Latest news with #AERO
The Age
3 days ago
- Science
- The Age
In the age of AI, our kid's writing skills are more important than ever
In an era of accelerating technological advancements – including the rapid evolution of AI, and the fleeting, transitory nature of thought and communication – the ancient act of writing remains one of the most powerful skills we have to shape thought, build understanding, sharpen reasoning, and express ourselves meaningfully as human beings. However, the release of the Australian Education Research Organisation's (AERO) decade-long NAPLAN study has revealed a troubling reality – Australian children's writing skills are at a record low, with many year 9 students performing at a primary school level. Writing is an essential life skill for all, but it is especially crucial for children as they develop the tools needed to navigate challenges, articulate their thoughts clearly, and shape a purposeful, fulfilling life. Its importance lies not merely in communication, but in cognition. Structured writing reflects synthesised, deliberate thought and is essential for deep learning and the cognitive benefits of interleaving – where knowledge is continuously connected, reinforced, and refined over time, most importantly as output and not just input. Writing is a foundational and essential mental process that constructs, organises, and reveals the development and sophistication of our thinking. If our children cannot write at an appropriate level, we are limiting their ability to think critically, solve problems, and engage meaningfully in learning. In a commendable response to the issue, AERO has launched the School Writing Instruction Framework (SWIF), a professional learning program designed to support explicit and systematic teaching of writing across all subject areas. Handwriting supports brain plasticity and may even delay cognitive decline in older age. This renewed call to prioritise writing is a vital reminder of its enduring importance in learning and life. In an overcrowded curriculum, where competing demands pull schools in many directions, a deliberate reset that centres on writing is not only innovative but also transformative. But it's not AERO's job alone. The NAPLAN analysis is a wake-up call for all of us to support our young people – to help them develop strong writing skills so they can think clearly, communicate authentically, and face the complexities of the world with confidence and agency.
Sydney Morning Herald
3 days ago
- Science
- Sydney Morning Herald
In the age of AI, our kid's writing skills are more important than ever
In an era of accelerating technological advancements – including the rapid evolution of AI, and the fleeting, transitory nature of thought and communication – the ancient act of writing remains one of the most powerful skills we have to shape thought, build understanding, sharpen reasoning, and express ourselves meaningfully as human beings. However, the release of the Australian Education Research Organisation's (AERO) decade-long NAPLAN study has revealed a troubling reality – Australian children's writing skills are at a record low, with many year 9 students performing at a primary school level. Writing is an essential life skill for all, but it is especially crucial for children as they develop the tools needed to navigate challenges, articulate their thoughts clearly, and shape a purposeful, fulfilling life. Its importance lies not merely in communication, but in cognition. Structured writing reflects synthesised, deliberate thought and is essential for deep learning and the cognitive benefits of interleaving – where knowledge is continuously connected, reinforced, and refined over time, most importantly as output and not just input. Writing is a foundational and essential mental process that constructs, organises, and reveals the development and sophistication of our thinking. If our children cannot write at an appropriate level, we are limiting their ability to think critically, solve problems, and engage meaningfully in learning. In a commendable response to the issue, AERO has launched the School Writing Instruction Framework (SWIF), a professional learning program designed to support explicit and systematic teaching of writing across all subject areas. Handwriting supports brain plasticity and may even delay cognitive decline in older age. This renewed call to prioritise writing is a vital reminder of its enduring importance in learning and life. In an overcrowded curriculum, where competing demands pull schools in many directions, a deliberate reset that centres on writing is not only innovative but also transformative. But it's not AERO's job alone. The NAPLAN analysis is a wake-up call for all of us to support our young people – to help them develop strong writing skills so they can think clearly, communicate authentically, and face the complexities of the world with confidence and agency.
