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HKBU studies show over half of COVID-19 patients have post-disease syndrome

Hong Kong Baptist University

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 1 November 2023 - The School of Chinese Medicine at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) found that 55% of the patients who sought medical treatment from the "HKBU Chinese Medicine Telemedicine Centre Against COVID-19" during the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic continued to experience at least one long COVID symptom for six months to a year after diagnosed with an infection. The most common symptoms are fatigue, brain fog and cough. Professor Bian Zhaoxiang, Director of the Clinical Division at HKBU’s School of Chinese Medicine (middle), together with his research team members Mr Cheung Chun-hoi, Associate Director of the Clinical Division (2nd left); Dr Zhang Jialing, Postdoctoral Fellow of the Centre for Chinese Herbal Medicine Drug Development (1st left); Mr Luo Jingyuan and Wong Hoi-ki, PhD students (2nd and 1st right) of SCM at HKBU, analyse patient statistics to deepen the medical community’s understanding of the symptoms during the early and middle stages of COVID-19 infection as well as the post-COVID syndrome. The study also revealed that patients who took Chinese medicine after COVID-19 infection took a shorter time to test negative in rapid tests, and experienced significant symptom relief compared to patients who did not take Chinese medicine. The research findings have been published in a number of papers in international academic journals including the Journal of Medical Virology and The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. HKBU established the "HKBU Chinese Medicine Telemedicine Centre Against COVID-19" in 2021 during the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong to provide free telemedical services for COVID-19 patients. Making reference to the treatment protocols and clinical experiences in Mainland China, the expert team of HKBU's School of Chinese Medicine formulated the "Chinese Medicine Clinical Guidelines for COVID-19 in Hong Kong" as the University's clinical diagnosis and treatment standards for COVID-19. The Telemedicine Centre follows the guidelines to provide diagnosis, treatment, and prevention services to COVID-19 patients, close contacts, and caregivers. Coughing is the most common early symptom of infection The HKBU research team led by Professor Bian Zhaoxiang, Director of the Clinical Division at the School of Chinese Medicine, conducted a retrospective study using patient statistics collected by the Telemedicine Centre during the fifth wave of the pandemic. The team analysed the symptoms in the first four weeks of about 13,000 patients who were infected with COVID-19 from mid-March to early May in 2022 and underwent home isolation. The results showed that 93% of patients experienced at least one symptom. The most common symptoms during the first week of infection were cough (91%), sputum (75%), dry throat (50%) and sore throat (44%). 17% of patients still had these symptoms four weeks after infection. Although the symptoms gradually subsided over time, the prevalence of fatigue increased. Chinese medicine accelerates viral clearance Among this batch of patients, the research team selected 311 patients who had taken Chinese medicine for five days within 10 days after diagnosis, and another 311 patients who had not taken any Chine medicine during the same period to evaluate the efficacy of Chinese medicine. The results showed that patients who took Chinese medicine within 10 days after COVID-19 infection needed an average of seven days to test negative in rapid tests, and experienced an average of four symptoms, which were significantly milder compared to patients who didn't take Chinese medicine. The average time to test negative for patients who did not take Chinese medicine was eight days, and they experienced an average of 11 symptoms. The results show that Chinese medicine is an effective treatment for COVID-19 infection. Over half of the patients experience long COVID after six months The research team conducted a follow-up telephone survey from November 2022 to January 2023 with 6,242 COVID-19 patients who sought medical consultation at the Telemedicine Centre between December 2021 and May 2022 to understand their symptoms and risk factors after six months to a year of infection. The study found that 55% of patients still experienced at least one long-term symptom, i.e. "long COVID" or "post-COVID syndrome". The most common symptoms were fatigue (36%), brain fog (34%) and cough (31%). Furthermore, females, middle-aged persons, obese people, those with comorbidities such as ophthalmology or otorhinolaryngology diseases, digestive system diseases, respiratory diseases, hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases, and patients with more initial symptoms were more likely to develop long COVID. However, there was no significant correlation between taking three or more doses of vaccine and the occurrence of long COVID. Professor Bian said: "HKBU established the Telemedicine Centre during the COVID-19 outbreak to provide free treatments for COVID-19 patients. We analysed the Centre's data to deepen the medical community's understanding of the symptoms during the early and middle stages of COVID-19 infection as well as the post-COVID syndrome. It allows the public to understand the effectiveness of Chinese medicine in treating COVID-19. The study also shows that the tele-services of Chinese medicine can be an important component of Hong Kong's healthcare and disease prevention system." To address the issues of long COVID, Professor Bian's team has initiated a series of clinical and basic research, including a survey of COVID-19 patients with diabetes and a clinical trial conducted in collaboration with other partners to investigate the efficacy, safety and action mechanism of senlingcao oral liquid in treating long COVID fatigue. These projects aim to further explore the impact of COVID-19 and its treatment options. Contact Details Christina Wu christinawu@hkbu.edu.hk

