by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | batteries, battery electric vehicles, electric batteries, electric cars, lithium ion batteries
QuantumScape, a startup focused on battery ignition technology for electric vehicles, thinks eliminating the anode could lead to significant advancements in EVs; however, obstacles still remain.
While a lithium-ion battery has fewer components compared to a combustion engine, it remains equally sophisticated. This complexity arises from the delicate balance of materials affecting various aspects of an electric vehicle such as its driving range, recharge time, overall performance, and durability. Manufacturers are striving to enhance these factors through advanced chemical formulations aimed at reducing compromises. A notable advancement in this field is the development of anode-less solid-state lithium-metal batteries, which show significant promise.
At least one battery executive believes that this chemistry will enable the true “no compromises vehicle”, where driving range, charging times, safety and lifespan are all impressive. It sounds great on paper, but for the technology to truly come out of the lab and onto EVs that customers can buy, several challenges are yet to be solved.
“If you aim for a significant reduction in both cost and energy efficiency relative to mass and volume, the most substantial improvement would be achieved by removing the anode,” explained Tim Holt, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at battery startup QuantumScape.
InsideEVs
.
Photo by: QuantumScape
The key elements in a conventional lithium-ion battery consist of an anode, electrolyte, separator, and cathode. These parts collaborate to transfer electrons during an electric vehicle’s charging and discharging processes. Among these components, the anode stands out as particularly environmentally burdensome and challenging from a production standpoint.
It’s typically made from graphite—a stable, long-lasting material but one that limits fast charging and energy density. Processing graphite requires toxic solvents and China controls the vast majority of its supply chain.
We’re noticing an increase in silicon utilization within the anodes as well.
However, these options tend to be costly and their cycle life and stability aren’t optimal, as stated by QuantumScape. Businesses involved in this technology claim they are enhancing stability and ensuring better long-term durability.
The weightiness of EV batteries can be attributed partly to their anodes as well. According to Holme, the anode consists of a substantial amount of carbon and occupies significant space and mass within a cell. Additionally, both the manufacturing process and production consume large amounts of energy, leading to notable CO2 emissions.
Currently, QuantumScape is among multiple battery startups aiming to abandon conventional techniques for integrating anodes. Other companies like Factorial, Our Next Energy, and Ensurge Micropower are also working on their own variants of anode-free cells.
QuantumScape is working on a lithium-metal battery featuring an “in situ” formed anode, which is generated inside the battery itself instead of being added as a distinct part. This is noteworthy since conventional lithium-ion batteries typically employ a pre-manufactured anode, often crafted from materials like graphite and/or silicon. In contrast, lithium-metal batteries have the potential to begin solely with a cathode and an electrolyte.
In the initial charging process, lithium ions accumulate on the current collector, thereby constructing the lithium-metal anode. This approach streamlines production, cuts expenses, and enhances energy storage capacity. According to QuantumScape, an electric vehicle equipped with conventional cells offering a range of about 350 miles could achieve up to 400-500 miles when utilizing their solid-state lithium-metal cells. However, as will be explored further under battery density considerations, such comparisons do not appear to factor in the highest-density lithium-ion batteries available at present.
Photo by: QuantumScape
“Lithium metal outperforms both graphite and silicon as the ideal anode,” stated Holme. “A solid-state design combined with lithium metal creates superior batteries without compromising performance. However, this presents an engineering hurdle.” One key issue they face involves inhibiting the formation of dendrites—sharp metallic formations that can develop within the battery, causing damage.
Daniel Parr, a tech industry analyst working for a research company based in the U.K.,
IDTechEx
noted in a message that lithium metal batteries have traditionally faced difficulties in development because of this problem, with dendrite formation leading to premature battery deterioration and restricting the number of charge cycles they can undergo.
QuantumScape addresses this issue with a patented solid-state separator crafted from ceramics, claimed to inhibit dendrite formation. According to Holme, the electrolyte consists of an organic liquid, while the cathode can utilize either nickel, iron, or a combination of both.
Iron is certainly less costly, yet it has lower energy density whereas nickel boasts higher energy density, though it comes at a greater expense,” Holme stated. “We intend to provide both options for our clients so they can make their own selection.
The start-up’s
QSE-5 cell
uses this novel chemistry. The first two letters represent the company, “E” stands for energy and the number denotes five milliamp-hours of capacity, similar to the capacity of a Tesla 2170 cell that’s used in certain versions of the Model Y, among other products.
