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Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC) and Magic Bus India Foundation signs MoU to Equip and Empower Youth from Marginalized segments through Skilling and Livelihood Programmes

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  • MEPSC to certify Magic Bus’ transferable life and employability skills curriculum for youth by validating as per National Occupation Standard
  • This partnership will empower 3 lakh marginalized youth in the next 3 years covering 825 colleges, 95 livelihood centers in 13 States and Union Territories, with plans for future expansion

NEW DELHI, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC), a Sector Skill Council established under the tutelage of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Magic Bus India Foundation, a leading non-profit organisation in the education and skilling space. MEPSC is a public-private partnership model and an Awarding Body under the National Council for Vocational Education & Training (NCVET).

This collaboration is poised to empower 3 lakh marginalized youth in the next 3 years, by providing them with transferable life and employability skills required in today’s competitive job market. These youth will receive skilling in sectors such as Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), Information Technology and IT-enabled Services (IT – ITeS), Retail, Quick Service Restaurants (QSR), and Logistics.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of esteemed dignitaries. Among those who graced the signing were Col. Anil Kumar Pokhriyal, CEO and Executive Board Member, MEPSC; Santosh Kumar Saha, Senior Head – Business Development & Apprenticeship, MEPSC; and Shikher Saxena, Head – Business Operations, MEPSC. Representing Magic Bus India Foundation; Arun Nalavadi, Executive Director – Sustainability and Livelihoods; and Philip Mathew, Director – Livelihood were present.

Magic Bus, one of the largest NGOs working in the skilling ecosystem, provides a plethora of livelihood programmes, including Youth Skilling Programme, Connect with Work Programme, Digital Programmes and Entrepreneurship Development Programme. These programmes help to build the youths from underserved households with transferable life and employability skills and there on transit them to sustainable workforce, with secured employment in customer-centric job roles within the service sector. These programmes are backed by innovative technology tools, strong partnerships, and engagement with stakeholders.

The partnership with MEPSC will span across three years, with each year outlined by a comprehensive action plan. In the first year, the focus will be on obtaining recognition for Magic Bus’ Transferable Life and Employability Skills Curriculum for youth and ensuring alignment with the existing National Occupational Standard (NOS) code for life and employability skills. From the second year onwards, the partnership will focus on conceptualising, planning, and coordinating joint programmes, workshops, seminars, and other policy-focused interventions across skilling ecosystem. Additionally, the certification of Magic Bus trainers and beneficiaries will be conducted in accordance with MEPSC norms.

Col. Anil Kumar Pokhriyal, CEO and Executive Board Member, MEPSC, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Magic Bus. This collaboration marks a significant stride towards our vision of skilled India, and it will go a long way in making our learners ready for the workforce. MEPSC has been consistently endeavouring to build and fulfill the needs of the workplace and the workforce, with a special focus on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and ecosystem from Kindergarten to Postgraduate levels, as well as at the grassroots level.”

Arun Nalavadi, Executive Director – Sustainability and Livelihoods, Magic Bus India Foundation, said, “Our alliance with MEPSC is a landmark moment in our pursuit of empowering India’s youth. MEPSC’s recognition will serve as a testament to the work that we do and the impact we create. Our joint efforts will generate opportunities where youth from underserved households will acquire transferable life and employability skills that can be applied in the world of work. We envision a future where the talents and aspirations of youth will thrive in the workplace and contribute significantly to the growth of various sectors across the nation.”

Magic Bus has been empowering vulnerable youths between 18 to 25 years from India’s urban and peri-urban communities through their Livelihood Programme. To date, the non-profit has skilled and placed more than 2 lakh youths in employment across India. The geographical coverage of this partnership will encompass all regions where Magic Bus’s Livelihood programme is operational. This includes 825 colleges, 95 livelihood centres across 13 States and Union Territories, with plans for future expansion. With 56% participation of young women in skilling and placement, Magic Bus is building an ‘Agency’ of individuals, enabling them to sustain their job and career growth while also effectively planning and managing their personal lives and contributing to their family’s income, ultimately resulting in doubling of their family’s income.

About Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC):

Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC) is a horizontal Sector Skill Council (SSC) incorporated as a Section-8 (Not for Profit Company) under the Companies Act, 2013, in a one of its kind, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, under the tutelage of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). All India Management Association (AIMA) is the sole promoter of MEPSC.

MEPSC is a recognised Awarding Body by the Skills Regulator – National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and is supported by National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). In its journey over the past 8 years, MEPSC has trained and certified more than 7 Lakhs beneficiaries through its various programs and has certified more than 5000 Trainers, 850+ Masters and 1750+ Assessors to build quality manpower to strengthen the Skilling ecosystem. MEPSC is currently engaged with 1850+ Schools, 18 Universities and more than 40 Colleges across the country.

About Magic Bus India Foundation:

Magic Bus India Foundation is one of the leading NGOs in the education and skilling space in India. Over 24 years, the organisation has established its presence across 24 states and UTs of India. Magic Bus works with young people from underserved communities between the age group of 12 to 25 years, providing them with life skills and employability skills. The NGO offers two distinct life skills programmes – the Adolescent programme and Livelihood Programme.

The Adolescent Programme is designed to empower adolescents (12-18yrs) with life skills and education enhancement, ensuring they complete their secondary education. The organisation has partnered with 6 state Governments, to reach approximately 60,000 teachers and 50 lakh adolescents. The Livelihood Programme, with 95 Livelihood Centers, 825 college partnerships, and Entrepreneurship Incubation Centers, equips youths (18-25 years) with skills that enhance their employability and enable them to enter the sustainable workforce.

Over the past two decades, Magic Bus has empowered over 20 lakh young people (over 50% girl participation rate), enabling their transition from childhood to livelihood.

For more information, visit: https://www.magicbus.org/

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258322/MEPSC_Magic_Bus_MoU.jpg

 

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Press Release

New Study Reveals Majority of Indians Prioritize Nutrition Over Taste, Surpassing Global Average

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11 months ago

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May 31, 2024

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Based on a recent survey of urban Indian consumers: 


  • Nine out of 10 consumers are searching for protein-rich food compared to seven out of 10 global shoppers.


  • The top four qualities consumers look for when buying snacks are (1) natural, (2) heart-healthy, (3) protein-rich and (4) energy-source, all of which come before satisfying cravings.


  • Nuts have emerged as one of the most popular snacking choices, with 86% of Indian shoppers report having purchased them in a span of 6 months.


  • Urban Indians read nutrition labels more than the global average, reflecting a growing trend towards informed purchasing.


  • 69% of urban dwellers surveyed have the opinion that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein, exceeding the global average of 55%.


 


Wonderful Pistachios, the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios and distributor of California Pistachios in India, released today, World Nutrition Day, the findings of a new global study that sheds light on the snacking habits of urban Indians. The study, commissioned with Material, a leading global research consultancy, included 10 countries and over 12,400 respondents, revealed a new behavioural trend that urban Indian consumers prioritize nutrition over taste when it comes to snacking. This growing preference for healthy snacking emphasizes the importance of good nutrition for overall well-being.


 


For the India market specifically, the study delved into the snacking habits of 2,415 shoppers across six Indian cities, which represented a population of approximately 35.9 million consumers. Remarkably, a majority of urban Indians (58%) reported basing their food purchasing decisions on nutritional benefits more than taste, exceeding the global average of 52%. Delhi and Ahmedabad lead with over 60% of urban shoppers preferring nutrition in their food. Bengaluru and Chennai follow closely, indicating a nationwide shift towards smarter snacking preferences. In India, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge in health-conscious purchasing decisions, with more than 83% of consumers in these age groups reading nutritional labels before buying.


 


Indian consumers prioritize four key factors when shopping for nutritional snacks: natural (free of artificial colours and preservatives), heart-healthy, protein-rich, and provides energy. Nine out of 10 urban shoppers consciously seek protein-rich food options, compared to the global average of seven out of 10. The focus on nutrition has fueled the rise of nuts as a preferred snack choice, becoming essential to daily eating habits. The study found a staggering consumption of nuts, with 86% of Indian shoppers report purchasing them in a span of 6 months, compared to just 75% globally. With 6g of protein in per 28g serving, California Pistachios are a smart snack choice that provides benefits without sacrificing taste.