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
‘Officer later, human being first… don't deserve to be insulted': BDO in Bihar resigns over ‘humiliation' by SDO during electoral roll revision
A Block Development Officer (BDO) in Bihar's Katihar district resigned Saturday, alleging sustained mental harassment by the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in the state. In a resignation letter addressed to the Katihar District Magistrate on July 12, Hariom Sharan, the BDO of Barsoi block, outlined a series of alleged instances that he said had undermined his dignity, despite his efforts to meet administrative targets. 'Sir, I am an officer later, and first, I am a human being,' Sharan wrote. 'I do not deserve to be insulted without reason or fault.' Sharan, who serves as the Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO) for the block, said he had been actively engaged in overseeing the digitisation of voter forms and the implementation of micro-plans under the SIR programme. According to him, 13 employees were deployed per 10 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to facilitate uploads, and he visited '10 to 12 panchayats daily' to monitor camps, despite being 'diagnosed with a slipped disc'. 'I suffer from severe lower back pain, but I have not allowed it to hinder my responsibilities,' he stated. Still, Sharan claimed, the SDO frequently berated him, dismissing his field visits and accusing him of shirking duty. 'You stay at home and sleep,' the SDO allegedly said. 'You don't monitor anything… I'll take action to have your salary stopped.' The BDO cited an incident on July 8, when the SDO reportedly issued verbal instructions to continue digitisation work at night. Though Sharan raised concerns about the health and safety of staff, 65 employees were assigned night duty. 'A sanitation supervisor collapsed during the shift and began suffering seizures,' he claimed, adding that the man was taken for medical treatment. 'I asked – if something untoward happens to any employee, who will take responsibility?' Sharan said he proposed setting daily upload targets that staff could complete from home to avoid fatigue-related errors, but claimed the SDO rejected the suggestion. 'You act too kind,' the SDO allegedly responded. 'You'll realise when your job is gone.' On July 11, during a video conference on SIR progress attended by around 250 block-level staff and supervisors, Sharan said the SDO publicly declared, 'The block officer is not capable of any work,' and threatened to reassign his duties to the Circle Officer. 'He told the staff, 'Whatever work you have, tell me directly. The block officer is of no use',' Sharan claimed, noting that he was present in the meeting but was not asked to speak. He further claimed that despite the known technical challenges, including slow server performance and district-wide internet outages acknowledged by the Election Commission, the SDO pinned all responsibility for delays on him. 'He said, 'You are not interested in electoral work,' even though this year, I was awarded Best AERO by the Election Commission,' Sharan wrote. 'Ironically, based on Barsoi's performance, the same SDO received the Best ERO award on the same day.' Throughout the letter, Sharan emphasised his administrative track record, including being honoured by former District Magistrates for best performance and volunteering his personal time to provide free civil services coaching to local youth, many of whom, he said, are now serving in the Bihar Administrative Service and other state roles. 'In an administrative system, reprimands and warnings are not unusual. But when one is repeatedly and unjustly humiliated before junior staff and peers without valid cause, it becomes deeply distressing,' Sharan wrote in his letter to the Katihar DM. The BDO added, 'In such conditions, I find myself struggling between my duties and my self-respect. Therefore, I resign from my post.'
The Sun
12-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Leading Sportswear Brand DESCENTE Opens at Galaxy Macau; Fusing Technical Aesthetics with Leisure & Travel Lifestyle
MACAU - Media OutReach - 12 July 2025 - Japanese leading sportswear brand DESCENTE celebrates the grand opening of its new flagship store at Galaxy Promenade on July 11th. Located in one of Macau's most vibrant and well-trafficked shopping districts, the new flagship store reflects the area's 'Healthy Lifestyle' positioning. With a design language that blends performance functionality and future aesthetics, DESCENTE aims to offer a sophisticated, immersive experience that connects sports innovation with modern urban living for local shoppers and international travelers alike. Inspired by Snow, Designed for the Future — DESCENTE Moves with Innovation With nearly 90 years of history, DESCENTE originated in alpine skiing and is renowned for its ergonomic construction and high-performance technical fabrics. At the heart of the brand is the philosophy of 'Design that Moves,' which represents not only physical motion but also the evolution of lifestyle through innovative design. From elite athletes to everyday city wearers, DESCENTE has consistently pushed the boundaries of sportswear with Japanese precision tailoring and functional elegance. DESCENTE Galaxy Macau Flagship Store adopts the brand's latest Store 4.0 concept — themed 'Tomorrow's World'. The space merges elements of snow culture, advanced technology, and urban living into one futuristic vision. Guided by the design pillars of 'Trajectory, Breakthrough, and Energy', the flagship store symbolizes the skier's spirit of exploration and the brand's ongoing mission to transcend limits. From the metallic façade to the directional arrow motifs and dynamic zoning, the retail environment exemplifies DESCENTE's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and seamless integration of sports lifestyle — courageously embracing the endless possibilities of the future. Reimagining Movement — Spotlight on Running & Training Innovation Designed around four active lifestyle scenarios — running, training, commuting, and outdoor — the flagship store at Galaxy Macau creates an immersive customer journey that demonstrates real-life