Africa Asia Pacific Scholars Authoritative Newsletter

1. akada June-August ‘11
akada AFRICA ASIA SCHOLARS
April-July‘13 G L O B A L Nakada O R K
ETW
akada
Africa Asia Pacific Scholars Authoritative Newsletter
Special Points of
Interest:
Post MDGs - AASGON seeks for SDGs
Minist er Da vid
A number of demands remain Cameron of the
 Health & Education unanswered and unresolved, as United Kingdom to
challenges facing developing jointly head a ‘High
 Economy & Finance countries expand incessantly . -level Panel of
Eminent Persons on
 Academic Exchange There is greater need for the the Post-2015
Group of 77 (G77) to preserve Development
 Heritage & Diversity the spirit of the UN Charter and Agenda’.
to make the UN a more effective “The greater
 Creative Arts To complement the work of the
forum for confronting and
High Panel, the UN Chief on
part of progress
resolving the challenges devel-
 Governance August 9, 2012 launched the is the desire
oping nations face in today's
changing world. Sustainable Development
 Civil Liberties Solutions Network (SDSN), a to progress”
new independent global
 Sports, Travel & Tours A typical example is the global
network of research centres,
- Seneca
concerns on climate change
 Career universities and technical insti-
tutions. In the words of Profes-
 Social Networking sor Jeffrey D. Sachs, the
appointed head of SDSN and “We need to invest
Special Adviser to the UN
Secretary-General on global
more in our people, our
anti-poverty targets "In the 20 scholars and students.
years since the first Rio Earth That is why AASGON’s
Summit, the world has largely work is so strategic and
failed to address some of the
most serious environmental and
vital in our endeavour to
which became President Barack social problems pressing in on overcome the massive
Obama’s most prominent policy. us" difficulties that confront
In his second inaugural address
in Washington DC, Obama told
our continents”
"We can't afford business as - Ambassador Yuri
the world. “We will respond to usual. We need to engage the
the threat of climate change, academic and scientific commu- Thamrin
knowing that failure to do so nity, and tap into worldwide tech- Director –General
Inside this issue: would betray our children and
future generations”
nological know-how in the private Africa Asia Pacific Affairs
sector and civil society, in order Republic of Indonesia
ASEAN—AU Collaboration 2 to develop and implement practi-
With the mandate to prepare a cal solutions" affirmed Mr. Sachs,
Social Network & Globalization 3 ‘practical development vision’
for presentation to the General
who is also a Director at Colum- Africa Turns Gold
AUAP-Academic Entrepreneurship 4 bia University’s Earth Institute.
Assembly Member States in
SDGs—Can the UN get it right 8 September 2013, the UN In order to complement practical
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon recommendations on a global post
UNU Brazing Global Health 9 on the 31st of July 2012 ap- -2015 agenda”, the Africa Asia
pointed President Susilo Bam- Scholar’s Global Network
Poverty on the Bed of Riches 12 bang Yudhoyono of Indonesia; (AASGON) in its effort at
Liberia President Ellen Johnson ‘building formidable blocks of
Environmental Apprehension 16 Sirleaf of Liberia and Prime sustained prosperity for all’, has
Challenges of Wealth Creation 19 developed and put forward a
China Vows Equity in Africa 20
ACCSEP number of strategies that will
fashion in a much ‘Sustainable
AAPUMAC 2013 22 Development Goals’ (SDGs),
Shinning Folk Singer 1st Lady 23
particularly within the Africa Asia Advertise in
Pacific region, through the direct
Nigeria— Africa Soccer Kingpin 27
engagement of government, the akada
academic, the organised private Millions read
Paris Peace Accords 29 sector and the civil society.
contact
Africa Golden Jubilee 30 akada@aasgon.net

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The AUC delegation engaged in extensive
ASEAN—AU discussions with senior staff members of
the ASEAN Secretariat on the develop-
Collaboration ments in ASEAN and ASEAN community
building process as well as of AU’s.
“ASEAN and the African Union can forge “ASEAN actively develops its friendly
external relations, mutually beneficial
dialogue and cooperation, and part-
nerships with countries, sub-regional,
regional, and international organiza-
tions and institutions. Relations with
our external partners have not only Second ASSROC held in August 2004
benefited ASEAN in our community- in South Africa.
building efforts, but also our external
partners.” said Deputy-Secretary- Most notably were the Asian-African
General of ASEAN, Nyan Lynn in his Summit and the Commemoration of the
welcome remarks to the AUC dele- Golden Jubilee of the 1955 Asian-
gation, suggesting that ASEAN is African Conference in Jakarta and
closer cooperation and have ex- keen to explore practical cooperation with Bandung in April 2005 with the adoption
changes of experience and best practices the African Union as well as the sub- of the Declaration on the New Asian-
on many areas of our respective strengths regional groupings in the continent. African Strategic Partnership (NAASP).
such as regional economic integration,
political and security cooperation, and During the discussion, both sides recalled The declaration emphasises the need
development cooperation and addressing the Asia-Africa synergy derived from the to promote practical cooperation
challenges faced by each organisation,” ‘Spirit of Bandung’ in 1955, and subse- between the two continents in areas
said the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. quent high-level contacts and efforts to such as trade, industry, investment
Surin Pitsuwan to the visiting delegation forge closer relations and cooperation finance, tourism, information and
of the African Union Commission (AUC) between Asia and Africa, including the communication technology, energy
led by Dr. Maxwell M. Mkwezalamba, First Asian-African Sub-Regional Organi- health, transportation, agriculture, water
Commissioner for Economic Affairs dur- zations Conference (AASROC) held in resources and fisheries.
ing the latter’s two-day working visit to the April 2003 in Bandung, Indonesia and the
ASEAN Secretariat in 2012.
