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Canon Academy Video Roadshow Set to Transform Filmmaking Education Across Africa

Canon Academy Video Roadshow Set to Transform Filmmaking Education Across Africa

In alignment with the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing education and empowerment, Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is excited to announce the arrival of the Canon Academy Video Roadshow in Africa; The roadshow spanning multiple countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, Algeria and many more, will offer an immersive experience to filmmaking enthusiasts unlike any other. 

 

The Canon Academy Video Roadshow kicked off in Nigeria on March 18, 2024. This immersive event offers participants a hands-on experience with Canon’s cutting-edge equipment and techniques, alongside valuable insights from industry professionals. By bringing this experience to Africa, Canon aims to empower aspiring filmmakers and content creators with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to realize their creations.

 

“We are thrilled to bring the Canon Academy Video Roadshow to Africa, starting with Nigeria,” says Amine Djouahra, B2C Business Unit Director, Canon Central and North Africa. “This roadshow is a vibrant hub of learning and collaboration, where filmmaking enthusiasts and creators can come together to learn, grow, and explore the endless possibilities of visual storytelling.

 

“As the demand for high-quality video content continues to soar, Canon remains dedicated to empowering creators to bring their visions to life. Through initiatives like the Canon Academy Video Roadshow, we are committed to fostering a new generation of filmmakers and content creators, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape.”

 

In 2022, Canon launched the Canon Academy Video, an interactive online film school available in English and French to provide comprehensive education on the stages of production and equipment used in filmmaking. The platform offers courses to cinematographers, filmmakers, and videographers of all skill levels, which are delivered through an e-learning platform and face-to-face. Upon completion of the programme, participants have the opportunity to undergo assessments and receive Canon Certification, validating their proficiency in the field of filmmaking.

 

Click here to know more: English: https://apo-opa.co/3xajyuV

French: https://apo-opa.co/3VzPbbw

As the demand for high-quality video content continues to soar, Canon remains dedicated to empowering creators to bring their visions to life

 

In recent years, Africa has witnessed a remarkable surge in content creation, largely driven by the widespread adoption of digital technology and the proliferation of social media platforms. The rising trend of producing video content on social media platforms reflects the growing appetite among users and viewers for visually engaging storytelling. This surge underscores the relevance of Canon Academy Video for content creators seeking to thrive in this dynamic landscape.

 

Since its inception, Canon Academy Video has provided self-taught filmmakers with a comprehensive platform to enhance their skills through prerecorded sessions and courses. To date, Canon has received an overwhelming response with over 14,000 registrations from aspiring filmmakers eager to explore the world of videography and moving imagery.

 

With the success of the Canon Academy Video, participants have highlighted a desire for a more hands-on experience.  In response, Canon is launching the Canon Academy Video Roadshow, which will bridge the gap between online learning and real-world application.

 

The roadshow commenced on 18 – 19 March 2024 at Pan Atlantic University (PAU), where 60 students specializing in film, video, and moving imagery, received training in the distinction between Canon’s DSLR and Mirrorless (ML) camera lineups for video production. The event also featured professional demonstrations including a focus on music video production and independent filmmaking techniques.

 

The roadshow continued with PRO Masterclass sessions which occurred from 20 – 22 March 2024, catering to semi-professionals, institutions, and businesses seeking advanced training in multicam setups. Attendees received comprehensive training sessions focused on Canon Cinema EOS, XA/XF, and PTZ camera lineups.

 

Led by industry experts, the workshops offer participants professional advice and hands-on demonstrations, providing insights gleaned from real-life scenarios with specific camera models. Additionally, key features of the highlighted models will be explored, accompanied by expert tips and tricks to optimize their usage.

 

Moreover, participants will have the opportunity to screen their videos created using Canon equipment. As a highlight of the workshop, an award will be presented to the best student, recognising exceptional talent and innovation. With plans to expand The Canon Academy Video Roadshow to other countries across Africa, Canon is committed to empowering filmmakers at every stage of their journey.

Pioneering Effort: First Physics Textbook in Igbo Language Challenges Conventional Naming Conventions

Pioneering Effort: First Physics Textbook in Igbo Language Challenges Conventional Naming Conventions

 In a groundbreaking move, Mazi Ogbonnaya Okoro unveils the inaugural Physics textbook in Igbo language titled “Fiziksi,” sparking a wave of discourse on the intricacies of localization in language and the preservation of cultural identity. The author, through meticulous research and linguistic analysis, elucidates the rationale behind the unconventional nomenclature, underscoring the imperative of embracing indigenous languages in scientific discourse.

In response to inquiries regarding the choice of title, Okoro elucidated, “The decision to name it ‘Fiziksi’ stems from a deliberate effort to localize the foreign concept of Physics while retaining its essence in the Igbo language.” Addressing misconceptions, he further expounded, “The subtitle, ‘Ihe Ọmụmụ Mbaraigwe na ụwa,’ encapsulates the essence of physics, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between energy and matter within the universe.”

