His Eminence Mr. Aroon Boonchom, Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, and delegation visited Egypt to participate in the 9th Fatwa International Conference under the theme “Fatwa and the Ethical Foundation in an Accelerating World” during 29-31 July 2024 in Cairo. His Eminence was invited to give a speech at the opening ceremony alongside high-level representatives from various countries. In his speech, His Eminence mentioned the role of the Office of Sheikhul Islam of Thailand in issuing fatwas and interaction with people of different faiths. He also emphasized that all Thai people have the right to freedom of religion as stipulated in the Constitution, and His Majesty the King of Thailand is the patron of all faiths. For these reasons, the people with diverse faiths in Thai society can coexist peacefully.

During the visit, His Eminence met with Prof. Dr. Shawki Ibrahim Allam, Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and Prof. Dr. Abbas Abdallah Abbas Soliman, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the World Association for Al-Azhar Graduates (WAAG) and Secretary General of Council of Senior Scholars, and exchanged views on ways to promote cooperation in fatwa and education.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Royal Thai Embassy, Cairo, Egypt.

H.E. Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, will pay an official visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt on 4-5 August 2024.

During the meetings, bilateral relations as well as current international and regional developments will be discussed.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The United Nations in Somalia strongly condemns the terrorist attack at Lido Beach in Mogadishu last night, reportedly killing at least 32 people and injuring many more.

The United Nations in Somalia expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery for the injured.

“Lido Beach is a popular place for Somalis to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the beauty of the Somali coastline. Targeting this location is an abhorrent act that warrants the firmest condemnation,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Acting Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan.

“As we join all peace-loving Somalis in mourning this sad loss, I reaffirm the United Nations’ support for and solidarity with the Federal Government of Somalia in its efforts to ensure peace, security, and stability in the country,” he added.

According to reports, the Al-Shabaab terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack, which involved a suicide bombing and a gun battle between the terrorists and Somali security forces.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).

The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, honored the Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education (SITE) graduation ceremony with their presence yesterday afternoon. Held at the University of Seychelles Auditorium, the event celebrated the achievements of students who successfully completed their studies.

Misael Bristol was awarded the prestigious President’s Cup for his exceptional performance throughout his studies. Praised for his dedication and resilience, Bristol also received the Best Academic Award for his Diploma in Secondary Education with a specialization in French. Alongside Bristol, several other outstanding students were recognized for their academic and professional excellence:

Best Academic Award in Certificate in Childcare and Development: Ms. Shabella Etienne
Best Academic Award in Diploma in Early Childhood: Ms. Issa Nibourette
Best Professional Practice Award and Best Academic Award in Diploma in Primary Education: Ms. Sylvie Vielle
Best Professional Practice Award and Best Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in English: Ms. Jamila Figaro
Best Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in History and Geography: Ms. Betty Constance
Most Improved Learner Award and Academic Award in Diploma in Secondary Education with Specialization in Mathematics: Ms. Lya Souffe
Best Male Award: Mr. Fabien Jeanne
Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education Award: Ms. Serena Flore

In her address, SITE Director Mrs. Mavis Lespoir urged graduates to embark on their teaching careers with an “innovative mind and positive attitude”. She emphasized the importance of leveraging acquired skills and knowledge to positively impact students’ lives. “In this digital age, the role of a teacher is evolving. Embrace new technology and innovative practices to engage and inspire your students. Continue to seek and adapt. Remember, education is not just about imparting knowledge, it is about inspiring curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing a love for learning,” Mrs. Lespoir stated.

The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of 64 graduates from various teaching programs, including 30 with a Certificate in Childcare and Development, one with a Certificate in Education for Teacher Assistants, 11 with a Diploma in Early Childhood, 13 with a Diploma in Primary Education and nine with a Diploma in Secondary Education. This diverse range of qualifications underscores SITE’s commitment to preparing educators for all levels of the Seychelles education system.

Distinguished guests included Minister of Education Mr. Justin Valentine, Minister for Employment and Social Affairs Mrs. Patricia Francourt, Principal Secretary for Education Mr. John Lesperance, Chancellor of the University of Seychelles Mrs. Joelle Perreau, members of the SITE Governing Board, sponsors and other invited guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.