Japan Remembers ASEAN’s Help Two Years After Tsunami
The anniversary of the devastating earthquake and tsunami in northeast Japan was the focus of the March
2013 edition of “ASEAN Today.” Interviews with residents rebuilding their lives, and what ASEAN did to
help is in a special report from the area hit two years ago.
Dalton Tanonaka of Indonesia’s Metro TV reports on
The ASEAN region occupies only three per the people and places of the dynamic Southeast Asia
cent of the earth’s total surface yet it is home region.
to over 20 per cent of all known plant, animal
and marine species, providing food, medicine,
shelter, clothing and other biological goods
Also included in the month’s program were stories on
and ecosystems services to almost the booming business in coconut water in the Philip-
600 million people in ASEAN pines, serving up snake in Vietnam, and the “Super
Idol Taiwan” success of Indonesian singer Nana Lee.
Durudee Sirichanya, Head of Public Outreach and Civil Society Division of the ASEAN Secretariat, has the
regular feedback segment.
Get your copy of ’ASEAN Today’ contact Tanonaka at Dalton@metromnews.
Watch Out! “Over 1.7 billion people do not have access
to improved sanitation. The slow progress
1st Roundtable - Africa
on the MDG goal of halving the proportion
Asia Pacific Diplomats, without access to improved sanitation is of
Scholars & Corporate great concern. This target will not be
Chiefs (RAAPDISCC) 2014 achieved by 2015” - ADB Vice-President
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Social Networks and the Globalised World —
Globalization and Technology
Globalization, in its current definition by social theorists, refers to fundamental changes in
the spatial and temporal contours of social existence (Scheuerman, 2010). The term
‘globalization’ was most commonly used when discussing global market trends, but is now
widely used to explain the rapid expansion of information and global connectedness. The
definition of technology in a globalized world is ever-changing. It is conceived as a tool,
technique or method that serves a purpose or solves a problem. It isn’t just a computer or
the Internet, it can be the way in which we function. According to John Dewey, the mean-
ing of technology is determined by how we use it (Hickman, 1992). Everyday we are
using some form of technology that directly and indirectly connects us with another person
in another part of the world.
It is clear that with Internet access and participation in social networking sites, our current
social being in the age of globalization, is no longer limited by locality; it has become a
global existence. Due to social media advancements in technology and social networking,
voices are being heard around the world, everyone can be an author and originality is now
a grey area. Social networking is now becoming a large part of how students learn and
become aware of global issues; whether they are fully accurate or not. In order for
students to be informed and knowledgeable about global issues in the age of globalization
and rapid technological growth, the value of being part of a social/ educational network is
imperative.
In the spring of 2011, the world discovered just how powerful social networking can be
with the organized demonstrations in the Middle East. The youth of the Middle East
connected using social networks, and educated the world on the current issues and prac-
tices that were happening in their region.
The media exalted their triumphs and the value of the Internet as a tool for social change
impacted the world. The concept of networking (the exchange of information or services
among individuals, groups or institutions) as an educational tool is not limited to social
networks. By seizing collaborative opportunities and using learning networks, students and
teachers gain a better understanding of the world around them through technology and the
Internet. They can become knowledgeable global citizens via the global village.
For more on ‘Global Connectedness and Global Citizenship Education log on https://sites.google.com/site/
globalconnectednessineducation/
Africa @ 50 …from back page Fiji Heads G77 @ UN
The AUC work force should review its
The Economist policies, adopt practical targets and
deemed Africa the replicate best practices, be more account-
able and transparent in its stewardship,
“hopeless continent” empower and develop closer partnership
in the early 2000s. with the civil society and its Asian
counterparts, be efficient and strongly
This narrative has committed to the ideals of the Union and
been retracted by the commit to the best interest of the poor With great hope and optimism
voiceless masses.
magazine and revised Africa needs to leverage the
As the continent marks its Golden Jubilee
as “A hopeful akada joins millions of Africans home and vast opportunities at its door.
continent”. abroad to echo the concluding statement
of the AUC Chairperson “Let us commit to
working together towards a glorious - Dr. Albert Barnes
destiny for all our peoples”. AASGON 2nd VP
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On the invitation of the Association
of Universities of Asia and the
Pacific (AUAP) and the National
University of Malaysia (UKM), the Founder and Executive President of the Africa Asia Scholars Global Network (AASGON), Abdul 'Dewale
Mohammed spoke on the ‘21st Century Challenges on Education, Employment, Human Capital and Wealth Creation at the AUAP 9th General
Conference and 33rd Board Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 4-6 December 2012. The theme of the conference was ”Unlocking the
Wealth of Universities: Academic Entrepreneurship”
AUAP was formally established with the signing of the memorandum of agreement and the
holding of the founding conference on 28 July 1995 at Suranaree University of Technology
(SUT), Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
There were 48 University, Vice Chancellors and Rectors from 17 Countries who were
signatories to the Constitution. Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an, the SUT Rector, was unanimously
elected AUAP Founding President
At Present, AUAP has about 250 members from 19 countries and territories as well as two
associate members (consisting of regional organizations based in Philippines).
The Founding Secretary-General, Dr.
Ruben C. Umaly, wa s u n a n i mo u s l y
reappointed to serve the Board and its
diverse member institutions.
