Latest news with #NAC
IOL News
a day ago
- IOL News
Former DAC deputy director-general fights dismissal linked to whistle-blower case
The Labour Court has confirmed the dismissal of a former Department of Arts and Culture deputy director-general who tried to reveal the identity of a whistle-blower. Image: File A former deputy director-general at the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DAC), who was fired after she tried to reveal the identity of a whistle-blower within the National Arts Council (NAC), turned to the Johannesburg Labour Court to get her job back. Kelebogile Sethibelo was dismissed in her absence in July 2019 after she failed to attend the disciplinary inquiry against her. Her dismissal followed two allegations of misconduct against her related to attempts to reveal the identity of a whistle-blower and insubordination. Aggrieved with the dismissal, she referred a dispute to the bargaining council. Following unsuccessful attempts at conciliation, the matter came before an arbitrator, who ruled her dismissal to be fair. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Unhappy with this finding, Sethibelo now turned to the Labour Court. In an investigation conducted by law firm Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Inc. at the time, it had emerged that Sethibelo had instructed the CEO of the NAC to investigate and reveal the identity of the person within the NAC who had leaked information about alleged corruption and misadministration within the department to the media. The arbitrator found that Sethibelo's actions breached the Protective Disclosures Act and the DAC's whistleblowing policy, rendering her dismissal substantially fair. The applicant challenged the findings of the arbitrator on the procedural and substantive fairness of her dismissal. She contended that the arbitrator failed to apply his mind to the evidence before him, including that she was deprived of a fair opportunity to state her case at the internal disciplinary hearing. The Labour Court had to assess whether Sethibelo's email to the NAC's CEO amounted to an instruction to uncover the identity of the whistle-blower. Her defence that she was merely overseeing the NAC's operations was rejected as the email went beyond routine oversight and targeted the whistle-blower's identity. Her contention that the whistle-blower was not a member of the DAC was also rejected as the NAC's staff fell under the DAC's oversight and thus protected by its whistle-blower policy. The fact remains that the applicant sought to have the identity of the whistle-blower revealed, rather than have the nature of the allegations investigated, the court stated.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nutritionist shares 7 tips to manage PCOS in just 4 weeks: 'Try seed cycling'
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, excessive hair fall, darkening of the underarms, acne, mood swings, and rapid weight gain. However, adopting the right nutrition and lifestyle habits can significantly help in managing its symptoms. On May 31, Nutritionist Chahat shared an Instagram post outlining key habits that can effectively support PCOS management. Also read | PCOS diet: List of optimal food choices for managing symptoms Habits that can help in managing PCOS symptoms effectively. (Shutterstock) 'If you're struggling with belly fat, hair loss, dark patches on your neck or armpits, and irregular periods in PCOS, then through these 8 tips, you can start seeing improvements in just four weeks,' the nutritionist wrote. 1. Adopt a PCOS-friendly diet Add low-glycemic carbs like oats, brown rice, and quinoa, along with lean proteins such as eggs, tofu, and grilled chicken, to stabilize blood sugar and manage insulin resistance. Add fiber-rich vegetables (like spinach, broccoli, and bell peppers) and antioxidant-rich fruits (such as berries and oranges) to support hormone balance and reduce inflammation. Also read | PCOS diet tips: 10 foods that can help in polycystic ovary syndrome 2. Drink herbal teas Like spearmint tea (great for reducing excess androgens and facial hair), green tea (to improve insulin sensitivity), and ginger or dandelion tea (to help with bloating and inflammation). 3. Try seed cycling Start taking seeds at different phases of your menstrual cycle, like flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds from day 1 to 14, and sesame and sunflower seeds from day 15 to 28. This will help support natural estrogen and progesterone production. 4. Include an iron-boosting juice Try drinking a fresh juice made from beetroot, carrot, lemon, and a small piece of ginger. This mix is rich in iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants that key tackles fatigue, dull skin, hair fall, and even those dark patches on the neck or underarms. 5. Use healing herbs Like cinnamon (to improve blood sugar control), turmeric (to reduce inflammation), and fenugreek seeds (to regulate insulin and support ovulation) into your meals or drinks can make a real difference in how you feel over time. 6. Start the right supplements (with guidance) Vitamin D, zinc, omega-3s, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can also help reduce inflammation, regulate cycles, and support healthy skin and hair. Always consult a professional before starting them. Also read | Struggling with PCOS, unexpected weight gain? Gynac shares 5 things to have on empty stomach: Amla, flaxseeds and more 7. Incorporate balanced workouts A combination of strength training (2–3 times a week) and brisk walking or cycling can help reduce belly fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and balance hormones. Adding yoga or Pilates also helps lower cortisol levels and improve mood and digestion. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Nato leaders agree to 5% defence spending goal in annual summit
