jili178 org Love Island’s Ciaran Davies takes fresh swipe at ex Nicole Samuel after shock splitIn line with the successful implementation of the faceless assessment by the Income Tax department, EEPC India has proposed to the government to roll out a faceless GST audit focusing on empowering the MSME sector . ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for "The faceless GST audit system, by using technology and ensuring anonymity, will reduce compliance costs . A faceless system will streamline procedures allowing MSMEs to focus on growth and innovation," said Pankaj Chadha , chairman, of EEPC India. EEPC India in its pre-budget recommendation has also proposed that Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) related liabilities should be eligible for the Amnesty scheme . Some RCM issues, such as foreign bank charges and foreign business services, pose challenges for exporters who may be unaware of the charges or services provided. Since these issues are not fraudulent, they should fall under Section 73, which addresses genuine compliance concerns . "Exporters should be granted relief under the amnesty scheme, even if Show Cause Notices (SCNs) are issued under Section 74," Chadha said. Many of the EEPC India members have informed that they have received Show Cause Notices related to RCM; hence, an amnesty scheme is urgently needed for such issues. Artificial Intelligence(AI) Java Programming with ChatGPT: Learn using Generative AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Basics of Generative AI: Unveiling Tomorrows Innovations By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Generative AI for Dynamic Java Web Applications with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Mastering C++ Fundamentals with Generative AI: A Hands-On By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Master in Python Language Quickly Using the ChatGPT Open AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Performance Marketing for eCommerce Brands By - Zafer Mukeri, Founder- Inara Marketers View Program Office Productivity Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance A2Z Of Money By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Marketing Modern Marketing Masterclass by Seth Godin By - Seth Godin, Former dot com Business Executive and Best Selling Author View Program Astrology Vastu Shastra Course By - Sachenkumar Rai, Vastu Shashtri View Program Strategy Succession Planning Masterclass By - Nigel Penny, Global Strategy Advisor: NSP Strategy Facilitation Ltd. View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Mastering Full Stack Development: From Frontend to Backend Excellence By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy i.e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By - CA Rahul Gupta, CA with 10+ years of experience and Accounting Educator View Program Data Science SQL Server Bootcamp 2024: Transform from Beginner to Pro By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Nominations for ET MSME Awards are now open. The last day to apply is December 31, 2024. Click here to submit your entry for any one or more of the 22 categories and stand a chance to win a prestigious award. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

Is Outlook down? Thousands of Microsoft 365 users report outage issuesThe festive season in Cebu is a whirlwind of activity. Malls are overflowing with shoppers, where traffic is heavy but the air is thick with the excited chatter of Cebuanos. While chaotic for some, this vibrant display of consumer activity is a testament to the city’s economic prosperity. As buying power increases with a thriving economy, the holiday season becomes a spectacle of lights, music, and joyous spending. Cebuanos, empowered by their growing economic vitality, embrace the festivities with renewed vigor, creating a festive atmosphere that is both a celebration of tradition and a reflection of the city’s remarkable progress. In her State of the Province Address (SOPA) in August, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia asserted, “The state of the province is strong. In fact, it is super strong.” Indeed, the statement rings true particularly from an economic standpoint. Trillion reasons to be merry According to data released by the Philippine Statistic Authority in November 28, 2024, the combined economy of Cebu Province and the three Highly Urbanized cities of Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City has surpassed the one-trillion-peso mark, reaching a total GDP of P1.01 trillion. This significant milestone highlights the island’s robust economic performance and its increasing contribution to the country’s growth. Lapu-Lapu City led with 9.4 percent growth, followed by Cebu City at 8.3 percent and Mandaue City, 7.6 percent. Cebu Island contributed 73 percent to Central Visayas’ GDP, solidifying its role as a key economic driver. In 2023, Central Visayas emerged as the fastest-growing regional economy in the Philippines, recording a 7.3 percent increase in Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). This growth translates to tangible benefits for Cebuanos. Increased economic activity fosters job creation, improved infrastructure, and better access to essential services. This is evident in the rise of malls, around 10 in Cebu City alone, the rapid construction of high-rise condominiums, which is expected to reach over 87,000 units by 2025, and the development of new attractions and recreational areas. The thriving IT sector, which employs thousands of people, also benefits from some 35 IT parks, buildings, and centers in the three major cities. Fueling Cebu’s economic