 


Shail Pancholi, Country Director, India, Wonderful Pistachios, commented on the study, saying, “Nuts were traditionally used as garnishes and consumed during festivals, but have now become a popular snack in India, indicating a notable shift in dietary habits. Pistachio consumption in India has doubled in the last six years, as consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits that pistachios offer has grown. Consumers are discovering that pistachios are naturally cholesterol-free, rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, and provide over 30 different vitamins and minerals.” 


 


Interestingly, the study found that nuts are the second most preferred snack among urban Indian consumers, with 64% of Baby Boomers and 59% of Gen Z prioritizing nutrition over taste when selecting food. This indicates a growing focus on health across generations, with Baby Boomers focusing on senior wellness and Gen Z reflecting the rise of mindful purchasing. Though on opposite ends of the age spectrum, these two generations take the lead in seeking protein-rich options, as well as preferring natural snacks. 


 


Mumbai tops most of the consideration sets when choosing a snack. Residents opt for natural ingredients (35% vs. the national average of 30%), heart-healthy options (33% vs. 30%), and protein (33% vs. 29%). Chennai residents look for energy-boosting snacks (31% vs. the national average of 29%). 


 


The fact that 69% of urban Indians surveyed have the opinion that that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein reflects a positive shift towards varied dietary preferences. Pistachios are a good source of high-quality complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. A 28g serving of pistachios provides 6g of protein, which is 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) according to FSSAI.


 


The Wonderful Pistachios study unveils a compelling shift in Indian snacking habits. Nuts are evolving from festive treats to a daily snacking staple, fueled by a nationwide preference for more nutritious options. The trend transcends generations, resonating with Gen Z and Baby Boomers alike, underscoring the growing importance of mindful eating in urban India. As consumers increasingly seek natural, heart-healthy, protein-rich, and energy-boosting snacks, the future of Indian snacking appears to be firmly rooted in nutrition and well-being.

 


Wonderful Pistachios

Wonderful® Pistachios is the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios, with a global presence in over 70 countries. As a vertically integrated operation, they are experts in every step of the process from tree to shelf, ensuring the highest-quality product every time. In tandem with its Grower Partners, Wonderful Pistachios harvests 125,000 sunny acres (50,000 hectares) of land in California that receive warm days and cool nights, which work in harmony with the rich, natural soils to create the perfect growing climate for high-quality pistachios. They ship 600 million pounds (204 million kg) of nuts worldwide from their advanced processing facilities to ensure the highest standards are met. When it comes to pistachios, Wonderful® Pistachios expertise is unmatched in scale and capacity, paired with warehouses and sales teams worldwide that are well-equipped to provide support at every step of the way. 

 


California Pistachios

California Pistachios are grown and distributed by The Wonderful Company, the world’s largest vertically integrated pistachio processor and marketer located in California’s Central Valley. California Pistachios are Non-GMO, providing a smart, healthy choice for consumers around the world. Sun-ripened in the moderate Mediterranean climate of California, these distinctively green nuts pack taste and contain antioxidants and over 30 different nutrients. California Pistachios in India are available under leading brands and private labels at retail outlets, grocery stores, and online platforms.


 


For more information about California Pistachios India, please visit www.b2b.wonderfulpistachios.com 


 



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Press Release

Singapore Prepares Ahead to Leverage Artificial Intelligence for a Better Future

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11 months ago

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May 31, 2024

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SINGAPORE, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information Tan Kiat How launched the Digital Enterprise Blueprint (DEB) at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024 today. The Blueprint will enable SMEs to harness technology, optimise the way they work, and strengthen digital resilience and cybersecurity across the ecosystem. 50,000 SMEs are expected to benefit over the next five years through four key focus areas:

  1. Empower enterprises to be smarter by adopting AI-enabled solutions
  2. Enable enterprises to scale faster through cloud-based and integrated solutions
  3. Equip enterprises to be safer through improved cyber resilience
  4. Support enterprises to upskill workers to make full use of digital capabilities

Seven partners have come onboard to pledge their commitment, including Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Computer Society, SGTech, Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft and Salesforce.