November 01, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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How Ambow Education (NYSE: AMBO) Is Potentially Revolutionizing The Future Of Education With HybriU AI Digital Learning

Ambow Education Holding

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga The world of education is rapidly evolving, largely due to changes in technology and an increased need for remote or hybrid learning. As a result, companies such as Ambow Education Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: AMBO) are stepping up to provide innovative solutions that address the changing needs of educators and students alike. Ambow’s HybriU AI digital education solution seems to be gaining attention and is being employed in a range of environments to achieve various goals. Ambow, a leading AI technology-driven educational company operating primarily in the United States, seems poised to transform education with its latest innovation – the HybriU AI digital education solution. This cutting-edge solution is powered by groundbreaking OOOK technology and is a patented system designed to modernize and elevate educational and workforce training for students. By harnessing this advanced technology, Ambow seeks to provide students with comprehensive and current resources, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world. The online education sector seems to be on a trajectory for growth, projected to more than triple from its 2022 valuation of $192 billion to $602 billion by 2030, at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2% from 2022 to 2030. The distinct advantages offered by HybriU, tailor-made for the new hybrid learning paradigm, seem to position Ambow Education at the forefront of the industry. Ambow aims to be the driving force in the sector, propelling hybrid learning experiences into the future. One of HybriU's potential benefits is to bridge learning gaps within school districts. With its personalized learning capabilities, HybriU empowers educators to create customized educational content tailored to individual students' specific needs. This enables students to learn at their own pace and receive targeted support where they face challenges. Moreover, the solution ensures remote accessibility, which is particularly beneficial for students in rural or underserved communities who may otherwise lack access to high-quality educational resources. Another compelling use for HybriU lies in its ability to facilitate interactive hybrid teaching across multiple branches and sites. By transcending geographical boundaries, HybriU aims to foster a more engaging and dynamic learning experience for students across different locations and branches This flexible approach to education effectively extends the reach of universities and colleges beyond state and international borders, thereby granting access to a broader audience. Equally significant is HybriU's capability to provide data-driven insights, enabling educators to develop effective strategies for addressing learning gaps. By analyzing performance data, HybriU can pinpoint precisely where students encounter difficulties and provide teachers with invaluable insights into how best to support their students' specific learning needs. With the assistance of remedial and enrichment materials, HybriU can also provide students with targeted support to help them catch up in specific subjects or excel further. The HybriU AI digital education solution seems poised to be a transformative force in education, reshaping the landscape of learning. From closing learning gaps and improving accessibility to enabling interactive teaching across diverse educational environments, to many it comes as no surprise that HybriU is capturing attention and delivering desirable results for its users. As the field of education continues to evolve, solutions like HybriU can likely be expected to play a vital role in empowering educators and students to unlock their full potential. Ambow aims to be at the forefront of this educational revolution, driving the future of learning. To sign up for a free demo of HybriU, visit http://www.hybriU.com or www.ambow.com. Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a leading cross-border career educational and technology service provider, offering high-quality, individualized services and products. With its extensive network of regional service hubs complemented by a dynamic proprietary learning platform and distributors, Ambow provides its services and products to students in China and United States of America. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Kevin Derrivan kderrivan@amboweducation.com Company Website https://www.ambow.com/

November 01, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

New Business Owner Chris Greene Buys Alloy Printing, Opens Minuteman Press Franchise in White Plains, NY

