The Confucius Institute network has achieved remarkable growth this year, with the establishment of 15 new institutes and one Confucius Classroom across 14 countries, including Algeria and Guinea-Bissau. This expansion marks the first presence of Confucius Institutes in these two African nations, bringing the total number of institutes to 510 across 164 countries and regions as of October 31. The ceremonial awarding of plaques to 10 of these new institutions took place in Beijing during a sub-forum of the World Chinese Language Conference, celebrating the 21-year legacy of Confucius Institutes as a cornerstone of international Chinese education and cultural exchange. Assia Kaced, vice-rector of the University of Algiers 2, highlighted the growing demand for Chinese language learning in Algeria, driven by strengthened economic ties with China and the presence of major Chinese companies. She emphasized that the institute will not only enhance language skills but also foster mutual understanding and trust between Algerian and Chinese youth. In Kenya, the Confucius Institute at Egerton University has adopted an innovative model, integrating Chinese language education with agricultural technology transfer. The institute has established eight teaching points, enrolling nearly 3,000 students annually, and has conducted 45 training sessions for farmers, benefiting 2,413 individuals. Ren Youqun, China’s vice-minister of education, underscored the importance of improving teaching systems and exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance Chinese language education. He also stressed the need to align with the career development needs of trainees and the requirements of overseas Chinese enterprises. Duan Peng, president of Beijing Language and Culture University, highlighted the institute’s role in providing resources and support for young people passionate about Chinese language and culture, embodying the spirit of mutual learning and win-win cooperation.
分类： society
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Australian murderer sues for right to eat Vegemite behind bars
A convicted murderer serving a life sentence in Australia is taking legal action against a ban on Vegemite consumption in Victoria’s prisons, arguing it infringes on his cultural rights as an Australian. Andre McKechnie, 54, claims the prohibition, enforced since 2006, denies him the ability to ‘enjoy his culture.’ State authorities justify the ban by citing concerns that inmates might use the strong-smelling spread to mask contraband or brew alcohol. McKechnie, who was convicted for the 1990s murder of a Queensland property developer, is suing Victoria’s Department of Justice and Corrections Victoria, seeking to overturn the ban and alleging inadequate food provisions for his well-being. The case is set for trial next year. Vegemite, a yeast extract-based spread invented in Melbourne in 1923, is a cultural icon in Australia, despite its polarizing taste. In 2022, Melbourne recognized the aroma from a local Vegemite factory as part of the city’s cultural heritage. However, its divisive flavor has also earned it a spot in Sweden’s Disgusting Food Museum. Earlier this year, Vegemite sparked an international dispute when a Canadian cafe owner was ordered to remove it from shelves due to non-compliance with local health regulations. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese intervened, leading to the reversal of the decision.
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Global Anglican ties are under stress. It’s unclear if they’re at the breaking point
The Anglican Communion, one of the world’s largest Protestant church families, faces a historic schism as conservative leaders within the Global Anglican Future Conference (Gafcon) call for a complete break from the traditional structure. This move follows decades of escalating tensions over issues of sexuality, theology, and leadership. The announcement came shortly after the appointment of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, a decision hailed as groundbreaking in Western nations but criticized by Gafcon and other conservative bishops. Gafcon’s leaders, including Archbishop Laurent Mbanda of Rwanda, declared the need for a “reordered” Anglican Communion, rejecting the historical authority of the Archbishop of Canterbury and proposing a new council of top bishops to oversee a restructured global body. While some African provinces, such as Nigeria and Uganda, have endorsed the plan, others remain silent, leaving the scale of the potential breakaway uncertain. The schism reflects deep divisions over LGBTQ+ inclusivity, with conservatives opposing same-sex unions and liberal trends in Western churches. The Anglican Communion, which spans 165 countries and 85 million members, now faces a pivotal moment as it navigates these profound theological and structural challenges.
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How a top New Zealand police officer’s downfall provoked public fury and scrutiny of police powers
WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A high-profile scandal involving former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming has shaken New Zealand’s law enforcement community, reigniting debates about police accountability and integrity. McSkimming, who nearly secured the top police position last year, is now facing charges for possessing and viewing illegal sexual content, including child abuse material, on his work computer. The case has sparked widespread public outrage and raised questions about the handling of sexual misconduct allegations within the police force.
