Embracing the Future: AI (Artificial Intelligence) Revolutionizing Industries Across the Globe

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern business, the digitalization of office spaces has emerged as a crucial catalyst for efficiency, productivity, and innovation. At the heart of this transformation lies the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), revolutionizing traditional work environments and paving the way for a more agile and connected future.

Streamlined Operations and Efficiency : AI has revolutionized office operations by automating tedious tasks that were once time-consuming and prone to error. Document management systems powered by AI now handle data entry, file organization, and record-keeping with precision. This automation not only enhances accuracy but also liberates employees to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth.
  • Automated Document Management
  • Predictive Maintenance
  • Supply Chain Optimization
  • Customer Service Automation
  • Operational Analytics and Insights
  • Workflow Optimization
  • Compliance and Risk Management
  • Employee Productivity Tools.
Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: In today's globalized business environment, effective communication is essential. AI technologies such as virtual meeting assistants and AI-powered chatbots facilitate seamless interaction across teams and geographical boundaries. These tools streamline communication channels, fostering collaboration and accelerating decision-making processes.

Data-driven Decision Making: The advent of AI has unlocked the potential of big data by enabling sophisticated analysis and insights. AI algorithms can predict market trends, analyze customer sentiments, and optimize business strategies with unparalleled accuracy. This data-driven approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions swiftly and confidently.

Personalized Work Experiences : AI-driven solutions are reshaping the workplace by personalizing experiences tailored to individual preferences and work styles. Intelligent scheduling assistants optimize workflows, while virtual assistants anticipate and respond to employee needs in real-time. These advancements enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, creating adaptive and responsive work environments. Innovative AI Applications

ChatGPT: AI's impact extends beyond office environments into groundbreaking innovations across various industries. For instance, ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI. ChatGPT is a form of generative AI is a tool that lets users enter prompts to receive humanlike images, text or videos that are created by AI. ChatGPT is similar to the automated chat services found on customer service websites, as people can ask it questions or request clarification to ChatGPT's replies. The GPT stands for "Generative Pre-trained Transformer," which refers to how ChatGPT processes requests and formulates responses. ChatGPT is trained with reinforcement learning through human feedback and reward models that rank the best responses.

Google Translate: is a free language translation tool offered by Google. It allows users to translate words, phrases, texts and entire web pages between different languages. Google Translate uses advanced natural language processing technologies, including machine learning and neural networks, to provide translations that are increasingly accurate and natural. It is available as both a browser version and a Google Translate app, making it an easily accessible and convenient tool for people around the world.

Tesla vehicle: Tesla, Inc., is an American manufacturer of electric automobiles, solar panels, and batteries for cars and home power storage. It was founded in 2003 by American entrepreneurs Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. Tesla is both an artificial intelligence company and a car company. The company's self-driving software, which is powered by AI, is one of its most important products. Tesla also has a number of other AI-related projects, such as the Optimus robot, which is still in development. Tesla has already automated much of its car-making process, using enormous robot arms to move heavy car panels. However, Optimus could be a useful robot to do more delicate tasks. Optimus is a general robot shaped like a human, and it can learn tasks that humans can already do.

AI in Healthcare and Finance: In healthcare, AI algorithms analyze vast medical datasets to diagnose diseases, personalize treatment plans, and assist in surgeries, improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency. In finance, AI powers algorithmic trading, fraud detection systems, and personalized financial advice through AI-driven chatbots, transforming how financial institutions manage risk and serve customers.

Security and Compliance: With cybersecurity becoming increasingly critical, AI-powered solutions monitor network activities, detect anomalies, and mitigate risks in real-time. These technologies ensure data security and regulatory compliance across digital platforms, safeguarding businesses and their customers from cyber threats.
  • AI-Powered Threat Detection
  • Proactive Risk Management
  • Enhanced Fraud Prevention
  • Regulatory Compliance Automation
  • Data Privacy and Confidentiality
  • Continuous Monitoring and Incident Response
  • Threat Intelligence and Collaboration.
The top 8 types of AI generated product or services There are many uses for artificial intelligence products. The use of AI is becoming more common every day, so you’re sure to see these use cases in your daily life.

Speech recognition: For speech recognition software, using AI allows for better natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML). The AI tech is actually capable of producing natural-sounding human speech without having to have real human intelligence.

