The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics is set to make history with a groundbreaking schedule and unprecedented gender equality initiatives. World Athletics president Lord Coe announced that the Games will commence ‘with a bang,’ featuring the women’s 100m final on the opening day and the men’s 100m final on the second day. The opening ceremony will take place on July 14, with the closing ceremony scheduled for July 30. In a historic swap, athletics will dominate the first week, while swimming will take center stage in the second week. The event will span 18 zones across the Los Angeles region and Oklahoma City, encompassing 36 sports and 51 disciplines across 49 venues. A highlight of the Games will be ‘Super Saturday’ on July 29, featuring 26 finals across 23 sports. British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith expressed her excitement, stating, ‘It’s such an exciting opportunity—celebrating the enduring legacy, strength, and global power of women’s sprinting, exactly 100 years on from the first time women competed in Olympic track and field.’ The LA28 Olympic Games will also mark a milestone in gender equality, with 50.5% of the total athlete quota allocated to women, ensuring every team sport features an equal or greater number of women’s teams compared to men’s teams. The athletics events will be held at the LA Memorial Coliseum, while the first medal event will be the women’s triathlon, and the last will be in swimming. Swimming has been moved to the second week to coincide with the opening ceremony venue, SoFi Stadium. The first official day of the Olympics will also feature the most women’s finals in a single day. Details for the Olympic football tournament and the Los Angeles Paralympics, scheduled for August 15-27, are yet to be announced.
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China, Brazil conclude seminar on bamboo as a plastic substitute
A landmark 20-day seminar on bamboo as a sustainable alternative to plastic has concluded in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in China-Brazil bilateral cooperation in the forestry and grassland sector. Organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the International Centre for Bamboo and Rattan under the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the event brought together 25 Brazilian government officials and experts for an intensive exchange of knowledge and technical expertise. The seminar underscored the shared commitment of both nations to advancing green development and fostering sustainable practices. Luiz Keppe, representative of the Brazilian embassy in China, lauded the initiative as a testament to the deepening ecological collaboration between the two countries. He emphasized the dual benefits of technical exchange and strengthened mutual trust, expressing hope for future collaborations. The Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic Initiative, launched in 2022 by the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization in partnership with the Chinese government, aligns with China’s vision of ‘lucid waters and lush mountains as invaluable assets.’ Brazil, a member of INBAR and a pilot country for related projects, is poised to leverage its abundant bamboo resources to enhance regional capacities. This seminar is part of China’s broader commitment to international training programs, with 176 initiatives conducted during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, benefiting nearly 9,000 participants worldwide. The event not only strengthens China-Brazil ties but also sets the stage for a new ‘Golden 50 Years’ of bilateral cooperation.
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China’s first humanoid robot 7S shop opens in Wuhan
Wuhan, Hubei province, has marked a significant milestone in the robotics industry with the grand opening of China’s first ‘7S shop’ dedicated to humanoid robots. The event, held on Tuesday, showcased a variety of robot activities, offering the public a closer look at cutting-edge humanoid robot technology. Developed by the Hubei Humanoid Robot Innovation Center, the 7S model redefines the traditional 4S car dealership concept by incorporating three additional elements: solution, show, and school. This innovative retail and service model aims to provide comprehensive support for humanoid robot applications. The store features a range of locally produced humanoid robots, priced between 70,000 yuan ($9,834) and 500,000 yuan, tailored for diverse sectors including industrial manufacturing, tourism, elder care, and healthcare. This pioneering initiative underscores China’s commitment to advancing robotics technology and integrating it into everyday life.
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Sharjah Ruler awards Konexio Africa for empowering refugees with tech skills
Konexio Africa has been awarded the prestigious 9th Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support (SIARA) for its groundbreaking efforts in leveraging technology to create opportunities for young refugees. The ceremony, held in the presence of Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, was organized by The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Selected from 970 nominations, Konexio Africa was recognized as a leading model in humanitarian work for its success in equipping refugees and vulnerable youth with digital skills and connecting them to online employment opportunities.