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In the violence plaguing Nigeria, many say everyone — Christian or Muslim — is a potential victim
In the remote village of Ligari, nestled in Nigeria’s northwestern Kaduna state, a harrowing incident unfolded during a church service in November 2024. Armed gunmen on motorcycles stormed the gathering, firing indiscriminately and abducting at least 62 individuals, including the pastor and several children. The hostages were forcibly marched into the bush, enduring a grueling two-day trek to a forest hideout, where they were held captive for nearly a month. Families, desperate for their loved ones’ release, sold farmland, livestock, and motorcycles to meet the kidnappers’ ransom demands. The hostages faced severe deprivation, with little food or sleep, and were pressured to renounce their Christian faith. Tragically, two hostages were killed during the ordeal. Four survivors recounted their experiences to The Associated Press, highlighting the trauma and resilience of their community. This attack is emblematic of the broader security crisis plaguing Nigeria’s north, where violence has become a grim reality for many. Just days after the Ligari incident, gunmen abducted 25 schoolgirls from a boarding school in Kebbi, killing at least one staff member. The pervasive violence has left nearly every household in Ligari mourning a lost or abducted relative. While U.S. President Donald Trump has framed the crisis as a targeted persecution of Christians by radical Islamists, local voices and experts paint a more complex picture. Many argue that the violence is indiscriminate, affecting both Christians and Muslims alike. Abdulmalik Saidu, a Muslim resident of Zamfara state, recounted how his brother was killed during a highway kidnapping, emphasizing that the attackers’ primary motive is financial gain rather than religious ideology. Similarly, Imam Idris Ishaq of Kaduna shared the loss of multiple family members to violence, underscoring the shared suffering across faiths. Nigeria’s security challenges are exacerbated by rampant corruption, inadequate law enforcement, and porous borders that facilitate the flow of weapons to criminal gangs. In the northeast, Boko Haram and its offshoots continue their insurgency, while in the northwest, rogue gangs terrorize villages and farming communities. The Ligari community, located just 20 kilometers from Kaduna’s capital, remains vulnerable due to its remote location and lack of security infrastructure. Despite the dire circumstances, some villagers have struck deals with gangs to access their farmlands, a testament to their desperation. The Nigerian government’s failure to address the crisis has drawn criticism, with some viewing Trump’s threat of military intervention as a potential catalyst for change. However, analysts caution that the situation requires nuanced solutions, as the violence transcends religious divides and reflects deeper systemic issues. As Nigeria grapples with this ongoing crisis, the resilience of its people remains a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.
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Murderer sues for right to eat Vegemite in prison
A convicted murderer in Australia is taking legal action against the state of Victoria’s ban on prisoners consuming Vegemite, arguing that the prohibition violates his human right to embrace Australian culture. Andre McKechnie, 54, has filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court of Victoria, targeting the Department of Justice and Community Safety and Corrections Victoria. The case, set for trial next year, seeks a declaration that the ban breaches the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act and the Corrections Act, which mandates adequate food for prisoners’ well-being. McKechnie also demands the court overturn the Vegemite ban, asserting it should be reconsidered in accordance with the law. Vegemite, a yeast-based spread iconic in Australian cuisine, has been prohibited in Victorian prisons since 2006 due to concerns it interferes with narcotic detection dogs and its potential use in alcohol production. Inmates have reportedly used Vegemite to mask the scent of illicit drugs, prompting the ban. Despite its polarizing taste, Vegemite holds cultural significance in Australia, often marketed as a source of vitamin B and a staple in breakfast meals. The lawsuit has sparked controversy, with victims’ rights advocates criticizing it as frivolous and insensitive to crime victims and their families. McKechnie, serving a life sentence for the 1994 murder of Otto Kuhne, has spent the past decade in maximum-security Port Phillip Prison. His legal team has not commented on the case.
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Comfort food and clean eating drive UAE’s dining trends
The UAE’s culinary scene is undergoing a significant transformation as consumers increasingly seek a balance between indulgent comfort food and health-conscious, clean eating. This dual demand is reshaping dining habits across the region, with pizza emerging as a standout beneficiary of this trend. Industry experts attribute this shift to the pandemic, which heightened the appeal of affordable, shareable meals that are easy to transport. High-quality comfort food is now seen as a resilient category in the dining landscape. Simultaneously, the growing emphasis on health and wellness is driving restaurants to prioritize ingredient purity and transparency. From pesticide-free produce to seed-oil-free cooking, clean eating has transitioned from a niche preference to a mainstream expectation. Restaurants are responding by sourcing premium ingredients, such as Italian tomatoes free of pesticides and herbicides, and opting for olive oil over processed alternatives. Dubai, with its diverse population of residents and tourists, is at the forefront of these trends. The city’s cosmopolitan audience demands authenticity and quality, whether in traditional Middle Eastern dishes or global favorites like pizza. This dynamic environment has attracted international brands like Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, which recently made its Dubai debut. Known for its coal-fired ovens and century-old legacy, Grimaldi’s is expanding its presence in the UAE after two successful years in Abu Dhabi. The brand differentiates itself through its use of anthracite coal, which imparts a unique flavor to its dough, and its commitment to health-conscious practices, such as seed-oil-free recipes and high-quality ingredients. Grimaldi’s expansion strategy includes plans to open more outlets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with Saudi Arabia also on the horizon. Beyond physical locations, the brand is innovating with a new line of pasta sauces made from premium ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil, soon to be available in Lulu Hypermarkets. For Grimaldi’s CEO Joseph Ciolli, the timeless appeal of pizza lies in its universal accessibility, making it a perfect fit for a market where comfort food meets clean eating.