Chatbots: Chatbots are examples of artificial intelligence and natural language processing being used together. Chatbots are designed to understand the questions they’re being asked and to automate their responses. Whenever you shop with e-commerce sites like; Amazon, eBay, or Bangladesh based sites like; Daraz, Foodpanda or Chaldal or any other e-commerce based businesses; you are likely to see a chat come up with a chatbot available for immediate questions. These are often used after hours when human customer service agents aren’t available.

Machine learning algorithms: Machine learning algorithms are used to make predictions and correct the process if a prediction is wrong. There are four types of MLA: supervised, semi-supervised, reinforcement, and unsupervised. These are each beneficial, but unsupervised is the most automated, allowing the machine to interpret data on its own as it finds new patterns without human instruction.

Mobile apps and smartphones: Mobile apps and smartphones use AI, as well. For example, think about Apple’s SIRI or Amazon’s Alexa. Both are AI software that responds to your inputs and gives you results. For example, SIRI can work as a text-to-speech or translation tool. Alexa can order from your favorite stores on Amazon for you.

Image recognition: Image recognition algorithms learn to identify patterns, such as what your face looks like. Image recognition can now be used to unlock your phone or to search for images that look the same across the internet.

Automation: AI automation is often used in e-commerce and by companies like Microsoft, Apple, or IBM to improve their background processes and workflows. Automation can quickly sort through data and complete data analytics for companies, for example, without having to have a human interacting on the machine learning platform.

Algorithms: Many algorithms are AI algorithms today. From autonomous vehicles to AI searching for breaches in cybersecurity, there are many AI tools being used by major corporations, startups, and smaller businesses to protect themselves and make their repetitive work easier. Data scientists are always trying to improve on these algorithms, so AI can continue to get better all the time.

Speech synthesis: AI is also used for speech synthesis, which is changing lives by making it possible to listen to and create vocal expressions using artificial intelligence. Speech synthesis can now be hyper-real, giving a voice to those who do not have one, or reading content to those who need to listen without the robotic vocal sounds of the past. Speech synthesis is used in healthcare by providers hoping to give a voice to those with disabilities. It is also used in other industries, like education, to make sure students and others can learn by leveraging the power of text to speech technology.

The Future of Work
Future work on and integration of AI will likely focus on advancing artificial intelligence to achieve greater generalization, reliability, and safety. Key areas of development may include improving the interpretability and transparency of AI systems, ensuring ethical usage, and mitigating biases in AI models. There will be a significant emphasis on enhancing AI’s ability to understand and generate human language more accurately, which will involve refining natural language processing and comprehension capabilities. Additionally, integrating AI with other emerging technologies like quantum computing and advanced robotics will be explored to unlock new potentials. Collaboration with global stakeholders to set regulatory standards and promote responsible AI deployment will also be crucial. Overall, the future of OpenAI will involve pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve while ensuring it aligns with human values and benefits society as a whole.

Conclusion
The digital transformation driven by AI is revolutionizing industries by enhancing efficiency, innovation, and customer experiences and also reshaping industries worldwide, redefining workflows, communication, and decision-making processes. By embracing AI technologies innovatively and responsibly, businesses can pave the way for a future where productivity, innovation, and connectivity converge seamlessly. AI enables organizations to automate routine tasks, analyze vast amounts of data for actionable insights, and make more informed decisions. This transformation is evident in various sectors, from healthcare, where AI aids in diagnostics and personalized treatment plans, to finance, where it improves fraud detection and risk management. In retail, AI personalizes shopping experiences and optimizes supply chains. Furthermore, AI-driven digital transformation fosters the development of smart cities with improved infrastructure and services. As businesses adopt AI technologies, they can innovate rapidly, stay competitive, and better meet the evolving needs of their customers. This shift not only optimizes operations but also creates new opportunities for growth and advancement in a digital-first world.

Md Mizanur Rahman, IT Manager, crafted this write-up, drawing insights from diverse international publications.

e-GP success draws appreciation from home and abroad

Aiming at building Smart Bangladesh under the Vision 2041, the government is working to ensure sustainable development as part of the 8th Five Year Plan and the Perspective Plan. For this, all concerned must maintain maximum transparency and accountability while conducting public procurement in order to ensure the best use of public money.