Nato member states have committed to boosting investments in defence to 5 per cent of their domestic output, largely endorsing US President Donald Trump's pressure on Washington's European allies. The North Atlantic Council (NAC), which convened on Wednesday during the two-day Nato summit in The Hague, the member states' leaders agreed to spend the higher percentage annually on core defence requirements and 'defence-and-security-related' expenditures by 2035, in the face of 'profound security threats and challenges', including 'long-term threats posed by Russia to Euro-Atlantic security'. Nato heads of state said in The Hague Summit Declaration issued after the NAC that their investments would ensure that they have the 'forces, capabilities, resources, infrastructure, war fighting readiness, and resilience' required for 'deterrence and defence, crisis prevention and management, and cooperative security'. It said the allies agreed that the 5 per cent commitment would be comprised of at least 3.5 per cent of GDP annually on 'core' defence expenditure and requirements within the next decade for meeting 'Nato capability targets', and up to 1.5 per cent to 'protect critical infrastructure, defend our networks, ensure our civil preparedness and resilience, unleash innovation, and strengthen our defence industrial base'. 'We reaffirm our shared commitment to rapidly expand transatlantic defence industrial cooperation and to harness emerging technology and the spirit of innovation to advance our collective security,' the declaration said. 'We will work to eliminate defence trade barriers among allies and will leverage our partnerships to promote defence industrial cooperation.' The pledge added that the alliance would 'reaffirm their enduring sovereign commitments to provide support to Ukraine', and their 'ironclad commitment to collective defence as enshrined in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty – that an attack on one is an attack on all'. 'Almost all [Nato members] are going to contribute now 5 per cent – a number that people are surprised at, but you need it today,' Trump said at a press briefing after the summit. 'The United States accounts for two-thirds of all Nato defence spending. Since I began pushing for additional commitments in 2017, believe it or not, our allies have increased spending by US$700 billion.' Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte told reporters that the summit 'laid the foundations for stronger, fairer and more lethal Nato', through the new investment plan that could 'fuel a quantum leap' in their collective defence. 'Should anyone make the mistake of attack, allies recognise the severity of the threats we face, and in response, they have come together to agree on an ambitious but essential new defence spending commitment,' Rutte said. 'Our decisions today show that from the Mediterranean to the Arctic, from the rest of North America to our eastern flank, all allies are united in understanding that we need to step up to stay safe, and they are active.' Addressing concerns about the Trump administration's commitment to defend Nato allies, Rutte stated the US president had been 'clear' that America was 'committed to Nato', a pledge they 'affirmed again on Wednesday in no uncertain terms'. The 5 per cent defence spending goal originated with the Trump administration's pressure on European Nato allies, leading to a shift from the initial 2 per cent benchmark agreed in 2014. The benchmark was agreed on a compromise text on Sunday between the representatives of each Nato member state before the summit. Rutte said he believed Spain, a holdout on the defence spending commitment, would be convinced to work towards it. Citing budgetary constraints, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said that his country would not be able to increase defence spending, claiming that Madrid only had to spend 2.1 per cent of GDP to meet Nato's core military requirements. In his briefing, Trump threatened to double US import tariffs on Spanish goods if Madrid did not work to meet the new Nato target. 'We're going to make them pay twice as much. And I'm actually serious about that,' Trump said. Nato officials, including Rutte, have claimed that a significant increase in defence spending was necessary to counter an increasing Russian threat demonstrated by its war against Ukraine, and to allow Europe to take on more responsibility for its own security as the US shifts its military focus to China. Rutte said in the opening remarks at the NAC that 'assertive grouping of adversaries' seeks to divide and challenge Nato, as well as increasing other 'serious' security threats, calling the alliance to stand together and that the 'adversaries' know it is a 'winning combination' for North America and Europe working together. He asserted that the US carried 'too much' weight in commitments to protect the alliance 'for too long', and praised Trump's leadership for making such a change in defence burden sharing possible. According to Rutte, the Nato member states lagging on defence spending would not have reached the goal of 2 per cent of GDP if Trump had not been elected president, adding that the proposed defence spending goal was 'doable' and that he was 'optimistic' that it would be achieved. 