Day: September 22, 2024

A 12-year-old Palestinian boy sustained injuries after being shot by Israeli occupation soldiers in the town of Qarawat Bani Hassan, in the occupied West Bank province of Salfit.

The incident occurred during an Israeli military incursion into the town, where soldiers were conducting raids, the Palestinian news agency (WAFA) quoted local sources as saying.

The boy sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh and was rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

The town of Qarawat Bani Hassan has been subjected to frequent incursions by occupation troops, who have established military checkpoints at the entrance.

Meanwhile, the occupation forces assaulted and arrested a Palestinian from Al Far’a refugee camp, south of Tubas.

The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society said that the occupation forces attacked a young man while he was in Al-Auja area near Jericho and arrested him.

Moreover Israeli colonists attacked Palestinian citizens in the Old City of Hebron, throwing stones at them, according to local sources.
No injuries were reported.

WAFA quoted eyewitnesses as saying that the colonists, under the protection of Israeli soldiers, targeted unarmed civilians, resulting in damage to properties and shop doors.

Source: Qatar News Agency

An earthquake measuring 6.0 magnitude on the Richter scale struck the San Luis province in western Argentina.

European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported that the San Luis province experienced an earthquake of 6.0 magnitude at a depth of 129 kilometers below the surface.

There have been no immediate reports of casualties or material damage from the earthquake.

This comes after a 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit the Jujuy province in northwestern Argentina in August.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Doha: Qatar Foundations Stars of Science program announced that seven contestants have qualified to enter the decisive “Proof of Concept” stage, after going through three rounds of eliminations during its Season 16 During this stage, competitors seek to prove their superior capabilities and scientific knowledge, as they will present their ideas to the jury, to win a share of the grand prize.

Candidates will submit an innovative proposal that addresses major regional and global challenges, while highlighting the advantages of the developments in the field of research, and technologies for accessing information in an unprecedented way.

On this occasion, Innovation Consultant and member of the Stars of Science jury, Professor Fouad Mrad said that the program plays a fundamental role in guiding young minds to create innovations of importance and effectiveness that serve the future of our region.

He stressed the importance of developing solutions that meet the needs of the Arab world, especially innovations in
the field of artificial intelligence.

As for the qualifiers, Khadija Falah Arabi from Algeria, who holds a PhD in biomedical devices, seeks to develop a smart wearable device that relies on artificial intelligence to monitor blood glucose levels via external electrocardiogram technology, without the need to penetrate the skin.

On mental health, Emma Sleiman, a medical student at the American University of Beirut, is working with her team to develop a multimodal classification device to provide virtual reality technology to diagnose Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

To avoid the exorbitant cost of some biomedical treatments, which can exceed USD 1 million per patient, as is the case with gene therapy, Syrian inventor Yaman Tayyar, who holds a PhD from Griffith University in Australia, is developing a micro-fluidic mixer to manufacture the lipid nanoparticles necessary to create and deliver gene therapy in a simplified manner, and make it available to researchers around the world at reasonable
prices.

In an attempt to address the challenge of antibiotic resistance, which results in the death of about 700,000 people annually worldwide, Mariam Montaser from Egypt, who holds a masters degree in microbiology and immunology from the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom, is developing a tool to test for bacterial infections of the respiratory system, by examining a sample from the nasopharynx and changing the colorimetric measurement, to determine the bacterial characteristics, which helps patients make informed decisions about taking antibiotics.

In the field of healthcare, Tunisian inventor Haitham Yahyaoui, who holds a PhD in computer science from the University of Quebec, is working on a mobile application for early detection of Alzheimers disease, using artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to analyze the linguistic and acoustic features of recorded voices.

With the increasing global interest in environmental sustainability, Nada Raafat Al-Kharashi, who holds a masters
degree in multidisciplinary design from Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, has found a solution to the millions of tons of electronic waste produced annually, as she has developed a self-powered bio-adhesive (electric skin), made of a biomaterial that generates energy from air humidity, through protein nanowires made from bacteria, capable of operating small electronic devices.