Speaking as host of the conference, the
new AUAP Presi- dent Prof. Tan Sri
Dato’ Wira Dr. Shaarifah Hapsah Syed
Hasan Sha- habudin, Vice Chancel-
lor of the National University of Malaysia (UKM) remarked that
“Universities in recent years have created new firms as vehicle to exploit research results, mainly stimulated by
changed societal external expectations for economic development and pressures to generate new sources of income”
In his speech the outgoing AUAP President, Prof. Dr. Prasart Suebka, the 10th President AUAP and Rector,
Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), Thailand said “The coming year of 2015 marks a very important
milestone for all ASEAN countries in that we shall be integrated to become one single community. The integration
will pose a big challenge and of course a valuable opportunity for AUAP”
The conference keynote speaker Prof. Anne Glover (pictured top right) Chair of Molecular and Cell Biology
Institute of Medical Sciences, Univer- sity of Aberdeen and European Commission
President’s Chief Scientific Adviser warned that “If we are to be successful in meeting the
demands of the 21st century living, we need to identify new methods to clear blockages
and to identify opportunities to increase the appetite of the global citizen for new
technologies”
Addressing issues of global poverty and challenges to be faced and the solutions to be
developed, Dr. Sonia G. Dela Cruz, Education Supervisor II and Dr. Edeliza dela Cruz-
Lazo of New Era University, Philip- pines reiterated that “With social business taking off
the world of free market capitalism
will never be the same again. It will be
able to deliver a deathblow on global
poverty. Many business wizards and successful business
personalities will apply their abilities to this new challenge - the
challenge of creating a poverty free world within a short time”
Prof. Dr. Gyonggu SHIN, Dean and Vice President for Interna-
tional Affairs, Chonnam National University, South Korea
claimed that “Universities need to be keen to promote love of
both academic and applied knowledge. Otherwise we will end
up producing students competing for the sake of personal or corporate interest without much concern on the future
of human existence in this age of environmental disaster” and in his own presentation Prof. Martand Tamanacharya Telsang, Dean Academic,
Rajarambapu Institute of Technology, Islampur, India, said “Entrepreneurship and innovation are increasingly recognised as important drivers
of economic growth. Embedding entrepreneurship in education and providing greater access are important steps for building an innovative
culture and creating entrepreneurship venture.”
Eminent speakers at the three day conference include personalities such as Dr. Shawn Chen the AUAP Vice President and Founder/Chairman
of Sias International University, China; Prof. Dr. George P. Korfiatis, Provost and VP Stevens Institute of Technology, USA; Prof. Dr. Nguyen
Xuan Trach, Vice Rector International Affairs, Hanoi University of Agriculture, Vietnam; Dr. David Baghurst, ISIS Innovation (Hong Kong);
Prof. Thumbay Moideen, Founder/President Gulf Medical University, UAE; Prof. Joniarto Parung, Rector University of Surabaya, Indonesia;
Dr. Richardo P. Pama, President University of the Cordilleras, Philippines; Prof. M. Dasron Hamid, Rector University of Muhammadiyah,
Indonesia; Chairman Dr. Jeremy G. Morales, Director, Innovation/Education/Public Affairs, St. Paul University, Philippines.
Page 4
Some of the Universities present at the AUAP conference seized the occasion to explore partnership with AASGON.

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Living Memories of AUAP-UKM 2012
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International Scholarships
Looking for International Undergraduate Scholarships, Masters Scholarships, PhD Scholarships for
Developing Countries 2013-2014 Scholarships for International Students? Here are some to contact:
Rotary Foundation Global Commonwealth Distance Learning
Study Grants for Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarships for Developing Countries
Development Scholarship Awards
DFID/UK Universities
DEEWR/Australian Gov’t Online Masters (MS) Degree
Rotary Foundation MS/PhD Degree
Deadline: 28 May 2013
Postgraduate Studies
Deadline: 30 June 2013 (annual) Study in: any Country
Deadline: Rolling Study in: Australia Course starts September 2013
Study in: any Country* Course starts 2014
Cardiff University Scholarships for Interna-
Course starts AY 2013/2014 Edinburgh Global Development tional Students
Academy Scholarships Are you a
Cardiff University
Rotary International Peace University of Edinburgh Bachelors/Masters/ Professional?
Fellowships Masters Degree PhD Degree
It’s Time to Join
Deadline: 12 April 2013 (annual) Deadline: 31 May
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Deadline: 1 July, 2013 tember 2013.
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Scholarships Turkiye Scholar-
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ship Program for Africans
Deadline: 26 Apr 2013 (annual) Turkish Government
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Deadline: Feb-July 2013 International Postgraduate Re- Deadline: 31 Mar/31 May 2013
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Course starts September 2013 lian Universities Course starts September 2013
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International Students MS/PhD Degree Scholarships
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Course starts 2014
Deadline: 30 Apr/31 Oct (annual) Deadline: 9 May 2013 (annual)
Study in: Australia UWE Global Development Scholar- Study in: any Country
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Course starts September 2013
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7. akada
Your Health — Sickle Cell Disorder may increase the risk of blood
Do
Sickle Cell trait occurs when a person
clotting, therefore should not use
the contraceptive pill unless they you
Often a painkiller, such as have a sickle cell test. The disease
inherits a gene for normal haemoglobin
paracetamol and co-codamol are may also cause problems during
taken to relieve the pain. A warm pregnancy, due to the increasing
have ...
bath and rest usually helps. demand on the blood circulation . medical concerns
Some people find that gentle
massage or putting warm hot questions or
water bottle on the affected part People who have a history of
can be soothing. sickle cell anaemia should ask for
experiences you
a test just in case, since the risk of want an answer to
Some people are prescribed transmitting the disease to their
stronger pain medications for use children is likely. or like to share?
at home. If the pain is severe or Write to Augusta
persistent or there is any compli- Management of Sickle Cell
cation such as an infection, the Disorder : “I’ll be delighted to
person will need to see their GP
who may refer them to hospital Most people manage their pain
respond”
for medical and nursing care. very well at home with the help For your comments
and support of their family, GP and and queries”
(A) from one parent and a gene for When and what causes the pain community nurse.
Sickle haemoglobin (S) from the other to come? Email me at:
parent, if both parents have Sickle trait When and what causes the pain to akada@aasgon.net
there is a 1 in 4 chance EACH child The child may be physically weak come?
they have could be born with Sickle and susceptible to jaundice,
Cell Anaemia (Hb SS). Some people infections, stomach pains and The pain of sickle cell crisis is  Physical exertion
inherit a gene for normal haemoglobin bouts of swelling and pain in the unpredictable. It does not come in  Emotional stress
(A) from one parent and a gene for muscles and joints. any given pattern, frequency or Generally there is no specific
different haemoglobin such as S, C or severity. Certain situations can trigger factor, it just happens.