'Seven to eight countries at the start of this year were not at 2 per cent. They will now reach 2 per cent this year. Many countries said 'we will do it somewhere in the 2030s', but now they are committed to do it by this year,' Rutte said. 'Countries have to find money, it's not easy. These are political decisions. I totally recognise that. But at the same time, there is absolute conviction with colleagues at the table, that given those threats from Russians, given the international security situation, there is no alternative. We've got to do this.' Rutte also addressed the gushing 'Dear Donald' private message he sent to Trump this week, which the US president posted on social media. In it, Rutte said Trump was 'flying into another big success' at Nato after his 'decisive action in Iran'. Rutte confirmed that the text message was a 'statement of fact' and that it was 'absolutely fine' that Trump shared it online. This exchange took place amid renewed concerns over Trump's stance on the alliance's core principles. The US president had previously claimed that Nato member states failing to meet a proposed 5 per cent defence target might not benefit from US protection under Article 5. En route to this week's summit, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that there were 'numerous definitions' of Article 5, fuelling uncertainty about whether the US would defend European members under attack, though he added he was 'committed to saving lives'. On these remarks, Rutte said before Wednesday's summit that the US was 'totally committed to Nato, totally committed to Article 5', and that equalising defence spending among the European Nato member states as much as Washington was 'fair', repeating his remarks from the first day of the summit on Tuesday that Europe must 'stop worrying about the US'. The meeting between Trump and Rutte also took place in the morning on Wednesday, where the US president said 'we're with them all the way' and the increase of defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP would make Nato stronger. - SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
See - Sada Elbalad
3 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Egypt's New Administrative Capital Shares Urban Planning Expertise in Madagascar
Taarek Refaat In a significant step to bolster African cooperation and export Egyptian expertise in sustainable urban development, the Administrative Capital for Urban Development Company (ACUD) has announced its active involvement in supporting the development of a new administrative city in Madagascar. The visit, led by Eng. Khaled Abbas, Chairman and Managing Director of ACUD, came at the official invitation of Madagascar's Secretary of State for New Towns and Housing and follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between both nations during the Cairo Urban Forum in November 2024. The Egyptian delegation visited the Madagascan capital Antananarivo from June 22 to 25, 2025, where they explored avenues for technical collaboration and shared Egypt's landmark experience in developing its New Administrative Capital (NAC)—a national megaproject viewed as a model for future smart cities in the region. Sharing Expertise for a Future Capital At the heart of the visit was a field tour of the Tana-Masondro New City Project, located approximately 28 kilometers from Antananarivo and spanning over 2,340 acres. The site is set to become Madagascar's future administrative capital and a major urban expansion initiative. During the tour, Eng. Abbas reviewed master plans, ongoing works, and requested detailed technical documents for evaluation and advisory input from the Egyptian side. In a high-level meeting with the Secretary of State, Abbas presented Egypt's integrated approach to smart and sustainable urban planning, including infrastructure development, digital governance, and public-private partnerships. The two parties agreed to form a joint steering committee comprising specialists from both countries to oversee cooperation and begin technical collaboration on the new city's design and implementation. Business Forum Highlights Egyptian-Malagasy Partnership The visit also featured ACUD's participation in the Egypt-Madagascar Business Forum, which was attended by senior officials from both countries, including Egypt's Deputy Minister for Maritime Transport, Rear Admiral Nehad Shaheen, and a delegation of private Egyptian firms. On the Malagasy side, ministers of foreign affairs, transportation, public works, energy, water, industry, and commerce joined the discussions. Eng. Abbas took part in knowledge-exchange sessions that showcased Egypt's urban development model, highlighting successful strategies in financing, planning, and managing large-scale cities such as the NAC. Presidential Reception and Bilateral Commitment The visit concluded with a meeting between Eng. Abbas and President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, during which Abbas conveyed the greetings of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and affirmed Cairo's readiness to support Madagascar's urban ambitions. President Rajoelina welcomed the Egyptian offer of expertise and emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in areas of development, urban planning, and sustainable infrastructure. A Strategic Partnership in the Making The collaboration reflects a broader strategy by the Egyptian government to expand its footprint in