分类： society

Israel has initiated a criminal investigation to uncover the source of leaked footage from the Sde Teiman detention center, which allegedly depicts the rape of a Palestinian detainee. The decision, announced by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara on Wednesday, will also scrutinize individuals responsible for distributing the video, which was broadcast by Israeli Channel 12 in August 2023. The footage reportedly shows soldiers forming a human barrier around the detainee during the assault. Defense Minister Israel Katz endorsed the probe, describing it as a response to a ‘serious affair that created a blood libel’ against Israeli soldiers. Far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir had previously called for an investigation, with Smotrich accusing the leak of causing ‘tremendous damage to Israel’ globally. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with reports of systemic abuse, including torture, rape, and murder, at Sde Teiman and other detention facilities. Despite a conditional order from Israel’s High Court in July 2023 to close the center, it remains operational, with former detainees recounting harrowing experiences of torture, starvation, and medical neglect. Investigations by Middle East Eye, CNN, and the New York Times have corroborated these allegations, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and reform.

Divyana Maheshwari, a Grade 12 student at Dubai International Academy, has taken a remarkable step to bridge the digital divide for senior citizens. Through her initiative, DIVE, she is empowering older generations to navigate the complexities of modern technology. What began as a personal effort to assist her grandparents during the COVID-19 pandemic has now grown into a global movement, impacting thousands of lives. Divyana’s journey started in 2019 when she noticed her grandparents struggling with basic digital communication. She began creating simple video tutorials, teaching skills like sending voice messages, adjusting phone settings, and connecting to WiFi. These tutorials, initially shared within her family circle, soon expanded to platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp, gaining widespread appreciation. To date, Divyana has created 235 tutorials, reaching over 3,000 individuals across 12 countries. She has also conducted 14 in-person workshops in Dubai, collaborating with NGOs and old-age homes. Her initiative has even extended to helping seniors with Alzheimer’s and cognitive disorders, partnering with organizations like Forget Me Not and Elderly Square. Divyana’s vision is to make technology accessible and inclusive for all, regardless of age. She plans to expand DIVE by involving more young people to dub tutorials into multiple languages and aims to collaborate with the United Nations to further her mission. Despite her ambitious goals, Divyana remains grounded, balancing her academic responsibilities with her passion for dance and spending quality time with her grandparents. Her story is a testament to the power of youth-driven social change and the transformative impact of technology education.

Following days of persistent autumn rain, the skies above Baofeng Lake in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of Zhangjiajie, Hunan province, finally cleared on Tuesday, revealing a mesmerizing autumn landscape. Situated in the heart of this renowned tourist city, the lake’s unique seasonal beauty attracted a surge of visitors eager to witness its splendor. Many opted to explore the waters by boat, gliding through mist-covered peaks that resembled scenes from a living painting. The iconic stone cliffs, partially veiled by lingering clouds and mist, were mirrored in the lake’s vivid turquoise waters, creating a spectacle that left photographers and nature enthusiasts in awe. This stunning display of nature’s artistry underscored why Zhangjiajie remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking breathtaking vistas.

In late October, the Shui ethnic communities in Rongjiang county, Guizhou province, came alive with vibrant celebrations as they observed the annual Gua Festival. This traditional event, which signifies the conclusion of the autumn harvest, saw locals adorned in colorful festive attire, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere. The festival is deeply rooted in the Shui culture and serves as a time for gratitude and communal bonding. In Yayong village, the celebrations were particularly spirited, with residents extending invitations to their Miao ethnic neighbors to partake in the festivities. The event featured traditional music played on lusheng pipes and a unique pumpkin-eating contest, adding a playful touch to the cultural proceedings. Gua Festival holds immense significance for the Shui people, as it is their largest traditional celebration. Each year, after the harvest, communities select an auspicious day to express gratitude for the season’s bounty and to offer prayers for favorable weather, good health, and prosperity in the coming year. The festival not only strengthens cultural identity but also fosters unity and harmony among diverse ethnic groups in the region.

Dubai’s educational landscape is renowned for its diversity and excellence, with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) playing a pivotal role in guiding parents through their school selection process. The 2023-24 KHDA report highlights 23 schools in the emirate that have achieved the prestigious ‘outstanding’ rating, alongside 48 rated as ‘very good’. These evaluations extend beyond academic performance, encompassing student wellbeing, inclusivity, and alignment with international benchmarks. External assessments in key subjects further enhance the comprehensive evaluation of each institution.

Over the course of the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), Beijing has successfully completed more than 60 emergency reinforcement projects on the Great Wall, restoring over 20 kilometers of its historic structure. This significant achievement was announced by municipal authorities on Wednesday, highlighting the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Huo Zhijing, deputy director of the publicity department of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China, emphasized the integration of the Great Wall’s protection with the conservation of the Central Axis and ancient capital structures, forming a comprehensive cultural heritage conservation system. Chu Jianhao, deputy director of the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau, noted that Beijing has pioneered a unique approach by embedding archaeological research throughout the restoration process. This method ensures that every phase of repair is informed by detailed research, enhancing the authenticity and historical accuracy of the restoration efforts. Additionally, adjustments to protection zones and improved monitoring mechanisms have been implemented to better manage both the Great Wall and its surrounding environment. To further enhance conservation efforts, an early warning platform is being developed for Great Wall resources management and real-time surveillance. This platform will utilize advanced technologies such as drones and quadruped robots for regular inspections, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy in monitoring the condition of the Great Wall.

In a significant move to foster global collaboration in vocational training, the International Youth Talent Development Alliance was officially launched in Beijing’s Chaoyang district. The initiative was unveiled during the Fourth Chaoyang District Vocational Training Development Conference, which commenced on October 25. This groundbreaking alliance aims to unite domestic and international vocational training institutions and universities, creating a platform for knowledge exchange and skill development. The conference, held in Beijing, highlighted the district’s commitment to nurturing young talent and addressing the evolving demands of the global workforce. The alliance is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of vocational education, offering innovative solutions and fostering international partnerships. This initiative underscores Beijing’s strategic vision to position itself as a hub for talent development and innovation on the global stage.