Mirza Ashfaqur Rahman, Director (Additional Secretary), Bangladesh Public Procurement Authority (BPPA), Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Department (IMED), Ministry of Planning, made such observations. He was speaking as the chief guest at an awareness workshop on BPPA’s functions and e-GP in Netrakona on May 16, 2024 (Thursday). Rafiquzzaman, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), Netrokona, presided over the workshop. The workshop was organized under the Digitizing Implementation Monitoring and Public Procurement Project (DIMAP) of BPPA. Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) facilitated workshops. The report was uploaded on the social media platforms of the BPPA. See the link below.

https://cptu.gov.bd/media-communication/news-1451.html

Effective Photo Exhibition and Discussion Highlights Infrastructure and Communication Awareness in Cox’s Bazar


Introduction: On June 4, 2024, the Cultural Center in Cox's Bazar hosted a significant event that showcased the dynamic landscapes of infrastructure and their profound societal impacts. Through a series of thought-provoking images/photos and engaging discussions, the event aimed to highlight the transformative power of infrastructure development and the essential role of communication in shaping sustainable communities under Emergency Multi-Sector Rohingya Crisis Response Project (EMCRP).

Overview: The event featured a photo exhibition and discussion focusing on infrastructure, communication, and awareness initiatives within the Rohingya camps and the host community in Cox's Bazar. The event attracted around 400 participants, including stakeholders, government officials, NGO representatives, community leaders, role model volunteers and community people.

Guest Profile: Notable attendees included the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC), Assistant RRRC, Executive Engineers from LGED and DPHE, the Director and CEO of BCCP, and the Upazila Engineer from LGED, Fire Service and Civil Defense, Forst Department, Cyclone Preparedness Center etc.

Inauguration, Chairmanship & Facilitation: The event was inaugurated by Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, RRRC, who formally inaugurated the exhibition, engaging with the detailed stories behind each photograph. The discussion session was chaired by Mr. Md. Mamun Khan, Executive Engineer of LGED, Cox's Bazar. Mr. Abu Hasib Mostafa Jamal, Team Leader of the EMCRP Communication Awareness Team and Senior Deputy Director of BCCP, facilitated the event, ensuring smooth proceedings, engaging dialogue, and an effective cultural program with a photo exhibition.
Content: The photo exhibition showcased images displaying infrastructure developments, communication facilities, and various awareness programs implemented within the Rohingya camps and the host community of Cox's Bazar. These visual presentations provided comprehensive insights into ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and promote social awareness in the region.

Discussion Topics:
  • EMCRP Infrastructure under LGED: Participants engaged in constructive dialogues regarding ongoing infrastructure projects initiated under the Emergency Multi-Sector Rohingya Crisis Response Project (EMCRP), assessing progress, challenges, and potential improvements.
  • Awareness Services: The importance of awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives was emphasized. Strategies to enhance awareness levels among both Rohingya refugees and the host community on various social, development, and environmental issues were deliberated.

Speech from Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, RRRC: “This exhibition is a demonstration to the government's commitment to improving the lives of its citizens through robust infrastructure development. Events like this help highlight the significant contributions made by the government in both urban and remote areas. The EMCRP, one of the largest projects by LGED, focuses on serving the common people. We must all use these facilities responsibly to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.”

Speech from Md. Mamun Khan, Executive Engineer, LGED, Cox’s Bazar: “I am delighted to be part of this project and this event organized by BCCP. The BCCP communication awareness team for EMCRP is doing an outstanding job in educating people about the importance of using government service facilities with care. I urge everyone to take ownership of these infrastructural developments as if they were your own wealth. Remember, you are the true owners of all facilities developed by the government.”

Speech from Mohammad Shahjahan, the Director and CEO of BCCP: “I want to emphasize the importance of communication awareness. Effective communication is important in ensuring that the benefits of infrastructure reach every individual. Our goal is to create a community that not only understands but also values and maintains these developments. By fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility, we can ensure the sustainability and success of these projects. Thank you for your time. Thanks to BCCP Communication and Awareness Team for EMCRP for their excellent hard work.”