Minuteman Press International Inc

In April of 2023, Chris Greene made the decision to switch gears and become a business owner. That is when Chris purchased over 40-year business Alloy Printing from Mary Jane and Alan Goldman, which is now operating as the new Minuteman Press franchise in White Plains, NY. The business remains located at 190 East Post Rd., White Plains, NY 10601, a 6,000 sq. ft. facility where it has been operating since 1995. Since buying the business, Chris has already hit several key milestones for Minuteman Press in White Plains. He attributes his sales growth to picking up where the previous owners of Alloy Printing left off – by joining local business organizations and maintaining existing client relationships. Chris has also been building on his established client base by marketing additional products and services such as custom branded apparel. History of Alloy Printing Mary Jane Goldman first joined the printing industry in 1979 when she opened a PIP Printing location in Yonkers. She moved the center to its current location at 190 East Post Rd. in 1995, and then eventually transitioned the business to an independent operation, Alloy Printing. Prior to owning the business, Mary Jane worked as a nurse for 11 years before looking for a change. In a previous interview with The Examiner, Mary Jane explained, “My options were open. I was taking a sabbatical. I could always go back to nursing. My parents had friends that were in printing and did very, very well. And I decided that would be a challenge that I would like to take on.” After initially expanding to three locations, the Goldmans decided to focus only on their White Plains location, where they had been residents since 1987. Mary Jane shared, “Sometimes more isn’t always better.” Alan noted, “[White Plains] is the center of the county. It’s the county seat. It’s where all the action is.” During their years in business, Mary Jane and Alan were active in several local groups including the White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District and many more. New owner Chris Greene has followed their lead, saying, “I was just appointed to the Board of the White Plains Downtown Business Improvement District and am also a member of the Business Council of Westchester. I have found these groups to be very beneficial in terms of networking and building/keeping relationships.” One thing that has never changed in over 40 years is the fact that people need and use print. Alan shared with The Examiner, “We’re supposed to be a more paperless society. But we find it’s not a paperless society.” In the interview, he added, “The internet doesn’t serve what we produce. We’re more of a hands-on, come in, sit down, let’s go over it. What can we do? How can we help? How can we both work together to produce what you want and make you successful? Because if you’re successful, we’re successful.” Welcome to Minuteman Press, White Plains Prior to buying the business, Chris Greene worked in corporate advertising, sales, and marketing. Chris shares, “The three biggest reasons I chose to buy Alloy Printing and transition to Minuteman Press are: My desire to be a business owner and move out of the corporate world; I look at the printing industry as an offshoot to what I was doing in my advertising career; The quality of my experience in learning about Minuteman Press and Alloy Printing.” Chris adds, “The training and support from Minuteman Press has been great. The training helped me develop a solid base of knowledge on how to operate a print business. When I’ve needed support in terms of learning or ramping up my marketing, my RVP Jim Galasso and the entire team have been great in giving me direction. It has been a positive experience all the way around.” When reflecting on the first six-plus months, Chris shares, “When I first started, my number one priority was to reassure our existing customer base that the high quality and customer service that they previously had was not going anywhere. As we look towards further growth, the first area we’ve grown from a product standpoint has been apparel, which we are actively marketing.” He adds, “For me, it’s not about being the boss as much as it’s about how I am spending my day. I enjoy giving our customers the products that we make. That the finished products are directly associated with my ownership of the business is very rewarding.” Minuteman Press in White Plains is located at 190 East Post Rd., White Plains, NY 10601. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ny/white-plains Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com To learn about selling your printing business through Minuteman Press at no cost or broker fees to you, visit https://sellyourprintingbusiness.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

October 30, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Southern University’s World-Famous “Human Jukebox” Marching Band Partners with SIGMA to Elevate Video Production Quality

