
Global Health Experts appointed to Judge Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, to be held in Dubai - Middle East Business News and Information
Reflecting on the remarkable entries this year, Dr Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare said, 'As we approach the 4thedition of Aster Guardians Global Nursing Awards, it is inspiring to witness the platform's evolution and its profound impact on the global nursing community. This year has seen an exceptional response from nurses worldwide, with over 100,000 registrations pouring in from 199 countries. The task ahead for our esteemed panel of judges is both exciting and challenging, as they shortlist 10 finalists of accomplished nurses making significant contributions in their respective fields and communities. One of these outstanding nurses will win the prestigious award, accompanied by a prize fund of USD 250,000.'
'We are thankful to our Grand Jury members who have believed in the cause and supported the initiative over the years, shaping it's growth journey. I am also excited to welcome Mr. Vishal Bali, Executive Chairman of Asia Healthcare Holdings, to the Grand Jury for this edition. With his vast experience in transforming healthcare systems and his dedication to advancing global healthcare, he brings invaluable expertise and a unique perspective to this prestigious panel' he added.
Mr. Vishal Bali, who joins the Grand Jury for Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award this year, brings over 30 years of global healthcare leadership and a deep commitment to advancing excellence in patient care, making him a distinguished addition to the panel.
On joining the Grand Jury for AGGNA 2025, he commented 'Nursing is a combination of intelligence, care and compassion. Nurses symbolise positivity, hope and change. These exceptional individuals are a critical part of our society as they devote themselves to the well-being of others, passionately helping and supporting their patients. They are sympathetic and empathetic. The Aster Guardians Global nursing award is an outstanding initiative to recognise and celebrate nurses who have made a career long contribution to nursing practice, resulting in a legacy of improved healthcare outcomes for individuals, communities and the wider global population. I am thrilled to be a part of this grand jury.'
Professor Sheila Tlou, a former Minister of Health of Botswana, has shaped national nursing and medical education programs. She commented 'As a lifelong advocate for healthcare equity and nursing education, I have seen the critical role nurses play in transforming lives. Being a part of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award's Grand Jury once again, I am continually inspired by the extraordinary work nurses do across the world, often in the most challenging circumstances. This platform is a testament to their invaluable contributions to global healthcare.'
Professor James Buchan, a seasoned policymaker and health systems expert, serves as an Adjunct Professor at the WHO Collaborating Centre, University of Technology, Sydney, and is the Editor Emeritus of the Human Resources for Health Journal. He commented 'Nurses are the backbone of healthcare systems worldwide, providing essential care and leadership in times of crisis and beyond. Having been on the jury since the inception of the awards, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible stories of innovation, perseverance, and impact from nurses in every corner of the world. This award is a vital initiative that not only celebrates their contributions but also elevates the profession's visibility and influence on healthcare policy and delivery.'
Dr. Peter Carter, Former CEO Central & Northwest London, NHS, former CEO of the Royal College of Nursing UK and an independent healthcare consultant, boasts diverse experience, holding prestigious fellowships and receiving honors such as the OBE for his NHS service. Since his tenure at the RCN, he has worked nationally and internationally. He commented ' Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with outstanding nurses whose skills and dedication transform healthcare. Recognizing and rewarding excellence in nursing is crucial, and the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award does just that – celebrating those who go above and beyond to advance patient care and the profession itself.'
Dr. Niti Pall, the President Elect at International Diabetes Federation, Senior Consultant EssentiAll, France and Board Chair of Harbr & Managing Director of Health4all Advisory, UK, is a visionary clinical leader with a passion for delivering quality primary care. While practicing in Birmingham, UK, Dr. Pall has made impactful contributions to healthcare in 44 countries. She said ' Innovation in healthcare is impossible without the contributions of nurses, who are at the heart of patient-centered care. Recognizing their role in improving health outcomes and pioneering new approaches is crucial. As a returning jury member, I have seen extraordinary examples of nurses reshaping healthcare with their passion and commitment. It is an honour to once again be a part of this initiative that shines a spotlight on their invaluable work.'
Aster has appointed Ernst & Young LLP (EY) as 'Process Advisors' to independently review the applications based on the defined eligibility criteria, moderate evaluation of the entries by an independent panel of experts and present a list of shortlisted candidates to the Grand Jury to determine the winner.
