The morning started with a positive sentiment as the market opened on a high note, reflecting optimism from investors. However, as the trading session progressed, the momentum shifted, leading to a decline in stock prices across various sectors. This sudden reversal of fortune has left many market participants puzzled and eager to understand the underlying causes.
Driven professionals like Dr Lili Mutiary understand the power of continuous learning. Her recent Doctor in Education (EdD) from the National Institute of Education at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NIE NTU Singapore), signifies not just personal accomplishment but a turning point in her career. As the Head of Performance and Risk Management in the Indonesian Ministry of Finance, Dr Mutiary’s journey is an inspiring example for aspiring leaders in education and public administration. Strategic Choice: Singapore’s Educational Hub While pursuing postgraduate studies abroad presented options, Dr Mutiary strategically chose Singapore. Singapore’s reputation for academic excellence and its proximity to Indonesia made it ideal. “Singapore offered a world-class education close to home,” she shared. The city-state’s high standards and NIE’s global recognition in education research and practice solidified her decision. Enhancing Expertise: From Economics to Education Although Dr Mutiary possessed expertise with dual Master’s degrees in Economics, her role at the ministry’s professional development agency highlighted the need for education-specific knowledge. “I sought a versatile programme with real-world application,” she explained. NIE’s EdD programme, specialising in curriculum, teaching, and learning, offered the perfect platform to gain formal knowledge in educational theory and philosophy. This focus on education significantly expanded her perspective on learning processes and how policies can effectively support professional development. Overcoming Challenges, Building Community Like many international students, adapting to a demanding academic environment presented initial hurdles. However, Dr Mutiary credits NIE’s supportive faculty and student community for making a difference. “While demanding, it was manageable. The lecturers actively ensured our understanding, fostering collaborative learning and in-depth discussions,” she highlighted. This interactive approach enriched her learning, allowing her to learn from diverse perspectives shared by fellow students. Beyond academic support, the vibrant student community at NIE became a cornerstone of her journey. As a leader in the NIE Graduate Student Club and the NTU Graduate Students’ Association, Dr Mutiary forged lasting friendships with doctoral students worldwide. “The best part of NIE was the strong community,” she recalled. Her involvement enhanced her leadership skills that further benefit her professional role. Mentorship that Empowers Throughout her studies, several faculty members provided invaluable guidance. She credits her supervisor Dr Christina Ratnam-Lim, as a supportive mentor, offering insights into both academic and personal growth. Other faculty members, Dr Willy Ardian Renandya and Associate Professor Gregory Arief D Liem, also made a significant impact. They went beyond knowledge delivery, providing practical advice on balancing academic rigour with personal well-being. Their support fortified her confidence, which she now utilises in the good practices of her leadership role. Bridging Theory and Practice The knowledge and skills Dr Mutiary acquired at NIE are already making a difference in her professional life. Her studies in educational philosophy and policy have influenced her approach at the ministry. “Learning the foundations of education deepened my understanding of workplace learning,” she said. This newfound perspective allows her to create more informed, empathetic, and impactful policies and strategies, enhancing her leadership effectiveness. An Inspiration for Aspiring Leaders For professionals seeking further studies in education, Dr Mutiary enthusiastically recommends NIE. “If you want to learn about education, NIE is the place to be,” she advocated. She actively encourages her colleagues to consider NIE, sharing her positive experiences and highlighting Singapore as a prime destination for academic advancement in education. While some consider traditional Western destinations, she believes NIE’s offerings are equally compelling, especially for those seeking to contribute to Asia’s development. A Journey of Transformation Completing a doctorate is a remarkable accomplishment, and for Dr Mutiary, it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with professional and personal growth. Her NIE experience has transformed her, shaping her perspective and expanding her capacity to make a positive impact on Indonesia’s public sector. Her story embodies the power of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of knowledge, showcasing how an international education can empower individuals to not only succeed but also inspire others. Ready to Lead the Way? In today’s world, where learning fuels leadership, Dr Mutiary has shown an exemplary impact on education. Her journey from Indonesia to Singapore – and from economics to education – demonstrates that with the right mindset and support, anything is achievable. For those aspiring to lead, innovate and make a difference, her story serves as an inspiring call to action – the pursuit of excellence is a journey worth embarking on. If you aspire to be like Dr Lili Mutiary, NIE is currently accepting applications for Graduate Programmes by Research until January 31, 2025. Scholarships are available. Apply today https://ntu.sg/nieGradProgIntake and join in the journey to bring education to life! The National Institute of Education (NIE) is an autonomous institute under the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore. It