The QSE-5 cell boasts an energy density of 305 watt-hours per kilogram, appearing slightly superior to Tesla’s 4680 NMC cells utilized in the Cybertruck and the Model Y. The 4680 remains
estimated
with an energy density ranging from 272 to 296 watt-hours per kilogram. Factorial’s fully solid-state
Solstice
The battery reportedly offers an energy density of 450 Wh/kg. Therefore, as a solid-state, experimental battery, the QSE-5’s density falls at the lower end of the spectrum.
Nevertheless, the advantages are significant, according to the startup. The lifespan increases due to the elimination of “capacity fade,” which typically occurs as a result of chemical interactions between the anode and the electrolyte. Additionally, safety is enhanced since the ceramic separator is purportedly fireproof and remains stable even when exposed to extremely high or low temperatures.
In the event of a collision, an electric vehicle equipped with this type of battery has a lower chance of exploding. (Fires in EVs are
statistically rarer
then electric cars, but when these fires do happen, they are difficult to put out.)
Photo by: QuantumScape
QuantumScape has already shipped “B-samples” of its new battery to automakers for testing and plans to send more this year. B-samples are near-production battery prototype used for more advanced testing, such as performance validation, safety assessments and integration into EVs.
One of QuantumScape’s clients is PowerCo SE, which is a wholly owned battery division of the Volkswagen Group. “We have granted them access to our technology and are collaborating closely to bring this solution to market,” explained Holmes. “PowerCo SE is constructing large-scale factories known as ‘gigafactories’ in Spain, Germany, and Canada, and we will assist them in integrating this technology into their manufacturing processes.”
Under the non-exclusive
licensing agreement
PowerCo has the capability to generate as much as 40 gigawatt-hours of batteries utilizing QuantumScape’s technology, with the potential to scale this capacity up to 80 GWh. This expanded output could support the production of approximately 1 million electric vehicles each year.
When questioned regarding the expenses associated with solid-state batteries versus today’s lithium-ion alternatives, Holmes drew parallels between the advancement of solid-state cells and SpaceX’s revolutionary impact on the rocket sector.
If you compare the initial SpaceX rockets with what NASA had developed at that time, they weren’t as cost-effective,” he stated. “However, as SpaceX has advanced, their prices have dropped dramatically, reaching levels several times lower than those of NASA.
It will cost more initially compared to a conventional battery.
“If we climb the learning curve, increase our production volumes, and reduce our costs, we can become competitive and potentially surpass lithium-ion technology over time,” he said.
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suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | education, education reform, educational systems, healthcare and medicine, politics
● Looks for education that frees the mind, rather than one that induces fear
At the weekend, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who leads the Senate, called upon federal, state, and local governments, along with corporations and philanthropists, to significantly increase their investment in education. He argued this would foster the creation of future global billionaires and renowned brands.
Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central, pointed out how both established and developing countries across Asia, Europe, and North America utilized education as an effective means for socioeconomic change to achieve their respective goals.
Following the conferment of an honorary Doctor of Laws degree upon him during the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University, which took place over the weekend on the university’s main campus in Ado Ekiti, he proceeded to make those calls.
Yesterday, Bamidele was honored along with Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, and the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Mansur Muhtar. This brings the total number of honorary doctorates Bamidele has been awarded to three, spanning from January 2003 through March 2025.
During his speech at the convocation, Bamidele highlighted the importance of education in driving the socioeconomic progress of countries across the globe. He believes this educational advancement is crucial for achieving developmental objectives and overcoming severe challenges.
He particularly noted: “By quality education, I refer to an educational experience that frees the mind; one which significantly reshapes entire generations and provides access to countless opportunities in every field.”
In this light, education serves as an invaluable resource that both advanced and rising nations across the globe have utilized to reach their current position. We, as a society, also possess this same instrument in our quest for national ambitions.
Bamidele emphasized that achieving substantial socio-economic progress in every sector necessitates “not just fostering a conducive atmosphere, but also ensuring high competitiveness so our country can stand out on the global stage.”
It also requires intentional public investment in our youth, and we must take action immediately. Undoubtedly, this necessitates consistent and strategic backing from various private sectors that generate global brands and billionaires.
This is the proven framework that yielded successful individuals such as Elon Musk, who leads both SpaceX and Tesla; Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon Inc.; Mark Zuckerberg, co-creator of Facebook and Instagram; Larry Page, CEO at Google; Warren Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., among numerous others.
