In a recent heartfelt interview on MX24’s “The Plug” show with JKD, renowned Gospel artist KobbySalm opened up about the intense struggles he faces in his music career. Gospel artist KobbySalm revealed a deeply personal struggle he faces every night. Despite his passion and dedication to creating music that honors God, KobbySalm shared that he contemplates quitting music every time he goes to bed.

KobbySalm spoke openly about the immense challenges Gospel artists endure. “Every night, there’s a constant battle within me,” he confessed. “I find myself wrestling with the decision to quit music.” This internal conflict stems from the disparity between the effort he puts into his music and the support he receives.

Gospel artists often face unique hardships, balancing their desire to serve God through their art with the need for recognition and support. KobbySalm highlighted this issue, noting that despite their spiritual motivations, Gospel artists are still human and seek validation for their hard work. The lack of adequate support can lead to feelings of depression and discouragement. 

“You pour your heart and soul into your music, striving to please God, but there’s also that human desire for your hard work to be recognized and rewarded,” KobbySalm explained. The emotional toll of these down times can be overwhelming, pushing many Gospel artists to the brink of quitting. 

For KobbySalm, the battle is nightly. Each time he lies down to sleep, he confronts the decision to quit music. However, he finds solace and strength in his faith. “The Holy Spirit whispers words of encouragement and gives me the strength to continue,” he shared. This divine encouragement is what keeps him going despite the challenges.

Kobbyslam (right) and Kofi Karikari (left) in a pose 

KobbySalm’s recent body of work, titled “Never Forget,” features Kofi Karikari and is a testament to his resilience and dedication. The video for “Never Forget” is now available on YouTube, offering fans a glimpse into his unwavering commitment to his craft and his faith.

You can watch the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Jjhx0yFQ

China’s journey into lunar exploration has seen many notable achievements and ambitious future missions. From the start of its space program to today’s cutting-edge missions, China has continuously improved its abilities and become an important participant in space exploration. This blog looks at the key moments in China’s moon study history and investigates upcoming plans for exciting moon trips.

Early Steps and Initial Achievements

Chang’e 1: China’s First Lunar Mission

China’s first step in lunar exploration was the launch of Chang’e 1 in 2007. It was named after a moon goddess from Chinese mythology, and this orbiter successfully mapped out and sent back data about our planet’s natural satellite – Moon. This important mission showed that China had now joined other nations exploring beyond Earth’s atmosphere while also showing its ability to carry out intricate space tasks. For more updates follow China Space News

Chang’e 2: Advancing Lunar Science

To progress from Chang’e 1, we sent Chang’e 2 into space in 2010. This mission had two main parts: mapping of the moon became more detailed and flyby around asteroid Toutatis displayed China’s increasing skill with space navigation. The detailed pictures of moon’s surface taken by Chang’e 2 helped improve our knowledge about lunar geology.

Chang’e 3: A Historic Soft Landing

Chang’e 3, which was launched in the year 2013, it marked a significant mission because this is when China succeeded in making its initial soft landing on the moon. The mission involved a lander and rover known as Yutu or “Jade Rabbit” that explored surface of moon by doing scientific experiments there and sending back beautiful pictures to Earth. This mission marked the return of humans to moon, with China becoming the third country to achieve soft landing after United States and Soviet Union.

Recent Milestones

Chang’e 4: Exploring the Far Side of the Moon

China created a new record in 2019 with the Chang’e 4 mission, where a spacecraft landed on the far side of moon for first time. This mission contained both a lander and rover named Yutu-2; it is still exploring around on moon’s surface that faces away from us towards Earth. The achievement of Chang’e 4 has given us never-before-seen knowledge about our moon’s geology and improved understanding about how solar systems formed early in history. The success of the mission was supported by the Queqiao relay satellite, which helped in communicating between the moon’s far side and Earth.

Chang’e 5: Sample Return Mission

The mission Chang’e 5, accomplished in December 2020, was a prominent event for China. This mission managed to gather and bring back lunar samples to Earth, marking the initial time since Luna 24 from Soviet Union in 1976 that such an action happened. The success of Chang’e 5 provided fresh moon material for scientists to analyze. It offered new understanding about what makes up our moon as well as its past history.