While relying on modern technology to preserve cultural heritage is interesting, Sanaa Belktbi, an ICT engineer specializing in embedded systems in Morocco, is developing a drone to inspect mosques, equipped with an RGB camera and supported by machine learning to analyze the internal structures of mosques, creating a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern technology with her invention.

Stars of Science, the edutainment TV show by Qatar Foundation, began its 16th season, from September 7 and is continuing until Oct. 19, 2024, on several channels and online.

The program is considered a platform for Arab inventors, support
ing the transformation of their ideas into practical solutions, making it a leading program in the field of innovation in the Arab world, and aims to support and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs in the field of science and technology in the region.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Qatar Museums has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Museum of China, in the People’s Republic of China, marking a significant milestone in enhancing collaboration in the field of museums and deepening cultural ties.

The agreement was signed by HE Director of the National Museum of Qatar Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad Al-Thani and Director of National Museum of China Gao Zheng.

This agreement promises to deliver enriching cultural exchanges and elevate the museum experiences offered in both nations, benefiting researchers, experts, and museum visitors alike.

Commenting on the MoU, HE Director of the National Museum of Qatar Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad Al-Thani stated, “We are excited to embark on this partnership with the National Museum of China, which will not only strengthen the cultural ties between our countries but also create new opportunities for collaboration in museum innovation, research, and educational programs. This is an important step toward creating a global und
erstanding of our shared heritage.” His Excellency added that this MoU establishes a framework for collaboration across key areas, including the exchange of museum experiences, joint exhibitions, academic research, and innovative educational programs, in addition to promoting a cultural understanding in the fields of archeology, heritage preservation, and museology.

The Director of the National Museum of Qatar pointed out that the agreement outlines plans for joint exhibitions and traveling showcases to broaden the reach of both institutions’ rich histories and collections, as well as cooperative efforts in excavation, restoration, and conservation to preserve important heritage sites.

In turn, Director of the National Museum of China Gao Zheng indicated that both entities have a lot of potentiality on cooperating together and hope that the two parties can cooperate in many areas in the future.

This MoU takes place under the Qatar-China Friendship Association, a legacy of the Qatar-China Year of Culture in
2016, further enriching the cultural exchange between the two nations.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Doha: September 21 – HE Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Qatar Museums Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani said that there is a plan to build a number of new museums in the country over the next ten years, with a focus on consolidating the Qatari, Arab and Islamic identity and building a sustainable cultural future through ambitious cultural projects.

In an interview with Al Jazeera 360, Her Excellency explained that Qatar Museums has a plan for the next ten years to build a new group of museums to promote the cultural and artistic scene in the country, such as the Lusail museum and the auto museum, in addition to converting the Qatar Mills, which was built in the late nineties, into a new museum. The existence of 8 museums in Qatar is not a large number compared to its geographical size, she noted.

She pointed out that since she was assigned to manage the museums file, the vision was for the construction of museums to be based on human development and for a number of Qataris to supervise the
management of the projects. Therefore, a 25-year plan was drawn up to be in line with Qatar Vision 2030 and is based on several values, namely the Qatari, Arab and Islamic identity.

HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani explained that the interest in placing artworks in public places stems from the fact that Qatar does not view it as a material investment, but rather as a scientific and cultural investment and human development.

Her Excellency pointed out that the Years of Culture initiative was created after the State of Qatar won the bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2022, with the aim of introducing the world to the State of Qatar and introducing Qataris and residents to the cultures coming to it, stressing that the initiative achieved great success after organizing cultural years between Qatar and countries organizing the World Cup such as Brazil 2014 and Russia 2018, adding that the cultural years do not only include the exchange of culture and arts, but also several other fields.

The Chairperson of
the Board of Trustees of Qatar Museums stressed the need to be proud of the Qatari, Gulf and Arab identity, culture, customs and traditions, and that is why the World Cup Qatar was an opportunity to highlight the foundations of the Arab and Islamic identity.

Her Excellency stressed Qatar’s interest and support for the Palestinian cause, noting Qatar’s role in registering the Palestinian village of Battir on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014, and noting that she is pleased to see new museum projects and cultural and archaeological centers in the region in order to build a legacy for future generations.