engine What are the secrets behind Cebu’s economic success? Cebu’s strategic location, booming tourism industry, and IT and business process management (IT-BPM) sector continue to boost the local economy. Cebu saw an influx of over 2 million domestic and international tourists as of September 2023, marking a 28 percent growth from last year’s figures. Its captivating beaches, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks continue to attract tourists and drive the development of hotels, resorts, and various recreational facilities. Additionally, Cebu is aiming to become a “smart city,” where citizens can benefit from improved mobility, connectivity, and an environment that fosters innovation. In 2022, the local government announced plans to develop two new IT parks: the Mabolo IT Park and Robinsons SRP IT Park. These projects are anticipated to generate 15,000 jobs and enhance Cebu’s position as a leading outsourcing hub beyond Metro Manila. Over the years, Cebu has established itself as a key player in the outsourcing industry, second only to Metro Manila. In 2022, the local IT-BPM sector generated $32.5 billion in revenue and employed over 121,000 people. Cebu’s strategic location, modern infrastructure, high-quality office spaces, and competitive operational costs compared to Metro Manila make it an appealing destination for global outsourcing companies. Its educated workforce, with high English proficiency, is another significant advantage for Cebu. Moreover, Cebu’s strategic infrastructure investments underscore its commitment to improve connectivity and enhance its attractiveness as an investment destination. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport Terminal 2 is set to accommodate up to five million international passengers per year, making the province an important gateway for tourism and trade in the region. Energy initiatives sparking bright future To sustain Cebu’s economic momentum, ongoing power initiatives are underway to guarantee a stable and reliable energy supply. Garcia reassured investors by emphasizing the ongoing development of three solar farms in Daanbantayan, Dumanjug, and Toledo. Moreover, the expansion of baseload power in Toledo is aimed at bolstering the region’s power supply while supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. These energy projects are designed to address the increasing energy demands of a fast-developing Central Visayas. “If we are to even be able to match the phenomenal growth that Cebu is experiencing right now, we would have to be serious in generating more capacity. That has become a focus and priority for me,” she said. Cebu’s steady economic growth, fueled by its status as the country’s wealthiest province for nine consecutive years and Cebu City’s inclusion among the world’s top 500 cities to live in, signifies an improvement in the quality of life for its residents. This can be seen in the development of more business and industrial areas, infrastructure, and retail and commercial spaces. However, with this higher quality of life comes a greater demand for energy. To sustain this growth and ensure a brighter future for all, Cebu must continue to invest in a reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure. Ensuring a balanced energy mix by combining traditional and renewable sources is vital to prevent disruptions in key industries. With the collaborative efforts of the government and the private sector, Cebu is well-positioned to become a true powerhouse of the South, driving economic and social progress for generations to come. Being business-savvy should be fun, attainable and A+. BMPlus is BusinessMirror's digital arm with practical tips & success stories for aspiring and thriving millennial entrepreneurs.

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'We need new leadership': Atlantic Liberal caucus calls for Trudeau's resignation

After a far-right pro-Russia candidate secured a surprise lead in Romania's presidential election Monday, the eastern European NATO member is bracing for a high-stakes parliamentary vote on Sunday, amid fears it could bring about a strategic shift in the country. Calin Georgescu was in pole position with almost 23 percent after the first round of voting, a political earthquake in the country of 19 million people that has so far resisted nationalist appeals that have gained traction in Hungary and Slovakia. His victory ahead of centre-right mayor Elena Lasconi -- who scored 19.18 percent -- ended the hopes of Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu to compete for the presidency in the December runoff. After coming third at 19.15, Ciolacu said his Social Democratic Party (PSD) won't challenge the narrow result, and announced his resignation as party leader. Experts say the far right's surprise success could affect the parliamentary elections later this week, and even influence the chances of forming a future government. In the runoff ballot on December 8, Lasconi will face Georgescu, a NATO critic who in the past expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Georgescu's popularity surged ahead of the vote with a viral TikTok campaign calling for an end to aid for Ukraine, which shares a 650-kilometre (400-mile) border with Romania. In a first reaction on his YouTube channel, the 62-year-old independent candidate insisted "there is no East or West", stressing that neutrality was "absolutely necessary". "I am not an extremist, I am not a fascist -- I am a Romanian who loves his country," he said in reference to media reports that "tried to portray" him in a wrongful way. For his rival Lasconi, the upcoming runoff represents "an