Month: October 2024

U.A.E: Meet Obaid AlSuwaidi, the Emirati Engineer selected to ‘walk’ on Mars in Nasa’s 45-day simulation

The crew will also perform activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming in an environment designed to simulate space conditions.

In a 45-day space exploration simulation in the US, Obaid AlSuwaidi, a captain engineer at the UAE Ministry of Defence has been selected to join the primary crew scheduled to “walk” on Mars.

AlSuwaidi will join the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme that is scheduled to begin on November 1.

He will join the primary crew, including Kristen Magas, Tiffany Snyder, and Anderson Wilder, in a 45-day mission within the 650-square-foot Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) facility at Nasa’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, US. The Analog mission is part of Nasa’s Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) Campaign 7 Mission 4.

Who is Obaid AlSuwaidi?

In his role at the Ministry, he played a key part in cultivating a skilled team to address the nation’s defence requirements, enhancing productivity, and establishing high professional standards. He also has a wealth of experience in civil and marine engineering.

AlSuwaidi holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Western Sydney University in Australia, a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from George Washington University in the USA, and a master’s degree in project management from Abu Dhabi University.

Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys horse riding, swimming, and running.

This year, AlSuwaidi is among the fourth group of volunteers participating in an analog study in HERA. The first phase of the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme was concluded on March 11, 2024, followed by the completion of the second and third phases on June 25, 2024 and September 23, 2024, respectively.

What is the HERA habitat?

The three-story HERA habitat is designed to simulate the conditions of space exploration on Earth, providing a unique platform for studying human adaptability to isolation and confinement. By mimicking the challenges of long-term space travel, such as missions to Mars, scientists aim to gain insights into how future astronauts will handle the extreme physical and psychological demands of deep space journeys.

During the mission, the crew will engage in various experiments, including a simulated “walk” on Mars using virtual reality, as well as activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming.

Additionally, the crew will experience communication delays with Mission Control, replicating the increasing time lags expected as they “approach” Mars. These delays, which could extend up to five minutes one way, are crucial for understanding how astronauts might cope with similar conditions during future interplanetary missions.

Experiments to aid in deep space missions

Adnan AlRais, Assistant Director General – Space Operations and Exploration Sector, MBRSC said, “We are pleased to announce the selection of Obaid AlSuwaidi for the next phase of the second analog study under the UAE Analog Programme. His involvement in this mission, in collaboration with Nasa, strengthens our scientific foundation in addressing the human factors of long-duration spaceflight.”

He added, “The findings from this study will play a crucial role in shaping the future strategies for deep space missions, including Mars, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a key player in international space exploration. We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and inspiring future generations to drive forward our vision of space exploration and scientific discovery.”

The four crewmembers will participate in 18 human health experiments, focusing on physiological, behavioural, and psychological responses in a controlled environment. This research will provide valuable data, which seeks to enhance human resilience and performance in spaceflight conditions.

source/content: khaleejtimes.com (headline edited)

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Obaid AlSuwaidi. Photo: Supplied

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

U.A.E : Sheikh Mohammed praises Emirati influential figures on TIME magazine’s second annual TIME100 AI list

Sheikh Mohammed praises Emirati influential figures on TIME magazine’s second annual TIME100 AI list.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, underscored the pivotal role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in shaping the future of the global economy.

The Vice-President’s remarks coincided with the release of TIME magazine’s second annual TIME100 AI list, which highlights the 100 most influential individuals in the field of artificial intelligence.

On his X account, Sheikh Mohammed said: “In a rapidly evolving world, technology is the driving force behind the future global economy, with artificial intelligence at its core. Time magazine has released its annual list of the 100 most influential figures in this field, recognising those shaping the future of AI on a global scale.”

“Among these visionaries is my brother, Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who leads numerous institutions, companies, partnerships, and global initiatives, contributing not only to the local landscape but also to shaping the future of this sector on a global level. His efforts play a pivotal role in defining the future of the global economy.

