Latest news with #youthaffairs
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Govt swimming pool at Quepem turns into a ‘green pond'
The poor quality of water at the Quepem pool has been well-documented with swimmers complaining that the facility is unhealthy and unsafe Panaji: There's no respite for swimmers at the Quepem swimming pool, owned by the directorate of sports and youth affairs (DSYA). The poor quality of water at the pool has been well-documented with swimmers complaining that the facility is unhealthy and unsafe. In April, when complaints piled up, the govt did get the pool back into shape, but the facility has now returned to the same green look, full of algae. 'I go there three times a week and the pool in-charge always gives the same excuses: not enough lifeguards, lack of chemicals,' said Harish Kamat, a businessman from Curchorem and two-time Ironman participant. 'Previously, when John (Fernandes) was in charge, the pool was well maintained. There was no reason to complain. In fact, whenever Margao (pool) had issues, swimmers came here.' According to multiple swimmers, the pool has now turned into a 'green pond'. "My daughter is a national-level swimmer, who took part in several School Nationals. The Quepem facility is just a five-minute walk for us. She has been training at Margao due to lack of maintenance here. We travel an hour every day just for training.' The poor condition of the pool has been brought to the notice of local MLA Altone D'Costa, who is expected to raise the issue during the monsoon session of the state assembly. "The complaints have fallen to deaf ears,' said D'Costa. 'I will raise the issue in the assembly as the facility serves swimmers from nearby localities such as Sanguem, Sanvordem, Quepem, Chandor and other areas." Fernandes, the previous in-charge who has now retired from service, said the pump needs attention and was put to optimum use. 'During peak summer (time), almost 100 swimmers used the facility. We ensured that the facility is in best condition and kept a stock of chemicals required for maintenance. Any request (for additional stock) was sent well in advance." Ajit Dessai, who took over in 2023, said shortage of lifeguards, staff, pumps and chemicals, was a big handicap. "I have to close the pool due to a shortage of staff as one lifeguard met with an accident and the other is on leave. I have written to the higher authorities," said Dessai. At the recent state-level aquatic meet at Ponda, swimmers from Sanquem, Sanvordem and Quepem could not participate for lack of practice. 'There were very few swimmers at the Ponda meet," said Goa Swimming Association secretary Sudesh Nagvenkar. 'It is natural that when the facility is not maintained as per standard, the participation and results for swimmers from that area gets affected.'
Khaleej Times
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
'Dreamers who do': UAE's Sultan AlNeyadi shares journey from Earth to stars at Expo 2025 Osaka
Featured as one of the UAE Pavilion's celebrated 'Dreamers Who Do', astronaut Dr Sultan AlNeyadi brought his remarkable space journey to life at Expo 2025 Osaka, offering visitors an inspiring glimpse into the nation's ambition in space exploration and innovation. During his visit, AlNeyadi, who is also the UAE's Minister of State for Youth Affairs, engaged with an international audience, reflecting on his six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. He spoke about daily life in orbit, the scientific experiments conducted during Expedition 69, and the vital role of global collaboration in advancing space research. A special Q-and-A session allowed children, families, and visitors from around the world to connect with him directly. AlNeyadi was welcomed by Shihab AlFaheem, UAE Ambassador to Japan and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion, and taken on a tour through the Pavilion's immersive journey – from Earth to Ether. The multi-sensory experience highlights the UAE's transformation and showcases stories of individuals shaping the nation's future, including space explorers, healthcare pioneers, and sustainability champions. A key highlight of the visit was the Explorers of Space zone, where AlNeyadi is featured as one of the Pavilion's 'Dreamers Who Do,' individuals who have translated national ambition into global achievement. His presence added personal depth to the exhibit, creating a powerful moment of connection for visitors. 'It has been a privilege to visit the UAE Pavilion here in Osaka and see how our national story is being brought to life on the global stage,' said AlNeyadi. 'The 'Dreamers Who Do' experience highlights the UAE's belief in its people. In just a few years, we have moved from ambition to achievement in space exploration. Our growing collaboration with Japan is a strong example of what shared vision can deliver for the future of humanity.' His participation also aligned with Expo 2025's 'Future of Community and Mobility' theme week, which explores how science and innovation can transform how societies connect and progress. His visit underscored the UAE's leadership in shaping future-ready conversations, especially in space and advanced technology. 'We were honoured to welcome Dr Sultan AlNeyadi to the UAE Pavilion,' said AlFaheem. 'His story continues to inspire and reflects the values and ambition that define the UAE's presence on the world stage.' The UAE Pavilion remains open daily at Expo 2025 Osaka, offering a dynamic, multi-sensory experience that captures the people, ideas, and achievements shaping a flourishing future — from Earth to Ether.