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

Southern University’s esteemed Human Jukebox Marching Band has entered into an exciting and exclusive partnership with SIGMA Corporation of America, a leading camera and lens manufacturer for both photography and cinema applications, to enhance the quality of their video production when chronicling and producing their prestigious performances. This is the third academic year that SIGMA has sponsored the Human Jukebox. A world-famous marching band with a rich history of performances at prestigious events such as the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and college and professional football games’ halftimes, the Human Jukebox is known for its captivating shows and choreography, which includes the talented Dancing Dolls ensemble. The band's reputation plays a vital role in attracting students to Southern University and cultivating valuable partnerships, and sharply capturing their performances is of utmost importance. In 2014, Eric Johnson, the Human Jukebox’s Marketing and Brand Manager, along with Jabari Morgan (marketing) and Media Director Garrett Edgerson, embarked on a journey to develop a strong brand identity and elevate the band's presence in the world of collegiate marching bands. Their success in building an impressive online presence on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and beyond has garnered attention from notable artists such as Lizzo, Adele, 50 Cent, DJ Khaled, and Janet Jackson. The Human Jukebox's ability to capture their performances and share them with the world relies heavily on consistent high-quality video production. In 2020, the band turned to SIGMA, drawn to SIGMA's reputation for providing premium yet affordable lenses. SIGMA's dedication to customer service and a shared passion for creative excellence led to the establishment of a productive partnership. "An appreciation for art is cultivated during a person’s formative school years and is something SIGMA has always been passionately supportive of," says Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of SIGMA America. "Having the opportunity to help bring the Human Jukebox’s work to life for the past three years with crisply captured video, and to contribute to the long-term growth of this HBCU, has been an honor.” Southern University’s Media Director Garrett Edgerson, a photographer and filmmaker, heads a team of four students and three alumni responsible for creating captivating content for the Human Jukebox. To ensure top-notch video quality, Edgerson and his team have embraced SIGMA lenses as their go-to choice for capturing the band's performances. "Like many HBCUs, Southern University's marching band plays a crucial role in attracting students from all over the world," said Eric Johnson, the Human Jukebox's Marketing and Brand Manager. “SIGMA lenses have taken our production level to a whole new height with compact form factor, lighter weight, and excellent build, making it easier for the team to capture stunning footage during performances and events. Hollywood-quality video has advanced our reputation, leading to additional sponsorships and partnerships that help support students' education and band expenses.” To learn more about how the Southern University Marching Band Media team utilizes SIGMA gear for their work, please visit this behind-the-scenes piece. About SIGMA Corporation of America SIGMA Corporation of America, founded in 1984, is the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of lenses, cameras and photo accessories. With U.S. headquarters in Ronkonkoma, NY, SIGMA Corporation of America expanded with a showroom and office in Burbank, CA in 2018 to support the Hollywood filmmaking industry. Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Leica, Nikon, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 35 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America on social media! SIGMA Photo: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SIGMA Cine: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details SIGMA +1 631-201-7381 SIGMA.PR@Sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

October 24, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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The 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation: Redefining Learning Trends with AI

CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach - 20 October 2023 - The rapid development of artificial intelligence in recent years has opened the way for AI to revolutionize learning. The most talked-about education-related topic in 2023 is how AI and other examples of cutting-edge technology can change the way we teach our children. Concurrently, interdisciplinary learning that revolves around urban centers is also catching on around the world thanks to its culturally rich, explorative nature. The main theme of the 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation, hosted by CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing, was "AI x Education: Redefining Learning". The topics of discussion focused on education goals, learning methods, and a deep dive into "why we learn" in the era of AI. In addition to the insightful discourse on global education trends, an exciting new program in this year's forum was the series of individual seminars that zeroed in on specific concepts, such as career planning, hands-on learning, and OPEN365, an invigorating new approach to improving education with outside-the-box thinking. The aim of the conference was to inject new ideas into Taiwan's education innovation ecosystem, so that it may have a lasting effect on the education system. Nearly a thousand parents and education workers participated in the annual extravaganza. A special highlight of the conference was the talk on "The World is Your School: Making Learning Fun with Technology", which saw Teachers Lead Tech founder Monika Katkute sharing success stories from Lithuania, in which EdTech helped students expand their understanding of the world. Hsiao-Yue Tsao, Chair of the Graduate Institute of Interactive Media Design at National Taipei University of Technology, spoke about cooperation between businesses and academia that aims to advance technological education. With her guidance, participants were able to experience the new era of the Metaverse, as well as inspiring new applications in AR, VR, and XR tech that showcased the creativity and diversity of Taiwan's education scene. Taiwan's booming EdTech industry was another area of great interest, as speakers shared case studies about how AI was used to teach students to play Go, the contribution of robots and the Internet of things (IoT) on campuses, interactive online courses, the utilization of tech to promote aesthetic education for children, etc. The rich tapestry of seminars and exhibitions allowed participants to witness live demonstrations on how AI and technology can be integrated into learning. The audience was wowed by different tech applications and how technology can turn the world of education on its head while creating new business opportunities. The proposed end goal is to change the methods of "teaching" and "learning" so that the ideal of "Personalized Learning" can become reality. The 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation hosted by CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing will continue to use its media influence to build new platforms for education innovation. Through in-depth dialogue and the free sharing of ideas, it is hoped that the education ecosystem will thrive and bring about greater cooperation between academia and the private sector. Contact Details CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing LO AN LIN roanlin@cw.com.tw