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Dubai’s emotional intelligence expert Dr. Taylor Elizabeth announced as Mrs UAE World 2025
Dr. Taylor Elizabeth, a globally acclaimed emotional intelligence and etiquette coach, has been officially named Mrs UAE World 2025. She will represent the UAE at the prestigious Mrs World pageant, scheduled for early next year. Dr. Taylor’s appointment was announced by Dr. Aditi Govitrikar, the newly appointed Director for Mrs UAE World 2025 and the first-ever Mrs World from India. Dr. Govitrikar praised Dr. Taylor’s multicultural understanding, conscious leadership, and global representation, emphasizing her role as a powerful ambassador for the UAE. Dr. Taylor, a Dubai-based coach with a clientele spanning 22 markets across five continents, is celebrated for her empathy-driven leadership and dedication to women’s empowerment. She believes that pageantry has evolved into a platform for identity, empowerment, and meaningful influence. ‘Mrs World is a space where possibility becomes visible,’ says Dr. Taylor. ‘When women see someone who shares their values or story standing confidently on a global stage, they see what’s possible for themselves too. My vision is to make this platform not just about beauty or competition, but about emotional intelligence, communication, and the power of authenticity.’ Dr. Taylor aims to challenge outdated narratives that expect women to soften their identity or make themselves smaller, instead championing a new language for modern womanhood—one where emotional intelligence, purpose, and self-expression coexist with grace, confidence, and conscious strength. An award-winning thought leader and UN Women Mentor, Dr. Taylor’s credentials are impressive. She has been honored under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Cabinet Minister for Tolerance and Coexistence, and recognized by The Hindustan Times and Observe Now Dubai for excellence in mentorship and leadership. She has spoken at hallmark platforms including the ETHRWorld NexTech Middle East HR Summit, the Economic Times India HR World Annual Conclave, and the Cartier Women’s Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. A Certified Professional Coach and ICF-accredited Emotional Intelligence Coach, Dr. Taylor also holds specializations in Positive Psychology, Neurobiology Coaching, and Transformational Leadership. Her popular podcast, Success Decoded, now in its third season, features conversations with global thinkers on mindset, mastery, and authentic success. Academically, Dr. Taylor brings a global perspective with an MBA in International Business from The George Washington University and a Master’s in European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies from The Elliott School of International Affairs, complemented by a Diploma in International Etiquette and Protocol from Institut Villa Pierrefeu in Switzerland. As she prepares to carry the UAE’s name to the Mrs World stage, Dr. Taylor steps forward with a message that is unmistakably contemporary: leadership begins with emotional clarity, confidence is a form of service, and the world is ready—more than ever—for women who trust their authenticity and choose to be seen.
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Sharjah: Man saved from drowning in open sea; rescue team honoured
In a dramatic rescue operation, the Sharjah Civil Defence Marine Rescue Unit saved a man from drowning during a routine patrol on November 17, 2025. The team encountered the individual in a life-threatening condition in the open sea and acted swiftly to bring him aboard their vessel. Immediate first aid was administered before the man was transported to specialized medical facilities for further treatment. The Director General of the Sharjah Civil Defense Authority, Colonel Youssef Obaid Harmoul Al-Shamsi, honored the rescue team for their high readiness and rapid response. This incident highlights the critical role of marine rescue units in ensuring public safety along the UAE’s coastlines. Authorities have been actively promoting beach safety, with Dubai Police recently increasing patrols and introducing summer training programs for school students to teach lifeguarding and rescue techniques. The public is also encouraged to volunteer in maritime safety initiatives, particularly during major events. Mamzar Beach, a shared area between Sharjah and Dubai, has witnessed several drowning incidents in recent years, underscoring the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines. The Sharjah Civil Defense Authority continues to emphasize the need for community involvement in preventing such tragedies.
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Off-duty US pilot who tried to crash plane midair will not serve prison time
A former Alaska Airlines pilot, Joseph Emerson, who attempted to shut off a passenger plane’s engines mid-flight, will not serve additional prison time, a federal court has ruled. Judge Amy Baggio sentenced Emerson to credit for time served and three years of supervised release during a hearing in Portland, Oregon. Emerson, who was off-duty during the October 2023 flight, attributed his actions to a mental breakdown induced by hallucinogenic mushrooms. He had previously pleaded guilty to a federal charge of interfering with a flight crew and no contest to state charges of endangering an aircraft and 83 counts of endangering another person. For the state charges, he received five years of probation and 50 days in jail. The federal deal spared him a potential 20-year prison sentence. Emerson expressed remorse for his actions, stating, ‘I’m not a victim. I am here as a direct result of my actions.’ He also mentioned that the incident has prompted personal growth. The flight, which was en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, California, with 80 passengers aboard, was diverted to Portland, Oregon. The incident lasted about 90 seconds, during which Emerson had to be subdued by the pilot. After being restrained, Emerson warned flight attendants to cuff him immediately and attempted to reach for the emergency exit handle during descent. Emerson, who lost his pilot’s license post-arrest, is now working part-time as a pressure washer and has paid $60,000 in restitution. He is also pursuing a career as a substance abuse counselor and, along with his wife, has founded the group Clear Skies Ahead to address mental health issues among pilots.