Thalassaemia from the other parent. Without medical care, which trigger a pain crisis. These include: Sickle cell disease affects each
helps to treat the symptoms  Chilling of the body person differently and two
This is known as a trait or carrier state rather than the disease, children people with SCD, even in the
e.g. Sickle Cell trait (Hb AS), C trait; with Sickle Cell anaemia usually  Not enough water in the same family, often have different
also now commonly they are found in die before reaching adulthood, body (dehydration) experiences of the disease.
various groups of people. but with care, affected children  Sudden changes in body
may live almost normal lives, but temperature (cold/heat) What triggers a crisis in one
The first symptoms of Sickle cell are unlikely to survive to old age.  Lack of oxygen person may have no effect on
anaemia are usually seen during the another person.
fourth month after birth, when the baby Patient should avoid becoming  Infection (including the
develops severe anaemia. Growth may chilled or dehydrated, and any common cold)
Is there a cure for sickle cell?
be retarded and puberty may occur infections should be treated  Skipping meals and not Join me in your next edition of
later than normal. immediately. Oral contraceptive having enough food to
akada. Until then remain healthy.
keep the body working well
Bugema University, Uganda – Going Solar! World’s Youngest Billionaires
production in rural economies. There are 1,426
billionaires in
Research at Bugema University
the world this
also managed to generate renew-
able energy from water. This year. They are
project was meant to demonstrate the wealthiest of
Scholars at Bugema University have the possibility of a large-scale the wealthy. But
developed a system of Solar Water production of nonpolluting Hydro- only 29 mem-
Pumping and Irrigation. This project gen – Fuel from abundant natural bers of this elite
resources, water and sunlight, and list are under 40
was designed to use renewable energy the viability of the fuel as an alter- years old with
(solar) to run a water pump to provide native to fossil fuels derived from that exciting combination of money and youth.
water for farming. The project is oil. The project also address the
suitable in arid areas that lack impending global energy crisis due
to diminishing oil reserves, and
Those 29 have a total of $119 billion between them. Ten
electricity supply. Since the project global warming which is largely come from the technology sector, including four from
runs on solar energy, it was meant to due to the combustion of fossil social networking giant Facebook. Eleven come from the
demonstrate the possibility of fuels. United States, the rest from countries abroad. Five are
agriculture in remote arid areas like newcomers to the billionaire ranks.
Bugema University is a chartered
Karamoja in Uganda and several arid Seventh-day Adventist institution of
For a detailed Forbe report log on:
areas in Africa in order to boost food higher learning and a full member of http://huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/05/youngest -billionaires-
the Inter-University Council for East forbes_n_2811906.html
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Africa.

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MDGs Beyond 2015.
Can the UN get it right this time!
On 5th April, the UN and partners worldwide observed the 1,000-day mark to the 2015
target date for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
The MDGs are the most successful ‘Global Anti-Poverty PUSH’ in history.
Governments, international organizations and civil society groups around the world
have helped to cut in half the world’s extreme poverty rate.
More girls are in school. Fewer children are dying. The world continues to fight killer
diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS.
There are 1,000 days to accelerate action on issues such as hunger, access to
education, improved sanitation, maternal health and gender equality.
Get involved and help build on the MDG momentum!
In July 2012, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced the 27 members of a High-level Panel to advise on the global
development framework beyond 2015, the target date for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Committed to an open,
transparent, and inclusive process, the secretary general’s high level panel of eminent persons on the post-2015 development
agenda met in London on the 1st of November, in Monrovia in January 2013 and finally in March in Bali, Indonesia where they
deliberated on building a global partnership and the means of implementation for the most desired, applicable developmental
agenda. Eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) – ranging from halving extreme poverty to halting the spread of HIV/
AIDS and providing universal primary education, all by the target date of 2015 – form a blueprint agreed to by all the world’s
countries and leading international development institutions in September 2000.
Over the last twenty years people in become more diverse and play more roles, the
The UN MDGs High-level Panel agreed on government have through their acts, UN psot MDGs panel agrees that there is
the need to enhance the current millennium
continued to distance themselves from the urgent need to ‘Reshape and revitalize global
development goals framework in forging
commoners and in effect completely lost governance and partnerships.
‘Sustainable Development Goals’ after 2015
the trust of the electorate, particularly that Leading by example
with emphasis on
of youths, the main victims of unpopular has however and
poverty eradication
government policies. continue to be one of
which remains a signifi-
Alienated from inclusive the problems of present
cant issue after 13 years
and participatory govern- and past leaders which
pursuit of the ambitious
ance, the future today is why many countries
global aspiration.
looks bleak for younger are failing in meeting
and upcoming generation. the 15 years UN
Admitting that its work H.E. Mr. David Cameron,
millennium develop-
should be evidence- Prime Minister of the United
In practice the low turn-
Amina J. Mohammed, UN ment set goals.
H.E. Mr. Susilo Bambang based, accountable, Special Adviser on Post-
Yudhoyono, President of Indonesia out of voters is key
2015 Development Planning. In an effort to design Sustainable Develop-
inclusive and transparent,
evidence to the result of ment Goals, as agreed at the Rio +20 confer-
one must commend the
continued dislocation of communities and ence, the UN panel in May 2013, submits its
panel for identifying the importance of an
the dissuasion of women and young report containing determined recommenda-
‘inclusive consultation process’ through
people in developing interest and contrib- tions to the Secretary-General, who will in
contact with people directly affected by
uting their quota towards the attainment turn present the findings for further delibera-
poverty and injustice, women, youth, business
of sustainable development targets. tions and approval to Member States at the
(social entrepreneurs) and the broader civil
society’ at global, regional, and thematic UN General Assembly in September 2013.