“Also featured on the list is Faisal Al Bannai, a member of the national team and a leader in one of the world’s leading companies in this field. Our nation takes great pride in their accomplishments, standing behind their vision, and betting on the same future they are helping to create. The future will be built with their leadership, and the generations to come will benefit from their achievements,” Sheikh Mohammed added.

source/content: gulfnews.com (headline edited)

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Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s efforts play a pivotal role in defining the future of the global economy.Image Credit: X / HHShkMohd

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

SAUDI space pioneer Rayyanah Barnawi recognized by Guinness World Records as ‘First Female Arab Astronaut in Space’

Saudi Rayyanah Barnawi was part of the Axiom Mission 2 that launched from Cape Canaveral in Florida on May 21, 2023.

 The first female Arab astronaut has had her pioneering spaceflight recognized by Guinness World Records, the organization announced on Monday.

Saudi Rayyanah Barnawi was part of the Axiom Mission 2 that launched from Cape Canaveral in Florida on May 21, 2023. She was accompanied by fellow Saudi Ali Al-Qarni aboard a craft bound for the International Space Station.

In her first message she said: “This trip does not represent me alone, but rather the entire Arab world and all Saudis. We are living a dream that once seemed impossible but has become reality.”

Al-Qarni and Barnawi — the first Arab woman to orbit Earth — returned on May 31 after an eight-day stay at the ISS. During their time there they carried out 14 research projects on microgravity, three of which were kite experiments involving 12,000 school students from 47 locations across the Kingdom, conducted via satellite.

During her mission, part of the Saudi Astronaut Program, Barnawi completed several groundbreaking experiments that included studying the response of immune cells and how microgravity affects biological processes.

Barnawi has spent her career advancing scientific knowledge, particularly in the field of cancer stem cells. She worked at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre and holds a bachelor’s degree in genetic engineering and tissue development from the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. She also has a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from Alfaisal University in Riyadh.

Barnawi’s personal journey reflects her strong ties to both Saudi Arabia and her Sudanese heritage.

Her world record-breaking achievement follows in the footsteps of the Kingdom’s Prince Sultan bin Salman who, in 1985, became the first Arab to go into space.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Rayyanah Barnawi, Saudi astronaut

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SAUDI ARABIA

JORDAN / KUWAIT: King Hussein Cancer Centre (KHCC)’s dedication to cancer care earns Kuwait’s prestigious health award 2024 for the ‘Control of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes in the Eastern Mediterranean Region’

Kuwait Health Minister Ahmad Awadhi handed over the State of Kuwait Prize for the Control of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to King Hussein Cancer Centre (KHCC) Director General Asem Mansour.

The award ceremony took place during the 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, in recognition of the KHCC’s significant achievements in cancer control.

Mansour stressed that the award reflects the support of the King Hussein Cancer Foundation’s (KHCF) board of trustees, chaired by HRH Princess Ghida Talal, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

This recognition is the result of the collective efforts of the centre’s team, local and international partners, and most importantly patients, whose resilience in their fight against cancer continues to inspire.

Mansour has served as the centre’s director general since 2012, and currently chairs the executive committee of the Jordan Breast Cancer Programme. 

He is a consultant in diagnostic radiology, specialising in neuroradiology and a fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) in London. His academic qualifications include a master’s degree in healthcare management from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s degree in public health from Liverpool John Moores University.

The prize is one of the region’s most prestigious medical awards, honouring those who have made significant contributions to cancer control through research, innovation or exceptional medical service.

The event featured the presence of Hanan Balkhy, WHO regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, and Hanan Kuwari, Qatar’s minister of health.

source/content: jordantimes.com (headline edited)

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This recognition is the result of the collective efforts of the centre’s team, local and international partners, and most importantly, the patients (JT File photo)

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JORDAN / KUWAIT

SAUDI HISTORIAN : Darah releases 19 volumes of Saudi historian Ibrahim bin Issa’s works

The works consist of 19 volumes, encompassing the writings of the historian as well as his summaries and correspondences, shedding light on his time.

Prince Faisal bin Salman, chairman of the board of directors of the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, inaugurated the launch ceremony of the complete works of Saudi historian Ibrahim bin Saleh bin Issa on Wednesday at Darah headquarters.

