February 4, 2023

City of Vacaville Introduces Next Generation to Biotechnology and Advanced Manufacturing

Vacaville high school students explore local career opportunities to honor National Career Technical Education Month

VACAVILLE, Calif., Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — February is National Career Technical Education (CTE) Month, and the City of Vacaville joined the celebration by hosting a field trip for 58 Vacaville high school students February 3. The field trip included several locations around Vacaville and Solano County to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology.

Every February, the Association for Career and Technical Education encourages communities to celebrate CTE Month, to raise awareness of the role that CTE has in readying learners for college and career success. This is also a time when the City of Vacaville recognizes and celebrates the contributions and achievements of community CTE partners including Solano Community College (SCC) and The Workforce Development Board of Solano County.

“This field trip is an excellent opportunity for Vacaville’s young people to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology first-hand,” said Don Burrus, Director of Economic Development Services for the City of Vacaville. “We are excited to give our students this unique learning experience during National Career Technical Education Month and to share opportunities available to them right here in their own community. Not only does this set our students up for success, but it also supports the local, organic growth and expansion of our talent pipeline and attracts more industries.”

Students at ICON Aircraft

Students pose in front of aircraft at ICON Aircraft

The adventure began at the SCC Advanced Manufacturing Lab where students had an opportunity to program CNC (Computer Numerical Control) equipment which plays a pivotal role in manufacturing. The SCC certificate and degree program trains students on electrical and mechanical components used in manufacturing systems.

“The program offers a great solution for students to get into higher level jobs,” said Douglas Green, Advanced Manufacturing Instructor with SCC. “Students get a lot of hands-on training working on real projects, learning how to troubleshoot and problem solve. Almost all of our students, if they’re not already working, receive several competing job offers to go right to work.”

Moving next to Wunder-Bar, students experienced firsthand the shift from learning environment to real world manufacturing. Wunder-Bar manufactures food and beverage dispensing systems. A leader in the industry, they pride themselves on innovation, custom product development, quality and top-notch service.

“Career and Technical Education is critical to meeting the workforce needs,” said Emmalie Hawes, Director of Human Resources West Coast, Foodservice West with Wunder-Bar. “Careers in advanced manufacturing are not only in high demand, but they also lead to highly successful careers. As a long-standing business in the community, we are dedicated in advancing the cause.”

Next on the itinerary, students visited the Nut Tree Airport in Vacaville for a tour of the SCC Aeronautics Center where they learned about Airframe and Power Plant Maintenance. The program equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in basic maintenance techniques, and special requirements of airframe and powerplant work. Upon conclusion, students are eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration written oral and practical examination for airframe or powerplant license.

Creating the connection from education to practice, students then visited ICON Aircraft in Vacaville who provided a tour of their aircraft production facility and an opportunity for the students to meet the technicians who build the amphibious light-sport aircraft.

“ICON takes pride in its aircraft design and is very proud to invite the local community to see the great work that we do in designing the best light aircraft with the first ever “spin resistant” seal of approval from the FAA,” shared Maria Odena Head of ICON’s Human Resources.

“A career in manufacturing typically gives most individuals a hands on experience working with exciting new technologies or products,” added Andrew Mesias, ICON’s Senior Manager at the Aircraft Completion Center.

Solano Community College Biomanufacturing Program

Professors Jim DeKloe and Michael Silva discuss programs with students.

The day was concluded with biomanufacturing which included a tour of the Solano College Vacaville Campus California Biomanufacturing Education Center. The $34 million Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to further new education opportunities and is one of 15 community colleges in California that offers a Bachelor of Science degree.

“The students can come in, and depending on their personal circumstances, can exit into a high tech, high quality, high potential for upward mobility career,” said Michael Silva, Professor with the Solano Community College Biotechnology Program. “We have a near 100% placement rate and are trying to increase the pipeline and the number of students who are taking our program with a high school to Ph.D. pathway with multiple entry and exit points.”

CNC Machine Operation

CNC Machine is demonstrated to students at Solano Community College Manufacturing Program

The final business tour at Vacaville’s RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals created the link between classroom and career. Students were able to see how a biomanufacturing facility operates and the types of careers available in the industry. Students learned the concept of biological drugs and how they differ from chemical drugs, as well as the application of biological drugs in clinical treatment.

“RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology and biomanufacturing company,” shared Dr. W Shen, Chief Operating Officer at RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals. “We support Vacaville’s Career Technical Education program because we want to help Vacaville’s youth grow. Vacaville has long been the center of biomanufacturing in California. We need to help encourage younger, talented students to join the industry and support the development of biomedicine.”