In collaboration with IMDA and the TechSkills Accelerator for ITE and Polytechnics Alliance, SGTech is launching the Tech Apprenticeship Programme to expand the career pathways of graduates by providing access to industry apprenticeships that offer on-the-job training and development opportunities. Over the next two and a half years, SGTech aims to facilitate the placement of at least 300 apprentices who are fresh or mid-career professionals from polytechnic or ITE backgrounds, and drive the adoption of similar practices that promote more inclusive hiring and career agility.

IMDA and the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) signed an MoU aimed at uplifting the legal sector’s productivity through the use of GenAI. As part of this partnership, GPT-Legal, a new large language model which is contextualised for Singapore’s legal sector, will be co-developed. The model will be integrated into SAL’s research platform LawNet, which is accessible by 75% of Singapore’s lawyers. SAL will also be penning an MoU with the National University of Singapore and AI Singapore to develop its AI capabilities and create a certification to recognise AI specialists in the legal profession.

Additionally, Tribe and Digital Industry Singapore announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to launch the Ignition AI Accelerator for AI startups to create and bring to market the next wave of advancement in AI solutions. This programme will nurture 15 high-potential startups, equipping them with well-rounded support covering business and technical needs. NVIDIA and Tribe will also collaborate with EnterpriseSG to offer qualified AI startups funding support through the Startup SG Tech scheme, and assist them through the IMDA Accreditation process. 

Singapore hosted the final meeting of the UN Secretary-General’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body (AIAB) from 28-29 May. As part of the agenda, Singapore facilitated an engagement session between AIAB and the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS). Digital FOSS Fellows exchanged views with AIAB members on the topic of AI governance, particularly on the implications and challenges faced by small states. Through such efforts, Singapore aims to promote a more inclusive approach towards shaping global AI and digital governance.

Contact:

[email protected]

 

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One in Six Globally Concerned About Colorectal Cancer Screening Costs

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May 31, 2024

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SHENZHEN, China, May 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — By 2040, the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is projected to increase to 3.2 million new cases and 1.6 million deaths per year representing a 66% and 71% rise in new cases and deaths respectively relative to 2020.

To better address the global burden of CRC and reduce its impact, BGI Genomics has launched the second edition of its global CRC awareness report, covering 1,938 respondents from Brazil (306), China (367), Poland (300), Saudi Arabia (300), Thailand (362), and Uruguay (303):  

CRC Screening Gaps Vary Globally: Nearly half (49.3%) of global respondents have never undergone CRC screening, with the highest proportions in Saudi Arabia (62.0%) and Poland (61.0%).

Preference for Fecal Testing Over Colonoscopy: Although colonoscopies are more recognized (33.4%), fecal tests at healthcare facilities are preferred (31.8%), reflecting a trend towards non-invasive methods.

Cost and Fear are Determinants of Screening Choice: Fear of colonoscopy (18.2%) and screening costs (17.7%) are major barriers to CRC screening. Poland (24.7%) and Uruguay (21.0%) show the highest fear of colonoscopy, while Thailand (24.5%) and Brazil (20%) indicate the most concern about costs.

Medical Advice and Family History Drive CRC Screening: Doctor’s recommendations are a major driver for CRC screening (30.5% globally), with Uruguay showing the highest adherence (44.1%). Additionally, those with a family history of CRC are more proactive in screening (64.5%), compared to the general population (35.0%).

Prof. Varut Lohsiriwat from Mahidol University offers his insights to this report. He suggested: “The essence of effective cancer screening lies in the acceptance and adherence of the patient to the screening method. The best screening method is the one that the patient accepts and adheres to because that’s the method that will actually benefit them.”

Dr. Zhu Shida, BGI Genomics Deputy GM, notes: “At BGI Genomics, we focused our efforts on developing advanced molecular biology testing techniques to close the gap [between acceptance and accessibility]. The ultimate goal is to transform colorectal cancer from a life-threatening disease into a manageable condition through widespread, early screening and intervention.”

For more region-level comparisons, access the full BGI Genomics 2024 State of CRC Awareness Report.

All data involved in this report come from the results of an online survey project conducted by BGI Genomics. It only surveys awareness related to colorectal cancer and does not involve personally identifiable data.

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Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/one-in-six-globally-concerned-about-colorectal-cancer-screening-costs-302159170.html



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