Audience Engagement: The significant turnout underscored the community's interest and commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Rohingya refugees and the host community in Cox's Bazar. The event concluded with a cultural program performed by a youth group locally mobilized by BCCP and a community theater group, delivering awareness messages through entertainment.
Lessons Learned:
  • The Power of Visual Storytelling: Photos can convey powerful messages and evoke emotions, serving as catalysts for awareness, advocacy, and action.
  • Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Change: Infrastructure development builds the foundation for progress, prosperity, and sustainable development.
  • Interconnectedness and Collaboration: Addressing complex challenges requires collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and borders.
  • The Importance of Awareness and Education: Informed communities are essential agents of progress.
  • Equity and Inclusivity: Prioritizing equity and inclusivity in infrastructure development is important for creating resilient communities.
  • Continued Engagement and Action: The journey towards sustainable solutions requires continuous mobilization, engagement and advocacy.
Conclusion: The Photo Exhibition provided a platform for meaningful exchange and collaboration among stakeholders involved in addressing the Rohingya crisis. Through insightful discussions and visual representations, the event highlighted the progress made in infrastructure development, communication, and awareness initiatives, while also identifying areas for further enhancement. Such events play a crucial role in fostering community cohesion, raising awareness, and driving collective action towards sustainable solutions. EMCRP is a World Bank-supported project addressing the needs of both Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) and the Host Community at Cox's Bazar District. The project encompasses various activities such as building internal roads, bridges, culverts, school-cum-cyclone shelters, multipurpose community and service centers, solar streetlights, and lightning protection systems. These endeavors aim to enhance the quality of life for the local population in Cox's Bazar. Implementation of the project is a collaborative effort involving LGED, DPHE, and the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR). The Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) has been providing Communication and Awareness Service (CAS) to complement and strengthen the communication capacity for Social & Behavioral Change (SBC) of LGED and to aware FDMN and the host community to use the service facilities “with care”.


Empowering professionals: Insights from the Series of Communication, Community Engagement, and Social Behavior Change Training Sessions

Renewable energy can be relief for industries, policy sought Speakers at a programme in Dhaka underscored the need for formulation of a comprehensive policy on renewable energy in order to pave the passage for enhancing the use of renewable energy like solar power to meet the government’s target of generating 40 percent of electricity from the green sources.

They were speaking at a roundtable discussion titled ‘Rooftop Solar System in Bangladesh: Prospects and Challenges’. With support from Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL). The roundtable was organized by The Business Standard at its conference room in Dhaka on May 07, 2024. Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP organized this program as part of its activity under a contract with IDCOL.

Nirod Chandra Mondal, Joint Secretary, Renewable Energy, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Tazmilur Rahman, Deputy Director, KfW Office Dhaka, Alamgir Morshed, Executive Director & CEO, IDCOL, Md. Enamul Karim Pavel, Head of Renewable Energy, IDCOL, Dr. S. M. Nasif Shams, Associate Professor & Director, Energy Institute, University of Dhaka, Dipal Barua, renewble energy specialist and Councilor, World Future Council and Mollah M Amzad Hossain, Editor, Energy & Power spoke at the roundtable.

To read the news, please click the link below.
Govt plans 6000MW solar power hub in Jamalpur | The Business Standard (tbsnews.net)

বাংলাদেশে রুফটপ সোলার সিস্টেমের সম্ভাবনা ও চ্যালেঞ্জ নিয়ে বৈঠক


EMCRP's Progress and Impact Highlighted in Journalist Discussion


Introduction: Effective communication on required infrastructure is important for sustainable development. The Emergency Multi-sector Rohingya Crisis Response Project (EMCRP) exemplifies this principle, focusing on infrastructure development to support Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh. Funded by the World Bank and implemented by LGED, DPHE, and MoDMR, EMCRP aims to enhance living conditions and resilience in Cox's Bazar. Complementing these efforts, the Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) leads comprehensive communication and awareness activities to ensure community engagement.

Event Overview: On June 5, 2024, a discussion with journalists was held at the LGED office in Cox's Bazar to explore into the EMCRP's achievements and future plans. The event featured key stakeholders from LGED and BCCP, along with 28 journalists from various media outlets.

Key Participants:

  • Mr. Md. Mamun Khan, Executive Engineer, LGED, Cox's Bazar
  • Mr. Md. Abdur Rahman Muhem, Sr. Assistant Engineer, LGED, Cox’s Bazar
  • Mr. Mohammad Shahjahan, Director and CEO, BCCP
  • Mr. Abu Hasib Mostafa Jamal, Team Leader of BCCP Communication and Awareness Team for EMCRP, and Senior Deputy Director, BCCP
Objectives: The primary objective was to discuss ongoing and future infrastructural developments under EMCRP and highlight associated communication and awareness services (CAS) activities.