Solano Community College Aeronautics

Students receive information at Solano Community College Aeronautics program.

The City of Vacaville has become a leader in the life-science market with a robust Biotech Strategy and a Biotechnology Fast-Track Program committing the City to processing Planning entitlements in 100 days or less. It is not just about available and affordable land; Vacaville’s prime location and talent pipeline have created the perfect ecosystem. Sharing the exciting career opportunities with local high school students offers each of them a wide variety of options right in their own backyard and secures a future in this rapidly growing field for generations to come.

Contact:
Don Burrus
Director of Economic Development Services
707.449.5611
Don.Burrus@cityofvacaville.com

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February 4, 2023

Indonesia to Drive Talks Over Disputed South China Sea

JAKARTA, INDONESIA — Indonesia plans to intensify talks with China and other Southeast Asian countries to finalize a code of conduct (COC) for the disputed South China Sea, its foreign minister said Saturday, amid escalating tensions in the strategic waterway.

Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi was speaking in Jakarta at the close of a meeting between foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the 10-member regional bloc chaired by Indonesia this year.

“ASEAN’s outlook on the Indo-Pacific was central to the discussion,” she said. “We also discussed about the COC, the commitment of members to conclude the negotiation of the COC as soon as possible.”

Negotiations on the COC — a proposed framework to help tackle territorial and maritime disputes in the waterway — have stalled for years as some members states prioritized bilateral ties with China over a regional consensus.

Indonesia is preparing to host a round of negotiations on the COC this year, the first taking place in March, the foreign minister said.

China claims jurisdiction over almost the entire South China Sea based on its U-shaped “nine-dash line,” a boundary found to have no legal basis by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague in 2016.

Earlier this week, the Philippines granted the United States greater access to its military bases, in part due to Beijing’s extensive claims in the resource-rich maritime area.

ASEAN members the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei all have overlapping claims with China in the strategic waterway.

Indonesia is not an official claimant but has faced pushback from China over its exploration of oil and gas reserves in the North Natuna Sea. Last month the country sent a warship to the area to monitor a lingering Chinese coast guard vessel.

“New approaches” would be explored by all ASEAN member states and Chinese counterparts to make progress on the COC, Sidharto R. Suryodipuro, director of ASEAN cooperation at Indonesia’s foreign ministry, said on the sidelines of the event.

“What’s important is that all agree that this should be an outlook that is implementable and in accordance with international law,” he said.

Separately, ASEAN members wrapped up talks having only reiterated support for the bloc’s five-point peace plan on Myanmar which includes the cessation of conflict in the conflict-torn nation and the start of dialog.

Source: Voice of America

February 4, 2023

bruneinewsgazette.com 2023-02-04 00:00:00

February 4, 2023

Khairat Taklim Mualaf

The Khairat Taklim Mualaf gives emphasis on the correct way of performing prayers to new converts according to Mazhab Syafie. The programme organised by the Student Affairs of Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College, KUPU SB took place on 3rd February night, at Kampung Batu Apoi Mosque in Temburong District.

Themed ‘Refining Prayers According to Mazhab Syafie’, the Khairat Taklim Muallaf included a tazkirah or short talk, delivered by Dr. Haji Mohammad Shahrol Azmi bin Haji Abdul Muluk, Dean of Students, Student Affairs Division, KUPU SB and a prayer practical in groups with thirty KUPU SB undergraduates. The programme was held in conjunction with the Day of Action Campaign, International Volunteer Day 2022 organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

Audience Ceremony

A delegation from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam, who are in a series of Goodwill Visits and cooperation discussions to Malaysia and the Republic of Singapore, recently had an audience with the Acting Sultan of Pahang, Tengku Mahkota Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah ibni Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

The audience ceremony took place at Istana Abdul Aziz, Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang.

The delegation was led by Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim bin Pengiran Haji Hassan, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, as Vice Yang Di-Pertua of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Religious Council.

The delegation also held a cooperation discussion session with Members of the Pahang Malay Customs Council and heard a briefing on the background and main programmes of the Pahang Malay Customs Council and its subsidiaries. The Goodwill visit and Cooperation discussions aimed to enhance network integration and cooperation opportunities in fields related to tithe, endowment, inheritance and Baitul Mal.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

‘BN on The Move’ Prize Presentation

As an appreciation for the public participation in the ‘BN on The Move’ campaign, the Ministry of Health held the ‘BN on the Move – 20 Billion Steps Together Challenge’ prize presentation ceremony from October until December. The ceremony took place on 4th February morning, at Dewan Al-‘Afiah, Ministry of Health.

