Latest news with #SIC
Business Recorder
19 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
PSA seeks exemption to green energy from SIC
LAHORE: Pakistan Solar Association (PSA) has asked the government of Sindh to exempt the green energy sector from the Sindh Infrastructure Cess (SIC), aligning with the Pakistan People's Party's (PPP) broader environmental vision. Leading industrialist and member of PSA Mian Faraz Aslam who is renewable energy advocate Mian Faraz Ala while speaking at the energy stakeholders' roundtable stressed that the renewable energy industry— especially solar— should be given strategic support through policy incentives, including tax and cess exemptions, to accelerate Pakistan's transition toward sustainable energy. He made a direct appeal to the Chief Minister of Sindh to support green energy sector. 'If we truly aim to implement the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who has repeatedly emphasised the importance of green and clean energy for Pakistan's future, we must remove bottlenecks like the Sindh Infrastructure Cess (SIC) on renewable energy equipment,' Alam stated. Mian Faraz, who leads the Alam Group of Companies and one of Pakistan's largest importers of Tier-1 solar panels pointed out that the SIC adds an additional financial burden on companies already investing in sustainable infrastructure. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
The National
2 days ago
- Politics
- The National
SNP fail to sign pro-indy pledge condemning Gaza genocide
Last month, the non-party-affiliated Scottish Independence Convention (SIC) urged the leaders of pro-independence parties to sign a pledge condemning the Gaza genocide in the 'strongest possible terms' and to 'commit to sanctioning Israel where possible and to pushing all Scottish business and suppliers to divest from Israeli products'. The letter calls for Israel to be banned from taking part in international events such as football championships and Eurovision, as well as divesting Scottish Government and local authority pension schemes to any companies who have links to arming Israel. READ MORE: BBC officially axes documentary on Gaza doctors over 'impartiality' concerns It also asks Yes leaders to 'commit to doing all within their power to uphold international law and to arresting anyone suspected of war crimes that steps on Scottish soil, support and promote the key organisations and the United Nations offering aid to the Palestinian people; demand that the UK Government do the same, sanction Israel, end any complicity and end all arms trading with Israel without exception'. Alba leader Kenny MacAskill and Scottish Greens co-leaders Lorna Slater and Patrick Harvie have signed the pledge. But while The National understands that John Swinney was also approached, he has not signed. Swinney had previously condemned Israel for blocking aid entering Gaza, and said there was a 'need to end the conflict' in discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. But the SIC said while this language was welcome, there was a need for the SNP Government "to act". "We know the leader of the SNP deplores the appalling war crimes Israel has committed in Gaza. We know that the Scottish Government has limited powers," a statement from the SIC executive said. READ MORE: UK Government 'set to proscribe Palestine Action after RAF protest' "But it is also important to act. We want the SNP Government to identify the initiatives they can take to boycott Israel and to put pressure on businesses and organisations in Scotland to participate in this boycott. "That what we are asking them to sign up to." When contacted by The National to ask why they had not joined the Greens and Alba in signing the pledge, the SNP said they had "been absolutely clear" on their position. A spokesperson said: 'The SNP have been absolutely clear that we unequivocally support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a halt on arms sales to Israel, and the recognition of an independent Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution.'