Source: Qatar News Agency

The organizing committee of the Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 unveiled the cultural program of the fair that will take place from Sept. 26 to Oct. 5.

The fair, in which the State of Qatar is the guest of honor this year, features an extensive cultural program, with the participation of a large number of the most prominent names in the world of culture, literature and art, and leading publishing houses locally, Arab and internationally.

The Saudi Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the organizer of the event, said that the State of Qatar will be the guest of honor at the current edition of the Book Fair, and that this decision reflects the pioneering cultural role of the State of Qatar in the Gulf and Arab cultural scene as well as the depth of its strong cultural and historical ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It also pointed out that this represents a distinctive window to enable visitors to the exhibition to learn about Qatari achievements in various fields of culture, art and
literature, meet pioneers of Qatari culture, creativity and art, and explore the distinguished literary and cultural publications of Qatari authors that are displayed by many Qatari publishing houses and cultural entities participating in the exhibition this year. The State of Qatar is also participating with a miniature pavilion for children on the art of Islamic architecture and the design of children’s stories.

The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 will be held with the participation of over 2,000 local, Arab and international publishing houses and agencies from over 30 countries, distributed across 800 pavilions.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met today with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the high-level week of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) in New York, USA.

The two ministers discussed relations ways to enhance them in various fields, the importance of continuing coordination and consultation between the two countries to monitor the progress of their relations, and latest developments in the Gaza Strip.

The meeting was attended by Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, Director General of the Office of the Foreign Minister Abdulrahman AlDawood, and Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed Al-Yahya.

Source: Saudi Press Agency

The ambulance service of the Subul Al-Salam Social Association in the Miniyeh district of northern Lebanon carried out 55 emergency missions from September 6 to 12, 2024, with funding from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief).

The missions included transporting patients to and from hospitals and providing emergency services to traffic accident victims in the city of Miniyeh.

This effort is part of a project aimed at supporting emergency services and transportation in refugee areas and host communities in Lebanon.

Source: Saudi Press Agency

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), represented by the Diplomatic Quarter Office, organized various activities on Sunday evening in celebration of the 94th Saudi National Day at Al-Kindi Plaza in the Diplomatic Quarter.

The event was part of the Diplomatic Quarter Office’s efforts to promote cultural exchange among various nationalities. It focused on highlighting Saudi heritage and the Kingdom’s cultural diversity, showcasing the pride and sense of belonging of all citizens to a nation rich in history and culture.

The celebration drew a considerable turnout from citizens and visitors of the Diplomatic Quarter, who participated in the joyful national festivities.

RCRC’s celebration featured a variety of segments, including theatrical and folkloric performances, light shows, national parades, and a pavilion showcasing the Kingdom’s achievements. Additionally, there were dedicated areas for children, photography, and booths offering displays and tastings of traditional Saudi dishes.

The RCRC aimed
to introduce visitors to Saudi heritage and the Kingdom’s rich cultural legacy, while also highlighting national achievements and the promising future of the Kingdom under Saudi Vision 2030. The segments were designed to provide an enjoyable, interactive, and inspiring atmosphere for attendees.

Source: Saudi Press Agency

-Al-Aan Palace, located on the western mountains of Najran city, offers a stunning view that showcases the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage. It stands as a tribute to the region’s rich cultural and historical identity.

Built over 340 years ago, the palace is situated on Al-Aan Mountain, west of Najran city, in the northern part of Najran Valley. Facing south, it overlooks Ra’oom Historical Castle, Abu Hamdan Mountain, and numerous villages and palm farms, providing a unique view of the city from the western side. The palace consists of four floors, constructed in a distinctive architectural style that reflects the identity and history of traditional houses. One room is furnished with traditional tools, utensils, and clothing, including folk costumes, woolen furnishings, and old household utensils, introducing visitors to the region’s folk heritage.

The palace welcomes visitors throughout the week and hosts official, academic, and tourist delegations year-round. It holds significant archaeol
ogical and historical value and serves as an introduction to Najran’s heritage and architectural art.

Source: Saudi Press Agency