Discussion Highlights: Infrastructure Development: Mr. Md. Mamun Khan provided an overview of the EMCRP, focusing on infrastructure improvements in Cox's Bazar to support both local communities and Rohingya refugees. Key points included:
  • Road Construction and Maintenance: Significant progress in road construction and maintenance to enhance regional connectivity and economic activities.
  • Water Supply and Sanitation: Investments in water supply systems and sanitation facilities to ensure clean water access and hygienic conditions.
  • Educational and Health Facilities: Construction and renovation of schools, cyclone shelters, roads, culverts, drains, multipurpose community centers, solar streetlights, lightning arresters, and jetties to improve education and healthcare services.

"For reaching out the government facilities towards the common people area in Cox’s Bazar as well as the Rohingya community, BCCP is employing their awareness activities with their all-sincere efforts," said Mamun Khan.

Communication and Awareness Services (CAS): Mr. Abu Hasib Mostafa Jamal elaborated on CAS activities, which aim to:
  • Raise Awareness: Inform the community about the benefits and usage of the new infrastructure.
  • Engage the Community: Involve residents and stakeholders in planning and implementation phases.
  • Promote Hygiene and Safety: Disseminate information about maintaining hygiene and safety, particularly related to new water supply and sanitation facilities.

Journalist Interaction: The Q&A segment allowed journalists to ask questions and provide feedback, covering topics such as:
  • Transparency and Accountability: Measures ensuring transparency and accountability in EMCRP projects, with regular audits and community monitoring.
  • Impact on Local Communities: Positive impacts on local communities, including improved market access and better health services.
  • Future Plans: Ongoing assessments to identify further needs and potential project expansions.

Key Takeaways:
  • Enhanced Infrastructure: Significant strides in infrastructure improvements benefiting both locals and Rohingya people.
  • Effective Communication: Important CAS activities for ensuring community awareness and engagement.
  • Media's Role: Journalists can play a vital role in maintaining transparency and informing the public about project progress and impacts.

Conclusion: The discussion concluded with a consensus on the importance of continued collaboration, awareness activities and the media to ensure the successful implementation and communication of EMCRP projects. Mr. Mohammad Shahjahan, Director and CEO, BCCP thanked the journalists for their participation and encouraged them to keep reporting on the project's progress and impacts.


EMCRP Success story: A case from a dedicated social development worker
“Sharmin's relentless efforts transformed her community and the lives of many in the Rohingya camps”


Sharmin Akter spent a large portion of her initial years inside an organization, partly because of her parents' early deaths. Life wasn't easy for her, but she always had a kind heart and a tends towards resiliency. Being a wise and bright youngster, she began working with many NGOs and attempting to improve the community to manage her expenditures. A pivotal moment in Sharmin's life came when she met a Korean woman, a kind-hearted social worker visiting Bangladesh and planning to help 100 orphanages. She encouraged her to dream big and believed she could catalyze change in her community as a changemaker. Inspired by her words, Sharmin decided to dedicate her life to the welfare of her community.

Sharmin's journey from an orphan to a Nari-pokkho (NGO) is a testament to the power of determination, empathy, and the belief that one person can make a significant difference. While working at Rohingya Camp 4, she learned about EMCRP interventions for the first time. After getting training arranged by the EMCRP, she dedicatedly begun to motivate the community people of the host. She shared-

Living in a cyclone-prone area, Sharmin understood the necessity of having a safe place during a cyclone disaster. She tirelessly motivates community people to build awareness and go to the cyclone center by following proper instructions to ensure a well-equipped shelter and safety. Even though sometimes she participated in miking during the disaster. To aware people, she found billboards/signboards in the marketplace very effective. But in the Rohingya community, there is no alternative to courtyard meetings and leaflets/posters especially for women. As of higher illiteracy rate the visual aids will be more useful. Electricity was scarce in Sharmin's village, limiting productivity and safety after dark. According to her, Solar streetlights not only improved the villagers' quality of life but also enhanced security at night.

Deforestation was a pressing issue in Sharmin’s community, leading to soil erosion and biodiversity loss. She always encourages tree planting and sustainable land use practices. She encourages all the community members to preserve their natural environment and try to involve people of all ages in tree-planting activities. Sharmin's relentless efforts transformed her community and the lives of many in the Rohingya camps. Her community gradually achieved sustainable development and resilience, with improved health, safety, and environmental conservation. Her work in the community garnered recognition and support from EMCRP, amplifying her impact. For Sharmin, success wasn't measured by honors or recognition but by the tangible improvements in her community and the smiles on the faces of those she helped. She found inner peace in knowing that she had made a difference. Her story continues to inspire others, proving that with a dedicated heart and unwavering resolve, positive change is possible.


