering additional evidence. The crackdown reflected the government’s resolve to counter what they saw as deliberate attempts to destabilize the country through misinformation and manipulation.
The investigation is expected to widen, with more individuals potentially being called for questioning in the coming days.
PM Shehbaz attends US president’s reception
NEW YORK, Sep 28 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif attended a reception hosted by United States President Joe Biden in the honor of the heads of government participating in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.
President Biden and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met during the reception.
Both the leaders expressed good wishes for each other. The heads of state of other countries also attended the dinner.
Mari Petroleum Helicopter crash kills 6, injures 8 in North Waziristan
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): A helicopter operated by Mari Petroleum was crashed in North Waziristan on Saturday afternoon, resulting at least six persons killed on the spot while other eight were injured.
According to preliminary reports, Mari company spokesperson confirmed that a helicopter operated by Mari Petroleum, a leading oil and gas exploration company in Pakistan, crashed in North Waziristan due to a technical fault in the
engine, private news channels reported.
There were four individuals on board, including three Russian pilots and a Pakistani crew member, he added.
The crash occurred in a remote area of North Waziristan. Rescue teams were promptly dispatched to the scene.
The six injured individuals have been transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
The cause of the technical fault is still unknown and is being investigated by Mari Petroleum and relevant authorities.
Saghar thanks PM Shahbaz Sharif for raising Kashmir issue at world forum
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Acting Chairman Jammu Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party Mehmood Ahmed Saghar has extended his profound gratitude to Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for raising the plight of Kashmiri and Palestinian people during his speech at the UN general assembly.
In a statement issued here today, Saghar said that Pakistan’s consistent support for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute has been a source of great inspiration for the people of Kashmir.
“The struggling people of the Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir owe a debt of gratitude to Prime Minister Sharif for adopting a bold stance on the issue of Kashmir”, Saghar said, adding that besides highlighting the plight of Kashmiris, the PM has exposed India’s settler colonialism policies towards Kashmir before the august forum.
Saghar expressed the hope that the world leaders would endorse Prime Minister Sharif’s contentions and support his call for an early and amicable solution of all the disputes in particular the lingering Kashmir and Palestine issues that have been the main cause and consequence of tension and unrest in the Muslim world.
Indonesian Consulate celebrates 79th Independence Day
KARACHI, Sep 28 (APP): The Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi hosted a special diplomatic reception to celebrate Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day.
The event was attended by Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori, Culture Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Hassan Norian.
Other guests included diplomats from foreign missions, government officials, and business leaders.
Charge d Affaires of Indonesia Teguh Wiweko, Chargé d’Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi, gave a speech highlighting the strong friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Pakistan, which has grown over 74 years of diplomatic relations.
He expressed the hope for continued growth in trade, cultural exchanges, and education between the two nations.
During the event, two prominent businessmen, Shamon Zaki (President of Pakistan-Indonesia Business Forum (PIBF) and Zeeshan Lohya, owner of Coconut Group and CEO of Z Group, won door prizes, hand-picked directly by Wiweko and Tessory.
The prizes, sponsored by Emirates Airlines and Polani Group, consist of tickets from Karachi to Bali and Jakarta, along with three-day travel packages.
Govt taking significant steps to improve Pakistan’s textile industry: Gilani
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the government is taking significant steps to improve Pakistan’s textile industry, which contributes 60% to the national economy.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 7th International Conference on Textiles, titled “Inspiring Change: Challenges and Strides are the Wings of Success,” Gilani stressed the critical role the sector plays in economic growth and employment.
He pointed out that millions of families depend on the textile industry for their livelihood, underscoring its importance in providing jobs to thousands of workers.
Gilani also highlighted Pakistan’s potential to produce high-quality cotton, the backbone of the textile sector, and called for enhanced research and development to improve cotton quality while reducing reliance on imported raw materials.
The Chairman urged the production of innovative and high-quality textile products, noting that decreasing reliance on government subsidies would help make the industry more self-sufficient.
He also emphasized the need for the sector to stay competitive globally and encouraged strengthening Research and Development (R&D) efforts from cotton cultivation to finished textile products.
Gilani stressed the need to advance both traditional and modern segments of the textile industry, stating that the Senate plays a key role in creating legislation that supports sustainable industrial growth.
He further assured that the government is committed to providing cutting-edge technology to the industry, essential for its modernization.
Acknowledging the talented students at the event, Gilani praised the role of educational institutions in developing new techniques and designs for the textile industry.
He expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan’s textile sector.
U.S. Consul General in Lahore, Kristin K. Hawkins, also addressed the conference, highlighting the strong business ties between Pakistan and the United States.
Earlier, Gilani presented awards to outstanding participants in recognition of their contributions to the textile industry.
1st National Tourism Awards 2024 celebrated with full zest
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): 1st National Tourism Awards of Excellence celebrated with full zest in Islamabad was organized by Discover Pakistan and Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2024.
The National Tourism Awards seek to recognize and encourage the remarkable endeavours of those who are contributing to the growth and development of the tourism and hospitality sector in Pakistan.
This impressive event was attended by over 300 participants including Diplomats, Senior Government Officials and Private Sector Stakeholders of the tourism and hospitality sector.