Konexio Africa’s Digital Inclusion Programme, launched in 2019, has been instrumental in bridging the digital divide for underserved communities. The initiative, which began in Malawi’s Dzaleka Refugee Camp, has since expanded to Kenya, serving both urban refugees in Nairobi and camp-based refugees in Kakuma. The programme focuses on digital literacy and job-specific training, enabling participants to access sustainable employment. An impressive 84% of trainees report increased income upon graduation, transforming the lives of hundreds of families.
Fabien de Castilla, Director of Konexio Africa, expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing its significance for the over 8,000 individuals trained across Africa. He highlighted the tangible impact of the programme, including improved food security, steady income, and access to education for children. Looking ahead, Konexio Africa plans to expand its operations and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) training into its curriculum, further enhancing the skill sets of its beneficiaries.
The SIARA award underscores the UAE’s and Sharjah’s commitment to humanitarian excellence, celebrating initiatives that promote resilience, dignity, and opportunity for refugees and displaced populations. During the ceremony, TBHF also announced the launch of a second documentary film, following the success of “The Story of a Neighborhood,” which has been recognized at 25 film festivals. Nominations for the 10th edition of the SIARA award are now open.
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Crab King & Queen take crowns
In a spectacular celebration of aquatic excellence, Shanghai Ocean University hosted its 19th Crab Culture Festival and the 2025 ‘Wang Bao He Cup’ National River Crab Competition on November 11. The event, which drew nearly 4,000 river crabs from across the nation, culminated in the crowning of a 622.1-gram male crab as the Crab King and a 451.2-gram female crab as the Crab Queen. Experts noted that this year’s hairy crabs were notably larger in size, with a stable yield, reflecting favorable breeding conditions. The festival, a blend of cultural heritage and ecological awareness, showcased the intricate beauty and significance of river crabs in Chinese cuisine and tradition. Attendees were treated to a comprehensive ‘beauty contest’ where crabs were judged on various criteria, including size, health, and overall appearance. The event not only highlighted the ecological achievements in crab farming but also served as a platform for promoting sustainable practices in the industry.
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India bank on spin and big first-innings total against South Africa
India is set to leverage its traditional strengths of spin bowling and substantial first-innings totals as they face South Africa in a two-Test series starting in Kolkata on Friday. The Indian team, led by Shubman Gill, currently holds the third position in the World Test Championship rankings. Their recent performances include a 2-2 draw in England and a 2-0 sweep against the West Indies at home. South Africa, the reigning world champions, managed a 1-1 draw in Pakistan but face a formidable challenge in India, particularly with eight players in their squad lacking Test experience in Indian conditions. India’s strategy will focus on their top-order batsmen to counter the pace attack led by South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada. The return of wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant adds depth to the middle order, creating a selection dilemma as Dhruv Jurel had impressed in Pant’s absence. India’s spin attack, featuring Kuldeep Yadav, along with the conditions favoring low bounce and reverse swing, will be crucial. Jasprit Bumrah’s prowess with both new and old balls will test the South African batsmen. South Africa, aware of the challenges, has included three specialist spinners and remains optimistic about their chances, with Keshav Maharaj emphasizing the team’s hunger to succeed in one of the toughest tours on their calendar.
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Trump’s decision that the US boycott the G20 summit is ‘their loss,’ South African president says
CAPE TOWN, South Africa — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has labeled the United States’ decision to boycott the upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg as “their loss.” The U.S. government’s absence from the November 22-23 meeting of global leaders was announced last week by President Donald Trump, who cited controversial and widely disputed claims about the persecution of South Africa’s white minority. Ramaphosa, speaking outside the South African Parliament on Wednesday, urged the U.S. to reconsider its stance, stating that boycott politics “doesn’t work” in his experience. He emphasized that the G20 summit would proceed as planned, with other heads of state in attendance, and that the U.S. absence would not hinder the event’s outcomes. Trump’s decision follows months of criticism directed at South Africa’s Black-led government, including its stance on Israel and allegations of anti-white racism. Ramaphosa also highlighted the U.S.’s role as the world’s largest economy, suggesting that its absence undermines its global influence. The G20, established in 1999, brings together major economies to address global economic and developmental challenges. The U.S. is set to assume the G20 presidency from South Africa at the end of the year. Trump’s claims about violence against Afrikaners have been echoed by conservative U.S. media figures and South African-born entrepreneur Elon Musk, who has accused the government of racism due to its affirmative action policies. Ramaphosa’s administration has dismissed these allegations as misinformation, while U.S.-South Africa relations have reached their lowest point since the end of apartheid in 1994.