Governments and communities seem to
levels.
live in two separate world, ‘a world of However the challenges as it as always been
animal farm’, where women and youths for decades remains that of ensuring policies
In the words of the Africa Asia Scholars
continue to be isolated in the scheme of are practiced and effected through loyal
Global Network (AASGON) Executive Presi-
their own development, where their commitment of people in government to an
dent, Abdul ‘Dewale Mohammed, the ‘direct
novelty, expertise and popularity are open and transparent process of good
and inclusive involvement of the plurality of
being undermined and watered down. governance with extensive inclusion and
key stakeholders in matters affecting their
lives, environment and communities is the key participation of the mass electorate.
It is clear evidence from the outcome of
answer and solution to the world’s present
the UN high level panel that the 8th of the
escalating predicaments.
MDGs ‘A Global Partnership for
“China and India have – between them – been
Development’ is very paramount and key the world’s two largest economies for 18 out of
There is absolute lack of open and honest
to the success or failure of present and the last 20 centuries. Historically, therefore, the
consultation with the populace except during
future sustainable developmental plans, brief era of western domination looks like being
electioneering campaigns when millions of
either at global or regional level. a short punctuation in the continued
dollars are squandered to win or regain
Realising that the globalized world is dominance of these two ancient nations”
political seats. - Chris Jacques, CEO,
becoming more complex and cross‐
M&C Saatchi Asia
cutting in nature, while stakeholders
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9. akada
QS Asia wins Best
UNU-IIGH Brazing Trail in Global Health
Global Partner Award The establishment
of United Nations University Interna-
tional Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) befits the
role of the United Nations in the effort to resolve issues
World’s first Carborane AMOLED technol- pertaining to the well being of its people and member states.
ogy developed in Korea University QS Asia
won the “2012 Best Global Partner Award” A synergy for countries of Africa Asia and the Pacific
from Tencent Company at China Education UNU-IIGH continues
Annual Billboard and Annual Awards to play a significant
role towards the
Ceremony, known as “Echo of China”, where d e ve l o p m e n t and
more than 50 awards were given to high strengthening of health
achievers in the education field. services policy
frameworks and
QS Asia was given this award in recognition management actions,
of its efforts and achievements in promoting particularly for and with people in developing
the internationalisation of Chinese universi- countries.
ties and business schools as well as Chinese
higher education in general. In addition, QS
Asia was invited on stage to announce the UNU-IIGH Director- General and
Top 10 B-Schools Awards at the ceremony. the AASGON Executive President,
(centre) flanked by UN Officials
Ahmad The role of UNU-IIGH fulfils the
needs to achieve the Millennium
bags UN Development Goals (MDGs) as the
task transcends all the agendas as
Envoy on outlined in the MDGs.
Youth Abdul ‘Dewale Mohammed Founder and Executive President of the Africa Asia Scholars
Global Network (AASGON) was on the 7th of December 2012 at the Head Office of the
Watch out for
United Nations University – International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH), where
your next edition he was warmly received by Professor Tan Sri Dato' Prof. Dr . Salleh Mohamed Yasin the
Global Institute’s Director General.
of akada...
Considering UNU-IIGH’s impressive achievements and
For your events request a relentless efforts towards socio-economic advancement
Speaker from AASGON ... of developing nations and AASGON’s commitment in
seeking lasting solutions to the complexity of Africa and
email info@aasgon.net Asia’s diverse health concerns and sustainable develop-
ment, the meeting sought practical areas of collaboration
Talk show now online ….. between AASGON and UNU-IIGH.
The Asia-Pacific During his brief working visit to Malaysia the AASGON
Youth Employment Executive President met with the Prof .Dato’ Muhamad Rasat Muhamad
Network’ (APYouthNet) new President of the Association MMU President/CEO with AASGON
Founder and Executive President
latest talk show is now of Asia Pacific Universities
online. (AUAP) and Vice Chancellor of National University of Malaysia
(UKM), Prof. Tan Sri Dato' Wira Dr. Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan
The show is the second Shahabudin; the University of Malaya Deputy Vice-Chancellor
part of a series which explores the (Research and Innovation), Professor Awang Bulgiba and the 6
topic of young people and HIV/ Heads of Research Units of the Africa Asia Development University
AIDS in the work place. Network (AADUN) as well as Professor Dato’ Dr. Mahani Zainal
Abidin, Chief Executive of the Institute of Strategic and Interna-
What role does UN, policy makers tional Studies (ISIS), Malaysia’s premier think-tank, and the Presi-
and civil society have in helping Dato' Dr. Mahani dent/CEO of Malaysia’s first private university, the Multimedia
young people in this matter? To actively partici- Zainal Abidin
pate in this and future shows see http://apyouthnet.ilo.org/ CEO, ISIS University (MMU), Prof. Dato’ Muhamad Rasat Muhamad.
“ U niversity of today needs to strive for more than it did before, especially in setting role models for entrepreneurial success.
The university campus should be a fertile ground for the cultivation and nurturing of entrepreneurial and business-minded
individuals. Students need to develop leadership qualities and become global citizens ”
- Prof. Ghauth Jasmon,
Malaya University Vice Chancellor and Founder, President/CEO of Multimedia University ( MMU )
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AMCEN 14th Ministerial Conference
World’s first Carborane AMOLED
Technology Developed in Korea Africa remains one
of the five priority
areas identified by
the United Nations
A group of Korean scientists Environment Pro-
managed to develop a new type of gramme (UNEP).
organic electric material based on
carborane (C2B10H12), which can To halt the degrada-
guarantee the lifetime of a blue OLED tion of Africa's
in AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic environment and
Light Emitting Diode), the next satisfy the food and
generation display. energy needs of the
continent's people, the African Ministerial Conference on the
According to Professor Sang-uk Kang Environment (AMCEN) continues to strengthen cooperation
of Korea University Energy and between African governments on economic, technical and
Future Research (Department of New scientific actions.