It’s now time for us all to utilize the power of high-quality education to create our own global billionaires and brands. However, this can’t be achieved through mere luck or coincidence, but rather through meticulous planning and relentless execution of these strategies.
“We might fail to reach our goals unless we reassess our national priorities and significantly invest in human capital. Fundamentally, education that frees minds is the sole solution to achieving our aspirations. The sooner we begin investing more effectively in our citizens, the better off we will be as a union,” he stated.
Consequently, Bamidele urged both public and private entities to revisit their approaches; contemplate this message and reaffirm our commitment to invest more substantially in individuals. This sentiment ought to be a crucial aspect of the key lessons we draw from this historic assembly.
During his speech, University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ayodele Joseph listed several initiatives spearheaded by Bamidele for the institution. These included building accommodations specifically for medical students—both male and female dormitories—as well as constructing a small sports stadium and an FM radio station.
Ayoadele also highlighted several significant contributions made by the university’s alumni over the past year via targeted connections and interventions, pointing out various initiatives that the senate leader helped facilitate for the benefit of the university community.
He expanded Bamidele’s contributions to encompass facilitating the building of separate hostels for male and female medical students, constructing a small sports complex within the campus grounds, and also organizing the donation of an FM radio station from Senator Bamidele.
The vice chancellor additionally pointed out that the institution’s success could be attributed to an increase in the monthly subsidy for the university, which was raised from ₦260 million to ₦410 million per month.
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, local news, news, politics, politics and government
By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu
In Keta (VR), on April 1, GNA reported – Mr. Wisdom Seade, nominated as the Keta Municipal Chief Executive, vowed to collaborate with residents to accelerate the progress and development of the Keta Municipality for everyone’s advantage.
He stated that his main focuses would be unity, cohesion, and fresh approaches to propel advancement within the Assembly.
Mr. Seade, who serves as both the Assembly Member for the Anyako Electoral Area and the Keta National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency chairman, spoke to the Ghana News Agency in an interview where he urged other assembly members to validate his nomination.
“My appointment by President John Dramani Mahama represents a triumph for the Keta assembly. This is the first instance where an assembly member has advanced to the role of Metropolitan, Municipal, or District Chief Executive (MCE), and we must seize this moment, rejoice, and collaborate to achieve our goals,” he stated.
Mr. Seade indicated that assuming the role of MCE would enable the assembly members to propel development forward in the Keta municipality. He emphasized the importance of public support, cooperation, and solidarity to reach higher objectives.
He committed to presenting essential emergency prioritization strategies during his initial 100 days in office, should he be approved, and encouraged enterprises, benefactors, corporations, individuals, and organizations to collaborate with the Assembly to advance their developmental goals and enhance progress in the region.
“A number of my objectives include interacting with leaders, stakeholders, businesses, donors, individuals, and communities to collect support, insights, and advice for shaping this constituency into one of the finest within the region and nation.”
He thanked the other three candidates for their congratulations and promised their backing, also expressing hope that his fellow assembly members would grant him full votes to secure his nomination.
He stated that if he is confirmed as the upcoming MCE, his aim is to drive progress in sectors like healthcare, employment generation, infrastructure, athletics, and education, along with various other domains, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for his constituents.
Mr. Seade indicated his contentment with his working rapport with the present Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu. According to him, Mr. Gunu grasps the difficulties faced by assemblies and knows potential remedies, owing to his background as a former DCE of Akatsi North.
The Volta Regional Coordinating Council has disclosed the confirmed dates for the nomination process in the region, which will take place in Keta on Thursday, April 10, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
GNA
MA/CA
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | government, politics, politics and government, politics and law, security
By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, April 01, GNA – The New Patriotic Party Minority Caucus in Parliament has voiced serious reservations about various crucial security issues in Ghana.
They mentioned this involved the supposed baffling vanishing of 12 containers loaded with gold and money, potential drug smuggling involving private aircraft carrying cocaine and funds, as well as an allegedly pirated assault on a Ghanaian fishing boat.
At a press conference held in Parliament on Tuesday, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, who serves as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Assin South and holds the position of Ranking Member on both the Interior and Defense Committees within Parliament, addressed members of the media. He raised a pertinent issue regarding concerns from Ghanaian citizens about whether the government, via National Security, planned to redirect the 12 containers filled with gold and cash, ultimately aiming to mislead the public later on.