These works consist of 19 volumes, encompassing the writings of the historian as well as his summaries and correspondences, shedding light on his time.

Speaking on behalf of his family Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, secretary-general of the Muslim World League, expressed the family’s gratitude and appreciation to Darah (the foundation) for this honor, which celebrates their ancestor’s scholarly legacy.

He said that the publication documents the historian’s long academic journey, characterized by precision and objectivity in various scientific fields.

He also expressed the family’s pride that this work will serve as an important reference for researchers and those interested in Saudi history and culture. 

Furthermore, he praised the tremendous efforts made by Darah in realizing this monumental project, noting that this recognition reflects the significance of knowledge in strengthening national identity.

The work on the project took several years and went through numerous stages, involving a team of about 20 people, said Dr. Fahd Al-Samari, secretary-general of Darah.

Al-Samari told Arab News: “The project followed a clear methodology, where we gathered as much of the heritage of historian Ibrahim bin Issa as possible and conducted a thorough investigation.”

Given the project’s scale and the diversity of fields covered, which include religious, historical, linguistic and geographical arts, several specialized committees were formed for the project, including the supervisory committee, the text editing and verification committee, and the manuscript and document collection committee, Al-Samari added.

Bin Issa relied on more than 700 sources for his work, including 570 manuscripts and documents from across the Kingdom, while the remaining sources were distributed between Kuwait, Egypt, Iraq, and the US.

Bin Issa was born in 1854 in Ushaiger town, 200 kilometers northwest of Riyadh, and lived for about 71 years. He was a scholar, historian and genealogist, and one of the most prominent historians of the Najd region.

Al-Samari pointed out that Darah was established to fulfill a noble mission, which is to serve the history of Saudi Arabia, its geography, and its intellectual literature, as well as to collect various historical sources, including documents related to the Kingdom, classify them, and enrich the historical library with scientific research.

Darah has devoted special attention to the prominent figures of the Kingdom, honoring their rights, highlighting achievements, celebrating contributions, appreciating efforts, and acknowledging their glory.

“Since establishment, Saudi Arabia has sought to make knowledge the foundation for building the state. Under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom has witnessed a comprehensive renaissance in all fields, with the most significant being in the areas of national heritage,” Al-Samari concluded.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Prince Faisal bin Salman, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Darah, is seen in a group photo with several descendants of historian Ibn Issa on Wednesday evening in Riyadh.

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SAUDI ARABIA

ALGERIA : M’Sila University Professors Among the Top Scientists Worldwide

This remarkable achievement underscores the university’s leadership in scientific research, affirming its pivotal role in Algeria’s innovation landscape and commitment to academic excellence. The recognition of these five esteemed scholars not only highlights their individual contributions but also elevates M’Sila University as a beacon of scientific advancement on the global stage.

Five distinguished professors from Mohamed Boudiaf University in M’Sila have earned recognition in the 2024 Stanford University ranking of the top 2% of scientists worldwide. This prestigious classification highlights their contributions to research and places them among a total of 68 Algerian researchers honored in this global assessment.

M’Sila University stands out as the leading Algerian institution, boasting the highest number of researchers included in this elite ranking. This achievement underscores the university’s commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering academic excellence, positioning it as a vital contributor to Algeria’s development and innovation landscape.

Professor Amar Boudellaa, the university director, emphasized the significance of this accomplishment as a reflection of the institution’s dedication to scientific inquiry. He affirmed the university’s ongoing support for researchers, inventors, and start-up founders, aligning with the vision outlined by the Minister of Higher Education.

The five notable researchers recognized in this ranking are:

Professor Bouarissa Nadir (Natural Sciences/Physics)

Professors Berri Saadi and Maireche Abdelmadjid (Faculty of Sciences)

Professor Chouder Aissa (Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technology)

Hocini Abdesselam (Electronics, Faculty of Technology)

Since its inception in 1885, Stanford University has published the Top 2% Scientist ranking annually since 2020, based on comprehensive studies conducted by its researchers. This accolade not only celebrates individual achievements but also enhances the reputation of M’Sila University as a hub for scientific advancement in Algeria.

source/content: dzair.tube.dz (headline edited)

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ALGERIA

LIBYA : Council of Arab Information Ministers names Tripoli as headquarters for ‘Arab Institue for Peace & Journalism’

The Council of Arab Information Ministers approved the internal bylaws of the Arab Institute for Peace and Journalism, for which the Libyan capital, Tripoli, was chosen as its headquarters.

