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Sports

COMSTECH NMR Course Gains Global Traction with OIC Scientists

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Karachi, August 25, 2025, 03:06 AM PKT – The COMSTECH NMR course on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has attracted over 150 scientists from Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states. Launched on August 22, 2025, it marks a significant milestone in cross-national scientific collaboration within the Islamic community. Participation in Advanced NMR Training The International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) at the University of Karachi is hosting this comprehensive training program. Scientists from over 20 countries, including Malaysia and Nigeria, are participating. Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, highlighted the course’s importance in equipping researchers with advanced NMR skills. The main goal is to enhance research capabilities in pharmaceutical and material sciences. Program Structure and Key Features Running until November 15, 2025, the course, titled “Modern Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy – Theory and Applications,” is co-organized by COMSTECH and the Sindh Innovation, Research, and Education Network (SIREN). Course Offerings 30 hours of comprehensive lectures on NMR theory and applications Hands-on practical training in NMR techniques Molecular structure analysis for pharmaceutical applications 2 credit hours awarded upon successful completion Formal examinations and professional certification Hybrid Format Enhances Global Accessibility The program’s innovative hybrid format, which combines in-person and virtual sessions, receives high praise. This approach expands participation opportunities while maintaining quality hands-on training. “This is a game-changer for our research,” commented a participant from Malaysia. The flexible format allows researchers to engage in world-class training without extensive travel, thus saving time and costs. Future Expansions in Scientific Training The course’s impact on scientific collaboration among OIC nations has been widely recognized. COMSTECH plans to expand these training initiatives to cover more scientific fields, building on this program’s success. This expansion aims to strengthen research networks and enhance scientific capacity across member states. The success of this NMR course sets a precedent for future scientific capacity-building projects within the OIC. Stay updated at nenagency.

Pakistan

Atta ul Haq Qasmi to Mentor Young Writers Post-Nishan-e-Imtiaz Honor

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Lahore, August 24, 2025, 03:25 PM PKT – Renowned satirist and columnist Atta ul Haq Qasmi has launched a mentorship program for young Pakistani writers. This initiative follows his esteemed receipt of the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s highest civilian honor. Unveiling the Mentorship Program The mentorship program was announced at a literary gathering hosted by the Punjab Arts Council. It aims to foster talent in the following three primary areas: Journalism and media writing Poetry and creative expression Playwriting and dramatic arts Qasmi, whose illustrious career in literature and media spans five decades, shared with APP, “I want to pass on the art of satire and storytelling.” Achievements and Recognition On August 16, 2025, Qasmi was awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz alongside Mustansar Hussain Tarar. Qasmi’s significant contributions include authoring 20 books and writing numerous columns for major Pakistani newspapers. As the former Chairman of PTV, he made a noteworthy impact on Pakistan’s media landscape. The award ceremony was graced by intellectuals like Rehman Faris and Habib Akram, who celebrated his remarkable achievements. Program Details and Future Vision The mentorship initiative will provide specialized workshops and scholarships, concentrating on Urdu literature and humor writing. Organizers intend to enroll 100 students by 2026. Additionally, there are plans to digitize Qasmi’s extensive archives for public access, creating a valuable resource for future generations of Pakistani writers. Poet Aghar Nadeem Sahar observed, “His legacy will inspire generations.” The program stands as a vital investment in the future of Pakistan’s literary scene. Stay updated at nenagency.

World

UN Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Aid Workers in Conflict Zones