African urban development initiatives, positioning ACUD as a regional leader in smart city planning. The signed MoU outlines a roadmap for Egyptian companies to provide technical support, human resources, and consultancy in the design and execution of the Tana-Masondro project. The success of the mission also owed much to the coordination efforts of the Egyptian Embassy in Antananarivo, particularly Ambassador Rabab Saeed, who was praised for facilitating the visit and advancing Egypt's diplomatic and developmental goals in the region. read more CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years Business Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves Business Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue Business Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday Business Wheat delivery season commences on April 15 News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
Time Business News
7 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
The Benefits of NAC Supplements: A Complete Guide
N-acetylcysteine, commonly known as NAC, is a remarkable supplement gaining widespread attention for its powerful health benefits. Derived from the amino acid L-cysteine, NAC serves a vital role in supporting the body's detoxification systems, boosting immunity, protecting mental health, and enhancing respiratory function. While originally used in hospitals for treating acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose, its everyday use has grown thanks to its diverse range of potential benefits. In this article, we'll explore the key benefits of NAC supplements, how they work in the body, recommended usage, safety considerations, and why they could be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. NAC stands for N-acetylcysteine, a supplement form of the amino acid cysteine. It's best known as a precursor to glutathione—your body's master antioxidant. Glutathione plays a crucial role in fighting oxidative stress, neutralizing toxins, and maintaining immune function. NAC helps replenish this vital antioxidant, especially when the body is under stress from illness, poor diet, or environmental toxins. NAC also has mucolytic properties, meaning it can thin mucus. This makes it particularly effective in treating respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). One of the most critical roles of NAC is replenishing intracellular glutathione, which: Fights harmful free radicals Reduces oxidative stress Supports liver function Aids in cellular repair and immune defense This makes NAC an essential supplement for detoxification and overall cellular health. Due to its ability to thin mucus, NAC is often used for: Chronic bronchitis Asthma Cystic fibrosis COPD Seasonal colds and congestion It helps clear airways and improve lung function, making breathing easier and more efficient. NAC is a standard treatment in emergency rooms for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose because it prevents liver damage by restoring glutathione levels. Even in non-emergency settings, NAC supports liver health by: Helping neutralize toxins Reducing inflammation Supporting recovery from fatty liver or alcohol-related damage NAC's impact on the brain is one of its most exciting areas of research. It has shown promise in managing mental health conditions such as: Depression Anxiety Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Bipolar disorder Schizophrenia Addiction (smoking, alcohol, cocaine) NAC may help by regulating glutamate (a neurotransmitter) and reducing oxidative stress in the brain. NAC may improve fertility for both men and women: In men: Enhances sperm count, motility, and quality In women (especially with PCOS): Encourages ovulation, improves insulin sensitivity, and may increase pregnancy rates These benefits are especially valuable for couples facing fertility challenges. By raising antioxidant levels and reducing inflammation, NAC helps the immune system work more effectively. It may: Reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu Help manage chronic infections Support immune balance in people with autoimmune issues Some studies suggest NAC may benefit cardiovascular health by: Lowering blood pressure Reducing inflammation in blood vessels Improving insulin sensitivity Balancing cholesterol levels This can be especially useful for people at risk of heart disease, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome. NAC is commonly available in capsule, tablet, or powder form. Typical dosage ranges between 600 mg to 1800 mg per day, depending on the health concern and the individual's needs. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, or on medication. NAC is generally safe for most people. However, mild side effects can include: Nausea Diarrhea Headache Fatigue It's important to choose a high-quality supplement that is third-party tested to ensure purity and potency. NAC is a powerhouse supplement with a wide range of scientifically backed health benefits. From boosting your antioxidant defenses and supporting lung health to enhancing brain function and fertility, its uses are extensive and well-supported by clinical research. Whether you're looking to improve immune function, protect your liver, manage stress, or support mental clarity, NAC can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. However, as with all supplements, it's best used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure it fits your individual needs. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