existential battle", "a historic confrontation" between those who wish to "preserve Romania's young democracy" and those who want to "return to the Russian sphere of influence". "We must not allow anger to throw us back into the past," she said to thunderous applause from her supporters, vowing to stand up for Europe and NATO. The political earthquake comes amid soaring inflation and mounting fears of Romania being potentially dragged into Russia's war in neighbouring Ukraine, as the country has emerged as a key player on the alliance's eastern flank. In Sunday's vote, another far-right contender, AUR party leader George Simion, secured nearly 14 percent. Already pounding the campaign trail for this week's parliamentary elections, Simion said Romania now has "the chance to have a sovereign government and a sovereign president". Overall, the far right won more than a third of all votes in Sunday's presidential ballot. "The far right is by far the big winner of this election," political scientist Cristian Pirvulescu told AFP, predicting a possible "contagion effect" in the parliamentary vote. Extremist forces and Lasconi's centre-right party now have "wind in their sails", sociologist Gelu Duminica said, though "it remains to be seen if they know how to capitalise" on it. The PSD, which has shaped the country's politics for more than three decades, has never before been eliminated in the first round of a presidential election. The National Liberal Party (PNL) party, with whom the PSD currently governs, also suffered a defeat. While many expressed their disbelief over the poll in the streets of the capital Bucharest, others were enthused. Maria Chis, 70, said she was surprised by Georgescu's lead in the first round but had been impressed after watching his TikTok videos. "He seems a man of integrity, serious and patriotic. He inspires seriousness. I think only someone like him can bring change," said the pensioner, who was planning to vote for him in the second round. Alex Tudose, the owner of a construction company, was gloomy. "There is sorrow, disappointment, that after so many years in Euro-Atlantic structures we voted for a pro-Russian by over 20 percent," the 42-year-old said. "There is clearly a strong fragmentation both in society and in the political class, and I think we saw that yesterday," he said. ani-anb-kym/sbkUConn's Dan Hurley Blames 'S--ty Calls' for Loss to Memphis; Technical Foul a 'Joke'

Market Alert: Actelis Networks Lands Expansion Orders for Washington DC Transportation Department Multi-Billion Dollar Partner 11-25-2024 11:16 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: ABNewswire TL;DR: Actelis Networks (NASDAQ: ASNS) has secured two new expansion orders from the Washington DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) in collaboration with M.C. Dean. This initiative reinforces Actelis' commitment to modernizing the city's traffic management infrastructure, utilizing its advanced hybrid-fiber solutions to enhance connectivity and optimize traffic flow in one of the nation's busiest urban environments. Actelis Networks (NASDAQ: ASNS) has announced the receipt of expansion orders from the Washington DC Department of Transportation (DDOT), marking a significant step in the ongoing modernization of the city's critical infrastructure. These new orders build on a previously announced $2.3 million project from May 2024, emphasizing Actelis' role as a trusted partner in enhancing transportation systems in the nation's capital. The collaboration with M.C. Dean, a prominent integrator specializing in advanced cyber-physical systems, is pivotal in delivering innovative solutions tailored to the challenges of traffic congestion in Washington DC-one of the most congested cities in the United States, according to a report from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. With a growing population and heavy tourist traffic, effective management of roadways is essential for improving safety and efficiency. "Washington, DC's complex traffic environment necessitates innovative solutions for managing roadways," said Tuvia Barlev, Chairman and CEO of Actelis. "The backbone of effective traffic management systems is reliable, far-reaching network connectivity. Actelis enables DDOT to optimize traffic flow, improve safety, and enhance data collection using tools such as signal timing and traffic cameras." The recent expansion into DDOT's infrastructure comes at a time when Actelis is experiencing significant momentum within the industry. Earlier this year, the company achieved the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) certification for data cybersecurity, showcasing its commitment to providing secure and resilient networking solutions. Additionally, Actelis has been successful in securing major contracts, such as the order for the City of Napa's intelligent traffic management system, which further underscores its capabilities in enhancing urban connectivity. Most recently, the company reported a remarkable 200% growth in q3 revenues, reflecting strong demand for its innovative hybrid-fiber solutions across diverse sectors. Actelis' cyber-hardened hybrid-fiber networking technology stands out by providing fiber-grade performance while utilizing existing wiring, thus avoiding the lengthy and costly process of laying new cables. This capability allows for the rapid deployment of high-demand applications, such as data-intensive traffic monitoring systems and advanced traffic cameras, making a substantial impact on the city's ability to manage its complex traffic environment. Barlev further noted, "Washington, DC has now become a showcase for