He expressed worries regarding two supposed private aircraft: AirMed flight N823AM and Cavok Air, which arrived at Kotoka International Airport in March 2025 with questionable goods thought to include cocaine and money.
“We urge the National Security agency to disclose all details regarding the contents of the cargo transported by these two airplanes into the country, as well as what was loaded onto the same planes when they departed for Gran Canary,” he stated additionally.
Reverend Ntim Fordjour likewise voiced worry over a purportedly reported pirate assault on a Ghanaian fishing ship named “MENGXIN 1,” which took place within Ghana’s territorial waters on March 27, 2025.
As they pushed for a comprehensive inquiry into the event, the Caucus demanded that the government equip the Ghana Navy with the necessary number of Offshore Patrol Vessels to protect Ghana’s territorial waters.
As Ghana’s position as the second most tranquil nation in Africa was precarious, the Minority Caucus determined that it was crucial for the country to remain secure under President John Dramani Mahama’s guidance. They believed it essential to prevent the nation from becoming a refuge for piracy, narcotics smuggling, and financial fraud.
Mr. Kofi Amankwa Manu, the NPP Member of Parliament for Aktwima Kwanwoma and Deputy Ranking member of both the Interior and Defense Committees in Parliament, stated that this matter is a security concern requiring collaborative action. He emphasized that the minority party will contribute their share and urged all other parties involved to also participate actively.
Mr Amankwa Manu cautioned against politicizing Ghana’s security matters and urged for the appropriate focus to be given to them.
GNA
CAA
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | crime, criminal justice, criminal prosecution, hungary, politics and law
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ignoring an arrest warrant during his trip to Budapest. The International Criminal Court has few ways to react.
As one of the 125 member states of the International Criminal Court, Hungary has a legal responsibility to detain Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he arrives in Budapest and immediately send him to The Hague as per the ICC’s assertion that he is accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the conflict in Gaza.
Instead, what’s occurring is that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is welcoming the Israeli leader with open arms through a grandiose four-day visit filled with opulent displays of unity.
In November 2024, when arrest warrants were issued for Netanyahu and Israel’s ex-defense minister, Yoav Gallant, Orban described the ICC as “audacious, manipulative, and utterly unacceptable.” He vowed that should Netanyahu ever visit Hungary, he would ensure both his liberty and security.
ICC’s limited response
In contrast to national courts, which utilize their domestic law enforcement agencies for enforcing arrest warrants, international courts depend on the judicial systems of their member states to apprehend and hand over suspects; the ICC lacks its own police force.
If a nation does not apprehend an accused individual, the ICC judges may start what is known as a non-compliance procedure. This process could lead to a referral to either the ICC’s Assembly of States Parties (ASP) or the United Nations Security Council.
Despite referral instances, the ASP has limited ability to enforce significant penalties against nations that fail to meet their commitments.
“There are not significant real-world repercussions for failing to comply,” said Mathias Holvoet, who lectures in international criminal law at the University of Amsterdam, speaking to SANGGRALOKA.
He anticipates that the ICC will initiate this process, though his expectations of its potential outcomes remain modest.
The ICC is often depicted as a giant lacking limbs—it genuinely struggles to enforce those arrest warrants. The impetus for action rests with the state’s political determination.
The Israeli leader is additionally encouraged by his support at the White House, with U.S. President Donald Trump being an ally.
issued an executive order
In February, sanctions were imposed on the ICC and its Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan, specifically in reaction to their involvement with the Netanyahu case.
‘Illiberal ideological allies’
According to certain analysts, the reception offered by Hungary is exactly what Netanyahu aims to use in order to reduce the court’s reliability.
“He aims to visit numerous countries to demonstrate that the ICC is merely a paper tiger and incapable of enforcing the arrest warrant against him,” explains Holvoet from the University of Amsterdam.
Some think this journey also advances Netanyahu’s domestic political objectives.
Daniel Hegedus, an expert on Hungary and regional director for the German Marshall Fund, stated, “He has shown that the arrest isn’t as crucial as several figures within his internal opposition suggest.” He added, “This trip highlights his connections, sway, and capacity for political action.”
Hegebus noted that Orban is providing a platform for his longstanding illiberal ideological partner, which aligns closely with the fresh policy stance coming out of Washington.
Jurisdiction friction
The ICC is a UN-backed court established as the last resort for prosecuting the world’s worst crimes, including genocide. Notably, China, Russia, and the United States are also members.