Editorial: Embracing AI for a Digital-First Future


In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern era of social development and the business fields, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a cornerstone of transformation. AI is making significant contributions to social development along with business and industry development with the production fields in a variety of ways. Across the development fields - from healthcare, environment protection, disaster management, education to economy and finance, and from manufacturing to productions; AI is revolutionizing operations, enhancing efficiencies, and driving innovation at an unprecedented pace.

The significant contribution of integrating AI is evident in the social development fields by addressing critical challenges through innovative solutions. AI-powered tools are enhancing healthcare access and delivery, improving diagnosis accuracy, and enabling personalized treatment plans. In education, AI is revolutionizing learning experiences with personalized tutoring systems and adaptive learning platforms that cater to individual student needs. Social services benefit from AI by optimizing resource allocation, streamlining case management, and improving the efficiency of social programs. AI also plays a pivotal role in environmental protection by monitoring climate change impacts, preserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable resource management practices.

Moreover, AI aids in disaster management by providing early warning systems, optimizing emergency response efforts, and facilitating post-disaster recovery. These AI applications are not only transforming traditional approaches but also fostering inclusive and sustainable development worldwide. At its core, AI empowers organizations to automate routine tasks, enabling employees to focus on higher-value strategic initiatives. Document management, supply chain optimization, and customer service automation are just a few examples where AI-driven solutions have streamlined operations, improved accuracy, and boosted productivity. AI facilitates enhanced communication and collaboration through virtual meeting assistants and AI-powered chatbots break down geographical barriers, fostering seamless interaction among global teams. This not only accelerates decision-making but also cultivates a collaborative culture essential for success in today's interconnected world.

As we navigate this digital transformation, it is crucial for businesses and policymakers alike to embrace AI innovatively and responsibly. By doing so, we can harness its full potential to create a future where productivity, innovation, and connectivity converge seamlessly, benefiting society as a whole. Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP), in order to elevate their digitization process, is in process of developing a comprehensive strategy that leverages the full potential of advanced technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation across all facets of organizational operations. This strategy aims to seamlessly integrate these technologies, transforming workflows and enabling BCCP to operate smarter, faster, and more effectively.

In conclusion, AI is not merely a technological advancement but a catalyst for a more efficient, innovative, and connected future. By embracing AI technologies thoughtfully and proactively, businesses can position themselves at the forefront of change, driving growth and delivering value in an increasingly digital-first world.







“AstraZeneca admits its Covid vaccine can cause rare side effect in court documents for first time” (28 April 2024 – The Telegraph)
AstraZeneca has admitted for the first time in court documents that its Covid vaccine can cause a rare side effect, in an apparent about-turn that could pave the way for a multi-million pound legal payout. read more...


“Saving Seconds Is Better Than Hours” (30 April 2024 – Time)
For nearly eight years, I spent almost every day sitting behind a wall of computer screens. I was a high-frequency trader, and my job was to create algorithms that would trade billions of dollars in stocks at microsecond speeds—trying to capture fractions of a penny of mathematical price discrepancies. read more...


“There is ‘nowhere safe to go’ for the 600,000 children of Rafah, warns UNICEF” (06 May 2024 - UNICEF)
With hundreds of thousands of children in Rafah injured, sick, malnourished, traumatized or living with a disability, UNICEF calls for children to not be forcibly relocated, and the vital infrastructure on which children rely to be protected read more...


“Enhancing capacity for malaria vaccine introduction and rollout in Africa through experience sharing” (08 May 2024 – WHO)
Accra, Ghana - Since 2019, Ghana, Kenya and Malawi have been rolling out malaria vaccines, with over 2.5 million children already receiving at least one dose of the life-saving vaccine that is protecting children from deadly malaria.
In 2024, more than 20 countries in Africa are to introduce the vaccine into routine immunization, with Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Benin, Liberia and Sierra Leone already leading the way. The scale-up of malaria vaccines in Africa will increase access to malaria prevention and save tens of thousands of young lives every year. read more...


“What feeds us, doesn’t have to harm us” (14 May 2024 – World Bank)
Many of us are aware of what’s on our plates, and how it affects the climate.
Consider this: bringing food to the table generates almost a third of all greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture is the number one source of methane, biodiversity loss, and freshwater consumption. If it was a country, food waste would be the third largest emitter after the United States and China. read more...


