Women's study by Dr. Hameedabanu

  Zakiah Al-Lahyani, an English-as-a-foreign-language teacher at 134 Elementary School in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, has redefined the role of an educator by combining innovation, cultural preservation, and moral development in her teaching practices. With 24 years of dedication, she has exemplified how education can be a transformative tool to nurture future leaders while fostering global citizenship and inclusivity. Her teaching philosophy aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to prepare a generation of students equipped with creativity, critical thinking, and a commitment to community impact. Educational Innovation and Impact Zakiah’s teaching methodology integrates cutting-edge technology with traditional values to create an engaging and impactful learning environment. As a Microsoft Expert Educator, she has implemented interactive tools like Minecraft Education to design lessons that promote teamwork, problem-solving, and digital literacy. For instance, her lesson on famil...

The devastating wildfires currently raging through Los Angeles have left a profound impact on the region, claiming at least 24 lives, displacing over 200,000 people, and consuming 35,000 hectares in just three days. Beginning in the Pacific Palisades on January 7, these wildfires, among the worst in the city’s history, have also led to staggering economic losses estimated at $50 billion. The fires, exacerbated by dangerous winds and unprecedented drought conditions, remain largely uncontained, leaving communities vulnerable to further destruction. Yet, these disasters, while devastating, are not inevitable; they are the result of compounding human actions and policy failures. The distinction between "natural hazard" and "natural disaster" is critical. According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), natural hazards—such as wildfires, earthquakes, and tsunamis—only escalate into disasters when their impacts are unaddressed. In the case of...

India’s job market reflects deep-rooted inequalities that hinder social and economic progress. According to Oxfam India's Discrimination Report 2022 , gender, caste, tribal identity, and religion significantly influence opportunities, wages, and access to resources. The systemic bias in the labor market is a stark reminder that economic policies must address not just skill development but also social equity. Key Findings: Gender and Wage Disparities The report highlights troubling wage disparities based on gender and social identity: ·          Gender Pay Gap : Men earn on average ₹4,000 ($50) more than women each month, even with similar qualifications and experience. ·          Caste and Tribal Gaps : Dalits and tribal groups earn ₹5,000 less monthly than others. ·          Religious Disparities : Non-Muslims earn ₹7,000 more than Muslims monthly. These...

The recent crackdown on Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licenses has plunged India’s non-profit sector into turmoil. With over 100 organizations losing their licenses in just seven months, the ripple effects extend far beyond the organizations themselves. This includes job losses, stalled social projects, and a devastating impact on vulnerable communities. The Role of Non-Profits in India Non-profits play a critical role in India’s socio-economic fabric. A 2012 report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation revealed that civil society organizations employ 27 lakh people and engage 34 lakh full-time volunteers , exceeding public sector employment figures. They operate across rural and urban India, addressing essential areas such as: ·          Health and Nutrition ·          Education ·          Livelihood Development · ...

The Indian government's tightening of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) has profoundly affected NGOs, their employees, and the communities they serve. These restrictions, aimed at curbing alleged misuse of foreign funds, have inadvertently hampered vital services and employment, particularly in rural and underserved areas. NGO Sector and FCRA Changes: A Snapshot The FCRA, introduced in 1976, underwent stringent amendments in 2020. Key changes included a ban on sub-grants between NGOs, a 20% cap on administrative costs, and stricter compliance measures. As of now: Metric Value Active NGOs with FCRA Licenses 15,947 Licenses Cancelled or Expired 35,488 Civil Society Participation Index* (2023) 0.61 (Lowest in 47 years) (*Source: Swedish V-Dem Institute) These restrictions, though framed as anti-corruption measures, have led to the shutdown or downsizing of numerous NGOs, i...