application of DESCENTE's performance apparel. The featured collections this season include the latest Running and Training series, reflecting the brand's continual evolution of performance technology and lifestyle-forward design. Lightweight Performance — Running Collection Engineered for lightness and breathability, the Running collection features men's and women's lightweight shorts and two core outerwear pieces. The Aerolite Skin Jacket focuses on windproof, breathable comfort with a futuristic translucent 3-layer shell and ergonomic F360 silhouette for mobility and performance. The Aerolite Shell Jacket delivers versatile weather protection with breathable, lightweight layering ideal for Macau's changing climate. Both styles utilize two of DESCENTE's signature technologies— the waterproof and breathable DERMAZAX® 3-Layer fabric, and SCHEMACTECH AERO, a structural cutting technology that enhances stability and freedom of movement. Dynamic Control — Body Flex Training Collection The Training collection centers around the Body Flex range, tailored for high-intensity movement and dynamic flexibility. With advanced elastic construction and precision fit, the men's training wear provides both structure and freedom — ideal for urban workouts and daily mobility. DESCENTE's long-standing collaboration with elite athletes ensures that every piece is engineered for functionality, comfort, and style. Whether under extreme training conditions or for casual wear, the apparel showcases the brand's unwavering pursuit of motion performance and wearing comfort. From Summit to Street — Defining a Multifunctional Lifestyle DESCENTE Galaxy Macau Flagship Store also showcases the brand's commitment to lifestyle versatility through three core series: ALLTERRAIN, DUALIS, and GOLF. This area features the ALLTERRAIN series, designed for high-end outdoor activities, and the DUALIS series, suitable for daily commuting and light outdoor pursuits. The ALLTERRAIN series uses a minimalist design and high-performance materials for various terrains and harsh conditions, combining technology and craftsmanship to meet outdoor enthusiasts' needs with exceptional functionality and durability. The DUALIS series brings DESCENTE's craftsmanship into urban living, offering a flexible and lightweight design perfect for daily commutes and light outdoor activities, allowing modern urbanites to transition effortlessly between city and outdoor settings. The GOLF series showcases DESCENTE's innovative spirit and expertise from skiing, tailored for golf enthusiasts. Designed for comfort and functionality, these products feature ergonomic designs and high-performance fabrics, merging DESCENTE's craftsmanship with athletes' needs for precise swings and stable postures on the course. Limited-Time Personalization Experience — Mark a Moment in Sport & Style To celebrate the opening of the flagship store at Galaxy Macau, DESCENTE offers each guest a personalized canvas tote bag, hand-painted on-site by a local artist. The activation combines artistic flair and sport spirit, creating a collectible gift that blends personalization, interaction, and DESCENTE's attention to detail.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Owaisi writes to EC against special voter roll revision in poll-bound Bihar
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has written to the Election Commission raising objections to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in poll-bound Bihar. In the letter, Owaisi pointed out that the electoral roll for Bihar has already undergone a Special Summary Revision, which addresses issues such as rapid urbanisation, frequent migration, non-reporting of deaths and inclusion of names of foreign illegal immigrants in electoral rolls, reasons now being cited to justify the SIR. However, the Special Summary Revision which has been undertaken by the Commission on previous occasions for all the other states as well as 2024 Lok Sabha elections covers all these issues, he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Access all TV channels anywhere, anytime Techno Mag Learn More Undo Recalling the last Intensive Revision conducted for Bihar in 2003, Owaisi said it took place well ahead of the 2004 Lok Sabha polls and the 2005 Assembly polls, which gave reasonable time for electors to seek legal remedies for addition or deletion. "With this instance, we would like to place our first and foremost objection to the Commission's order directing SIR in Bihar - The SIR will have a deleterious effect on electors' across the state due to its proximity to the upcoming assembly elections," he said in the letter dated June 28. Live Events Among other concerns, Owaisi said the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) /Additional Electoral Registration Officer (AERO) has the power to doubt the eligibility of the proposed Electors not only for non-submission of requisite documents but for any reason otherwise as well. In fact, the ERO/AERO can even refer cases of suspected foreign nationals to the competent authority under Citizenship Act, 1955. This wide and unsupervised power of ERO/AERO can be misused to not only cause wide scale disenfranchisement but can even lead to loss of livelihood for the affected electors. The Hyderabad MP requested the EC to explain the rationale behind the SIR and urged it to grant an in-person hearing to AIMIM and opposition representatives so that their concerns could be presented before the Commission's consideration. Owaisi earlier accused the EC of implementing NRC in Bihar "through the backdoor". "To be enrolled in the voter roll, every citizen will now have to show documents not only proving when and where they were born, but also when and where their parents were born," he had said in a post on X. Even the best estimates state that only three-fourths of births are registered and most government documents are riddled with errors, he said. Noting that people in the flood-prone Seemanchal region of Bihar are among the poorest, he called it a "cruel joke" to expect them to possess their parents' documents. "The result of this exercise will be that a large number of Bihar's poor will be removed from the electoral roll," he claimed.
