Binance Charity, the philanthropic arm of Binance, the world’s leading cryptocurrency and blockchain infrastructure provider, and Utiva, a technology education company in Africa that helps young people learn tech skills, today announced that they have selected the 1,000 Africans who will be taking part in a free 1-year intensive skill training program. The scholarship year is set to kick off on January 29, 2023, with a virtual launch day.

As unemployment rises across the continent, Binance and Utiva remain committed to providing digital education to enable more Africans to explore global career opportunities and secure roles as tech professionals.

This scholarship program has enrolled young Africans between the ages of 18-35 from 19 countries, providing them with a platform to learn technology skills for a 12-month duration. Classes have been designed for beginners in collaboration with Binance Academy and include skills such as web development, front-end development, full-stack development, cloud computing and blockchain modules.

Binance Academy will further support this initiative by providing Web3 crash-course content to students and by offering live and recorded training sessions to Utiva instructors. Upon completion of the program, students will be awarded an NFT certificate as digital & verifiable proof of having successfully completed the program.

“Today, we’re celebrating the 1000 students selected for full scholarships as part of our Binance Charity Scholar Program. This is our most ambitious education outreach to date in the region and the overwhelming positive response further bolsters Africa as a key hub for emerging tech talent. We’re so excited for these young people, as they embark on an exciting new career journey,” said Helen Hai, VP of Binance and Head of Binance Charity.

Angela Naa Yaboley Okantey, a Ghanaian scholar, said: “I am very excited to have been selected for this scholarship program because it will provide me with financial support and opportunities to pursue my professional goals in the tech space as well as interact with other like-minded individuals. Overall, I believe that this scholarship would be an invaluable investment in my future and enable me to be a part of an industry reshaping the world.”

Renee Ovwigho, a Nigerian scholar, said: “I am thrilled about this opportunity because it would push me toward a successful career in Data Analysis. With many industries adopting blockchain technology recently, this would enable me to learn and provide me with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to society.”

Miracle C. Amakom, a Cameroonian scholar, said: “As an engineering student, I’ve been on the lookout for reputable programs to get great training and professional development and I am super excited to be a part of this. Looking forward to my journey of becoming a full stack developer as this has always been my passion.”

The programme includes students across Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Cameroon, South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya and more. The collaboration aims to build a path for economic prosperity for the continent through skill training and access to vast job opportunities in the technology and Web3 sectors.

This project is part of the wider Binance Charity Scholar Program, enabling the next generation of digital leaders to develop their skills, knowledge and experience without financial barriers. Applications to study as part of this program have surpassed 80,000 worldwide since June last year.

Binance

Binance is the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem and cryptocurrency infrastructure provider with a financial product suite that includes the largest digital asset exchange by volume. Trusted by millions worldwide, the Binance platform is dedicated to increasing the freedom of money for users and features an unmatched portfolio of crypto products and offerings, including: trading and finance, education, data and research, social good, investment and incubation, decentralization and infrastructure solutions, and more. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.com.

Binance Charity

Binance Charity is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of blockchain-enabled philanthropy towards achieving global sustainable development. Binance Charity aims to transfer philanthropy by developing a 100% transparent donation platform based on blockchain to build a future where technology innovation is used to end all forms of poverty and inequality, advance sustainable development and ensure that no one is left behind. To date, Binance Charity has supported over 2 million end beneficiaries through various projects. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.charity/

Binance Academy

Binance Academy is a leading blockchain and cryptocurrency education platform featuring hundreds of hours of content on blockchain, cryptocurrency, Web3 and more. Launched in 2018, it serves millions of learners across the world in more than 25 languages. All content on Binance Academy is completely free.

With no advertisements, no requirement for payment or registration, everyone can learn at their own pace and even earn free crypto through learning by taking part in the Learn and Earn program. Other educational initiatives of Binance Academy include the University Outreach Program, Student Ambassador Program, partnerships with top online learning platforms, professional associations, industry alliances, and others.

South Africa’s appearance at the Fitur Madrid (International Tourism Trade Fair) 2023 held at the Ifema trade fair centre of Madrid (Spain), which ended this week, was a triumph for Team South Africa.

Fitur is the global meeting point for tourism professionals and the leading trade fair for inbound and outbound markets in Latin America.

It is known as one of the year’s first appointments, bringing together diverse tourism professionals worldwide to showcase their wares during an important booking cycle in the Europe Tourism value chain.

The 2023 fair was attended by over 600 exhibitors and official representatives from 70 countries (including tourism ministers from 21 countries).