Israel is not part of the ICC and insists that the court does not have the authority to charge any of its citizens.
In 2015, the Palestinian territories became members of the court, which led ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan to believe he had the authority to seek this action.
Netanyahu warrant
in May 2024.
The evidence presented by the ICC against Netanyahu relates to his supposed role in employing hunger as a tactic of combat, committing murders, engaging in persecution, and carrying out other cruel actions during the conflict in Gaza.
A number of country heads have asserted diplomatic immunity during their travels even though they had outstanding arrest warrants from global tribunals.
In January,
Poland
stated that it would allow Netanyahu to tour Holocaust memorials even with the ICC warrant in place, and in March, Germany’s chancellor candidate
Friedrich Merz
extend an invitation to their Israeli peer to tour Berlin.
Legal scholars still argue about whether head-of-state immunity holds more weight than charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Netanyahu’s visit carries some potential dangers.
Specialists think Netanyahu is still risking his liberty by traveling to a nation that is part of the ICC.
As Holvoet pointed out, ‘One can’t predict how a particular judge in a specific city might act.’
NGOs often submit petitions to Hungarian courts with the aim of pressuring for his arrest. As Holvoet pointed out, “While the danger might not be substantial, it does persist.”
Israeli authorities have acknowledged that during Netanyahu’s travel to the United States in February, his aircraft had to follow a more extended path over American military installations to avoid landing in a nation that honors ICC arrest warrants.
Daniel Hegedus, however, thinks that the likelihood of Netanyahu being detained in Hungary is virtually nonexistent.
Hungary is not considered a fully democratic nation, and it’s clear that the rule of law has been significantly influenced,” he stated. “I strongly question whether any law enforcement agencies in Hungary would adhere to judicial decisions rather than following directives from the government.”
Edited by: Rob Mudge
Author: Jack Parrock (located in Brussels)
by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | animals, biodiversity, conservation, culture, Travel
Visitors to the art exhibition are encouraged to explore the relationship between humanity and nature through “A Beast Of No Burden,” which begins today and continues until April 12 at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre on the first floor near the Pathumwan intersection.
Supported by the Embassy of Poland, “A Beast Of No Burden” is an initiative led by Polish visual artist and curator Anna Kedziora. This project features a floor installation composed of clay tiles adorned with distinctive patterns created from water buffalo hoof prints.
The exhibition’s title draws upon a water buffalo that formerly ruled over the countryside of Thailand and numerous other Southeast Asian nations. This creature provided essential strength for labor but, much like in most parts of the globe where animals assist with livelihoods and sustenance, it frequently became nearly one of the family members.
Kedziora’s creation was influenced by transformations in Thailand’s countryside after the introduction of agricultural mechanization, technological advancements, and the shift from using conventional farm animals to employing machines.
This shift led to the disappearance of deep connections between farmers, their families, and animals. Despite these changes making farming more convenient through advanced technologies, they have also taken away the distinctive relationship farmers once had with the natural world.
The flooring installation featuring hoof prints, sized around 2 meters by 2 meters, seeks to reintroduce the essence of animals into daily routines. Walking directly on it without shoes, as is common in Thailand, naturally fosters a tactile connection with these creature’s tracks.
Today at 6 pm, the opening ceremony will take place, after which there will be a conversation with the artist.
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, disasters, news, tourists, Travel
The earthquake that hit Thailand on Friday has dealt a blow to the country’s tourism sector, resulting in sluggish reservations for the forthcoming Songkran festival. Meanwhile, airlines have begun processing requests for reimbursements and annulments.
Yesterday, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong met with the tourism industry to discuss how the recent earthquake has affected tourist activities. Meanwhile, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) intends to release a roster of approved accommodations that have passed stringent safety checks for international visitors.
Chaiyapatranun Thienprasit, who leads the Thai Hotels Association (THA), stated that the majority of Bangkok’s hotels are secure and have undergone inspections by engineers.
The Provincial Administration Department has requested hotel operators to assess the structural integrity and adherence to safety norms in their establishments as mandated by hotel regulations, and subsequently submit a report to the department. This directive stems from the fact that hotels are classified as public structures and serve numerous residents and visitors alike.
If damage occurred at a hotel, the operator needed to inform the department’s registrar within 15 days following the event.
He expressed his worry regarding the security of travelers who have reserved unauthorized lodging, should unforeseen incidents happen down the line.