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New York, August 24, 2025, 03:19 PM PKT — The United Nations is urgently calling for global action to protect humanitarian workers, following a record 245 major attacks this year. This urgent plea highlights the increasing dangers faced by aid workers in conflict zones worldwide. Record Violence Against Humanitarian Workers The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is leading this appeal due to heightened violence in hotspots such as Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. Attacks on aid workers are becoming both more frequent and deadly, reaching alarming levels. Joyce Msuya, OCHA’s Assistant Secretary-General, addressed the UN Security Council with concerning statistics on humanitarian workers’ safety. She noted that 95% of attacks in 2024 targeted local aid workers. In Gaza alone, over 900 aid site deaths were reported, marking one of the deadliest periods for humanitarian personnel in recent times. Growing Security Risks for Field Personnel “Being shot at is not part of our job,” Msuya stated, referring to insights from the Aid Worker Security Database. This statement underscores the daily risks faced by humanitarian workers while delivering vital aid to vulnerable populations. The database provides comprehensive tracking of global incidents involving aid personnel, with 2025 data indicating a significant rise in violence against those providing relief in active conflict zones. UN Demands Stronger Enforcement of International Law The UN is advocating for strict enforcement of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions of 1949, designed to safeguard humanitarian workers in conflict areas. The resolution demands accountability from both state and non-state actors violating these protections. Key issues include: Armed forces attacking aid convoys Militant groups targeting humanitarian sites Entities obstructing humanitarian operations Tenfold Increase in Attacks Since 1990s Reports from Humanitarian Outcomes indicate a tenfold increase in attacks since the 1990s, with a rise in involvement by state-led militaries. This marks a significant shift from past trends, where non-state actors were chiefly responsible. Msuya called for global cooperation to restore respect for humanitarian law. She emphasized the importance of protecting aid workers to maintain humanitarian access to crisis-affected communities. Stay updated at nenagency.

Pakistan

ICT Police Intensify Bani Gala Crackdown, Arrest Two Suspects

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Islamabad, August 24, 2025, 03:13 PM PKT – The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have intensified their crackdown on criminal activities in Bani Gala. On August 24, 2025, they arrested two suspects during a thorough search operation. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities and enhance public safety in the capital’s rural regions. Intensive Search Operation in Bani Gala A police spokesperson reported that the operation was led by the Rural Superintendent of Police, with assistance from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and female officers. Their efforts aim to continue reducing crime in Bani Gala, building on previous initiatives. Comprehensive Inspections Undertaken During the operation, teams carried out detailed inspections, which included: Screening of 85 individuals Inspection of 70 households Examination of 45 shops Seizure of three unlicensed firearms Confiscation of one undocumented vehicle Leadership’s Dedication to Crime Reduction “Our goal is to eliminate crime and secure Bani Gala,” stated the SP Rural to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). This operation follows directives from DIG Syed Ali Raza for district-wide initiatives across Islamabad. The arrested suspects are being investigated for potential links to local criminal networks. Future Plans and Community Engagement The ICT Police plan to extend these operations to other areas within the capital territory. Future strategies will focus on enhanced biometric verification processes and stronger community cooperation. DIG Raza encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities via the Pukar-15 helpline. Active community engagement is crucial for maintaining security in Islamabad’s residential sectors. Stay updated at nenagency.

Pakistan

Tirich Mir Summit Sparks Adventure Tourism Boom in Chitral

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Chitral, August 24, 2025, 02:52 PM PKT – Pakistani mountaineers have successfully reached the summit of Tirich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush, standing at 7,708 meters. This remarkable achievement is leading to a surge in adventure tourism in Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Esteemed climbers Sirbaz Khan and Abid Baig from Gilgit-Baltistan led this successful ascent on August 24, 2025. Their accomplishment greatly elevates Chitral’s status as a prominent mountaineering hub, marking a significant milestone for its burgeoning adventure tourism sector. Growing International Interest The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA) has reported receiving over 200 inquiries from climbers around the world following this high-profile success. This influx of interest is solidifying Chitral’s emerging reputation as a top destination for mountaineers. During a press conference, KPCTA Director Umar Khan stated, “This historic climb, backed by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, underscores Chitral’s vast potential.” 75th Anniversary of Tirich Mir The expedition took place during the “Year of Tirich Mir,” celebrating 75 years since its first ascent in 1950. This significant anniversary has attracted considerable attention both locally and internationally. Local climbers Akmal Naveed and Shamsul Qamar became the first from Chitral to scale Tirich Mir, marking an important achievement for the local mountaineering community. Over 60 trekkers have reached the base camp, supported by 100 local porters, providing a notable boost to the local economy. Provincial Government Support The provincial government has waived climbing royalty fees for 2025–26 to attract global climbers to the region. Officials are planning future expeditions to peaks such as Noshaq in coming seasons. Sirbaz Khan commented, “Chitral’s peaks have the potential to rival the Himalayas for adventure tourism.” These efforts aim to create jobs and foster sustainable tourism growth in the region. The government’s support underscores a strong commitment to establishing adventure tourism as a key economic driver in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Stay updated at NEN Agency.