This came during the activities of the 54th regular session, held in the Bahraini capital, Manama, in which the Minister of State for Communication and Political Affairs, Walid Al-Lafi, participated.

In his speech, Al-Lafi welcomed the steps aimed at establishing and approving the internal system and organizational structures of the Institute, as it is the first international institution affiliated with the League of Arab States with its permanent headquarters in Tripoli, calling for the completion of the steps for the opening.

Al-Lafi stressed the responsibility that the Arab media bears through various digital, media and audio interfaces, toward the massacres taking place in Gaza. He also reiterated Libya’s support for Arab initiatives aimed at stopping the aggression, exposing the crimes of the occupation, and supporting youth initiatives in social media platforms in support of the Palestinian Cause.

Al-Lafi also called on Arab Information Ministers to participate in the activities of the Tripoli Media Days in its third edition, which will be held at the end of next December, coinciding with Libya’s celebrations of the 73rd anniversary of independence.

source/content: libyaobserver.ly (headline edited)

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LIBYA

OMAN: 03 Omani Doctors – 1st for the region: Drs Bader Al Rawahi, Ahmed Al Wahaibi & Jamila Al Ahri Win prestigious WHO awards at 77th World Health Assembly, Geneva

Eight medical professionals from around the world were feted for their unique roles and contributions to public health in their countries and the world at a special ceremony during the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva on Friday.

Of the eight, four recipients are from the Eastern Mediterranean Region of which three are from Oman, a first for a country in the region.

Dr Bader bin Saif al Rawahi

The Dr Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize for Public Health 2024 was presented to Dr Bader bin Saif al Rawahi, who leads a major public health programme as Director of Communicable Diseases and Control, and manager of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation at Ministry of Health (MoH).

Dr Rawahi has made considerable effort to leave no one behind in the immunisation programme, including migrants, displaced populations and underprivileged people.

Dr Ahmed Hamed Saif al Wahaibi, head of Elderly Care Section in Primary Health Care Department of MoH, and the Chinese Geriatrics Society, China, were jointly awarded the Sheikh Sabah al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Research in Health Care for the Elderly and in Health Promotion.

Dr Ahmed Hamed Saif al Wahaibi

Dr Wahaibi is a family doctor who has made an important contribution to integrating high-quality care for older people within primary health care in Oman. He has also played a part in the development of a national programme for people aged 60 years and older that provides screening, assessment and early intervention as part of primary health care.

Dr Jamila Taiseer Yasser al Abri, a renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist with extensive experience and leadership in women’s health, currently Director of Department of Woman and Child Health, was honoured with the Ihsan Doğramacı Family Health Foundation Prize.

Dr Jamila has demonstrated significant leadership in teaching and managing national health programmes, including on breast cancer, mental health and autism spectrum disorders, besides other family health issues. She has played an important role in contributing to the strategic plans for women’s and children’s health as part of Oman’s long-term vision, Health Vision 2050.

Dr Jamila Taiseer Yasser al Abri

The United Arab Emirates Health Foundation Prize went to National Death Registry System, Saudi Arabia.

“I feel so proud to see four experts and institutions from the Eastern Mediterranean Region receive four of the eight highly valued WHO awards,” said Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.

“This sends a strong message about how rich the region is in talented, distinguished and knowledgeable people. The awardees’ expertise and achievements, across different health fields, show that we have human assets who contribute to the improvement of regional and global health.

“Heartfelt congratulations and a big thank you to Saudi Arabia’s National Death Registry System and to Dr Rawahi, Dr Wahaibi and Dr Jamila from Oman. You have made us all very proud and filled us with hope and determination.”