October 23, 2023 09:33 AM Eastern Daylight Time

GPE Launches Virtual Reality Film on Climate Change And Education

The Global Partnership for Education (GPE)

WASHINGTON D.C., MAPUTO - Media OutReach - 23 October 2023 - The Global Partnership for Education (GPE) launched today Education in the eye of the storm – a virtual reality film in partnership with UNICEF showcasing the challenges that climate change poses on children’s education in Mozambique. Education in the eye of the storm invites users to experience how extreme weather events are impacting education and how children and their communities are adapting. Cyclone Freddy, the longest-lasting tropical cyclone on record, hit Mozambique twice - on February 24 and March 11, 2023 - causing strong winds combined with heavy rains and wreaking havoc on the lives of hundreds of thousands of families. “Viewers will experience Cyclone Freddy’s intensity and get a visceral understanding of the challenges faced by the community during this natural disaster,” said Laura Frigenti, GPE’s Chief Executive Officer. “Education is an underestimated but critical pillar of climate action. GPE will continue helping partner countries develop climate-smart education systems,” added Frigenti. “As the climate crisis intensifies, Mozambique continues to face recurrent cyclones and climate shocks, which are putting children’s ability to learn in serious jeopardy. That’s why UNICEF is working with Government of Mozambique and partners to invest in climate resilient classrooms, which can stand up to the strongest storms and make sure children remain in school – even after disasters strike,” said Maria Luisa Fornara, UNICEF Representative in Mozambique. Through a 360° immersive experience, users can access videos, photos, interviews and other content to understand the scale of the destruction caused by Cyclone Freddy and its consequences for children’s education. Keeping children in school through climate-related event starts with building resilient education systems. This includes risk-sensitive planning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and advancing curricula and teacher training on climate and disaster risk reduction. To fully harness the potential of education for climate action, GPE is working with partners to offer technical support to include climate-risk in countries’ plans, fosters cross-sector coordination and financing for adaptation efforts. With almost one third of GPE grants supporting climate change response efforts, GPE also launched the Climate Smart Education Systems initiative in partnership with Save the Children and UNESCO, to enhance countries’ capacities to include climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability into education sector plans and budgets. Access https://educationinthestorm.org/ to view the virtual reality film. Read the Factsheet: Confronting climate change through education About UNICEF The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in some of the world's toughest places to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them reach their true potential. Across 190 countries and territories, UNICEF works for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for all. And we never give up. For more information on UNICEF Mozambique and its work for every child, visit www.unicef.org.mz. About the Global Partnership for Education GPE is a shared commitment to ending the world’s learning crisis. We mobilize partners and funds to support nearly 90 lower-income countries to transform their education systems so that every girl and boy can get the quality education they need to unlock their full potential and contribute to building a better world. www.globalpartnership.org Contact Details GPE Head of Communications Tamara Kummer +33 7 82 26 07 18 tkummer@globalpartnership.org Chief of Advocacy, Communication and Partnerships (ACP), UNICEF Mozambique Guy Taylor (English) +258 85 183 9954 gutaylor@unicef.org Communication Officer, UNICEF Mozambique Gabriel Pereira (Portuguese) +258 84 522 1721 gpereira@unicef.org

October 23, 2023 04:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

The 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation: Redefining Learning Trends with AI

CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach - 20 October 2023 - The rapid development of artificial intelligence in recent years has opened the way for AI to revolutionize learning. The most talked-about education-related topic in 2023 is how AI and other examples of cutting-edge technology can change the way we teach our children. Concurrently, interdisciplinary learning that revolves around urban centers is also catching on around the world thanks to its culturally rich, explorative nature. The main theme of the 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation, hosted by CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing, was "AI x Education: Redefining Learning". The topics of discussion focused on education goals, learning methods, and a deep dive into "why we learn" in the era of AI. In addition to the insightful discourse on global education trends, an exciting new program in this year's forum was the series of individual seminars that zeroed in on specific concepts, such as career planning, hands-on learning, and OPEN365, an invigorating new approach to improving education with outside-the-box thinking. The aim of the conference was to inject new ideas into Taiwan's education innovation ecosystem, so that it may have a lasting effect on the education system. Nearly a thousand parents and education workers participated in the annual extravaganza. A special highlight of the conference was the talk on "The World is Your School: Making Learning Fun with Technology", which saw Teachers Lead Tech founder Monika Katkute sharing success stories from Lithuania, in which EdTech helped students expand their understanding of the world. Hsiao-Yue Tsao, Chair of the Graduate Institute of Interactive Media Design at National Taipei University of Technology, spoke about cooperation between businesses and academia that aims to advance technological education. With her guidance, participants were able to experience the new era of the Metaverse, as well as inspiring new applications in AR, VR, and XR tech that showcased the creativity and diversity of Taiwan's education scene. Taiwan's booming EdTech industry was another area of great interest, as speakers shared case studies about how AI was used to teach students to play Go, the contribution of robots and the Internet of things (IoT) on campuses, interactive online courses, the utilization of tech to promote aesthetic education for children, etc. The rich tapestry of seminars and exhibitions allowed participants to witness live demonstrations on how AI and technology can be integrated into learning. The audience was wowed by different tech applications and how technology can turn the world of education on its head while creating new business opportunities. The proposed end goal is to change the methods of "teaching" and "learning" so that the ideal of "Personalized Learning" can become reality. The 2023 International Conference on Education Innovation hosted by CommonWealth Education Media & Publishing will continue to use its media influence to build new platforms for education innovation. Through in-depth dialogue and the free sharing of ideas, it is hoped that the education ecosystem will thrive and bring about greater cooperation between academia and the private sector. Contact Details LO AN LIN roanlin@cw.com.tw

October 20, 2023 09:22 AM Eastern Daylight Time

GLOBAL ENGINEER GIRLS ACHIEVES MILESTONE IN KOSOVO TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY IN STEM

Limak

GLOBAL ENGINEER GIRLS ACHIEVES MILESTONE IN KOSOVO TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY IN STEM Prishtine, October 18, 2023 - Global Engineer Girls (GEG), the international philanthropic initiative aiming to improve women’s representation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), proudly announces the graduation of 20 young women from its flagship program in Kosovo. Implemented by Limak Group in partnership with the UNDP in Kosovo, GEG Kosovo empowers young women and girls enrolled in STEM education and provides them with opportunities to gain crucial experience in a male-dominated industry. The project aims to inspire the next generation of female engineers, and highlight the strides made towards gender equality in STEM education. The graduation ceremony marked the successful completion of a year-long journey of scholarships, training, mentorship, and internships, all provided by GEG Kosovo. The ceremony also highlighted the projects undertaken by the girls during their participation in the program, including digital communication, effective team management, personal brand-building, communication, and interpersonal skills. These projects serve as compelling evidence that extending opportunities to girls is a vital way to prepare them for successful futures in the STEM world. President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, in her speech, mentioned, "We must ensure that all our bright minds have equal opportunities to pursue the education of their choice. We need these equal minds in order to address the critical issues of our time, such as climate change and AI. We cannot afford to exclude half of our population from the most pressing challenges of our era. It is imperative to collaborate and work together to achieve equality more swiftly. These young girls serve as clear examples of the potential within our youth. It is our duty to ensure that young women and girls feel empowered to pursue their dreams, regardless of the path they choose. They must harbour no fear or hesitation in stating, 'I want it, and I will make it.' Every girl holds a guaranteed place in our future. I encourage each girl to carry forward the legacy of GEG.” Chair of Limak Holding and Limak Foundation, Ebru Özdemir, said: “It's truly an important milestone for GEG and our vision at Limak. I’m thrilled to see the progress of the GEG Kosovo participants over the past year, and I am certain they all have a bright future ahead of them. Engineering isn’t a man’s world anymore, so it is our responsibility to continue to create opportunities for young women to succeed in STEM by supporting them in their studies and careers.” GEG Kosovo extends its gratitude to its supporters, mentors, parents, and volunteers, who have enabled the success of this program. Their collective efforts have empowered young girls to overcome challenges, build confidence, and unlock their full potential. Moving forward, GEG Kosovo remains committed to expanding and enhancing its programs to reach even more young girls, empowering them to break down barriers and become leaders in STEM fields. About Global Engineer Girls Global Engineer Girls (GEG) is an international philanthropic initiative that aims to inspire the next generation of female engineers. The inception of GEG was driven by Limak Group of Companies' culture and its Chairperson's, Ebru Özdemir's, deep personal commitment to improving women's representation in STEM. GEG provides girls and women with education, mentorship and career opportunities in Turkey, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Kuwait and beyond. GEG's predecessor, the Engineer Girls of Turkey (EGT), was launched in Turkey in 2015. Since its inception in 2015, the GEG university programme has benefited 710 young women by providing support for female students enrolled in chemical, civil, computer, electrical- electronic, environmental, industrial, and mechanical engineering departments in Turkish universities. This support has included funded scholarships and mentoring by hundreds of professional volunteers, as well as online training programs, soft skills and English language courses, internships, and employment opportunities at Limak's companies and partner companies. About Global Engineer Girls Kosovo Global Engineer Girls (GEG) Kosovo was established in 2022, in partnership with Limak Kosovo and United Nations Development Programme in Kosovo. GEG Kosovo currently operates in three public universities, covering bachelor and master's programs in engineering. UNIVERSITY OF PRISHTINA "HASAN PRISHTINA", UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES IN FERIZAJ, UNIVERSITY OF MITROVICA "ISA BOLETINI" Note to editors: High-resolution images from the graduation ceremony are available in the attachment. Contact Details Highgate Advisory Ltd. Iulia Trandafir +44 7516 787557 iulia@highgate.ltd