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Super Typhoon Fung-wong downgraded to tropical storm, reenters Philippines
Former Super Typhoon Fung-wong, now downgraded to a tropical storm, made its return to the Philippines on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. While the storm is not anticipated to inflict significant structural damage, the Philippine weather bureau, Pagasa, has issued warnings about potential impacts on rice crops. The storm is expected to bring strong winds to regions including Batanes, Babuyan Islands, and Ilocos Norte, with continued effects forecasted for the following day. Pagasa has advised residents to stay updated with severe weather bulletins issued every six hours and to proceed with normal activities unless flooding occurs. Despite the reduced intensity, the agricultural sector remains vulnerable, particularly rice farming, which is crucial to the country’s food security.
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At least 37 killed in Peru after bus plunges into ravine
A devastating bus accident in Peru has resulted in the deaths of at least 37 people, with dozens more injured, after the vehicle plunged into a 200-meter-deep ravine. The tragic incident occurred early Wednesday morning on a particularly treacherous section of the Pan-American Highway in the southern region of Arequipa, which connects Peru with Chile. According to local media reports, the bus, operated by the Llamosas company, was carrying 60 passengers when it collided head-on with a pickup truck on a curve. The impact caused the bus to veer off the road and plummet down to the banks of the Ocoña River. Both drivers survived the crash, which took place at kilometer 780 of the Pan-American Highway South. Images from the scene depict the bus in a severely damaged state, with shattered windows, crumpled bodywork, and a caved-in roof. Waldor Llerena, the mayor of Ocona district, described the terrain around the crash site as “very rugged” and noted a history of similar fatal accidents in the area. Health officials reported that 25 individuals, including three minors, are currently receiving treatment for their injuries in a local hospital. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into the incident, and the driver of the pickup truck has been detained. This tragedy underscores the ongoing issue of road safety in Peru, where poor road conditions, excessive speed, and inadequate safety measures frequently contribute to accidents. Official statistics from 2022 indicate that over 3,300 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in Peru. The Pan-American Highway, which spans 48,000 kilometers from Alaska to the southern tip of Argentina, holds the record as the world’s longest motorable road.
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Dubai welcomes Adhara Star: Acube’s first project officially handed over
Acube Developments has reached a significant milestone with the official handover of Adhara Star, its inaugural project in Arjan, Dubai. This achievement underscores the company’s rapid ascent in Dubai’s competitive real estate market, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality, innovative, and lifestyle-focused developments. Completed in under two years since the company’s inception, Adhara Star has already sold out within three months of its launch, reflecting strong investor confidence and setting the stage for Acube’s ambitious future projects. The freehold mixed-use development features 113 residential units spread across 13 floors, complemented by ground-level retail spaces and podium parking. Designed for modern urban living, the project offers a range of apartment configurations, including one, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5-bedroom units, all equipped with premium European appliances and luxury finishes. Adhara Star combines affordable luxury with a community-centric lifestyle, catering to Dubai’s growing population of families and young professionals. Residents will enjoy access to a variety of premium amenities, including a rooftop pool, Japanese Zen Garden, health clubs, an indoor gym, sports courts, and an open-air fitness zone. Notably, the development is certified as a Green Building, highlighting Acube’s commitment to sustainable construction and resource-efficient design. Ramjee Iyer, Chairman and CEO of Acube Group, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that Adhara Star reflects Dubai’s dynamic property market and the company’s ability to maintain world-class standards. With its brand promise, ‘Live on a Star,’ Acube aims to continue delivering projects that blend aspirational living with lasting value, shaping communities and setting new benchmarks in the real estate sector.