Chris Infotainment

Strategic Road Development and Infrastructure Expansion in Adamawa State The administration of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has taken significant steps to finalize plans for the construction of a 24.1-kilometre road connecting Maiha and Mubi. This project is considered a crucial development within the northern senatorial zone of Adamawa State, aiming to enhance transportation and connectivity across the region. Once completed, the road will serve as a vital link between the two towns, facilitating the movement of goods and people, improving access to local markets, and boosting cross-border trade with neighboring communities. This infrastructure initiative is expected to bring about substantial socio-economic benefits, particularly for farming communities along the route. By creating better access to markets and trade routes, the road will support agricultural activities and contribute to economic growth in the area. The project also represents a step toward integrating the region m...

Rising Concerns Over Science High School Graduates Entering Medical Schools Over the past five years, a significant number of students from science high schools for the gifted and general science high schools have pursued medical education. This trend has sparked criticism, as these institutions were originally established to nurture top talent in science and engineering. However, they are increasingly being seen as stepping stones to medical school admissions, which contradicts their original mission. According to a report titled Status of Students from Science High Schools for the Gifted and Science High Schools Among Medical School Freshmen , submitted by Kim Moon-soo, a member of the Democratic Party, to the Ministry of Education, over 1,058 students from eight science high schools for the gifted and 20 science high schools have entered medical schools in the last five years. Of this number, 667 students came from science high schools for the gifted, while 391 were from general s...

The Growing Crisis in Uganda’s Education Sector The recent announcement of a nationwide strike by arts teachers in Uganda has brought to light a growing crisis within the country's education system. Organized by the Uganda National Teachers Union (Unatu), the strike is set to begin on Monday, September 15, and it comes at a critical time during the Third Term, when students are preparing for exams and completing their curriculum. This planned action has sparked concern among parents, educators, and policymakers alike. The strike is a response to long-standing grievances, particularly the disparity in salary increments between arts and science teachers. For years, arts educators have felt undervalued, especially after the government selectively increased the salaries of science teachers in the 2022/2023 financial year. This decision has created a significant pay gap that continues to widen, with arts teachers earning far less than their science counterparts. Currently, an arts te...

Overview of the 2025 Entrance Examination for FCT Science and Technical Schools The 2025 entrance examination for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Science and Technical Schools took place on Saturday, drawing a significant number of applicants. A total of 3,516 students participated in the highly competitive process, vying for the 2,000 available spots across six FCT-owned institutions. This year’s exam has once again highlighted the intense demand for admission into these prestigious schools, known for their rigorous academic standards and focus on science and technology. The Competitive Landscape The competition is fierce, with thousands of students aiming to secure one of the limited slots. The FCT Education Resource Centre (ERC), which oversees the admissions process, has emphasized that selection will be strictly based on merit. This ensures that only the most qualified candidates are admitted, maintaining the high standards expected by the institution. Dr. Neemat Daud Abdu...

Perhaps the greatest empowerment tools for overcoming inequality and freeing the world’s marginalised people from poverty are literacy and knowledge. Knowledge improves lives. Literacy enables access to that knowledge, and it is now acknowledged by Unesco as a fundamental human right that opens the door to other human rights and freedoms. Literacy exposes people to insights, skills and progressive values. These can, in turn, build an understanding of equality, the rule of law, diversity and global harmony. As we recently commemorated International Literacy Day and continue to elevate the need for reading, engaging and acquiring knowledge, it’s worth understanding that the meaning of literacy has evolved in recent times. Digitalisation has changed the way we consume knowledge, and it is now a core component of literacy itself. Bridging the digital divide and connecting more people through digital content and infrastructure is now a part of spreading literacy. Literacy in the digital er...

Advancing AI Education and Research at Ardhi University Ardhi University (ARU) has taken a major step forward in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) education and research with the installation of newly acquired AI servers. This initiative is part of the Applied Human-Machine Intelligence in East Africa (AHUMAIN) project, which is supported by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union. The project aims to enhance AI capabilities across the region through collaboration and innovation. Dr. Godfrey Luwemba, Head of the Department of Computer Systems and Mathematics (CSM), highlighted the importance of this development during an interview. He explained that the technical setup was completed in partnership with the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU), working closely with ARU staff. According to Dr. Luwemba, these AI servers will significantly transform how students are trained and how research is conducted at the university. The infrastructure supports ARU’s newly ...

New University Fee Structure in Kenya On Friday, September 5, Kenyan newspapers covered various developments across the country, with a significant focus on the new fee structure introduced in universities. The dailies also discussed the 2027 presidential campaigns, highlighting the shifting dynamics among political figures. The Star: University Fees Reduced Following a reduction in tuition fees under President William Ruto's administration, public universities have implemented a new fee structure. This change came after months of public outcry over unsustainable university fees. A government directive issued in July led to these revisions, which were put into effect on Monday, September 1, coinciding with the start of the new academic year. Several universities, including the University of Nairobi, Moi, Egerton, and Maseno, have released the updated fee structure, marking a 25-year low. Other institutions such as Masinde Muliro University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agricultu...