is ranked among the world’s top 15 universities and Asia’s top three education institutions by the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranking by subjects.Gering residents heard a presentation on the state of the community’s pool at Oregon Trail Park and the possibility of repairing or replacing it on Wednesday night. The presentation focused on the city’s pool feasibility study, which is nearing completion. Two representatives from the consulting firm behind the study, Miller & Associates, were present: engineer Larry Steele and grant administrator Megan Shada. Also present were officials from the City of Gering, including Parks and Recreation Director Amy Seiler and City Administrator Pat Heath. First, Shada reviewed data from the city’s pool input survey, which had 993 responses turned in, which is equivalent to just under 12% of Gering’s population. Around a quarter of those responders were from communities outside of Gering, however, including some from Scottsbluff and the surrounding rural area. The vast majority of responders are longtime residents, having lived in the community for more than 10 years. Highlights from the pool input survey include the 70% of responders who rank the pool’s condition as either good or excellent, with most sharing their belief that the facility is clean and well maintained. Responders were split on their initial preference for the pool’s future, with 61% in favor of renovating the current pool and 49% in favor of building a new one. Priorities for desired services and amenities included swimming lessons, water fitness opportunities and a family dressing room. A minority of responders prioritized making the pool’s dimensions appropriate for swimming competitions. “All of these different things kind of impact what a conceptual layout or design could be,” Shada said. “So we’ve taken those into account as we put together some improvement options.” Steele went over some of the deficiencies discovered in the firm’s analysis of the facility, which also helped inform some theoretical designs and improvements. The list of around 20 deficiencies included failure to meet ADA requirements, tripping hazards due to a heaving deck, a shared recirculation system for both the pool and wading pool, incorrectly installed and insecure ladders, missing gutter grates and several pieces of worn out equipment and furniture, among others. Most of those deficiencies are allowed to stand as long as the pool remains in active service, as the facility is grandfathered into different regulations due to its age, Steele said. Using all of this information, Steele presented four potential paths forward. The options were purely informational, as the city will not even begin considering action until the feasibility study is complete. Option one was simply to do nothing, which will not address any of the deficiencies or extend the life of the 48-year-old pool. The smallest scale renovation would rehabilitate the current bathhouse, pool deck and equipment while also making the wading pool zero-entry. That option would cost approximately $3 million. A third option does all the same renovations listed above, but adds in a brand new bathhouse structure that is ADA accessible and includes a family dressing room for just under $4 million. A final option would include a brand new pool with a zero-entry wading pool attached for around $6 million. Any options that involve repairing or replacing the pool itself should significantly extend the life of the facility, Steele said. A repair job would buy around 25 years, while a total replacement would hopefully last 50 years with proper care and maintenance. “There’s going to be things that you’re not going to get 50 years out of,” Steele said. “For example, moving parts like pumps and what have you. You’re going to have to maintain those. But, yeah, your tubs and those types of things should be able to last at least 50 years.” Various questions were fielded from the community members present. Some asked about the price or feasibility of an indoor aquatics center, to which Steele responded that an indoor facility would approximately double the cost of any project in addition to accruing climate control and staffing expenses over time. Others asked about whether there are options available to work with other taxing entities — such as Gering Public Schools or the City of Scottsbluff — to create a shared facility and spread the financial burden. City officials expressed their openness to consider interlocal opportunities, but said that no plans or agreements have been made before all of the necessary information has been gathered from the feasibility study and the public. “We want to make sure that we’re providing a lot of information so that we can prepare (the council) to make the best decisions for our community moving forward, and this study is the first step on that,” Seiler said. The pool feasibility study should be completed next month, and will potentially be presented to the city council as early as February. The decision to proceed, and how, will then be in the council’s hands. Seiler encouraged any and all input still be given, as she wants the public’s desires and concerns to be an important factor in any decisions made throughout the process. Wednesday’s presentation will be made available online at gering.org in the near future. Questions and feedback can be directed to Seiler at aseiler@gering.org . Contact Fletcher Halfaker: fletcher.halfaker@starherald.com , 308-632-9048. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
2025 Nissan Murano transformed from also-ran to legitimate contenderThe ripple effect of the six first prize winners will be felt far and wide, inspiring hope and optimism in the hearts of those who dare to dream big. The allure of the lottery, with its promise of instant wealth and financial freedom, continues to captivate millions of players around the globe. While the odds of winning the jackpot may be slim, the thrill of anticipation and the prospect of a life-changing windfall keep players coming back for more.Title: Economic Observations of China in 2024: Multiple Driving Forces Propel High-Quality Development