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Mid East Info
28-07-2025
- Mid East Info
Dr. Moopen's Legacy Scholarship & Fellowships launched to aid 25 students from across India in pursuing MBBS, BSc Nursing and B.Pharm education; First Private Medical College in Kerala to Offer 100% Tuition Fee Waiver for Eligible MBBS Students
In a path breaking initiative to make medical education accessible to meritorious students and students from economically challenged backgrounds, Padma Shri Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare and a globally recognized philanthropist, has announced an annual scholarship programme Dr. Moopen's Legacy Scholarship & Fellowships Programme aimed at supporting meritorious students seeking admissions in Dr. Moopen's Medical College, Dr Moopen's Nursing College and Dr Moopen's College of Pharmacy in Wayanad, Kerala. This initiative marks the first time a private medical college in Kerala is offering a 100% tuition fee waiver for eligible meritorious medical students, promising to transform access to quality healthcare education for talented, deserving individuals. The scholarships will be offered to 25 eligible students applying to MBBS, BSc Nursing, and BPharm courses. Each year, 5 MBBS, 10 BSc Nursing, and 10 BPharm students will receive these scholarships. For MBBS scholarships, selection will be based solely on merit, recognizing and encouraging students with excellent academic track records and top NEET rankings. While these students often receive priority in admissions, this initiative aims to provide further recognition. Meanwhile, BSc Nursing and candidates will be chosen based on academic merit and financial need. The scholarship will cover the entire tuition fees, subject to the students meeting basic academic performance and adherence to program guidelines. Over the next five years, 125 students will benefit, with the total financial commitment expected to exceed INR 3 crore per annum. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare and Managing Trustee of Dr. Moopen's Education and Research Foundation said, 'Education is the foundation of a stronger and more inclusive society. I have heard countless stories of talented students who were forced to abandon their dreams of becoming doctors, nurses, or pharmacists simply because they lacked financial support. I firmly believe that no capable student should have to give up such aspirations due to economic constraints especially in a field as vital as healthcare. The Dr. Moopen's Legacy Scholarship & Fellowships Programme marks a formal and larger commitment: not just to fund education, but to create opportunities that can transform the lives of individuals, their families, and an entire community. By empowering meritorious students and students from economically challenged backgrounds, we aim to nurture a new generation of healthcare professionals who will carry forward the mission of delivering compassionate, quality care to those who need it most.' This initiative builds on Dr. Moopen's vision of transforming healthcare in underserved regions. Dr. Moopen's Medical College, established in 2012, was the first medical college in Kerala to be set up in a hilly, tribal, and backward district. Its mission has been to address the shortage of quality healthcare in such regions while inspiring local communities including tribal youth to pursue careers in medicine. The Dr. Moopen's Legacy Scholarship & Fellowships Programme extends that mission, ensuring financial constraints never stand in the way of deserving talent. Having nurtured around 900 young doctors across 6 batches, Dr. Moopen's Medical College is a sustainable medical education hub in the country. The college has quickly become a center of excellence, boasting experienced faculty, a high-quality library, a museum, and a hospital operating with tertiary care facilities. Applications for the scholarship will open on 28th July 2025 and applicants can find more details and eligibility guidelines on – Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare and Managing Trustee, Dr. Moopen's Education and Research Foundation (DMERF), Ms. Alisha Moopen, Deputy Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare India and Trustee, DMERF, Mr. Anoop Moopen – Director, Aster DM Healthcare and Trustee, DMERF, Mr. T.J Wilson, Executive Director & Group Head-Governance & Corporate Affairs and Dr. Shanavas Palliyal, DGM Operations, Dr. Moopen's Medical College spoke during the launch conference held at Kochi.


See - Sada Elbalad
25-07-2025
- See - Sada Elbalad
One-Third Gone: Food Waste Crisis
Dr. Magdy Badran Food is essential for life, yet one-third of all food produced globally is never consumed. This paradox—abundance amidst hunger—is both a moral and environmental crisis. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted annually. In a world where over 800 million people go hungry, the scale of food waste is both alarming and unacceptable. What Is Food Waste? Food waste refers to edible food that is discarded, lost, or uneaten at any stage of the food supply chain—from farm to fork. It includes food thrown away due to spoilage, overproduction, aesthetic imperfections, or confusion over labeling terms like 'best before' and 'use by.' Supermarkets often reject fruits and vegetables that do not meet visual standards, while restaurants and households frequently prepare or purchase more food than necessary. In developing countries, food loss also occurs due to poor infrastructure, inadequate storage, and inefficient transportation. This waste not only squanders valuable resources like water, land, and energy but also contributes significantly to global hunger and environmental damage. Global Statistics Globally, about 1.3 billion tons of food—roughly one-third of all food produced for human consumption—is wasted every year, according to the FAO. This massive waste costs the world economy nearly $1 trillion USD annually. It also depletes vital resources, consuming 25% of the world's freshwater and occupying 30% of agricultural land. Shockingly, food waste contributes to 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a key driver of climate change. If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, after China and