AASTU Achieves ABET Accreditation, Enhancing Global Competitiveness Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU) has made a significant achievement by receiving ABET accreditation for its Applied and Natural Science programs. This recognition highlights the university's commitment to meeting global educational standards and ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to compete on an international level. The accreditation was announced by AASTU President Dereje Engida (PhD), who emphasized that this milestone represents a major step forward for the institution. He highlighted that the process of obtaining accreditation involved a rigorous evaluation, which affirmed the quality of education offered at AASTU. The president stated that this achievement not only enhances the university’s reputation but also reinforces its mission to produce graduates who can contribute both locally and globally through innovation and expertise. According to Dereje, several departments with...

Overview of the 2026 Early Admission Process The application period for early admissions in the 2026 academic year has officially begun. A total of 196 universities across the country will select 275,848 students (79.9%) through early admissions out of a total enrollment quota of 345,179. This represents the highest proportion of early admissions in the past five years. Compared to the previous year, the number of students admitted through early admissions has increased by over 4,000, and the selection rate has risen by 0.3 percentage points. The early admissions application period runs for at least three days per university, from the 8th to the 12th. Evaluations will be conducted between September 13 and December 11, with successful candidates announced by December 12. The 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, with results notified on December 5. Successful early admissions applicants will enroll from December 15 to 17. Selection Criter...

Understanding the 7-Year-Old Exam and Its Impact on Young Children The "7-year-old exam" has become a significant concern for many parents in South Korea, especially those aiming to enroll their children in top-tier English kindergartens. This exam is closely tied to the Start Reading (SR) test, which measures a child's reading ability. An SR level of 2.2 corresponds to the second semester of second grade in the U.S. education system, indicating that a child is expected to be able to read and comprehend basic texts within a 30-minute time limit. However, in Daechi-dong, a neighborhood known for its competitive educational environment, an SR level of 3 or higher is typically required to qualify for the 7-year-old exam. This high standard means that most children fail, leading many families to enroll their kids in academies to improve their chances. These academies focus on various aspects of language learning, including writing, listening, grammar, and speaking. The pres...

Expanding Opportunities Through Digital Skills A significant event took place at the Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto Auditorium of Sindh Madressatul Islam University (SMIU), where a certificate distribution ceremony was held for the Google Career Certificate Program. This initiative, supported by the Government of Sindh, Google, Google for Education, and Tech Valley Pakistan, marked an important milestone in the digital education journey of students across the province. Out of 300 students who successfully completed the program, 130 were present to receive their Google Career Certificates from Paul Hutchings, Regional Head of Greater Asia for Google for Education. The ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Noor Ahmed Samo, Secretary Information, Science and Technology of Sindh, Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai, Vice Chancellor of SMIU, and other key stakeholders from the technology and education sectors. A Vision for Digital Empowerment Noor Ahmed Samo, the I.T. Secretary, emphasized th...

Academic Excellence at a Religious Seminary Two students from a religious seminary have achieved remarkable success in the Commerce Group of the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) examinations. Their accomplishments highlight the institution's commitment to providing high-quality education that combines religious studies with modern academic disciplines. Abdul Rahman, one of the top performers, appeared in the FA/FSc examination under roll number 1300138. He scored an impressive 1029 marks out of a total of 1200, securing the second position in the Commerce Group. His achievement reflects not only his personal dedication but also the strong academic environment fostered by the institute. Another outstanding student, Mohammad Suffyan Ahmad, took the examination under roll number 1300151. He obtained 1022 marks out of 1200, placing him third in the same group. These results are a testament to the comprehensive curriculum offered by the institution, which...

Engaging the Next Generation of African Scientists Students from high school to PhD level gathered at AIMS Rwanda in Kigali on August 18 for Africa Science Week 2025. Over four days, participants engaged in hands-on training in coding, data analysis, innovation, and science communication. The program aimed to emphasize practical applications of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) skills in fields such as medicine and software development, highlighting how science education can drive real-world problem-solving across disciplines. Fostering Inclusivity and Knowledge Exchange Prof. Sam Yala, President of AIMS Rwanda, highlighted that the event provided an opportunity for participants to showcase African innovation and build platforms for knowledge exchange. Participants came from diverse academic backgrounds, including medicine, and the workshop was intentionally designed to be inclusive. Dr. Lema Lugamu-Seknuna, a trainer from AIMS Research and Innovation Centre, ...