Actelis' hybrid fiber-copper technology and a model for how other cities can efficiently modernize their traffic management infrastructure. Our collaboration with M.C. Dean has proven that cities can save hundreds of thousands of dollars-or more-on construction costs while achieving the performance required to manage dense roadway systems." As Actelis continues to expand its footprint in the transportation sector, the company's innovative solutions position it well to address the growing need for advanced, secure connectivity in urban environments. The partnership with M.C. Dean not only showcases Actelis' technology but also serves as a model for other cities aiming to streamline their traffic management systems efficiently and sustainably. Quick Links, Read More >> * [ https://thefinanceherald.com/capitalizing-on-the-booming-demand-for-safer-roads-and-smarter-cars-cipias-role-in-reshaping-the-future/ ] * [ https://thefinanceherald.com/actelis-networks-results-surge-in-q3-2024-with-200-revenue-growth-and-rising-margins-fueling-optimism-for-the-future/ ] * [ https://venture-block.com/microsoft-unveils-game-changing-ai-recall-feature-for-enhanced-windows-11-experience/ ] Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/uploads/d2d61a84dcac890534609405dcd466f2.jpg This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as financial, investment or any form of professional advice, recommendation or endorsement. The article was written in collaboration with Global Markets News Network, a commercially operated IR digital brand compensated by the issuer (Actelis) to provide coverage of its news and developments, among other things. Readers are encouraged to read the full disclaimers and disclosures [ https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf ] document that the article is subject to https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf [ https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf ] . This article may include forward looking statements which cannot be guaranteed as discussed in the documentation. Media Contact Company Name: Global Markets News Network Contact Person: News Desk Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=market-alert-actelis-networks-lands-expansion-orders-for-washington-dc-transportation-department-multibillion-dollar-partner ] Country: United States Website: https://www.futuremarketsresearch.com/global-markets-news This release was published on openPR.

By Tom Westerholm Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers won the season series against the Celtics on Sunday, bouncing back from a blowout to deliver a 123-114 loss to a scuffling Celtics team. Here are the takeaways. 1. The Celtics couldn’t get stops. The Celtics spent much of Sunday’s game trying to rally back from a deficit, which is very difficult to do when you have to score seemingly every possession to make up for what happened on the other end. Over the last two weeks, the Celtics have the seventh-best defensive rating in the NBA according to Cleaning the Glass, which feels high given some of their struggles. On Sunday, the defense was particularly off-kilter. The Celtics gave up 98 points in the first three quarters, and when they rallied in the fourth quarter to make it a closer contest in the fourth quarter, they completely lost control of things and gave up a 13-0 run that put the game out of reach and quieted the TD Garden crowd. The Pacers paraded to the rim repeatedly, outsourcing the Celtics 66-48 in the paint and 18-4 in transition. Haliburton seemed to find the lane particularly clear, but a number of other Pacers were relatively unimpeded as they cruised around screens and found gaps in the defense. The Celtics missed Jrue Holiday , whose on-ball defense might have made a difference, and they really missed Kristaps Porzingis , whose long arms and towering height might have dissuaded some of the Pacers’ forays. But part of the challenge this season looks like it might be finding ways to get stops even when lineups aren’t exactly what the Celtics would prefer. Whether that’s energy and effort or whether its players like Sam Hauser finding ways to guard their yard, the Celtics will continue to struggle if they aren’t a lot better on the defensive end. 2. The Celtics also couldn’t make 3-pointers (at least when it mattered). The Celtics weren’t exactly lighting the parquet floor on fire with their 3-point shooting, but they were shooting 35.7 percent from deep entering the fourth quarter. But as the Pacers pulled away again, the Celtics tried to shoot themselves out of their hole, and they were entirely unsuccessful. They finished 1-for-12 in the final frame, including 1-for-10 before the bench unit came in to close things out in the final two minutes, which pulled their 3-point percentage below the waves and left it a bedraggled 29.6 percent (16-for-54). Two stats seem relevant here. The first is the Celtics’ 3-point percentage in December, which dropped to a paltry 33.8 percent after Sunday’s game. Entering Sunday’s action, that percentage would place the Celtics 25th in the NBA over that span. The second is the Celtics win/loss splits: The Celtics are now shooting 37.9 percent from three in their wins and 32.6 percent in losses. Reducing a team’s success to its 3-point shooting seems, well, reductive, but the 741 shoe feels like it might fit so far this season. 