Material and Chemistry) and his
team, they are the first in the world to With a review of Rio+20 outcome document, Environment
develop a technology to transform ministers and government representatives from over forty
carborane substance into a material Sensastep Peter Brewin African countries converged in Arusha, Tanzania to adopt a set
that has new photoelectric character- 2012 Invention Awards: of flagship programmes and decisions that could catalyse a new
istics, and successfully apply the wave of sustainable development in Africa.
An Assisted-Walking Device
technology to the next generation
display AMOLED. That Senses Your Step According to Jakaya Kikwete, the President of Tanzania, host of
Sensors in an insole register a the 14th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment
patient’s toe and heel strike and (AMCEN), “African ministers have decided to establish
Professor Kang said the research will send that information to an ankle
be “a stepping stone for Korea to transmitter, which sends the data mechanisms for a coordinated support for the promotion of a
become a leader in organic electric to an ear receiver. Green Economy, including development of partnerships,
materials.” national strategies, promotion of regional and international
cooperation and transfer of resource efficient and green
The earpiece vibrates against a technologies and know-how.
bone behind the ear, transmitting
a signal to the cochlear nerve that
is registered by the brain.
Ballast Bulb-Triumph for Villagers
A household lamp powered by a bag spent their downtime between
of rocks. By Amanda Tust projects in a basement, refining the
GravityLight.
More than 780 million people
rely on kerosene to light their The team used crowd funding to
homes. But the fuel is pricey manufacture 1,000 GravityLights,
and is toxic when burned—not which it plans to send to developing
to mention a fire hazard. In countries for field testing—plus
2008, London-based product 6,000 more for backers. “It’s exciting to witness so much positive
designer Martin Riddiford and reaction to what we’re doing,” Riddiford says.
his colleague Jim Reeves
decided to create a cheap, safe Besides remote villages, the lamp could prove handy in campsites,
alternative. closets, and any dark nook far from a socket, so Riddiford also
hopes to license a retail version for less than $10.
Riddiford knew a falling weight For details on Sensastep and Ballast Bulb Awards log on http://popsci.com
could produce enough energy to
Chinua Achebe
run a grandfather clock, so why
Have you received your not a light?
FREE Membership of To find out, he attached the AASGON joins millions of Africans and
AASGON? crank of a wind-up flashlight to Nigerians in particular all over the world in
a bicycle wheel. He hung a mourning the passing away of Africa’s
visit us at http:// weight from the wheel to cause illustrious literary giant.
it to spin; the wheel cranked the
aasgon.net A world renowned novelist, poet and critic. He was best known for
flashlight, and the device lit up.
Or Email: his first novel and magnum opus, ‘Things Fall Apart’ (1958), which
Over the next four years, Riddi- is the most widely read book in modern African literature. A Profes-
info@aasgon.net ford, Reeves, and a small team sor of Africana Studies at the Brown University in United States,
Nigeria’s Albert Chinualumogu Achebe died at age 82. RIPP
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AASGON
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Poverty on the bed of riches
COMMENT On the other hand vast majority of the
population across Africa and Asia live in
It is a travesty, an aberration that two continents, Africa and abject poverty; in conditions where food
Asia, so rich in natural and human resources are homes to becomes a luxury. These are places where
communities steeped in abject poverty. Two continents folks spend sleepless nights wondering
inhabited by peoples with deep religious and spiritual values Austin Mac-Anabraba
are the most prone to wars, inter and intra communal and where the next day’s meal will come from.
religious conflicts and corruption. In these places healthcare, education and
Can we change the attitudes of
pipe borne water are considered luxury – people in government in these
These are communities where children go to bed hungry or things for the few affluent. places without major cultural
half filled with bulky meals that hardly provide nourishment change in the people – some kind
to their young bodies. Here, life expectancy is well below Life means very little and for most living of ethical revolution? I think that
the world’s average and infant mortality rate is staggering. becomes a burden; a spectre of reality. Life we need a bottom-up approach
ends with wishes and distant dreams – when finding solutions to this
Why? According to AASGON, “Millions of Africans and never to be realised by most. conundrum – a strategy to effect
Asians live in abject poverty, yet the two continents are social change through programs
vastly rich and highly endowed. The citizens do not deserve Why so much poverty with so much riches? that will bring about a fundamen-
to live in perpetual poverty in this modern age” AASGON. Human beings living in grinding poverty tal change in ethics as well as
despite abundance of fertile soil; large cultures that feeds corrupt people
The contradiction is stark and disturbing. expanse of arable land; seas, rivers, lakes to the political class.
full of resources; oil, gold, silver, iron lying
Why are these continents homes to the poorest people on beneath their foot and endless expanse of These people should be able to
earth? In my mind there are more questions than answers. No forest bursting with nature’s gift. make their governments responsi-
matter how it is viewed there seem not to be any concrete ble and accountable.
solution to the problems these peoples face; no one
major factor or a combination of factors can be In Africa for example, the
traditional top-down system
measured or easily be identified as the cause.
where chiefs and elders hold
absolute power does very little
Some say it is a “basket case” whatever that means. It in enabling the development of
seems quite reasonable to suggest that corruption, bad strong grassroots democratic
government, lack of social capital, ignorance and and enlightened communities.
illiteracy or external forces are key factors that may
have helped to exacerbate this terrible chronic social We must devise means to
malaise. But what is the real reason why “millions of enable us to dismantle these
oppressive and corrupt
Africans and Asians live in abject poverty”?
traditional structures that give
elders and chiefs dispropor-
It is hard to discuss poverty and the causes of poverty tionate leverage in the balance
in Africa and Asia without sounding professorial or of power.
judgmental. After all only a few people around the world can Why are Africans or Asians living in abject
claim not to have heard of the argument about poverty; its poverty? Is it due to bad government? Logically, two continents set on
causes and effects in these places.
beds of a variety and abundance of
Is it due to corruption? Who is corrupt?