Drawing from a comparative study of global languages, Okoro highlights the phenomenon of localization, citing examples from Italian, French, German, Swahili, and other linguistic traditions where the phonetic integrity of scientific terms is preserved. He asserts, “The evolution of language necessitates borrowing and adaptation to ensure relevance and longevity.”

With a vision to elevate the prominence of Igbo alongside global languages, Okoro champions a multifaceted approach encompassing translation theories such as domestication and dynamic equivalence. He emphasizes, “For language to endure, it must evolve, assimilating scientific terminologies while safeguarding its cultural identity.”

In a rallying call to action, Okoro urges a paradigm shift in attitudes towards indigenous languages, asserting, “Language vitality hinges on its ability to adapt and innovate. To relegate Igbo to obscurity is to deny our cultural heritage a place in the global arena.”

As “Fiziksi” emerges as a testament to linguistic ingenuity and cultural resilience, Okoro’s endeavor signifies a significant milestone in the journey towards linguistic inclusivity and cultural preservation.

About the Author:

Mazi Ogbonnaya Okoro is a visionary linguist and educator dedicated to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural preservation. With a passion for advancing Igbo language and culture, Okoro’s groundbreaking work in translating scientific concepts into indigenous languages exemplifies his commitment to bridging linguistic divides and fostering cultural pride

Director General of NITDA Encourages Participants to Utilize Skills Acquired at NAVSA Empowerment Programme to Revolutionize Agriculture

Director General of NITDA Encourages Participants to Utilize Skills Acquired at NAVSA Empowerment Programme to Revolutionize Agriculture

 

At the National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) Empowerment Programme’s closing ceremony, Dr. Ayodele Bakare, Assistant Director of the Digital Economy Development Department, represented the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi. Dr. Bakare urged participants to harness the skills obtained during the intensive 3-day training to revolutionize agriculture, aiming to achieve food security and improve agricultural practices across Nigeria.

The Capacity Building Programme, held at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, aligns with the strategic priorities outlined by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It underscores a commitment to accelerating diversification through the adoption of digital technologies and fostering innovation within the agricultural sector.

Participants were equipped with essential knowledge and tools aimed at leveraging technology to enhance agricultural productivity, streamline processes, and address challenges facing the sector. Through this initiative, the government aims to empower individuals and communities to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural development and economic growth.

The NAVSA Empowerment Programme represents a collaborative effort between government agencies, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders, demonstrating a shared commitment to driving sustainable agricultural transformation through innovation and digitalization.

TINUBU OFFERS SCHOLARSHIPS, HOUSING TO FAMILIES OF SLAIN SOLDIERS

TINUBU OFFERS SCHOLARSHIPS, HOUSING TO FAMILIES OF SLAIN SOLDIERS
President Bola Tinubu says the federal government will provide scholarships up to the university level for all the children, including the unborn, of the Nigerian Army personnel killed in action at Okuama community in Delta State.
The President, who announced this at the funeral of the personnel at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, on Wednesday, directed the military authorities to ensure that the benefits of the departed are paid to their families within 90 days.
The President also declared that the federal government would provide a house in any part of the nation to each of the families of the four officers and thirteen soldiers.
At the solemn event attended by some state governors, the military hierarchy, and families of the deceased, the President bestowed posthumous National Honours on the 17 fallen heroes.
Lt Col Ali, Major D.E Obi, Major S.D. Ashafa, and Captain U. Zakari were accorded the award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON).
Staff Sergeant Yahaya Saidu, Corporal Danbaba Yahaya, Corporal Kabir Bashir, Lance Corporals Abdullahi Ibrahim, Bulus Haruna, Sole Opeyemi, Bello Anas, Private Alhaji Isah, Clement Francis, Abubakar Ali, Adamu Ibrahim, Hamman Peter, and Ibrahim Adamu, were awarded the Officer of the Federal Republic Medal (OFR).
“On the 14th day of March, Lt. Colonel A. H. Ali, the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion, led three other officers and 13 soldiers to the Okuama Community to mediate in the lingering dispute with Okoloba Community.
“They went as peacemakers and peacekeepers respectfully seeking to bring an end to the hostilities between the two communities.
“They did not go with tanks, machine guns, and other weapons. They were on a mission of peace.
“Before the dastardly attack, Lt. Colonel Ali, as the Chief of Army Staff narrated to me, achieved great operational exploits; fighting terrorists and insurgents in the North East and North West before his deployment to the Niger Delta.
“Ali kept faith with his military calling until the end.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, we honour the sacrifice of Ali and the other gallant patriots who died that day. They will forever be remembered as heroes who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate price,” the President said.
Reaffirming government’s commitment to justice, President Tinubu vowed to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to account.
While commending the military for not embarking on a reprisal attack on the community, the President declared: “I want to make it clear, once more, that those who committed this heinous crime will not go unpunished. We will find them, and our departed heroes will get justice.
“The elders and chiefs of Okuama also must help the military in fishing out the gunmen who committed the barbaric crime against our men.
“I wish to commend our Armed Forces for their restraint in choosing not to carry out any reprisal attacks on Okuama or its neighbouring communities. We must all ensure that the innocent people of Okuama are not made to bear the punishment of the guilty and wicked among them,” the President stated.
President Tinubu, while commiserating with the families of the fallen heroes and the entire Armed Forces, prayed God Almighty to comfort the bereaved.
“It is worth restating the debt of gratitude we owe these valiant soldiers and their families.
“As Commander-In-Chief, I do not take the contributions of members of our Armed Forces for granted. I recognize your valour and bravery. I honour your unflinching commitment to making our country safe from criminals, bandits, kidnappers, and insurrectionists.
“While we continue to grieve for the courageous men we lost that day, let us also, on this solemn occasion, be reminded of the unfinished business of working for peace and harmony in our communities. We must begin to rebuild our communities and make them into places where love, tolerance, and harmony will reign.
‘‘Leaders at all levels, especially community leaders and traditional rulers, must work to strengthen the bonds that unite us. We must end the cycle of violence and bloodletting,” the President said.
President Tinubu urged the Armed Forces not to be discouraged by the death of their fellow compatriots but to honour their memory by rededicating themselves to the service and defence of the nation.
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have a message for you: Do not let the death of your compatriots discourage you.
‘‘There is no higher honour than the vocation you have chosen to pursue. We cherish you. We cherish your labour of love. We salute your daily sacrifice in protecting your fellow citizens from danger. We acknowledge your sacrifices to defend our nation,” the Commander-in-Chief affirmed.