3. Jaylen Brown was impressive again. The Celtics wasted another impressive outing by Jaylen Brown , who continued his recent run by scoring 31 points to go with four rebounds and six assists. Brown continues to be a somewhat unique – and thus perhaps especially necessary – player on Boston’s roster in that he builds his offensive game inside out and embraces opportunities to seek out contact. While Brown was just 3-for-5 at the free-throw line, he earned three and-one opportunities. The Celtics’ offense is at its best when the stars are cooking and the 3-pointers are falling. Tatum wasn’t bad (22 points, 8-for-17 shooting, nine rebounds, six assists) and Brown was excellent, but when 3-pointers aren’t falling around them, the wheels can come off quickly. 4. A tough stretch. The Celtics have now lost four of their last six games, and they are 5-5 in their last 10. They never lost four out of six last season — the last time they did so was in March of 2023 . Point to the injuries, call the poor 3-point shooting an outlier, or choose from a number of other options to explain away this stretch, but something simply doesn’t seem to be clicking right now for the Celtics. 5. The Celtics and Pacers might be a real rivalry. The Pacers seemed to really relish their win on Sunday. Haliburton mocked the TD Garden crowd at one point after a silencing run pushed the Pacers’ lead back to double digits. Pascal Siakam blew a couple of kisses after hitting a 3-pointer with the game well out of reach in the fourth. Thomas Bryant bellowed and flexed after a couple dunks in the first quarter. And Aaron Nesmith, the former Celtics first-round pick who seems to hold a specific animosity for the Celtics for having the audacity to trade him to a better situation for both sides, wasn’t even active as he continues to recover from an ankle sprain. No team gave the Celtics a tougher push in last year’s Eastern Conference playoffs than the Pacers, even though the Eastern Conference finals were a sweep. This year, the Pacers have won the regular-season series against the defending champions after Sunday’s win. The Celtics would still clearly be the favorites in a seven-game series, but the Pacers are a tough out, and they seem to be building the kind of personal grievance against the Celtics that can carry a team to higher levels in the postseason. 6. A big road trip looms. The Celtics have one more game in 2024, facing the Raptors at 3 p.m. on Tuesday. They will then open 2025 with a tough road trip, starting with a back-to-back against the Timberwolves and Rockets on Thursday and Friday followed by games against the Thunder and Nuggets before they return to TD Garden. We will have more takeaways later this evening. Boston.com Today Sign up to receive the latest headlines in your inbox each morning. Be civil. Be kind.

Tonal Partners with Truemed to Expand Access to Strength Training Through HSA/FSA Eligibility

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The future of leadership in Africa hinges on a critical skill: AI literacy. As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and societies globally, African boards must embrace this knowledge to remain competitive, ethical, and innovative. AI literacy is no longer optional but essential for board members across the continent, as it equips leaders to harness these advancements responsibly and effectively oversee their organisations in an AI-driven world. Artificial intelligence is revolutionising decision-making processes, offering tools to analyse data, predict trends, and optimise operations. Globally, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the economy by 2030, with Africa poised to benefit significantly if its leaders adapt. Yet, many African boards lag in understanding AI’s transformative potential due to gaps in digital literacy and infrastructure. This gap must be urgently addressed to ensure African businesses remain competitive in the global market. The oversight role of boards in AI governance is becoming increasingly critical. According to a recent Deloitte Global survey, only 14% of boards discuss AI at every meeting, while 45% haven’t yet put AI on their agenda at all. This lack of engagement is concerning, especially given the rapid pace of AI development and its potential impact on businesses. African boards must recognise that AI oversight is not just a technical issue but a strategic imperative that demands their attention and understanding. To effectively govern in the age of AI, board members need to develop a comprehensive understanding of AI’s capabilities, limitations, and ethical implications. This knowledge enables them to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and provide meaningful guidance to management teams. Without this literacy, boards risk approving AI initiatives without fully grasping their implications or missing out on transformative opportunities that could propel their organisations forward. The stakes are high for African businesses. AI has the potential to address some of the continent’s most pressing challenges, from improving healthcare access to optimising agricultural productivity. However, it also brings risks such as data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and potential job displacement. AI-literate boards are better equipped to navigate these complex issues, ensuring that AI adoption aligns with organisational values and societal needs. Moreover, AI literacy empowers boards to foster a culture of innovation within their organisations. By understanding AI’s potential, board members can encourage management to explore cutting-edge solutions and allocate resources to promising AI initiatives. This forward-thinking approach is crucial for African businesses to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive global market. The path to AI literacy for African boards requires a multifaceted approach. Board members should prioritise ongoing