Chris Infotainment

The Rise of Ethical Empathy in Virtual Reality Education In October, as Simon Li concluded his speech at an international conference on technological innovation in education, several Chinese history educators approached him with a pressing question: could a virtual reality (VR) project about the 1937 Nanking massacre become the next frontier in pedagogy? Li, executive director of the Hong Kong Holocaust and Tolerance Centre, recalled it as an electrifying moment. "They were genuinely energised, saying that such a programme could help students feel history without being flooded by it," he said of the educators. He added that the concept of an "ethical empathy VR" had been circulating within academic circles for some time as a possible "evolution of atrocity education" in East Asia. This idea has gained traction, especially as China held a national commemorative ceremony on Saturday to mark the 88th anniversary of the Nanking massacre, which began on Decem...

Unveiling the Secrets of the Great Glen Fault A priceless rock core extracted from Scotland's legendary Great Glen Fault could provide answers to fundamental questions about the history of the Earth. Experts at the British Geological Survey (BGS) have highlighted the significance of this unique sample, which offers a rare glimpse into one of the most dramatic geological formations in the UK. The core sample, measuring approximately 5,000 feet in length, was pulled from more than 2,000 feet below ground level along the Great Glen Fault. This fault stretches from Norway through Scotland to Ireland and is known for its immense size—over 620 miles long and 25 miles deep. From space, it appears as a giant "scar" cutting diagonally across the Scottish Highlands, passing through famous lochs such as Loch Ness, Loch Lochy, and Loch Linnhe, before extending into northwestern Ireland. The Great Glen Fault formed around 400 million years ago during a massive mountain-building ev...

The Chain of Events Leading to the Black Death Volcanic eruptions may have triggered a series of events that brought the Black Death to Europe, according to new research. Tree ring data has revealed 14th-century volcanic activity as the 'first domino to fall' in a sequence that led to the devastating spread of bubonic plague. Researchers used climate data and documentary evidence to create the most complete picture yet of the 'perfect storm' that resulted in the deaths of tens of millions of people, along with significant economic, political, and cultural changes. Their findings suggest that a volcanic eruption or cluster of eruptions around 1345 caused annual temperatures to drop for consecutive years due to the haze from volcanic ash and gases. This, in turn, led to crop failures across the Mediterranean region. To avoid riots or starvation, Italian city-states used their connections to trade with grain producers around the Black Sea. While this change in long-dista...

Addis Ababa, December 5, 2025— A group of descendants from some of Africa’s most influential leaders gathered at the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) to witness a symbol of the continent’s progress and self-sufficiency. This visit highlighted the ongoing efforts of African nations to harness their natural resources for sustainable development. The delegation included Okitolola Lumumba, son of Patrice Lumumba, who was the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Also present were Kwame Thomas, grandson of Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana; Kauche Kaunda, son of Kenneth Kaunda, the first President of Zambia; Ndileka Mandela, granddaughter of former South African President Nelson Mandela; and Godfrey Madaraka Nyerere, son of Julius Nyerere, the first President of Tanzania. During their visit, the group expressed admiration for the GERD, calling it a powerful representation of Africa’s ability to drive its own development. They emphasized that the dam st...

Exploring the Concept of Madness Through Stories The world is often perceived through different lenses, and what might seem like madness to one person could be entirely normal to another. This idea forms the core of Uche Okonkwo’s collection of short stories titled A Kind of Madness . Each story presents a unique form of madness, shaped by the characters’ experiences, societal pressures, and personal struggles. A Unique Perspective on Family Dynamics One of the most compelling stories in the book is Animals , which explores the relationship between Nedu and Otuanya, a chicken that eventually becomes part of a meal. The narrative offers a humorous and light-hearted look at family life in contemporary Nigeria. The two parents, Ebube and Uzoma, represent contrasting parenting styles—Ebube is playful and approachable, while Uzoma is strict and rigid. Their differences create both tension and warmth within the family. “Uzoma told herself there were advantages to having parents with diff...

A Legacy of Excellence: The 2001 Year Group's Science Lecture Hall Renovation A group photograph featuring the OAA 2001 Year Group marks a significant milestone in the history of Achimota School. This moment is not just about celebration, but about the commitment of the 2001 Year Group of the Old Achimotans Association (OAA 2G1) to enhance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education through a major renovation project. The project, titled “Celebrating 25 Years of Togetherness – Leaving a Legacy, Fostering Growth in Harmony,” officially kicked off as part of the 25th Anniversary Legacy Project. The initiative aims to modernize one of the school’s most iconic Science learning facilities, the Science Lecture Hall. Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, an alumnus of Achimota, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the importance of the project. She commended the 2001 Year Group for their foresight, commitment, and leadership. Dr. Aryee emphasized that the project goes be...

A Pioneer in Amazigh Language Studies By the end of the 19th century, Spanish religious men in Morocco began to show a growing interest in learning the Amazigh language, particularly in the Rif region. Among these individuals was Pedro Hilarion Sarrionandia, a Franciscan priest who traveled to Morocco as part of an African mission. During his twenty-year stay in the Kingdom, he made significant contributions by writing a grammatical book for the Riffian language and a Spanish-Riffian dictionary. The First Grammar Book for Riffian Language The first grammar book for the Riffian language was written by a Basque priest, Pedro Hilarión Sarrionandia. This groundbreaking work was published in 1905 during his time as a Franciscan missionary in the region. Sarrionandia's first contact with northern Morocco began in 1892 when he was a 27-year-old priest sent to the Order of Convent in Tetouan. During his stay, he learned Arabic before transitioning to the Amazigh language. Unlike Arabi...