Herald Malaysia
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Herald Malaysia
St Ignatius parish celebrates the joy of family love
The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of Love. Jun 20, 2025 Performance by the catechism children PETALING JAYA: The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of month-long celebration was a collaborative effort by various parish groups — the English and Mandarin Family Life, Catechetical, Youth Ministries, BECCOT, Bethany Counselling, and the Formation Team — reflecting the strength of faith in festivities kicked off with the launch of five core family values: enhancing communication; promoting harmony and reconciliation; deepening faith life; building connections and nurturing mutual respect; and cultivating strong family values. These messages, beautifully captured in printed quotes, were displayed at the Community Centre. Featured were reflections from Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Pope St John Paul II, St Teresa of Calcutta, Cardinal Celso Costantini (founder of the CDD), and several well-known public Saturday in May brought something special. On May 3, families attended insightful talks: Strengthening Family Communication by play therapist Juliana Tang (English) and Communication Detective by licensed counsellor Lily Wong Lai Fang (Mandarin). Through role plays, film clips, and interactive activities, families gained practical tools to communicate more May 10, Fr Philip Chua and Fr Stephen Ng, CDD led sessions in English and Mandarin respectively on The Joy of Love in the Family, focusing on family spirituality. Parishioners bonded over shared tea breaks, deepening the sense of of the most anticipated events was the Family Fun Day in FRIM on May 17. Held at the lush Kepong forest reserve, it drew nearly 200 parishioners. Laughter and cheer echoed through the trees as families joined in Jazzercise with Janet Ginibun and team, explored nature on a guided walk, and competed in lively 'back-to-school' telematches. Many brought their own picnic mats and tucked into delicious meals while enjoying one another's company. Even toddlers had their own special corner filled with soap bubbles and activities. Parish priest, Fr Thomas Koo, CDD and assistant parish priest Fr Martin Then, CDD, joined the fun, much to the delight of participants.'Keep it up! Kudos for putting so much heart into bringing joy to all, especially seniors and kids,' shared one grateful parent. 'It was a fantastic outing!'The month culminated in a vibrant indoor carnival, FamFest! Food, Fun, Fiesta, held on May 31 at the parish Community Centre. The day brimmed with energy — food and craft stalls, game booths, open mic sessions, and performances by the English, Mandarin-, Bahasa-, and Tamil-speaking communities. Catechism children came dressed in Laudato Si' inspired costumes crafted from recycled Youth Ministry put on an entertaining show with cultural dances, wushu demonstrations, songs, and band performances. Parishioners joined in spontaneous dancing, led by Fr Thomas himself, filling the hall with warmth and joy. The event closed with full hearts, new friendships, happy tummies, and arms full of the month, families deepened their communication, discovered joy in family love, engaged in friendly competition, and prayed together — especially the Rosary — for the sanctification of families. The Family Month concluded with a sunset Mass, a fitting end to a meaningful and memorable celebration. In his closing remarks, Fr Thomas shared, 'We give thanks to God for all the blessings He has bestowed on us this Family Month. Let us carry on as families filled with love for one another.' SIC Family Life Ministry
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
Samsung education-focused CSR programmes
Making a positive difference in the lives of South African youth. Samsung's education-focused, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes strive to promote innovation and empower youth through technology; with the ultimate aim of addressing societal issues. These programmes offer support to underprivileged youth and aim to cultivate creative thinking while also providing critical skills training needed by the local economy. By doing so, Samsung is creating opportunities for young people to make a positive impact on their communities and society. Samsung spoke to some of the beneficiaries from its education-focused initiatives that are driven through technology,and this is what they had to say: Siyabonga 'Siya' Mojalefa Tshabalala originally from Qwaqwa in the Free State was part of the 2022 Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) programme in partnership with Central University of Technology (CUT). SIC is a global initiative that upskills youth aged 18-25 in future technologies to enhance their employability while focusing on AI, IoT, Big Data and Coding. Siya explained: 'Through this SIC programme I gained hands-on experience through paper coding, peer programming and projects and these skills have helped me to solve real-world problems. The programme also taught me some important soft skills that are required in work environments, these included communication, critical thinking, problem solving skills and ability to collaborate with others.' Another beneficiary, 26 year old Mulalo Ndou, did her undergrad in mathematical science and majored in mathematics and mathematical statistics at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). She also completed her honours in risk analysis (cum laude) at the University of the Free State (UFS). According to Mulalo, Samsung's bursary fund was her light at the end of the tunnel. Mulalo received funding from Samsung when she needed it to complete her last year of studies. 'I lost the funding I had for my studies in my final year and had to go back home, but Samsung came through for me, she said. 