At the event, awards were distributed among the individuals and organizations who make remarkable contributions to the tourism and hospitality sector in 20 different categories.
The award recipients were selected by an independent jury of top professionals of tourism and hospitality sector through an extremely fair and transparent procedure.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives stated that, “The National Tourism Awards of Excellence highlight the remarkable progress Pakistan is making in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2024, under the theme ‘Tourism & Peace,’ we recognize the power of tourism in promoting peace, understanding, and economic growth. I congratulate all the winners for their outstanding contributions and encourage further efforts to showcase Pakistan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality to the world.”
Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman Prime Minister Youth Program, Syed Mehdi Shah, Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Baligh ur Rehman, former Governor of Punjab also addressed the audience and appreciated the efforts of PTDC and Discover TV for the promotion the soft image of Pakistan as a tourist destination at the global level. On this occasion,
In his welcome address, Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation said, “Tourism is much more than a business activity as it is a platform that brings people close to each other and encourages mutual understanding and promotes harmony among different cultures”.
He appreciated the efforts of all the award winners who are contributing in their individual and institutional capacities to develop and promote tourism in Pakistan.
He also appreciated the efforts of Discover Pakistan TV for their extraordinary contribution to promoting Pakistan as a tourism destination across the world.
He said that the initiative of National Tourism Awards of Excellence will now be an annual event and it will continue to acknowledge the achievements of individuals and organizations in the tourism and hospitality sector.
He further said, on World Tourism Day, we renew our commitment to making tourism a key part of Pakistan’s development. “These awards recognize the hard work of those ensuring our country becomes a top destination for both local and international tourists, while also promoting peace, sustainability, and cultural exchange.”
“Discover Pakistan is proud to collaborate with PTDC to host the 1st National Tourism Awards of Excellence. This event recognizes the outstanding efforts of those transforming Pakistan’s tourism industry and aligns with the global celebration of World Tourism Day. As we honour these individuals and organizations, we also renew our mission to showcase Pakistan’s beauty, diversity, and hospitality to the world, using tourism as a bridge for peace and understanding.” said the CEO Discover Pakistan HD TV.
He congratulated all the winners and thanked all the supporting partners of the 1st National Tourism Awards of Excellence.
World Tourism Day, celebrated on September 27th, highlights the importance of tourism in driving economic growth, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting sustainability. This year’s theme, “Tourism & Peace,” emphasizes tourism’s role in encouraging mutual respect, reducing tensions, and building global harmony by connecting people across borders. The day also underscores tourism’s contributions to job creation, cultural preservation, and responsible travel, all w5hile promoting international cooperation and sustainable development.
The event was jointly organized by Discover Pakistan TV and PTDC with the support of Green Tourism Pvt. Ltd, and provincial tourism departments.
IRSA releases 195,700 cusecs water
ISLAMABAD, Sep 28 (APP): Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Saturday released 195,700 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 181,800 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1536.77 feet and was 138.77 feet higher than its dead level of 1,398 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 112,700 cusecs and 95,000 cusecs respectively.
The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1217.80 feet, which was 169.80 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 13,400 cusecs and 45,000 cusecs respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 117,300, 83,500, 85,000 and 33,600 cusecs respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 20,700 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 6,600 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.
Israel hit at least 11 Gaza school this month, killing nearly 100, as people’s desperation grows: UN
UNITED NATIONS, Sep 28 (APP): At least 11 schools being used as shelters by internally displaced Gazans have been hit by Israel so far this month, with nearly 100 deaths reported, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, said Friday.
Around 80 per cent of the Strip’s 2.3 million people have been displaced during Israel’s nearly year-long offensive, with many “continuing to survive in abysmal conditions, crammed in worn-out tents and damaged structures with limited food, water and other necessities,” OCHA reported, following inter-agency assessments in Deir Al Balah and Khan Younis.
It’s forecast that flooding will increase in or near displacement sites and medical care points as winter weather sets in, which increases the risk of diseases spreading.
“Nearly 90 per cent of coordinated humanitarian movements between northern and southern Gaza so far in September have been either denied or impeded,” OCHA continued.
Gaza’s Ministry of Health reported on Friday that 103 Palestinians were killed from 22 to 26 September, bringing the death toll to at least 41,534 since the offensive began in response to the Hamas-led terror attacks of 7 October in southern Israel.
OCHA reported that according to the Israeli military, there were no Israeli soldiers killed during operations between 23 September and Friday. A total of 346 soldiers have been killed in Gaza or along the Israeli border since the beginning of the ground war.
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told the regular noon briefing in New York that in the occupied West Bank, according to OCHA, the number of obstacles restricting movement of Palestinians have increased by more than 20 per cent since June last year.
“The cumulative impact of obstruction to movements has been devastating, further entrenching the fragmentation in the West Bank, disrupting access to livelihoods and services for thousands of Palestinians which has aggravated the already difficult conditions in which many live,” he said.
The offensive continues and between 17 and 23 September, 11 Palestinians were killed, including two children, in the West Bank.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 7 October 2023 and 30 July this year “there were 527 attacks including obstruction of access, use of force, detention and militarized searches were reported on healthcare facilities in the region,” said Dujarric.