the U.S. While vast amounts of food are going to waste, over 800 million people around the world still go hungry revealing a deep imbalance in global food systems. Consumer Behavior and Food Waste Consumer habits are a major driver of food waste, especially in high-income countries. Many people purchase more food than they need, influenced by marketing tactics, bulk discounts, or poor meal planning. Confusion over date labels—such as mistaking 'best before' for 'use by'—often leads to discarding perfectly safe food. Aesthetic preferences also play a role, as consumers tend to reject fruits and vegetables that look imperfect, even though they are still nutritious. In households, leftovers are frequently ignored, and overcooked meals are thrown away. Additionally, a lack of awareness about proper storage practices causes food to spoil prematurely. These behaviors, though seemingly minor on an individual level, collectively contribute significantly to the global food waste crisis. Retail Sector and Food Waste The retail sector plays a critical role in food waste, often discarding large amounts of edible food before it even reaches consumers. Supermarkets commonly reject fruits and vegetables that don't meet strict visual or size standards, even if they are perfectly safe to eat. Additionally, items nearing their 'sell-by' or 'best before' dates are frequently removed from shelves and thrown away to preserve brand image and customer trust. Overstocking and poor inventory management also lead to surplus goods that go unsold. Promotional strategies like 'buy one, get one free' can encourage over-purchasing, indirectly increasing household waste. Despite growing awareness, food waste in the retail sector remains a major issue—though some chains are beginning to adopt solutions like discounting near-expiry items, partnering with food banks, or selling 'imperfect' produce at lower prices. Hospitality Sector and Food Waste The hospitality sector—comprising restaurants, hotels, catering services, and event venues—is a significant contributor to food waste. Large quantities of food are often prepared in anticipation of demand, especially in buffets and banquets, where excess is common to ensure customer satisfaction. Uneaten meals, oversized portions, and plate waste from guests all add to the problem. Many establishments discard leftover food due to health and safety concerns, or lack of storage and donation systems. Additionally, poor forecasting, over-ordering ingredients, and inefficient kitchen practices further contribute to avoidable waste. Supply Chain Inefficiencies Supply chain inefficiencies are a major cause of food waste, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Food loss often begins at the production stage due to poor harvesting techniques, pests, or crop diseases. Inadequate infrastructure—such as a lack of refrigerated storage, unreliable transportation, and inefficient distribution networks—leads to spoilage before products reach markets. For example, perishable items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat are especially vulnerable to damage and decay without proper handling. In wealthier nations, waste can occur due to overproduction, strict quality standards, or contract cancellations by retailers. Miscommunication between producers, distributors, and retailers also results in surplus or mismatched deliveries. These breakdowns in the supply chain not only waste food but also squander resources like water, energy, and labor used in its production. Cosmetic Standards and Food Waste Strict cosmetic standards in the food industry contribute significantly to global food waste. Retailers and consumers often expect fruits and vegetables to look 'perfect' in size, shape, and color. As a result, produce with minor blemishes, unusual shapes, or slight discoloration is frequently rejected—despite being nutritionally sound and entirely edible. Farmers are sometimes forced to discard large portions of their harvest simply because it doesn't meet visual requirements set by supermarkets. This focus on appearance over quality leads to the unnecessary loss of millions of tons of food every year. Lack of Awareness and Education A significant portion of food waste stems from a general lack of awareness and education among consumers, producers, and businesses. Many people are unaware of proper food storage techniques, portion control, or how to use leftovers creatively. Others may not understand the environmental impact of food waste or the resources—such as water, energy, and labor—that are lost when food is discarded. In schools, households, and even professional kitchens, food waste is often seen as normal or unavoidable. Increasing awareness through media, schools, and public programs is essential for building a culture of respect for food and reducing global waste. Cultural and Social Norms Cultural and social norms play a powerful role in shaping food waste patterns around the world. In many societies, abundance is equated with generosity and hospitality, leading to the preparation of excessive quantities of food, especially during holidays, celebrations, and social gatherings. In some cultures, refusing leftovers or taking home uneaten food is frowned upon, while in others, large portion sizes are expected as a sign of value. Social pressures to provide a full table or meet unrealistic beauty standards for food also contribute to unnecessary waste. Changing these deeply rooted behaviors requires not only awareness but also a cultural shift that redefines respect, generosity, and satisfaction in more sustainable ways. Economic Factors Economic factors significantly contribute to food waste, particularly in wealthier societies where food is relatively cheap and easily accessible. When food costs represent a small portion of a household's budget, people tend to undervalue it and discard it more readily. Businesses may also find it more cost-effective to throw away surplus or unsold items rather than invest in redistribution or storage. In the agricultural sector, crops may be left unharvested if market prices are too low to cover labor and transport costs. Additionally, consumers often fall for bulk discounts and promotions, buying more than they need and ultimately