A wild first season of the expanded Big 12 is down to what should be a chaotic final weekend. Through all the upsets, unexpected rises and falls, there are nine teams still in the mix to play in the conference championship game. No. 14 Arizona State and No. 17 Iowa State have the best odds, yet a multitude of scenarios could play out — 256 to be exact. There's even the possibility of an eight-team tie. It may take a mathematician to figure out which teams are in the Dec. 7 game in Arlington, Texas — even for the ones who win. Travis Hunter, Colorado. The Buffaloes' two-way star has excelled on both sides of the field, making him one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. Cam Skattebo, Arizona State. The senior running back can do a little of everything, but excels at punishing would-be tacklers. He's one of the nation's leaders in yards after contact and the focal point of the Sun Devils' offense. Shadeur Sanders, Colorado. If it weren't for Hunter, Sanders might be the Heisman favorite. The son of coach Deion Sanders, Shedeur is fifth nationally with 3,488 yards passing and has been a big part of the Buffaloes' turnaround. DJ Giddens, Kansas State. The Wildcats' running back is one of the nation's most versatile players. He is ninth nationally with 1,271 rushing yards and has added 21 receptions for 258 yards. Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona. The Wildcats have struggled this season, but McMillan has not. He is third nationally with 1,251 receiving yards with seven touchdowns on 78 catches. Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech. The Red Raiders' junior linebacker leads the Big 12 with 68 tackles, averaging 10.2 per game. He also has four sacks. Brendan Mott, Kansas State. He's a menace to opposing quarterbacks, leading the Big 12 with 8 1/2 sacks. The Big 12 has nine teams already bowl eligible and two more a win away. The winner of the Big 12 championship game will be in the mix for a College Football Playoff spot. Arizona State, Iowa State, No. 19 BYU, Colorado, Kansas State, Baylor, TCU, Texas Tech and West Virginia have already clinched bowl berths. Kansas and Cincinnati can get into the postseason with wins this weekend. Gus Malzahn, UCF. Despite successes in recruiting, the Knights are 10-14 in two seasons since moving to the Big 12. Maybe not enough to get shown the door this year, but another mediocre season could lead UCF to make a change. Kyle Whittingham, Utah. Whittingham was one of the Pac-12's best coaches, leading the Utes to consecutive conference titles. Utah was expected to contend for the Big 12 title its first year in the league, but enters the final weekend 1-7 in conference play, which could push Whittingham toward retirement since it's doubtful he'd be fired. Neal Brown, West Virginia. The Mountaineers' coach was in a precarious spot at the end of last season and West Virginia hasn't lived up to expectations this season. The Mountaineers are eligible to go to a bowl game for the second straight season, but Brown could be on the hot seat even after signing a contract extension before the season. Josiah Trotter, West Virginia. The redshirt freshman is the latest Trotter to have success at the linebacker position, following the footsteps of his father, former Philadelphia Eagles player Jeremiah Trotter, and brother Jeremiah Trotter Jr., a current Eagles linebacker. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State. The Michigan State transfer has been just what the Sun Devils' needed: an agile quarterback who extends plays with his legs and rarely makes bad decisions. Bryson Washington, Baylor. The Bears' running back has rushed for 812 yards — 196 against TCU — and 10 TDs. TCU has the Big 12's highest rated 2025 recruiting class with six four-star players among 26 commitments, according to the 247 Sports composite. Receiver Terry Shelton of Carrollton, Texas, is the highest-rated recruit at 71st nationally. Baylor is next with five five-star players among its 20 commitments, including running back Michael Turner, rated 13th at his position out of North Richland Hills, Texas. Texas Tech is ranked seventh in the Big 12, but has four four-star recruits. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
As Trump continues to flirt with the idea of a potential return to power, Zelensky's words serve as a reminder that democracy is a process that requires constant vigilance and commitment. The rule of law, independent institutions, and respect for the will of the people are the cornerstones of a functioning democracy, and any attempt to undermine these principles must be met with strong opposition.
Hopeful hearts and other startup newsAccording to reports, Liu Yusheng is being investigated for suspected violations of discipline and law related to his professional conduct. The exact nature of the allegations has not been disclosed, but sources indicate that they are of a serious nature and could have far-reaching implications for his career and reputation.
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Title: Multi-Faceted Efforts to Build Momentum, China's Foreign Trade Expected to End the Year SteadilyAnother major risk factor for cancer is a poor diet and lack of physical activity. Consuming a diet high in processed foods, red and processed meats, sugary beverages, and saturated fats can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle characterized by minimal physical activity is also associated with an elevated risk of cancer. Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol can help lower the risk of cancer associated with poor diet and physical inactivity.