Whatever factor we may hold as true to be the cause(s) of Why are there bad governments in these natural resources should not have
poverty the fact remains that poverty is a creation by man places? Can we exonerate the people as its members live in abject poverty;
and it is not a new phenomenon; it is a part of every society, part of the problem? What can be done to people should be able to enjoy
affluent, average or poor. What then does it mean to be in reverse the situation? such basics of life such as
poverty or abject poverty? adequate nutrition, good health-
We know that people from these communi- care, education, decent housing,
Poverty in affluent countries can arguably be termed relative; ties need jobs, they need enabling environ-
electricity, pipe borne water,
this means that an average family is poor who cannot afford ments to be creative and productive, they
security and freedom to choose
certain life styles but may have access to the basics of life need a system that will support and
their rulers.
such as decent abode, food, electricity, pipe borne water, empower them to take risks.
healthcare, access to education as well as social security
Give them electricity, water and financial
benefits.
resources and they will thrive. Food,
healthcare, water, education and decent It pays to
A combination of factors such as racism, illness and social
abode should not form the primary con-
issues, lack of education and skills, disability and old age cerns of a poor family. But how can we advertise in
may drive a minority of people into poverty. These people achieve this?
still have access to comparatively decent basics of life due to akada
the economic and political infrastructure that exists as well as Who is the real problem? It is said that “a Email:
the social security system designed as a safety net. people deserve the type of rulers they
have" (pardon me for sounding akada@aasgon.net
judgemental). Why are the people aloof?
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FAO helps Darfur farmers and herders live in peace
Although farmers and herders in North Darfur, Sudan often
fight over scarce resources, an agreement brokered by the Food
and Agriculture Organization (FAO) means peace has come.
Instead of letting their livestock graze in farmers’ fields,
herders have agreed not to move their animals into the farming
area until after the harvest.
About 2500 farm households have just reaped a record 600
tonnes of grain. Now phase two of the project will help them
become better farmers. This noble intervention from FAO
is highly commendable.
G8 Summit Northern Ireland: June 17
Africa, a
Woman’s British Prime Minister David Cameron will host the G8 Summit
of world leaders at the Lough Erne resort in Northern Ireland.
World? Cameron said in November that there will be no lengthy commu-
niqué at the 39th summit and the focus will be on "the develop-
ment of open economies, open governments and open societies."
Big Congratulations to
Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini
Zuma as she assumes of-
fice as the first woman
Chairperson of the Africa
OH... WHAT A WORLD!
Union Commission AUC.
It's hard to believe that, in a country like the United States, 49
At the 8th Africa Develop- million people worry about not having enough food. Twelve mil-
ment Forum (ADF VIII) Dr. Dlamini Zuma told hundreds of delegates lion of them are children.
and members of the diplomatic corps, "Africa has witnessed phenome-
nal progress over the past 20 years, in socio-political and economic In the Greater Philadelphia Region, hunger affects one out of
terms, however the long walk to achieving the Africa Union (AU) nine of its citizens, and one out of six children.
vision has not ended and there are still many hills to climb”
. In The Cost of Hunger, we follow 40,000 seeds, donated to the
If Africa is ever to become a sustainable economy, the AUC Chairper- Philadelphia Prison System by a local horticultural society,
son's thought provoking speech to the ADF experts must be critically through a network of community gardens to help feed victims of
examined and provided the appropriate answers and follow up actions the cycle of poverty, showing how each person in a community
by governments and developmental agencies of the respective states. can make a difference in the outcome of those who face hunger
every day.
One of the key challenges Africa faces today is that of the utilization To watch the video trailer log on
and effective management of her human and abundant natural
resources.
http://thecostofhunger.com/
Kindly send your views and comments
email akada@aasgon.net
"First, China does not export
revolution; second, it does not
export famine and poverty;
and third, it does not mess
around with you.
So what else is there to say?"
- Xi Jinping
Chinese President
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Photo Gallery
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Africa Asia Pacific Environmental Apprehensions
In 1990, more than 1.2 billion people – 28 per cent of the developing world’s
population – lived in extreme poverty. These were the poorest of the poor,
struggling to make ends meet on less than $1 a day.
The Millennium Development Goals (MDG) constitutes an ambitious agenda
to significantly improve human
condition, halve the proportion of
those suffering from neglect and
hunger by 2015 through
ambitious, clear and well set
targets aimed at reducing
poverty, hunger, disease, illiter- on African leaders to renew their
acy, environmental degradation, commitment goals if they hope to meet the
and discrimination against MDG target date of 2015.
women.
According to the UN, enormous progress has
In light of weak and often faltering macroeconomic performance, vulnerabil- been made towards achieving the MDGs.
ity to negative climatic shocks, fertility rates and population growth that Global poverty it says continues to decline,
outpace those of other regions, and a devastating combination of poverty, more children than ever are attending
continued civil conflict, and the effects of HIV/AIDS, realizing the eight primary school, child deaths have dropped
‘Millennium Development Goals’, particularly that of alleviating poverty and dramatically, access to safe drinking water
ensuring environmental sustainability, have been exceedingly daunting in has been greatly expanded, and targeted
Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Pacific. investments in fighting malaria, AIDS and
tuberculosis have saved millions.
Progress in implementing sustainable development has been extremely
disappointing since the 1992 Earth Summit, with poverty deepening and However, hit by the current economic global
environmental degradation worsening in the continent. By any account the recession with extreme increases in world-
2002 Johannesburg Summit did not provide clear cut solutions to aid the fight wide government debt coupled with
against poverty. inflationary pressures, regional conflicts and
worst natural disasters in decades posing a
Though not quite significant, in association with the international community, threat to global growth, the UN Goals still
there has been progress over the years in Asia, the Pacific and some parts of leaves a lot to be desired.