“FITUR 2023 was a resounding success and a platform where we once again showcased South Africa’s unique experiences and readiness to welcome visitors from across the globe.” said the South African Tourism (SAT) Regional General Manager (Europe) Ian Utermohlen.

“We conducted 25 high level meetings and discussions at the South African Tourism exhibition stand, with the intention of fostering meaningful relationships in the market. This saw us amongst others engage with Real Madrid and the Committee of Tourism Film Festivals on potential collaborative efforts in the Spanish & South African Markets”.

South Africa’s strong contingency of exhibitors included Joburg Tourism, Amazing Africa, Ates Africa Safaris & Tourism, Catalina Tours SA, Aquila Collection and AM Lodge | Luxury Safari Lodge.

Among the South Africa exhibitors at the #FITUR2023 were three SMMEs, Kwanda Voluntourism, Timeline Travel & Evo Trak Quad Safaris who valued the opportunity to participate on this global tourism platform. “A part of driving transformation in the industry and opening up market access for the emerging operators, it is imperative that we elevate and expose SMMEs to our Europe Tourism value chain like FITUR,” he insisted.

On Thursday 19^th January South African Tourism hosted a press conference that garnered great response and enthusiasm from 30  Spanish media and trade stakeholders that  were in attendance. “Our objective was to bring the Spanish media into our confidence and ignite excitement with the processes and thinking behind our in-market demand work, the importance and value of the Europe South Markets, while showcasing our exceptional performance” Utermohlen emphasised.

South African Tourism’s stand in Madrid welcomed up to 495 quality visitors who engaged with exhibitors & delegates while enjoying biltong and some quality South African wines, The Golden Kaan Shiraz and Delheim Chenin Blanc.

One of the observations that came from many of the exhibitors on the stand was that they (exhibitors) are seeing shorter lead times for business – meaning, all the business that is coming their way is for either this year or next year.”

“This indicates how eager people are to host their conferences and bring incentive trips to South Africa shortly. This is a shift from the pre-COVID-19 environment as lead times were much longer,” he re-emphasised.

Utermohlen believes South African Tourism’s relentless Europe marketing efforts are beginning to bear fruit as buyers who visited South Africa stand in Madrid were confident in selling South Africa to their customer base

Writing a dissertation is no easy feat, and defending it is even more daunting. You have put in countless hours of hard work, and now you must defend your dissertation and ensure it is ready for approval. But where do you start? You are not alone. This step-by-step guide on preparing for dissertation defense is a comprehensive resource to steer you through the entire process. It provides a detailed breakdown of each step, from understanding what you need to do to preparing for the actual defense. With this resource, you can confidently approach the task, knowing you have done everything possible to ensure a successful defense. Read on to learn more about how to prepare for dissertation defense.

Preparing for dissertation defense: A step-by-step guide

Are you ready to defend your dissertation? Defending your dissertation is a significant milestone in your academic career and can bring great accomplishment. It is also a daunting challenge that requires much preparation and hard work. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prepare for a dissertation defense. With the help of this guide, you will feel confident and ready. So, let’s get started!

8 tips to prepare for a dissertation defense

Read your dissertation

While different sources propose varying strategies and activities for preparing for a dissertation defense, reading your work is a constant. Doing so will allow you to identify potential issues or misconceptions in your work. Additionally, it will help you prepare for the question-and-answer session after your defense. You can also have someone read your dissertation aloud to you. Your supervisor or colleagues can help with this. Having someone read your dissertation aloud will make you more objective and critical of your own work, thereby unearthing potential mistakes. Students who use tutoring or dissertation writing services should spend more time reading their work to own and become familiar with their structures.

Understand your role and your responsibilities

It is crucial to understand your role and responsibilities before getting started. Your dissertation supervisor is responsible for determining whether you’re ready for your dissertation proposal defense. They will guide you through the entire process and will be responsible for ensuring your work is ready. On the other hand, you need to ensure that you’re prepared and have everything you need to make the process as smooth as possible. You must make all adjustments they suggest and meet all deadlines. Be on top of things instead of letting your supervisor push you.

Have a clear understanding of the format

The format of your dissertation can significantly impact the defense process. If selected for the oral defense format, you will be expected to present your research to your committee members via an in-person presentation. In that case, you’ll need to be comfortable speaking in front of a group and addressing their questions. However, if you’re selected for the written defense format, you will be expected to submit a well-written dissertation defense presentation, most likely in PowerPoint.