Key Requirements for Schools Transitioning to Computer-Based Testing The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has set clear guidelines for schools preparing for the full shift to computer-based testing (CBT) for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination by 2026. These requirements aim to ensure a smooth and efficient transition, enhancing both the quality and security of the examination process. Mr. Lucky Njoagwuani, Head of Examinations at WAEC, shared these details during a sensitization program held in Port Harcourt. He emphasized that schools must meet specific infrastructure standards to accommodate the new system effectively. Among the key facilities required are: At least 250 functional laptops, with 10% backup units A strong computer server capable of handling 250 systems simultaneously A Local Area Network (LAN) setup to support seamless connectivity In addition to technological infrastructure, schools must also provide adequate environmental condition...

The Promise and Challenges of Mobile Learning in Ghana On a dusty afternoon in a village outside Sunyani, I observed a group of senior high students gathered around a single smartphone. They weren’t scrolling through social media; instead, they were revising past exam questions using an app designed for low data usage. When the power went out, the app saved their progress and allowed them to continue learning offline the next day. One student looked up and said, “If this was in every school, I’d never miss a lesson.” This moment encapsulates the potential—and the challenge—of mobile learning in Ghana: can affordable devices, smart design, and locally relevant content help overcome long-standing educational barriers? The answer is yes—but only if policies, design, and resources align properly. The Reality on the Ground Ghana has made significant strides in digital adoption. By the start of 2025, there were approximately 24.3 million internet users, representing about 70% penetration...

Training and Development for Artisans and SMEs in Ghana The Design and Technology Institute (DTI) has successfully graduated 525 Mastercraft Persons, Artisans, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Ho, located in the Volta Region. This milestone was achieved through the DTI/Mastercard Foundation Project Phase Two initiative, which focused on training participants in Precision Quality (PQ) at Work. The event took place under the theme “Precision Quality at Work: Integrating the Informal Sector into the Larger Ghanaian Economy.” The graduates included individuals with physical challenges, highlighting the inclusive nature of the program. This initiative not only aimed to enhance technical skills but also to instill a mindset of excellence, discipline, and continuous improvement. Mr. Edwin Faryosey, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist at DTI, emphasized that the training was more than just skill acquisition; it was about shaping attitudes and raising industry standards. Participa...

A Day of Networking and Professional Growth The Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) recently held its annual golf day, which took place at the scenic Borrowdale Brooke Golf Estate. This event was more than just a social gathering; it was an opportunity for engineers across the country to come together, network, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of engineering in Zimbabwe. The theme of the event was "Promoting Good Engineering Practices," highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards and fostering collaboration within the profession. The event attracted a large number of participants, showing the strong interest and commitment of engineers to improving their practices and contributing to national development. Emphasizing Collaboration and National Progress Amend Chiduma, the chief technical officer of Zimplats, served as the guest of honor at the event. He emphasized the need for collaboration and a nation-first mindset among engineers. ...

Punjab Launches Panic Button Initiative for Women's Colleges and Universities The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has initiated the installation of panic buttons in women's colleges and universities across Lahore, as part of a broader effort to enhance safety for female students. This move comes under the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who has prioritized measures that ensure the well-being and security of women in educational institutions. In the first phase of the project, 39 institutions in Lahore have been equipped with the emergency alert system. The initiative is expected to be expanded to more than 450 women's colleges across Punjab, marking a significant step toward creating a safer academic environment for all students. The panic buttons are directly connected to the PSCA’s central control room, ensuring an immediate response to any emergency. When activated, the system alerts the Virtual Women Police Station, which coordinates a sw...

Enhancing STEM Education for Future Leaders In a significant step towards fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders, Ethiopian Aviation University (EAU) has successfully completed a six-week training program in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The initiative, which saw the graduation of 55 students, was conducted in collaboration with Boeing Company and Think Young Research. This program aimed to equip young individuals with essential knowledge and skills that will be crucial for their future careers, especially in the aviation sector. The EAU President, Laeke Tadesse, emphasized the importance of such programs in shaping the ambitions of the younger generation. He stated that these initiatives are vital in aligning the aspirations of youth with leadership roles in science and technology. “We have been implementing a range of initiatives to advance STEM education in Ethiopia,” he added, highlighting the university's commitment to this cause....

Enhancing Digital Education in Tanzania Ardhi University (ARU) has taken a significant step in supporting Tanzania’s digital education initiative by donating 55 computers to five primary schools in Dar es Salaam. This action, carried out on August 23, 2025, is part of the VLIR-UOS project in collaboration with Belgium’s Hasselt University. It highlights how higher education institutions are playing a crucial role in complementing government efforts to integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the education system. The five schools that received the computers are Makongo, Mugabe, Msewe, Mapambano, and Buguruni Deaf Primary. These institutions will now have access to computer facilities, which are expected to enhance both teaching and learning processes. The donation aligns with the government's ongoing programs aimed at reducing the digital divide in education. Over the past few years, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has distributed thousands ...