The winners were awarded by Dr Edwin Dikoloti of Botswana, President of the 77th World Health Assembly, alongside high-level representatives of the foundations providing the public health awards and prizes and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General of WHO and administrator for the prizes.

source/content: muscatdaily.com (headline edited)

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OMAN / SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA: Winners of 09th Iqra competition from Iraq, Morocco and Saudi were crowned in Dhahran

Boasting an attendance of 16,000 people, including Nobel laureates in literature, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture concluded its ninth annual Iqra competition on Saturday.

Amin Nasser, Saudi Aramco’s president and CEO, and other senior officials attended the two-day event in Dhahran.

Nobel literature laureates Abdulrazak Gurnah and Olga Tokarczuk were also present and offered insights during speaking sessions.

Visitors experienced a series of activities, culminating in the announcement of the competition’s winners.

Moroccan Meryem Bououd was awarded Reader of the Year, while 10-year-old Moroccan Fatima Kettani won the Promising Reader prize.

Iraqi Hira Karkhi secured the Text of the Year prize, while the Reading School award went to Tarbiyat Al-Ajial of the Private International School, Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Safia Al-Ghubari claimed the People’s Reader award, while teacher Najla Ghazi Al-Suhaimi took home the Reading Ambassador prize.

Noura Al-Zamil, Ithra’s program director, spoke of the competition’s significant milestones since its inception in 2013.

Over nine editions Iqra has attracted more than 225,000 applicants and offered 48,000 hours of educational programming.

It has also engaged more than 600 speakers from 30 countries, bringing three Nobel Prize-winning authors to its stage.

Al-Zamil stressed Ithra’s continued efforts to innovate, introducing new elements like the Iqra Travels, Iqra Marathon, and Kitabiya Exhibit, to foster a reading culture among Arab youngsters.

The closing event featured cultural sessions, including a talk by Tokarczuk, who discussed literature as a tool for bridging languages and cultures.

Discussing the future, Tokarczuk expressed both optimism and caution, adding: “I embrace modern tools like ChatGPT but remain concerned about their potential misuse.”

Gurnah, reflecting on his roots, said: “Zanzibar will always be my true homeland, despite my long absence.”

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Boasting an attendance of 16,000 people, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture concluded its ninth annual Iqra competition on Saturday. (Supplied)

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IRAQ / MOROCCO / SAUDI ARABIA

EGYPT: Farewell Zakaria Ibrahim, “El-Rayes” the founder of Al Tanboura troupe for heritage songs

Egypt bids farewell to the guard of Semsemya, Zakaria Ibrahim.

For the past 44 years, Zakaria Ibrahim or “El-Rayes” (meaning the chief) had played and safeguarded the heritage music of his hometown Port Said through the Port Said Folk Heritage Troupe, which he established in 1980.

In an interview with Ahram Online, Ibrahim previously said that his initial approach relied on the sounds of the Semsemya musical instrument. Five years later, he reintroduced the ancient Tanboura instrument, a larger predecessor and origin of the Semsemya, dating back to ancient Egyptians. Consequently, he rebranded his ensemble as Al-Tanboura.

“We the Bamboteya, no one is like us, merchant boatmen in the canal” the troupe sang about the Semsemya’s affiliation with the history of trade on the Port Said marina. Small boats, called ManBoats, moored offshore, and sold goods to passing vessels, using sign language in trading. This language is the foundation of the heritage dance affiliated with Semsemya.
 
To safeguard and revive heritage music, beyond Semsemya, Ibrahim co-founded the Mastaba Centre for Egyptian Folk Music in 2000. Documenting and archiving traditional Egyptian songs, music, and musical instruments, as well as the voices and history of Egyptian music were among the centre’s main goals.

He also established El-Damma theatre in Abdeen district, Cairo, where heritage troupes played for years on a weekly basis. El Damma means coming closer, and it was a social ritual in Port Said where people would come together and sing their heritage songs and play the Semsemya.

May El-Rayes rest in peace.

source/content: english.ahram.org.eg (headline edited)

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Rayes Zakaria founder of Al Tanboura troupe for heritage songs passed away

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EGYPT