While many consider the written defense format easier, it’s more challenging. It requires students to send a defense sample to the committee in advance, giving them enough time to scrutinize the paper. This often leads to more difficult and demanding questions. The best approach in such a case is to seek help from professionals. For example, CustomWritings dissertation writing services can come through for you. The company writes research papers and dissertations for masters and Ph.D. students. Their writers know the specifics of a written dissertation defense and will provide you with a solid presentation. Most importantly, their services are cheap and timely, helping you beat even the strictest deadlines. Visit their website for discounts and more.

Plan for your dissertation defense

Your first step is determining when and where your defense will take place. You can find out if there are any additional requirements for your defense by contacting your university since they’re likely to have a specific process you must follow. Your next step is to create a timeline for the defense process, which should include dates for turning in various parts of your dissertation and when you must complete everything. Allow yourself enough time to complete everything you need to, but you should also set strict deadlines for yourself. Students who failed their defense presentations were often planless and unprepared.

Gather the necessary materials

Before you even step foot into the room for your Ph.D. dissertation defense, you must ensure you have everything you need, such as a copy of your written dissertation, pencils, and a notecard with key terms or ideas. A copy of your written dissertation is the most important thing you will carry with you. It’ll be used during the question-and-answer session that follows the defense. You can use your notecard to write key terms or ideas you need to include in your presentation. Pencils will be helpful if you use an overhead projector during your presentation.

Develop a presentation strategy

Your presentation should summarize your research and demonstrate your ability to think critically while synthesizing information. You should also incorporate visual aids to help your committee members understand your research better. You can use an overhead projector, computer, or even poster board. While defending a master’s thesis is not so strict, a doctoral dissertation is more stringent. In fact, you’ll not be allowed to refer to your written dissertation during a defense.

Practice your presentation

It is essential to practice your presentation multiple times to make sure you feel confident when you present it. You can do this alone or in front of a group of people. However, ensure that you deliver your presentation with the same enthusiasm and critical thinking you would use in a real defense. Thorough and diligent practice will help you become familiar with the structure of your research and allow you to correct any issues you might have with your project.

Understand the criteria you will be judged on

Your dissertation will be evaluated based on four criteria: originality, significance, clarity, and correct use of research methodology. These four indicators are essential to any dissertation, so it is crucial to consider them. However, basic etiquette, such as politeness, patience, dressing appropriately, etc., might also sway the board.

Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC has today announced the relaunch of the production of the great tasting, quality ghanaian beer, Star Beer in Kumasi where it was originally brewed in Ghana.

For several years Star Beer has been a popular choice among consumers in Kumasi and it is often associated with casual occasions, good moments, celebrations and social events in the city.

Made from rich locally sourced raw materials, Star Beer is now closer to consumers in Kumasi with its signature million sparkling bubbles.

Commenting on the relaunch of the production of Star Beer in Kumasi, the Managing Director of Guinness Ghana, Helene Weesie, said: “Asanetman is known to be proud of its culture and royalty. Asanteman appreciates a brand that respects their values and proves it in its interactions with them. When we first started brewing here, it was about more than just creating a refreshing beer. It was about creating a connection to this city and its people”

“As we continue to execute a strategy to grow and expand Star Beer nationwide through cutting-edge consumer insights and marketing, we retraced our roots and decided not to gloss over it. I’m happy to say that, the connection Star has had with Asanteman has stood the test of time and is stronger now more than ever as we relaunch its production, in the Home of Star where it belongs”, she added

On his part, Head of Beers at Guinness Ghana, Roland Ofori noted, “Star Beer is a part of the city’s culture and tradition. Apart from refreshing the people of Kumasi since the 1960’s, Star Beer symbolizes the optimism of the everyday person in this region and that literally can be seen in the millions of sparkling bubbles in the liquid. Star Beer is not just a beer; it’s a part of Kumasi’s identity. Star Beer aligns with bravery spirit of the people, a spirit that drove their success against all odds through history.”

Gracing the occassion as Special Guest of Honor, Asantehene Otumfour Osei Tutu II was optimistic of the success of Star Beer in Kumasi.

“I am here because i came to assure you that i am always a part of this development and.i shall always be, for my people and for Ghana.”

Star beer is a great tasting, award-winning quality Ghanaian beer. Made from rich locally sourced raw materials. Star Beer has won 4 Gold Awards at the prestigious Monde Selection Quality Awards with its most recent win being in April 2022.

Traveling in style can be a great way to relax after a long year of work and family life. Then, if you are looking for the ultimate luxury and elegance on your next trip to Las Vegas, here are some of the hotels and resorts that can allow you to start and end every day with indulgence.