Africa in implementing the continents’ development plans. United Nations
former Secretary-General Dr. Kofi Annan not so long confirmed at an African Climate change is caused by a number of
Union (AU) summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, that African countries are lagging factors, mainly due to ‘Human induced
behind in their efforts to reduce poverty, curb disease and meet the targets laid alterations of the natural world; Increased
out in the UN-backed Millennium Development Goals and called level of green house gases; Solar and orbital
variations; Oceanic circulation and Volcanic
BRICS….Tonic for Developing Nations? eruptions’, with adverse impact on poverty’.
Russia, the main architect behind BRICS, called for the creation of a Moscow-
based joint development bank, with each member contribut- The Stern Review and IPCC 4th Assessment
ing $10 billion, to rival the US- and European-dominated Report both state that climate change will
World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF). have adverse impact on people’s health,
safety and livelihoods, with the “poorest
Russia also proposed a pool of funds, of up to $240 billion, people in the poorest countries expected to
to deal with any financial emergency facing a BRICS suffer first and foremost”.
member.
Predicted climate change will create barriers
Brazil said the new bank would foster “greater autonomy to future poverty reduction and reverse many
from the IMF” and provide an “alternative financial tool” to of the important socioeconomic gains made
developing countries. by developing countries.
Share your views with us on the emergence of potential rival currency blocs, In the Asia-Pacific region which accounts for
amid worldwide financial turmoil and the increasingly questionable status of the 91% of the world’s total death and 49% of
US dollar as the global trading currency. the world’s total damage due to natural
disasters in the last century, there is evidence
Future for the BRICS? Send your comments to akada@aasgon.net - Continued on page 18
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International Women's Day (IWD) has been observed since in the early 1900's, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the
industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. Celebration of IWD ranges from
general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social
achievements.
Similar to past years 8 March, 2013 witnessed thousands of events held throughout
the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and “it is only if men and women reach
diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from their full potential, shall we as a
political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking continent reach our full potential”.
events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion
parades, cuisines and more. – Dr. Nkosazana Dlamani Zuma,
Africa Union Commission
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day ‘A Promise is a Promise: Time (AUC) Chairperson
for Action to End Violence Against Women’ should not be ‘rhetoric but factual’
support for women's advancement, liberation and participation in development.
Academic Exchange and Cooperation Giant Strides@
Memorandum of Understand-
ing Signed Between University
of Montreal and Tsinghua.
GMU
Professor Guy Breton, President of Gulf Medical University (GMU), Ajman,
the University of Montreal, visited UAE is billed to start a new Masters
Tsinghua University, on March 25th. Program in Human Reproductive Biology,
During his visit, a Memorandum of in September 2013, the first of its kind in the UAE.
Understanding for Academic
Exchange and Cooperation between The university’s College of Medicine will provide the much
Tsinghua University and the needed boost to research in the field of reproductive medicine,
University of Montreal was signed. Tsinghua Vice President Yuan Si also women’s health, fetal and neonatal physiology and embryology
held a collaborative discussion with Professor Breton during his visit. molecular and cellular endocrinology.
Tsinghua University, Beijing has produced many of China's current top Proud to add another feather to its cap the GMU has signed an
leaders which includes Hu Jintao the former Chinese president and the MOU with Neuro Spinal Hopspital, Dubai to conduct
incumbent Xi Jinping who studied chemical engineering at Tsinghua. workshops in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Spine Micro
Surgery and Peripheral Neuro Surgery
According to Prof. Thumbay Moideen, the Founder and
President of Thumbay Group, a 3rd generation entrepreneur
who recently featured as one of the 50 Richest Indians in the
Gulf, with expertise from Eurospine Foundation, Switzerland,
the GMU in association with the Neuro Spinal Hospital, Dubai
is soon to launch a Neuro Spinal Diploma.
Friday 3rd of May kicks off the Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage Month, a festivity celebrated across the United States of America.
A rather broad term, Asian-Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia,
Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated
States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu,
Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island).
Like most commemorative months, Asian-Pacific Heritage Month originated in a congressional bill. In June 1977, Reps. Frank Horton of New
York and Norman Y. Mineta of California introduced a House resolution that called upon the president to proclaim the first ten days of May as
Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. The following month, senators Daniel Inouye and Spark Matsunaga introduced a similar bill in the Senate.
Both were passed. On October 5, 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a Joint Resolution designating the annual celebration.
Twelve years later, President George H.W. Bush signed an extension making the week-long celebration into a month-long
festivity. In 1992, the official designation of May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month was signed into law.
The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and
to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who
laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.
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TIME TO CHANGE
OUR SELFISH NATURE
Prince Charles said he did Quotable
not want to "hand on an
increasingly dysfunctional Quotes
world"
The prospect of becoming a grandfather to the baby of
Prince William and his wife Catherine has strengthened
Prince Charles's determination to fight climate change.
For once let’s think and behave like Prince Charles, not
only to build a better life for our own children and
grandchildren but for present and future generations.
Prince Charles's statement is a 'Big Challenge to all
Leaders and Parents' in today’s troubled, dysfunctional
but repairable and hopeful world.
The heir to the British throne, an outspoken
environmental campaigner, said he did not want his
first grandchild to ask him why he had not done more,
to halt climate change.
5th of June 2013 marks the 40th Anniversary of the
World Environment Day.
Considering the mounting global health and environ-
mental hazards, climate change and bio-diversity, we
have little to celebrate at 40 but much to reflect on our
misdeed, misfortune, miscalculation and mistakes.
Its time to begin to make amends for history will judge
us ALL for our acts and deeds towards creating a safe
and sustainable planet for vulnerable, poor and
innocent children!
Please send your views and comments email akada@aasgon.net
The Academics have failed the
world and the present generation.
Yet who else will save the world
for future generations, if not but AASGON -
the Academics.
building blocks
Leaders and Technocrats have to for sustained
change tactics and move in line prosperity!!!
with the ever changing globalised
world which has for decades been
made impoverished — AASGON
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