Prizes were presented by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Health. Two winners received travel vouchers, amounting to $3,000 and $1,500 respectively.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

Practicing a Healthy Lifestyle

Early screening and diagnosis are the most effective approaches to increases the chances of long-term recovery from cancer. In that regard public education and awareness are of utmost importance, as citizens and residents of the country can work closely together with organisations, supporters and policy makers in bringing about positive change and effecting action. In an interview with RTB, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Director of the Brunei Cancer Centre, Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre, PJSC said the current rise in number of cancer cases in the country is a cause for concern.

The Ministry of Health is also introducing several events in conjunction with World Cancer Day, including the Weekend event at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.

Practicing a healthy lifestyle, engaging in beneficial activities and going for regular screening will increase the likelihood of preventing or recovering from cancer.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

Persistent Effort is Necessary to Succeed

Persistence and seriousness as well as creativity are among the secrets of women entrepreneurs’ success in the country. The majority of local women entrepreneurs are trying to expand their business, not only in the country, but also internationally.

For women entrepreneurs, success does not come easily, it requires persistent effort. Such effort can result in unexpected outcomes even if the business starts out small.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

Memorandum of Understanding Signing

The upgraded Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor, BGEC between the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China was signed at a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU Signing Ceremony between the two parties. The signing of the MoU was held on 2nd of February in conjunction with the 3rd Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor Joint Cooperation Committee, BGEC JCC Meeting, held virtually at the Ministry of Finance and Economy, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Signing on behalf of the Government of His Majesty was Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy for Economy, while the Government of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region was represented by Her Excellency Vice Governor Sui Guohua. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy, as well as His Excellency Lan Tianli, Governor of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The upgraded MoU serves to reinforce the strong commitment by both parties to further strengthen the cooperation and development of the BGEC, established through a MoU signed between the two Governments during the China-ASEAN Expo, CA-EXPO on 17th September 2014 in Nanning, Guangxi. The BGEC JCC meeting acknowledged the solid progress that has been made in the cooperation of the BGEC, the continuous deepening of the economic and trade cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Guangxi, and the development of various cooperation projects under the framework of the BGEC.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

2 Local Women Receive Outstanding Entrepreneur Award

Two local women entrepreneurs received the Brunei Women’s Business Council Outstanding Entrepreneur Award at a ceremony in conjunction with the 23rd Women’s Entrepreneurship Day celebration. The recipients are entrepreneurs who are committed in developing their businesses in the local and international markets. The ceremony took place on 4th February afternoon, at a Shopping Centre in Kampong Salambigar.

Prizes were presented by Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadi, Chairman of APEC Business Advisory Council. Both women entrepreneurs were also recipients of the ‘Outstanding ASEAN Women Entrepreneur Award’ in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2020.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

February 4, 2023

Message in Conjunction with World Cancer Day 2023

The Ministry of Health will continue to work with the Brunei Cancer Centre, TBCC in offering the best cancer treatment services for cancer patients and families. Cooperation from all levels of society including educational institutions, associations, non-governmental organisations, NGOs and grassroots leaders in the management of cancer patients is vital to reduce the effects of cancer. The matters are among those contained in the message in conjunction with the World Cancer Day 2023 celebration, themed ‘Closing the Care Gap’. The Minister of Health explained that about 30 to 50 percent of deaths from cancer can be prevented and it is linked to some risky behaviors and practices.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Md Isham bin Haji Jaafar also said that according to statistics obtained from the Brunei Darussalam Cancer Registry, BDCR in 2021, there were 294 deaths from cancer and 682 new cases were diagnosed with cancer in that year.

At the individual level, the public is advised to practice a healthy lifestyle by stop smoking and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke; maintaining a healthy body weight consistently, practicing a healthy and balanced diet including ensuring sufficient of fruits and vegetables every day and reducing excessive fatty diet and increasing physical activity at least 30 minutes a day, five times or more in a week.

The Ministry of Health has also published the second edition of the National Physical Activity Guidelines which contain information and recommendations based on scientific evidence to reduce sedentary behaviour that can be used as a guide to the public. The Ministry of Health is also promoting a collective campaign namely BN on the Move, an initiative to count the steps taken to achieve the target steps set from time to time. The campaign is hoped to increase physical activity and further foster an active culture among the people and residents of Brunei Darussalam.

Source: Radio Television Brunei