标签： Asia

South Korea has implemented a series of nationwide measures to ensure a smooth and distraction-free environment for students taking the highly consequential College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), locally known as the ‘Suneung.’ The exam, held on November 13, 2025, is a pivotal event in the lives of South Korean students, as it determines admission to top universities and is widely viewed as a gateway to social mobility, economic stability, and even marital prospects. With so much at stake, the government has taken extraordinary steps to minimize disruptions. A 35-minute flight ban was enforced during the English listening test, affecting 140 flights, including 75 international services. Additionally, banks and public offices delayed their opening hours by an hour to reduce traffic congestion. Parents and students alike were visibly anxious, with many parents visiting shrines, churches, and temples to pray for their children’s success. The exam day is steeped in traditions and superstitions, such as avoiding seaweed soup, believed to cause students to ‘slip’ in their performance. The 2026 admission cycle also introduced a new requirement for universities to consider applicants’ records of school violence, marking a significant shift in policy. Over 550,000 students registered for the exam, with many receiving encouragement from younger peers and community members. The day-long test, held at centers like Yongsan High School in Seoul, saw a heavy media presence and police assistance for latecomers. The CSAT remains a defining moment in South Korea’s education system, reflecting the nation’s intense focus on academic achievement and its broader societal implications.

The UAE’s General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat (Awqaf) has finalized the list of 6,228 Emirati citizens selected to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in 2026 (1447 AH). The selection process, conducted through an automated sorting system, evaluated over 72,000 applicants based on specific criteria and eligibility conditions. Priority was given to senior citizens and individuals with medical conditions requiring special care, followed by those who had applied multiple times without success and first-time pilgrims. All approved applicants have been notified via text messages and other communication channels to begin completing the necessary procedures. The authority emphasized its commitment to fairness, transparency, and ensuring a safe and organized Hajj experience. Unsuccessful applicants for 2026 will have their applications automatically transferred to the 2027 Hajj season without requiring resubmission. This initiative aligns with the UAE government’s strategy to provide efficient and civilized services that meet the aspirations of its citizens.

In a remarkable display of creativity, the cleaning staff at Dalian University of Foreign Languages in Liaoning Province have transformed the seasonal litter of ginkgo leaves into stunning works of art. Utilizing everyday objects such as umbrellas, chairs, and tables, they have crafted intricate designs that have captivated students and become a viral sensation on social media. The vibrant crimson and gold hues of the leaves, typically associated with autumn’s poetic beauty, have now become the centerpiece of an unexpected artistic movement on campus. This initiative not only highlights the aesthetic potential of natural elements but also underscores the often-overlooked talents of the university’s support staff. Their innovative approach has sparked widespread admiration, drawing attention to the intersection of nature, art, and community engagement.

The third edition of the Emirates Labour Market Award (ELMA), held in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, recognized 100 exceptional workers and private companies for their outstanding contributions to the UAE labour market. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), the event celebrated best practices and innovation in the sector, with a total prize pool of Dh50 million, up from Dh37 million in the previous edition. This year’s awards expanded to include 98 winners, compared to 84 in the second edition. Individual winners received cash prizes of Dh100,000, Dh75,000, and Dh50,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively. Companies securing top positions were classified under MoHRE’s first category, benefiting from significant discounts on ministry services, with financial savings of up to Dh1.2 million. A new subcategory, ‘Labour Accommodations,’ was introduced to encourage sustainable and recreational initiatives for workers, particularly during national and Eid holidays. MoHRE emphasized that such activities enhance productivity, promote positive values, and foster a sense of belonging among workers, ensuring compliance with laws protecting their rights and well-being. The annual event is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.