Chang’e 6: Aiming for More Lunar Samples

After Chang’e 5, China is now preparing for Chang’e 6 in the year 2024. This mission will focus on the South Pole-Aitken Basin area of Moon which happens to be one among solar system’s biggest impact craters. In gathering samples from this particular location, scientists are hoping to attain a more comprehensive comprehension about mantle of moon and history behind lunar impacts. Chang’e 6 wants to expand China’s understanding about lunar geology and enhance its abilities in returning samples from the moon.

Future Missions: Ambitions and Goals

Chang’e 7: Exploring the Moon’s South Pole

Chang’e 7, planned for the mid-2020s, plans to examine the South Pole of moon. This mission is anticipated to include an orbiter, a lander, a rover and a mini-flying probe. The South Pole holds fascination because it has areas that are always in shadow and might have water ice. Chang’e 7 wants to study the moon’s environment, make a map of its topography and look at how resources like water ice are spread on it.

Chang’e 8: Laying the Groundwork for a Lunar Base

Chang’e 8, which is planned for the late 2020s, will concentrate on checking technologies and performing experiments that are necessary in order to prepare a lunar base. This mission will cooperate with worldwide allies and examine how we can utilize resources found on the moon for an enduring human existence. The methods and technologies created through Chang’e 8 are anticipated to assist in building a research station on top of the moon.

International Lunar Research Station (ILRS)

Together with Russia, China has suggested the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). This plan wants to create a stable and enduring human existence on the moon by 2030s. The ILRS will become a center for doing scientific research, developing technology and cooperating internationally. It will possess life support, energy production, communication and science experiment functions to allow complete lunar exploration and use.

China’s Strategic Vision for Lunar Exploration

China’s lunar exploration program is not only a race to achieve certain technological firsts; it fits into a wider strategic plan. The goals of this vision consist of scientific discoveries, advancement in technology, maintaining national reputation and collaborating globally. China aims to accomplish the following by enhancing its lunar exploration abilities:

Increase Scientific Comprehension: The tasks from China add to worldwide understanding on matters like the moon’s creation and shifts, along with its geological features. The details obtained assist in answering basic inquiries about the moon’s geology and solar system history.

Drive Technological Innovation: The exploration of Moon needs modern technology in fields like robotics, materials science, propulsion and communication. Missions from China are testing these technologies’ limits which could result in advancements useful for more than just space explores.

Increase in International Recognition: Success in space explorations raises the country’s worldwide status and shows its ability as a leading space traveler. Advancements made on lunar exploration also add to the pride of nation and inspire coming generations of scientists and engineers.

Promote Collaboration with Other Countries: To encourage collaboration in space exploration, China can form partnerships with other nations and organizations. This will show how working together is beneficial for all parties involved, just like the ILRS project that allows participating countries to share in the advancements made by everyone.

Conclusion

China’s moon research program has seen big growth in the last twenty years, making history and setting high aims for what is to come. From the first accomplishments with Chang’e 1 and 2 to innovative tasks such as Chang’e 4 and 5, China has shown its capacity and dedication towards exploration of moon. With upcoming missions including Chang’e 6,7,8 along with International Lunar Research Station that is full of vision – it shows how ready China becomes a leader in mankind’s journey for understanding moon while using its resources too. In the coming days, China’s lunar exploration will be a key part of our efforts to learn more about the moon and find new ways for space exploration.

 As part of efforts to strengthen Africa’s digital landscape and foster economic advancement, Academic City University College has introduced an innovative MSc Cyber Security programme to safeguard Africa’s digital infrastructure and drive innovation.

In today’s interconnected world, cyber security is important for long-term growth and global competitiveness. By introducing the MSc Cyber Security, Academic City aims to equip graduates with advanced cyber security expertise, which fosters critical analysis and practical skills to combat evolving threats in digital landscapes.

This programme will enable students to develop practical cyber security analysis skills through hands-on training and real-world scenarios, addressing the complexities of cyber threats. Emphasising multi-dimensional problem-solving, the curriculum provides students with versatility to tackle diverse cyber security challenges and insights into risk management, ensuring a holistic approach to cyber defense.

In 2023, ISC2 estimated the global cyber security workforce to be 5.5 million, with a growth of 8.7% between 2022 and 2023, adding nearly 440,000 new positions. Additionally, all regions experienced growth in cyber workforce size in 2023, with the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions leading with an annual increase of 11.7% and 11.8%, respectively.

Speaking on this new programme, Prof. Fred McBagonluri, President of Academic City, remarked, “As the African continent continues to embrace digital transformation, the introduction of our cyber security programme signifies our desire to empower individuals and organisations to thrive in an increasingly digitised world.”

