Foreign
Mandating the use of empty seats to increase physical distancing not recommended – EU
Airlines will not have to leave seats empty, but passengers flying in the European Union will have to wear masks on planes and in airports under plans to revive the travel industry.
The European Commission made the non-binding recommendations on Wednesday as part of wider proposals to salvage the ailing tourism sector. js">
The commission noted that tourism sector previously represented some 10 per cent of the EU’s economic output and employed almost 12 per cent of its workforce.
It also said it would open legal cases against countries that breach EU law by not ensuring consumers can effectively get cash refunds for travel or holidays cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The starting point is that European consumers have a right to a cash refund, if that is what they want. Full stop,” Margrethe Vestager, a deputy head of the Commission, said.
It also said airlines will need to limit risks of infection, which could be achieved using hospital-grade air filtering, personal protective equipment and limiting movements.
On Tuesday, Ryanair (RYA.I) said that its passengers would be required to ask for permission to use the toilets to avoid queuing on the budget airline’s planes.
“Mandating the use of empty seats to increase physical distancing in aircraft is therefore not recommended,” the European Commission’s document said.
Airlines have raised concerns that measures to slow the spread of the pandemic could blight profitability long after any travel restrictions end.
The European Commission said that checking in, dropping off and picking up luggage should be reorganised to avoid crowds.
Airlines have already been advised by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to check passenger temperatures, collect personal details for any contact tracing and to clean and disinfect terminals and equipment.
IATA, which has estimated the coronavirus crisis could cost airlines a total of 314 billion dollars, recommended facemasks be worn during flights but not blocking off the middle seats.
Some U.S. airlines have already implemented distancing measures, with some blocking middle seats, pausing automatic upgrades and changing the boarding process. (Reuters/NAN)
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Nigeria-born, Dr Kennedy Obohwemu Wins GBS Most Inspirational Lecturer Award In UK
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A Nigeria-born UK Lecturer, Dr. Kennedy O. Obohwemu, has won the prestigious Most Inspirational Lecturer Award at the Global Banking School (GBS) Regional Awards in Birmingham, UK.
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GBS is a multi-award-winning higher education provider, operates several campuses across the UK and collaborates with multiple UK universities to offer vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs.
In a dazzling award ceremony held in Birmingham on June 26, Dr. Obohwemu, a multiple award-winning international author, triumphed over a competitive field of nominees from numerous academic institutions within the region.
The award ceremony celebrated the outstanding contributions of lecturers who inspire and impact students across these diverse institutions.
This prestigious accolade recognizes exceptional teaching talent across university campuses in all regions of the West Midlands
The nominations came from all partnerships of GBS, including esteemed institutions such as Oxford Brookes University (OBU), Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), Suffolk University, Leeds Trinity University (LTU), Bath Spa University (BSU), and Pearson, among others.
Remarkably, Dr. Obohwemu, a Lecturer in Health and Social Care, joined GBS barely six months ago, making this win even more noteworthy.
His achievement demonstrates his passion and commitment to delivering high-quality teaching and inspiring others along the way.
It also highlights the profound impact he has made in a short time, earning the admiration and love of his students for his engaging teaching style and warm personality.
Dr. Obohwemu’s recognition as the Most Inspirational Lecturer underscores his dedication to educational excellence and his profound influence on the academic and personal development of his students.
His achievement highlights the remarkable quality of teaching at GBS and its partner universities, setting a benchmark for educational inspiration and leadership in the region.
In his remarks, Prof. Ray Lloyd, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GBS, said the award was not just the celebration of remarkable achievements of the educators, but also the profound impact they have on students and the broader academic community.
“Our award winners have shown extraordinary dedication, passion, and innovative teaching methods.
“Dr. Obohwemu, winner of the Most Inspirational Lecturer Award, has already made an indelible mark on our institution.
“His ability to connect with students and inspire them to reach their full potential is truly exceptional.
“We are incredibly proud to have him as part of the GBS family and look forward to seeing his continued positive influence on our academic community,” Lloyd said.
Reacting to the award, Obohwemu, said he was deeply honored and humbled to receive the Most Inspirational Lecturer Award.
Dr Obohwemu, who is also the Founder/CEO of PENKUP International, said the recognition was a testament to the incredible support he received from colleagues and the unwavering enthusiasm of his students.
He added: “Joining GBS just six months ago, I have been inspired by the commitment to excellence and the vibrant learning environment here.
“This award reinforces my belief in the transformative power of education and motivates me to continue striving for excellence in teaching.
“I dedicate this award to all my students whose curiosity and passion for learning drive me every day”.
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Foreign
Niger Coup: EU Suspends Budget Support, Security Cooperation
The European Union (EU) says it has suspended its financial support and cooperation on security with Niger with immediate effect following the military coup in the country. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
This was disclosed in a statement by the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.
The coup leaders declared General Abdourahamane Tiani as head of state on Friday, ousting President Mohamed Bazoum.
The EU, the United States, and other countries have called for the unconditional release of Bazoum from detention and the restoration of democratic order in the country.
“In addition to the immediate cessation of budget support, all cooperation actions in the domain of security are suspended indefinitely with immediate effect,” Borrell said.
Niger is a major recipient of Western aid and a key partner of the European Union in helping contain irregular migration from sub-Saharan Africa.
The EU also has a small number of troops in Niger for a military training mission.
According to its website, the European bloc has allocated 503 million euros ($554 million) from its budget in the areas of governance, education and sustainable growth in Niger between 2021and 2024.
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Niger Coup: Nigeria-Niger Freinship Association Seeks For External Intervention
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- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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