“Bird flu: 'No evidence' H5N1 virus spreading among people” (16 May 2024 – DW)
Health authorities have confirmed that a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been spreading among dairy cattle in nine US states since March 2024. The H5N1 bird flu virus has been found in the raw milk of infected cows, including in samples of milk sold in grocery stores. US health agencies said milk products were safe to consume when pasteurized because the pasteurization process kills the virus. But they recommend against consuming raw milk products. read more...


“People want 'dumbphones'. Will companies make them?” (20 May 2024 – BBC)
Self-labelled neo-Luddites and the tech-stressed are searching for phones with fewer features. Industry experts cite precarious profit margins and a wobbly market around this niche need. The iPhone turns 17 this year. The launch of the touchscreen-controlled device signalled a moment that has defined our expectations of smartphones ever since. read more...


“Tobacco and nicotine industry tactics addict youth for life” (23 May 2024 – WHO)
The World Health Organization (WHO) and STOP, a global tobacco industry watchdog, are launching today “Hooking the next generation,” a report highlighting how the tobacco and nicotine industry designs products, implements marketing campaigns and works to shape policy environments to help them addict the world’s youth. read more...


“COVID-19 eliminated a decade of progress in global level of life expectancy” (24 May 2024 – WHO)
The latest edition of the World Health Statistics released today by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic reversed the trend of steady gain in life expectancy at birth and healthy life expectancy at birth (HALE). The pandemic wiped out nearly a decade of progress in improving life expectancy within just two years. Between 2019 and 2021 read more...


“UNHCR Bangladesh Operational Update, April 2024” (27 May 2024 – ReliefWeb)
2024 JOINT RESPONSE PLAN (JRP): As of 30 April, the 2024 JRP was 16% funded, with USD 133.2 million received against an appeal of USD 852.4 million. The 2024 JRP requests continued support for one million Rohingya refugees, who remain dependent on humanitarian assistance read more...


“China's lunar probe could return with answer to origins of solar system” (03 June 2024 – VOA)
BEIJING — China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe looks set to begin its historic journey back to Earth from the moon's far side after collecting samples that scientists expect will help answer key questions about the early evolution of the solar system. Chang'e-6, named after the mythical Chinese moon goddess, was launched on May 3 from the southern Chinese island province of Hainan. read more...


“Global rich must pay more to tackle climate crisis, says architect of Paris deal” (04 June 2024 – Yahoo News)
The wealthy have a complicated relationship with climate change. The super-rich are some of the biggest polluters in the world, thanks to their continued investments in high-emissions industries and penchant for private jets. At the same time, they include among their number some of the most influential people and groups in guiding climate policies. read more...


“Tripling clean electricity by 2030 achievable: International Energy Agency” (04 June 2024 – Aljazeera)
A global goal to triple the production of electricity from clean sources such as solar and wind power by 2030 is “ambitious but achievable”, says the world’s leading independent energy analyst. Nearly 200 countries, including the world’s biggest polluters, pledged themselves to that goal in Dubai last December under the auspices of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. read more...


“Rohingya crisis” (12 May 2024 – UNICEF)
When hundreds of thousands of terrified Rohingya refugees began flooding onto the beaches and paddy fields of southern Bangladesh in August 2017, it was the children who caught many people’s attention. As the refugees – almost 60 per cent of whom were children – poured across the border from Myanmar into Bangladesh, they brought with them accounts of the unspeakable violence and brutality that had forced them to flee. read more...


“OpenAI releases GPT-4o, a faster model that’s free for all ChatGPT users” (13 May 2024 - The Verge)
OpenAI is launching GPT-4o, an iteration of the GPT-4 model that powers its hallmark product, ChatGPT. The updated model “is much faster” and improves “capabilities across text, vision, and audio,” OpenAI CTO Mira Murati said in a livestream announcement on Monday. read more...


“Global firms charged $104b for carbon emissions in 2023” (22 May 2024 – The Financial Express)
LONDON, May 21 (Reuters): Countries raised a record $104 billion last year by charging firms for emitting carbon dioxide, but prices remain too low to drive changes needed to meet Paris climate accord targets, the World Bank said in a report on Tuesday. Several countries are using a price on carbon emissions to help meet their climate goals by making polluters pay in the form of a tax, or under an emissions trading system (ETS), or cap-and-trade system. read more...

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