Sports

Green Pakistan Initiative Expands Afforestation in Swat to Combat Floods

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Swat, August 24, 2025, 02:37 PM PKT – The Green Pakistan Initiative is expanding its afforestation efforts in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with over 50,000 native saplings already planted. This federal program aims to enhance flood defenses in this climate-vulnerable area. Targeting Flood-Prone Areas Part of the Upscaling Green Pakistan Program, this national initiative strives to restore ecosystems and mitigate climate change, particularly in flood-prone regions. Local farmers and communities actively transform barren lands into green spaces to prevent natural disasters. The Ministry of Climate Change highlights previous achievements, such as planting 713 million saplings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In this effort, Swat’s Barikot and Buner districts are at the forefront. Community Engagement and Environmental Recovery Farmer Samad Khan, who has planted 10,000 trees, informed APP that these trees shield fields from floods and enhance soil health. The Green Pakistan Initiative focuses on the benefits of native species: Chir pine and Deodar improve soil stabilization. Native trees effectively slow floodwaters. Selected plants adapt to climate changes. These measures are crucial as the region recovers from severe floods experienced in 2022. Agroforestry Boosting Agricultural Productivity The program also emphasizes agroforestry, which enhances biodiversity and boosts crop yields by 20–30%. This approach supports both conservation and agricultural productivity objectives. Provincial authorities plan to plant 41 million saplings this monsoon. Real-time monitoring technologies are in place to ensure the program’s success. Federal Climate Resilience Strategy Federal Minister for Climate Change, Sherry Rehman, underscores trees as crucial defenses against climate-related disasters. The Green Pakistan Initiative is a vital component of Pakistan’s national climate policy, tackling environmental challenges on both federal and provincial levels. Stay updated at nenagency.

World

CAIR Urges US State Department to Reinstate Fired Press Officer

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Washington, August 24, 2025, 11:21 AM PKT – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is demanding the immediate reinstatement of Shahed Ghoreishi, a US State Department press officer dismissed on August 21, 2025. His firing, following disagreements over Gaza policy statements, has sparked controversy about free expression in US diplomatic institutions. Details of the Firing Shahed Ghoreishi was dismissed after drafting a statement opposing the forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza. The Department leadership rejected this statement, which led to his termination. CAIR condemned the dismissal as an attempt to silence dissent on US foreign policy issues, questioning the limits of diplomatic discourse. The ability for officials to express alternative policy positions remains a critical concern within diplomatic circles. CAIR’s Reinstatement Demand Nihad Awad, CAIR’s national executive director, criticized the dismissal, stating, “This unjust action reflects a pattern of punishing moral clarity.” Awad has called for a thorough investigation into the incident and formally requested Ghoreishi’s immediate reinstatement. Global Repercussions The incident has sparked a global debate over free expression within US diplomatic institutions. Critics emphasize the growing pressure to adhere strictly to approved messaging in diplomatic communications. Supporters of Ghoreishi argue that his stance is consistent with previous US policies on Palestinian displacement. This situation has drawn attention from foreign policy analysts and civil liberties advocates worldwide. Diplomatic Personnel Rights This firing raises broader questions about the rights of diplomatic personnel to voice concerns on policy matters. Foreign policy experts worry about a potential chilling effect on internal debate within American diplomatic institutions. Key issues include whether diplomatic staff can express dissenting views without risking termination, highlighting ongoing tensions between institutional loyalty and personal conscience in foreign policy circles. Stay updated at nenagency.

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