wasting the excess. Addressing these economic drivers requires policy changes, incentives for donation, and consumer education on the real cost of wasted food. Consequences of Food Waste Food waste has profound environmental, humanitarian, and economic impacts. Environmentally, when organic waste decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is far more potent than carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to climate change. Additionally, vast amounts of land, water, and energy used to produce this wasted food are squandered. From a humanitarian perspective, while 1 in 9 people globally suffer from hunger, the amount of food wasted each year could feed up to 2 billion people. This wasted food, if properly redistributed, could help combat malnutrition and support vulnerable communities. Economically, food waste causes billions of dollars in losses across the supply chain—from farmers to consumers—and contributes to rising food prices and market instability. Addressing food waste is essential for sustainability, equity, and global food security. Solutions to Food Waste Solving the global food waste crisis requires a multi-level approach involving consumers, businesses, and governments. Supermarkets and restaurants can play a role by donating surplus food, offering smaller portions, and selling imperfect produce. Governments can support these efforts through clear food labeling laws, tax incentives for food donation, and infrastructure improvements like cold storage and better transport systems. Technology also offers innovative solutions—such as apps to track food inventories or share leftovers. Ultimately, reducing food waste depends on changing cultural attitudes, valuing food more deeply, and recognizing its environmental and humanitarian cost. The Role of Individuals in Reducing Food Waste Individuals play a vital role in the fight against food waste through simple yet powerful daily actions. By planning meals ahead, shopping thoughtfully, and using leftovers creatively, households can significantly cut down on the amount of food they throw away. Understanding food labels—especially the difference between "best before" and "use by"—helps prevent safe, edible food from being discarded prematurely. Prioritizing perishable items, storing food properly, and being mindful of portion sizes also make a big difference. Supporting businesses that adopt sustainable practices and donating surplus food to those in need further amplifies the impact. When individuals make conscious choices, they contribute to a more sustainable, efficient, and compassionate food system. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... 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Mid East Info
23-07-2025
- Mid East Info
【Hot Plants Talk · Asia Flower Expo】Healing Economy Rising: Green Plants Become New Favorites
In recent years, the 'Green Plant Fever' has been rapidly sweeping urban life. Ordinary indoor plants have now become the 'secret code' for relieving stress among urban youths, healing modern life's anxiety and exhaustion with their vibrant vitality. Through innovative approaches such as immersive environments, social media virality, paid knowledge sharing, and cross-industry collaborations, the hot plants industry is redefining the relationship between people and plants, creating an energetic new consumer market. Focusing on innovations across the entire hot plant industrial chain and new global opportunities in the green economy, the special exhibition zone — World Tropical Plant Expo 2025, part of the 16th Asia Flower Expo (2025) — is about to open! The exhibition will comprehensively showcase products from the entire tropical plants industrial chain, including tropical foliage plants, flowers, rare plant species, greenhouse equipment, fertilizers, materials, and maintenance products. It will serve as an integrated international trading platform combining commerce, technological integration, and ecological value conversion for professionals throughout the industry chain. Leveraging the supply-chain advantages and global buyer resources accumulated by the Asia Flower Expo, exhibitors will share the traffic of a 30,000-square-meter exhibition area and resources from multiple forums, attracting over 600 global brands and more than 50,000 professional visitors. Young People Are Buying 'Healing,' Not Just Plants According to the Global Wellness Institute, the healing economy is growing at an annual rate of 10% and is expected to reach a market size of 7 trillion USD by 2025. In China, the healing market reached 5.26 billion RMB in 2022, and the broader psychological health services market is projected to exceed 10.4 billion RMB by 2025. Green plants, as part of the healing economy, are shifting from functional consumption to emotional consumption, becoming essential 'emotional regulators' in young people's daily lives. The hot plants trend began in China around 2019. Although prices have slightly decreased, the market remains highly active, especially among the middle class. For instance, a specialized store, Jiaojiao Plant Supermarket, achieved annual sales exceeding 12 million RMB, with a repurchase rate of 82%, by focusing on product quality and enhanced customer experiences. Increasingly, young people are turning to gardening and plant care to relieve stress, decorate their homes, and even find emotional support. From 'Selling Plants' to 'Selling Ambience' Modern hot plant galleries use immersive three-dimensional landscaping (such as rainforest domes, moss platforms, and misting systems) to create photo-friendly, interactive experiences, allowing consumers to step into miniature tropical rainforests. The application of microclimate technology (temperature and humidity controls) ensures the natural growth of plants in urban settings, enhancing authenticity. Hot plants represent more than a consumer trend; they embody a sustainable living philosophy. Future hot plant galleries will become multifunctional spaces for 'photography, learning, relaxation, and shopping,' serving as green connectors bridging nature with modern civilization. Asia Flower Expo 2025 — (World Tropical Plants Expo) cordially invites global hot plant brands and warmly welcomes industry elites.