Source: Instagram, posted on June 7^th, 2022, Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino’s official profile

1.   Westgate Resort & Casino

With almost 3,000 suites and a hotel tower that is 375 feet tall, the Westgate Resort & Casino on Paradise Road offers six tennis courts, up to 2,500 square feet suites, and a spa.

The Westgate Resort and Casino is perfect for those seeking luxury. Not only do their spacious suites ensure a good night’s rest with amenities like black-out blinds, mini refrigerators, and even microwaves, but their spa can offer you everything from body scrub to a facial to relieve the tension in your body and help you to feel good. You can also rest and reset with their offering of golf, tennis, and numerous pools for you to relax in. There are also many luxury dining options available for you, from sushi and steak to delightful desserts that can get your mouth watering. Then, you should consider booking one of the Las Vegas suites that they have available to guests.

Source: Instagram, posted on November 25^th, 2021, Bellagio Las Vegas’ official profile

2.   Bellagio Las Vegas

Bellagio Las Vegas has 3,950 rooms and 100,000 square feet of casino games, as well as a 14,000-square-foot conservatory.

Whether you are heading to Las Vegas for a wedding or another special occasion, you will be spoilt by your time at the Bellagio. Even from its exterior, where you can watch extravagant fountain shows, you will be able to enjoy the heightened senses and spectacle that go hand in hand with luxury. As well as wandering the botanical garden and enjoying the courtyard pool, you can call on room service if you want to bring your luxury to you. You might also decide to pair your trip to the Bellagio with a little bit of pampering in the form of their Medspa, which can allow you to get treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers during your stay.

Source: Instagram, posted on November 25^th, 2022, Aria Las Vegas’ official profile

3.   Aria Resort & Casino

Aria Resort & Casino has over 4,000 guest rooms in towers 51 and 61 feet high and a 150,000-square-foot casino.

However, if you are looking for a resort and casino that screams luxury, look no further than Aria Las Vegas. Not only will their suites give you a beautiful look over the Vegas skyline whenever you want it, but you will also be able to enjoy a personal concierge service, a private pool for Sky Suite guests, and spa bathrooms. The hotel can also arrange a luxury airport transfer for you that can get you in the mood for opulence as soon as you land in Las Vegas. Then, you should not fear that you will be unable to get the luxury that you desire in Vegas.

As part of this year celebration of International Day of Education, Schoolingyonda, an educational consultancy based in Nigeria has proffered possible solutions to attract education tourism in West Africa. The firm believes that a special focus and marketing of our music, dance and fashion to the world will definitely increase the in-flow of foreign currency to the sector.

Education tourism is one of the different forms of tourism, and is a way to providing best education to students learning while enhancing knowledge. The increase in this type of tourism is based on the growing popularity of attaining knowledge and technical competencies from the best destinations around the world.

According to Mrs. Funmi Modupe, Principal Consultant, Schoolingyonda, “Our major focus with EduTourism is to simply showcase what we have, that which we as Nigerians are exceptionally talented and the world already recognize.” She said that in today’s education system, we should be teaching our unique dance, fashion and music styles to attract other students around the globe.

“You will all agree with me that these are areas in entertainment that the whole world already identifies Nigerians speciality. We initiate a dance step, the entire world copy and via modern technology, it goes viral across different social channels”, Modupe stressed.

The Way Forward

Some solutions proposed by Schoolingyonda will interest government institutions, administrators in the education sector, parents and the ultimate benefactors – Students. The firm argues that there is a pressing need for Nigeria to argument the existing programs especially in our tertiary institutions and centres of learning.

Nigeria has some unique dance styles which can be researched, recorded, designed and crafted into programs to be learnt by students from diverse regions. This will further increase the interest of young Nigerians in the arts and creativity.

The firm also proffers that there is a need to bring our dance and music into academic learning for posterity, developing history and increased diversity. Restructuring the arts with a good blend of our traditional and contemporary dance will definitely spark positive global attention.

Considering the CBN’s release of $680m for foreign education in 2022, Modupe believes we have all the necessary skills and talents to harness the economic benefits in creative arts. She advocates we introduce innovative programs infused into our traditional music, fashion and dance across selected public and private institutions.

Schoolingyonda is an educational consultancy service with the goal to offer students personalised study thereby assisting parents and their wards to acquire opportunities abroad. Interested participants can subscribe and watch on https://bit.ly/3PQPERw to comment and join the conversation on the development of EduTourism in West Africa.