'This bursary fund paid for my annual fees and accommodation in my final year and postgraduate studies. It also provided me with a monthly meal and living stipend as well as an allowance for a laptop.' After Mulalo finished her postgrad, Samsung provided her with an internship opportunity. 'When the internship period was over, Samsung gave me a full-time position as a process improvement data analyst/reporting specialist. I am very grateful to the individuals at Samsung who helped me to be successful in my role,' she added. In an effort to pay it forward, Mulalo also works as a volunteer at Rising Females in STEM, as she is also a rising female in technology and mathematics. Mulalo said that she has always wanted to be one of the mentors in the Samsung Solve For Tomorrow (SFT) programme. 'This SFT opportunity came at the right time and has been an amazing experience. I am learning something new each day from the participating learners and, most importantly, how to become a great mentor.' Nzumbululo Todani, an 18 year old learner from Mbilwi Secondary in Thohoyandou, Limpopo. Nzumbululo is one of the beneficiaries from the SFT contest that challenges students to use STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills to solve real-world problems in their local communities. His participation in the SFT competition has proved to be invaluable – he attributes his academic achievements in 2024 to his experience in the programme. Nzumbululo was awarded the top learner in the province for the 2024 NSC examinations with an average aggregate of 97%. Also, he was awarded for obtaining 300/300 in two gateway subjects: physical science and geography. 'When I participated in the contest, I assumed the role of team coordinator, managing and planning the daily landscape of the project and doing quality control on the prototype as well as all papers written and the final presentation. The competition left me with invaluable communication, leadership, planning, evaluation and time management skills.' Thoriso Rangata is a 32 year male entrepreneur and the owner of KTO Digital – a business process automation, software development services and background screening software as a service (SaaS) solution provider. He currently stays in Johannesburg but is originally from Limpopo and is one of the beneficiaries of the Samsung EEIP Entrepreneurship Development Programme. Thoriso became part of the programme when he responded to a public call for applications. At the time, his business needed support so that they could meet the company's growth objectives. Since being part of the EEIP programme, Thoriso won the Nedbank Business of the Year award in 2022. His company also launched its own product and received accreditation for the business as a credit bureau in 2022. 'The other direct benefits that we received from being part of the programme included: grant funding, asset financing and continuous business mentorship that our business needed in order for us to move forward, Thoriso added. 'We strongly believe that the skills we acquired from this EEIP programme, which included business regulatory governance structures and strategic business growth approaches/methods – have contributed to the success of our business to date.' Through these education-focused CSR programmes that are driven by technology, Samsung is actively promoting the transfer of critical skills as well as both employment and entrepreneurship opportunities that are needed by the country's youth and the local economy. The testimonials from the youth that participated in Samsung's programmes are a clear indication of the impact the company is making in South Africa. By continuing to fund such programmes, Samsung is working towards winning the fight against youth unemployment, inequality and poverty in the country; through job creation and the development of a skilled workforce. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung newsroom at
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Govt comes under attack in NA for ignoring agri sector
PML-N-led coalition government in the Centre now has 229 members in the NA. PHOTO: APP Lawmakers from the treasury and opposition benches on Thursday welcomed improved economic indicators and emphasized the need for bipartisan efforts to sustain economic progress and promote inclusive growth. Resuming the budget debate, Raja Qamar-ul-Islam of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) praised the budget as historic and lauded the role of Pakistan's armed forces in sending a firm message to India. He expressed confidence that the budget 2025-26 would pave the way for sustainable economic growth in the country. Amir Dogar of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) criticized the government for overlooking the agriculture sector and called for raising the minimum wage to Rs 50,000. Atif Khan of SIC criticized the budget and stressed relief measures for the poor segment of society. Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) legislator Shagufta Jumani appreciated the government for allocating significant funds to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). She also urged the government to allocate dedicated funds for polio eradication, emphasizing the importance of sustained public health efforts. Rana Hayat proposed the creation of a special House committee to focus on the problems faced by farmers, a vital segment of the economy. MNA Usama Ahmed Mela, emphasizing the critical role of agriculture in national development, called on the government to provide incentives for farmers, including subsidies for fertilizer, pesticide and broader agricultural reforms. He also suggested a review of the Federal Board of Revenue's (FBR) authority, indicating concerns about its administrative reach.