According to him, the programme aims to help address the critical need for safeguarding sensitive information, which is crucial for economic growth and attracting investments.

“This innovative programme promises to establish a robust digital infrastructure for the continent’s future prosperity,” he added.

David Gowu, Executive Director of the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH), stressed how important it is to have cyber security experts in a world where technology is changing so quickly.

 “As businesses deal with the constant threat of cyberattacks, it is crucial for business owners to empower employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to help protect their digital assets.”

He commended Academic City for introducing the MSc in Cyber Security to provide professionals with the skills they need to deal with cyber security problems. 

“I am very optimistic that this programme will give professionals the training they need to confidently get through the complex cyber security landscape,” he said.

The two-year MSc Cyber Security programme will start in September 2024. To qualify for the program, an applicant must have a BSC from an accredited university with a minimum of second-class upper or lower.

Prof. Fred McBagonluri, President of Academic City

MTN Ghana wishes to inform its cherished customers and trade partners that, its scratch cards which was last introduced in trade in 2020 is being totally phased out effective 30^th June 2024.

This means that customers who still have unused MTN scratch cards cannot recharge them after 1^stJuly 2024, however customers can redeem the value of their scratch cards via Credit transfer (EVD) at any MTN Customer Experience Centre.

This is also in line with MTN’s strategy to lead digital solutions in Ghana and beyond and aligns with the Government of Ghana’s digitalisation agenda. MTN customers are encouraged to continue using existing digital channels including MoMo, Ayoba and myMTN app to recharge. As part of our commitment towards a clean environment, customers enjoy 50% bonus on all recharges done via Mobile Money. 

Commenting on the withdrawal of scratch cards, the Chief  Sales and Distribution Officer, Mr Samuel Addo said, “the phasing out of the scratch cards is one of the avenues to help us protect the environment, empower customers to drive digital usage and make customer service delivery more efficient”.

In line with MTN’s sustainability strategy, the company continues to implement several initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint including waste reduction programs, water conservation measures as well as other energy-saving initiatives.

Keta SHS and Ghana SHS, Tamale, tussled for the last spot available in the quarterfinals of Senior Sharks 7.

When the contest wound up, Keta SHS had gone ahead of Tamasco to earn their badge in the Super Ranked Schools division.

Keta SHS, in as many Senior Sharks Quiz appearances are yet to win the coveted ‘Book of Knowledge’ trophy.

They’ve, however, won many high profile contests and are the proud recipient of a 2nd Runner-up medal in Season 3.

With two wins under their belt in Senior Sharks 7, Ghana SHS (Ghanasco) were coming into this contest with desire and a history-making mindset.

Unfortunately it was the last we were going to see of the Tamale school in Senior Sharks 7 as Ketasco foiled them.

Right Corner Round

In a rarity in quiz competitions across the country, twin brothers Manfred and Alfred Antwi lined up and combined effectively to answer Keta’s social literacy questions.

The brothers didn’t disappoint as they earned a big score of fifty (50) for Ketasco.

When social literacy is mentioned in Ghana SHS, the only name that comes to mind is Farida Abubakar.

For the third time in Senior Sharks 7, Farida displayed top level brilliance as she controlled the social literacy questions to earn forty (40) points for Ghanasco.

R Cubed Round 

Patently aware that only ten (10) points stand between them, both schools ventured forth with all hands on deck.

There was good answers provided to the Reading and Writing questions by both sides, but Ketasco were clearly the better team.

In the Arithmetic there was a mishmash of “pass” responses from both schools until Keta braved the storm and answered two questions which were deemed as incorrect.

The two incorrect answers thus reduced Keta’s score from forty (40) to thirty (30) at the end of the round.

Ghana SHS on the other hand left the round with ten (10) points.

STEM Round

Still coasting ahead of Ghanasco comfortably, Ketasco confidently interrupted to pick the first riddle of the round.

After missing the next two, Ghanasco sensed an opportunity and buzzed to bring the riddle home correctly for ten (10) points.

Keta will have the last laugh of the round, after they picked the last riddle but their score remained zero (0).

Likewise, zero (0) points also stood against Ghanasco’s name.

One-on-one Round

The contest had turned out to be a marathon rather than a sprint, and any one could potentially win this.

As such, Andani and Kelvin angled up in all seriousness as English specialists for Ghanasco and Ketasco.

They both could not decipher the first scrambled word, while Kelvin would find out that there is a big difference between “psychopath” and “sycophant”.