These unauthorized accommodations may fail to register visitors’ information, and the buildings could be non-compliant with safety regulations because of unpermitted alterations, as he pointed out.
Furthermore, images of the State Audit Office building collapsing have circulated extensively through social media platforms and international news channels, affecting perceptions regarding the safety of tourists in Thailand.
Mr. Thienprasit stated that the government ought to promptly look into the incident’s origins and inform the public since the majority of structures in Bangkok haven’t suffered significant damage.
It should also improve the real-time disaster alert system with a hub platform which provides vital information.
Paisarn Sukjarean, who leads the THA’s upper northern division, stated that despite Chiang Mai being close to the quake’s center in Myanmar, local hotels haven’t experienced significant harm. This includes about 15 skyscrapers with over ten floors each in the province.
Mr. Paisarn mentioned that currently, there are about three structures in Chiang Mai that remain inaccessible, including one school and two residential buildings.
The Chiang Mai Municipality has promptly addressed building inspections within the city limits, particularly focusing on the main tourist hub where significant structures are located.
Even though the effects may not be visible until the end of the week regarding the Songkran festivities, hotels have experienced lower reservation numbers than anticipated since the weekend.
Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, stated that the organization will assist hotel operators in collaborating with the Tourism Ministry to promote a list of accommodations deemed safe after undergoing evaluations.
Mr. Siripakorn mentioned that the tourism minister is contemplating allocating additional funds specifically aimed at supporting property checks.
Nuntaporn Komonsittivate, who leads the commercial division at Thai Lion Air, stated that the airline continues to operate all flights routinely. However, she admitted that declaring a state of emergency in Bangkok has noticeably affected the travel enthusiasm of incoming visitors.
Mrs Nuntaporn emphasized that it is essential for the government to guarantee safe travel in Thailand, offering official reports from accredited specialists to rebuild trust in anticipation of the Songkran festival.
Several international travelers asked about the airline’s rules regarding canceled flights and reimbursement procedures.
In the meantime, SET-listed Asset World Corp declared a 50% reduction in room rates at all of its nine Bangkok hotels until April 6 for individuals affected by the earthquake.
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | football clubs, money, soccer, sports
African Stars have pocketed N$1.5 million after clinching victory in the first-ever MTC Maris Cup on Saturday.
A crowd of several thousand spectators gathered at the Hage Geingob Stadium for the game, and Stars did not let down their supporters. A first-half goal by star player Willy Stephanus ensured their win.
The stars emerged aggressively, generating several opportunities early on, yet striker Youssouf Ibrahim was unable to capitalize on them.
The Stars took the initiative at the 14-minute mark when they won a corner. The ball was played out to Stephanus, who struck an impressive shot from just outside the penalty area. His powerful effort flew into the left-hand side of the net.
The stars kept launching assaults and had multiple chances during the opening period, yet neither Stephanus nor Abram Tjahikika could find the back of the net.
A young African returned even more resolute following his time off, with Nkwuda Obinna delivering solid crosses from the left flank. Meanwhile, Denzil Narib saw one of his headers brilliantly blocked by Stars’ goalkeeper Mervin Kasetura, and Deacon Kakuenje missed an opportunity when he sent another header over the crossbar from just a short distance away.
As the match entered its concluding moments, intense aerial challenges emerged, and with tempers flaring out of control, referee Vistoria Shangula struggled immensely to maintain order.
A young African player was unable to secure an equalizer, and as a result, the Stars managed to claim the trophy along with the winner-takes-all prize of N$1.5 million.
Following the game, Stephanus mentioned that their past experiences were crucial in the finale.
“The sense of accomplishment from clinching the inaugural Maris Cup is incredible, and I’m hopeful this will become an annual prize. We recognize that Young African is a strong opponent; their players are ambitious and always eager to compete against us due to our longstanding rivalry over the last couple of years, which ultimately came down to our experience today,” he stated.
“The players hold this trophy in high regard, and it will significantly enhance our momentum as we continue with our league efforts moving ahead. Since we’re currently leading the league, we aim to maintain this position and strive for our third championship title,” he concluded.
Stephanus likewise expressed gratitude to the fans of Stars for their backing.
The Starlite supporters consistently show up in large numbers, particularly here in Windhoek, so we must express our gratitude as players. We demonstrate this appreciation through our performance on the field.
The young African defender Dylan Horongo mentioned that Stars capitalized on opportunities and committed fewer errors.