education about AI technologies and their applications in business. This can involve attending workshops, engaging with AI experts, and even experiencing AI tools firsthand. Some organisations are already taking steps in this direction, with 8% of respondents in the Deloitte survey indicating that they are starting to include AI specialists among their new board directors. However, education alone is not sufficient. Boards must establish robust oversight mechanisms to ensure that AI adoption aligns with the organisation’s strategic priorities. This includes setting clear governance frameworks for AI-related initiatives, evaluating their alignment with goals such as enhancing productivity and efficiency, improving customer experience, and fostering innovation. By focusing on strategy and accountability, boards can ensure that AI delivers measurable value while safeguarding the organisation’s long-term vision and ethical standards.. Risk management is another critical aspect of AI governance that demands board attention. African boards must establish robust frameworks for assessing and mitigating AI-related risks. This includes addressing data privacy concerns, ensuring algorithmic fairness, and preparing for potential cybersecurity threats. Boards should also consider the broader societal implications of AI adoption, such as its impact on employment and social equity. To effectively oversee AI initiatives, boards need to define clear governance structures. This may involve creating dedicated AI committees or integrating AI oversight into existing committee responsibilities. Many boards that have delegated AI matters typically assign them to the risk and regulatory committee or the audit committee. African boards should carefully consider which structure best suits their organisation’s needs to ensure comprehensive AI governance. As AI becomes more pervasive, boards must also broaden their stakeholder considerations. While customers and employees are currently seen as the top stakeholders in AI governance, African boards should anticipate increased scrutiny from regulators, investors, and society at large. Proactively engaging with these stakeholders and addressing their concerns will be crucial for maintaining trust and social license to operate in an AI-driven future. The journey towards AI literacy and effective governance is not without challenges. Many African organisations face resource constraints and may struggle to attract AI talent. However, these obstacles make it even more imperative for boards to lead the charge in AI adoption and governance. By prioritising AI literacy and oversight, boards can help their organisations overcome these hurdles and unlock the transformative potential of AI. In conclusion, AI literacy is non-negotiable for African boards aspiring to lead their organisations into the future. It is the key to unlocking innovation, managing risks, and ensuring responsible AI adoption. As AI continues to reshape the business landscape, African boards must rise to the challenge, embracing AI literacy as a fundamental leadership competency. By doing so, they will position their organisations – and the continent as a whole – to thrive in the AI-driven economy of the future.

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Robin Roberts hosts a look back at the top stories, trends and entertainment obsessions that defined the year 2024 in a special airing on Thursday, Dec. 26. The special will air at 9 p.m. ET on ABC. Those without cable can watch the show for free through FuboTV or DirecTV Stream each offering a free trial to new users. Sling is another option for streaming the show, and promotional offers are available. “Good Morning America” co-anchor Robin Roberts will take a look back at the most iconic and memorable moments of the last 12 months, with commentary from newsmakers, celebrities, and cultural and political contributors. “World News Tonight” anchor and managing editor David Muir, “Good Morning America”‘s Michael Strahan and Lara Spencer, “ABC News Live Prime” and “World News Tonight” Sunday anchor Linsey Davis, “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang, “20/20” co-anchor Deborah Roberts and ABC News correspondent Will Reeve will all join for the special. The special, now in its 14th year, includes interviews with Elton John, Teddy Swims, Lisa Ann Walter, Ilona Maher, Stephen Nedoroscik and more. Here’s a taste of the topics featured in the special. Here is a look at the special from ABC’s YouTube Channel : Those without cable can watch the show for free through FuboTV or DirecTV Stream each offering a free trial to new users. Sling is another option for streaming the show, and promotional offers are available. What is FuboTV ? FuboTV is an over-the-top internet live TV streaming service that offers more than 100 channels, like sports, news, entertainment and local channels. It offers DVR storage space, and is designed for people who want to cut the cord, but don’t want to miss out on their favorite live TV and sports. Fubo offers $30 off your first month. What is DirecTV Stream? The streaming platform offers a plethora of content including streaming the best of live and On Demand, starting with more than 75 live TV channels. What is Sling ? Sling TV is the first app-based TV service letting you stream live television and on-demand content over the internet. With Sling TV, you get to choose the television option that’s right for you, including Channel Add-ons, Premiums Add-ons, DVR Plus and more. More Shopping and DealsCadillac to join Formula 1 grid in 2026Players Era Festival organizers betting big NIL is future of college tourneys