No points from either side.

Math specialists were named as Huudu and Chris for Ghanasco and Ketasco respectively.

Yet again, none added any points to their respective scores.

Collins of Ghana SHS was pitted against Perpetual of Keta SHS, and together made up Math experts.

Perpetual was the one who broke the silence in the round when she waited patiently to pick the second question after Collins bundled it.

In General Knowledge, Farida represented Ghana SHS as experts while Alfred stood for Keta SHS.

The twenty (20) points at stake was shared between them.

After all was said and done, scores gave Ghana SHS ten (10) points while Keta SHS took twenty (20) points.

When final Scores showed up on the screen,  Ghana SHS had sixty (60) points against a hundred (100) points by winners, Keta SHS.

If you’ve followed Ketasco religiously, you’d notice they’ve always punched above their weight..

Their next contest will be an interesting one to watch. Stay tuned, and congratulations to both teams.

The Sharks Quiz is developed by the Academic Talent Development Program and produced by the Adesa Production Limited (APL). 

Official media partner is TV3.

Sponsors: MTN, G-Money, Fidelity Bank, Academic City University College, Family Health Medical School, Ashesi University, and University of the Free State.

Okuapeman SHS censured St. Thomas Aquinas SHS in their Round of 16 clash of Senior Sharks 7.

The Akropong-Akuapem school have now recorded a third win in their Senior Sharks 7 journey, after previously beating Academy of Christ The King and DPS Int.

As a reward, Okuapemman (Okuass) have displaced St. Thomas Aquinas in the Super Ranked Schools for the next edition of the quiz.

St. Thomas Aquinas has been a certified Senior Sharks Quiz member from the inception, and boasts the highest achievement of 1st Runner-up in the maiden edition of the competition. 

The last meeting of these well accomplished schools also went in the favour of the Cantonment, Accra-based school, affectionately called “Old Tom”.

But Okuass, who have been more than over- achievers so far were not going to kowtow to St. Thomas Aquinas twice on the trot.

Right Corner Round

The first set of questions in Social Literacy were responded to by Okuass as they had won the toss to go in first.

Their questions, tough as they came, were answered by the mountaineers to the best of their abilities to earn thirty (30) points.

St. Thomas Aquinas also found their questions tougher but did manage to bag twenty (20 ) points at last.

R Cubed Round

With both sides scoring below average, it was expected that the performance in this round will be escalated.

After the Reading and Writing segment where both schools competed fiercely, the Arithmetic watered down all their efforts.

As a result both schools scored very low marks, with St. Thomas Aquinas earning zero (0) points while Okuapeman scored five (5) points.

STEM Round

Judging by the proceedings so far, this contest was still wide open and could be won by either team.

St. Thomas Aquinas boosted their overall scores with a cleanly taken first answer in the round.

They attempted to turn the heat on Okuass by buzzing for the second riddle too, but luck was not on their side this time.

Okuass hit the buzzer and they also delivered a correct answer beautifully.

When activities in the round were summarised, St. Thomas Aquinas were with a negative score of five (-5) points, whereas Okuapeman took ten (10) points.

One-on-one Round

Delali and Lawrencia took up posts as English experts for St. Thomas Aquinas and Okuass respectively.

Like in their previous contest, Lawrencia bagged another ten (10) points to leave Delali visibly upset.

Kris and Fianko made up Math specialists for St. Thomas Aquinas and Okuapeman respectively.

Mathematics unfortunately does not give marks to those who try but to those who are accurate with their answers.

Nicholas engaged Jeremiah as Science specialists for Aquinas and Okuass respectively. 

Only Nicholas bagged ten (10) points for Aquinas.

In General Knowledge, Samuel from St. Thomas Aquinas faced off with Ebenezer from Okuass.

None made any more inputs to the progress of their schools. 

At the end of the round, ten (10) points was to each school as the final scores displayed twenty-five (25) points to the Old Toms while Okuass parted with fifty-five (55) points.

After this success, Okuapeman SHS will face Labone SHS at the quarterfinals of the Senior Sharks 7- two mixed schools who want to break the domination of single-sex schools in the competition. Grab your seats!

The Sharks Quiz is developed by the Academic Talent Development Program and produced by the Adesa Production Limited (APL). 

Official media partner is TV3.

Sponsors: MTN, G-Money, Fidelity Bank, Academic City University College, Family Health Medical School, Ashesi University, and University of the Free State.