October 19, 2023 09:59 AM Central Daylight Time

Minuteman Press Franchisees Chantal & Clifton Gideon Win Community Award, Receive Special Proclamation in Forest Park, GA

Minuteman Press International Inc

Chantal and Clifton Gideon are the owners of the Minuteman Press franchise in Forest Park, GA since June of 2021. Over the past two and a half years, Chantal and Clifton have built meaningful connections with their clients and business community. Minuteman Press in Forest Park is located at 1046 Main Street, Forest Park, GA 30297. As a result of their remarkable efforts, Chantal and Clifton were recognized earlier this year in August during National Black Business Month and awarded a Special Proclamation from the City of Forest Park. The Proclamation credits Chantal and Gideon with “serving the community with great distinction and pride” as well as “their strong grit and determination to go into business for themselves.” In addition, Chantal also completed the Leadership Clayton program offered by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce and was recognized as a member of the Class of 2023 for the program. Chantal shares her insights on networking and community involvement, building the business for over two years, and the support she’s received from Minuteman Press. What does this Special Proclamation award mean to you? What are some of the ways you are active in the community? Chantal Gideon: “To me this award serves as recognition of our involvement with the community of Forest Park and the positive relationships we’ve fostered together. It’s very important to be involved in the community as a business owner because more people know our brand, the products and services we offer as well as the quality of our work. Clifton and I are active members of our local Chamber of Commerce, we attend City Council meetings to keep abreast of community happenings as well as the rapid economic development occurring on the Main Street corridor of which our business is located. I also serve as an ambassador for our Chamber of Commerce where I attend ribbon-cuttings for new businesses and assist with welcoming new business members, etc. while offering print/marketing services to them.” What are your high-demand products and key growth areas? Chantal Gideon: “Our high-demand products and services includes business cards, books, EDDM, and flyers/brochures. We do a lot of paper printing for a wide variety of clients.” What marketing strategies have you found to be effective? Chantal Gideon: “Increasing our internet marketing spend has been very effective in keeping a constant flow of new customers/orders coming in. I am looking forward to further increasing our Minuteman Press internet marketing program spending by the end of this year due to how profitable this has been for us.” What was your background before franchising? What has the support been like for you? Chantal Gideon: “Before Clifton and I purchased our Minuteman Press franchise, I was a high school biology teacher and Clifton was an engineer at a local steel manufacturing company. Clay Trussell is our field rep and he is always super responsive with whatever we need. He’s always just a text, phone call or visit away whenever we need him. Tech support is always consistent and our RVP Dave Walton stays involved with our overall growth and long-term strategy.” Is there anything else you’d like to share? Chantal Gideon: “Networking within the community and building our brand awareness has been very rewarding. I anticipate continuing to cultivate these relationships!” Minuteman Press in Forest Park is located at 1046 Main Street, Forest Park, GA 30297. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ga/forest-park/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

October 19, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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