The Movement for the Permanent Display of Silla Gold Crowns in Gyeongju A growing movement is taking shape in Gyeongju, South Korea, aimed at ensuring that the six Silla gold crowns remain permanently displayed in their place of origin. These crowns, which have been temporarily gathered for a special exhibition coinciding with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, are now at the center of a cultural and historical debate. The special exhibition, which marks the first time all six excavated Silla gold crowns have been displayed together, opened on the 28th of last month for APEC leaders and was made accessible to the public from the 2nd. It will continue until the 14th of next month. This rare opportunity has sparked renewed interest in the historical significance of these artifacts and their rightful home. Among the six crowns currently on display, those found at Geumgwanchong, Gyodong, and Cheonmachong are usually exhibited at the Gyeongju National Museum. However, ...

A Visit to a Leader’s Final Resting Place The passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has left many in deep sorrow, with his final resting place at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi becoming a site of reflection and remembrance. Among those who have visited the grave is Meshack, the father of Albert Ojwang, a teacher turned activist who was tragically murdered in a police station in Nairobi. Raila Odinga passed away on October 15 in India and his body was returned to Kenya the following day. His death marked a significant moment for the nation, as people from all walks of life gathered to honor his legacy. However, the process of mourning was complicated by the fact that he had left a will requesting a burial shortly after his passing. This decision sparked discussions about the appropriate length of mourning for a national figure. Despite the short mourning period, thousands attended his state funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Science and Technology University grounds. The event was a ...

Tribute to a National Hero On the occasion of the death anniversary of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, the Chancellor of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), Muhammad Akbar Ali Khan, paid a heartfelt tribute to the renowned scientist and national hero of Pakistan. Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan is celebrated for his significant contributions to the nation's scientific and technological advancements. A Legacy of Excellence In his tribute, the Chancellor highlighted the monumental impact of Dr Qadeer Khan's work in the field of science and technology. His efforts have transformed Pakistan into a formidable nuclear power, ensuring the country's security and standing on the global stage. The Chancellor emphasized that Dr Qadeer Khan's vision and dedication to national security have left an indelible mark on the history of Pakistan. Dr Qadeer Khan is remembered not only as a scientist but also as a patriot who devoted his life to the service of his country. His legacy ...

Iconic Open University Establishes New Study Campus in Lagos Iconic Open University has officially announced the establishment of its proposed university study campus in the heart of Lagos. This new facility will serve as the southern headquarters of the institution, located in Nigeria's economic capital and one of the most dynamic commercial hubs on the African continent. This development marks a significant milestone for the university, showcasing its dedication to making education more accessible and closer to the people it serves. By setting up this campus in Lagos, Iconic Open University is aligning itself with a city that is not only a center of commerce but also a hub of innovation and knowledge. The university aims to provide high-quality, flexible, and nationally recognized education to students across the region and beyond. Strategic Location and Modern Facilities The new Lagos Study Campus is situated within Lagos Island, a central area that connects the mainland wit...

A Historical and Cultural Landmark Hiroshima, a city known for its tragic past and resilient spirit, is home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This park stands as a symbol of peace and remembrance, marking the site of the atomic bombing that occurred on August 6, 1945. The area, once a bustling urban district, has transformed into a place where people come to honor the victims and reflect on the importance of peace. As visitors enter the park, they pass by the Atomic Bomb Dome, an iconic structure that remains as a reminder of the devastation caused by the bombing. Crossing the Motoyasu Bridge leads them to the Peace Flame and the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims on the left. These landmarks serve as powerful symbols of the city's commitment to peace and remembrance. Behind these structures lies the main building of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which marks the entrance to the park. The museum, designed by the renowned architect Kenzo Tange (1913-2005), celebrated its ...

The Legacy of China's Palace Museum Museums play a crucial role in preserving and presenting history, offering insights that help societies navigate their future. Among the most significant institutions in this regard is China's Palace Museum, which continues to be a vital force in bringing the nation's rich past to life. As it embarks on its second century, the museum has made a remarkable impact, particularly with the establishment of its Hong Kong branch, which has become a game-changer for the city's cultural landscape. The original Palace Museum was founded on October 10, 1925, within the Forbidden City complex in Beijing. Just a few years after its creation, the museum faced its first major challenge during World War II. To safeguard its collection from Japanese invasion forces, museum staff initiated the world's largest and longest migration of cultural treasures in 1933. This effort involved moving approximately 20,000 crates of priceless relics over a 17-...

The Role of Art in Understanding Chinese Society and Government Martin Powers, professor emeritus at the University of Michigan, is a renowned art historian and sinologist specialising in the history of social justice in China. He is the author of four books (including two that won the Levenson Prize for best book in premodern Chinese studies) and numerous articles. His recent work, China and England: The Preindustrial Struggle for Justice in Word and Image , explores visual and verbal evidence of the English Enlightenment response to imperial China's institutions. Why would you examine Chinese society and government through art? What are the unique strengths of that approach? Like most in my field, I think of myself as a historian who studies history using texts, but in addition, we make use of visual evidence. When you look at a historical text, you do not always know whether the view expressed was normative. But if we see an image, especially a public one, we can usually assu...