“He mentioned that we understood the team taking risks would be the one to emerge as victors. The squad minimizing errors would ultimately claim victory, hence Stars seized their opportunities at the beginning of the match and subsequently controlled the game flow,” he stated.
“Since the cup is now complete, we’ll return to the planning stage to address our errors. We will face them again on Tuesday, but that’s alright; they can keep the cup, yet the league belongs to us,” he said additionally.
The Stars midfielder, Abram Tjahikika, took home the Player of the Tournament award, while their goalie, Kasetura, received the Goalkeeper of the Tournament accolade. Each was awarded N$20,000 for their exceptional performances.
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | controversies, courts, news, politics, politics and law
New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): The
Supreme Court
On Tuesday mentioned that they will review the submission of
YouTuber
and Podcaster
Ranveer Allahabadia
to return his passport for international travel following the inquiry into the matter related to the contentious comments he and others made during an episode
India’s Got Latent
is completed.
The Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who represents the Maharashtra government, informed the Supreme Court that the investigation in the case would be concluded within two weeks.
The bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and NK Singh further prolonged the temporary order shielding the podcast host from potential arrest.
FIR
are registered against him in
Guwahati
, Mumbai and Jaipur.
The petitioner has pledged that his program, which has been approved, will uphold propriety standards and avoid discussing matters currently under judicial consideration across various platforms. In response to inquiries, the Solicitor General stated that investigations in the pending case continue.
FIR
It is expected to be finished within the next fourteen days.
“As the petitioner could potentially be needed to participate in the current investigation, his request for the return of his passport and permission to travel overseas will be reviewed once the investigation has concluded,” the document read.
The supreme court was considering his appeal requesting the consolidation of
FIR
are registered against him nationwide due to contentious comments made by him and other participants during an incident.
India’s Got Latent
.
Previously, the highest court allowed Allahabadia to restart his podcast ‘The Ranveer Show,’ with the condition that he uphold standards of propriety and ethics.
This enabled Allahabadia to continue the program after considering that the employment of approximately 280 staff members relies on broadcasting his show.
Prior to that, the bench had ordered Allahabadia and his associates to stay away from show business for a certain period.
The top court had come down heavily on Allahabadia for his inappropriate comments during his guest appearance on the show, and described it as “dirty and perverted.”
The supreme court had likewise instructed that no additional action should be taken.
FIR
will be recorded against him based on the episode broadcasted on the program. Additionally, they have requested him to submit his passport to the police and he is prohibited from leaving the country without obtaining approval from the court.
The organization additionally queried whether the Centre desired to intervene concerning explicit material on platforms like YouTube and various social media outlets, and requested support from both the Attorney General and Solicitor General pertaining to this issue.
On February 11, Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, stated the following:
Guwahati
Police has registered an
FIR
against
YouTuber
and social media personalities like Allahabadia, Samay Raina, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, Apoorva Makhija, among others, for advocating inappropriate content and participating in sexually graphic and crude conversations.
India’s Got Latent
.
FIR
Several cases have been filed against them in Mumbai and
Guwahati
. (ANI)
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by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | coaching, cricket, south africa, sports, sports coaching
Johannesburg [
South Africa
], April 1 (ANI):
South Africa
On Tuesday, men’s white-ball team head coach Rob Walter resigned from his position due to personal reasons. He had been affiliated with the Proteas for 67 ODI and T20I matches.
Walter stated, as cited by the ICC, ‘Having coached the Proteas has been an extraordinary honor, and I feel immense pride in our collective achievements.’
The athletes, supporting personnel, and the assistant
South Africa
The cricketing community has been remarkable throughout this journey. Although it’s time for me to move on, I am confident that the team will keep growing and achieve even greater success,” he stated at 49 years old.
Throughout his time in charge, the Proteas created history by making their maiden appearance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in 2024, ultimately securing second place after losing to India in Barbados. This achievement came hot on the heels of an outstanding run of eight consecutive victories.
He similarly led the 50-over team into the semifinals of the competition.
ICC Men’s
Cricket
The World Cup 2023 in India.
Walter managed the national side in 36 One-Day Internationals and 31 T20 matches, guiding them to series wins over teams including the Netherlands, Australia, Ireland, and Pakistan.
His last task was the
ICC Champions Trophy 2025
, where he led the Proteas to another semi-final appearance, this time against New Zealand in Lahore during March.
South Africa
has not yet announced his replacement. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