Nigeria’s Short-Term Solutions Rooted in Petroleum Sector, Affirms Minister Lokpobiri, as Minister Ekpo Targets Hydrocarbon Sector Enhancement

Nigeria’s Short-Term Solutions Rooted in Petroleum Sector, Affirms Minister Lokpobiri, as Minister Ekpo Targets Hydrocarbon Sector Enhancement

 

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has underscored the critical role of Nigeria’s petroleum sector in addressing the country’s immediate challenges. Speaking at the Ministry’s 2024 Sector Retreat held on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024, in Abuja, Minister Lokpobiri highlighted that 90% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings originate from the petroleum sector.

Themed “Building Synergy for Enhanced Development in the Oil and Gas Sector,” the retreat aimed to deliberate on strategies to meet the targets set for the Ministry by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Ministerial retreat in November 2023.

Minister Lokpobiri outlined the primary target as ramping up production to increase revenue and meet obligations in the midstream and downstream sectors. He emphasized collaboration with key entities like the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to address challenges such as insecurity and pipeline vandalization, thereby attracting sustainable investments across the sector.

Echoing Lokpobiri’s sentiments, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized the retreat’s objective of repositioning the hydrocarbon sector for optimal performance. Ekpo reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to unlocking Nigeria’s abundant gas resources for economic development, underscoring the imperative of confronting challenges collectively.

Amb. Nicholas Agbo Ella, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, emphasized the Ministry’s mission to foster lasting transformation within the sector, aligning with the administration’s goals and the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021.

The ongoing retreat, attended by Directors, Heads of Units, and Agencies under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, among others, signifies a concerted effort toward charting a path for sustainable growth and impactful change within Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) Pledges Unwavering Commitment to Innovation Drive in Public Service

Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) Pledges Unwavering Commitment to Innovation Drive in Public Service

 

In alignment with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCSSIP25), Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, reaffirms the resolute dedication of the Office to bolstering innovation within the Public Service.

During the 4th Annual Federal Civil Service Innovation Competition’s Award Ceremony held on Monday, 25th March 2024, Dr. Yemi-Esan reiterated the Office’s steadfast commitment to maintaining and fortifying structures aimed at fostering innovation within the Public Service. She underscored the competition’s inception in 2020 as part of broader efforts to revitalize and reform the Public Service, with the overarching goal of devising novel ideas and mechanisms to render services more cost-effective, of higher quality, and more accessible to the citizenry.

Since its inception, the Civil Service has successfully implemented several in-house solutions, including the Compro Computer Based Test (CBT) Application for Confirmation Exams, the Anonymous Reporting System (ARS) for whistleblowing, and the Office Space Management Solution. These initiatives have significantly improved operational efficiency and service delivery within the Federal Secretariat Complex, Abuja.

Dr. Yemi-Esan further highlighted recent advancements, such as the commencement of Pre-Promotion Training for Officers on Salary Grade Level 14. Notably, the mock assessment exam was conducted using a web-based application developed by an officer within the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. The application, which guarantees security and real-time assessment, exemplifies the Office’s commitment to leveraging internal expertise for innovation.

The Head of Civil Service emphasized that the realization of innovation potential within the Civil Service requires active engagement and the provision of conducive work environments. She debunked misconceptions regarding the lack of innovation within the Civil Service, reaffirming the Office’s dedication to overturning such notions.

Dr. Yemi-Esan underscored the alignment of the Office’s innovation drive with Priority point number seven (7) of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on accelerating diversification through industrialization, digitization, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation. She emphasized that achieving this priority is paramount to unlocking other areas outlined in the agenda, particularly Priority Area 8 – Improving governance for effective service delivery.

Acknowledging the significance of collaborative efforts, Dr. Yemi-Esan called for continuous support from stakeholders, both public and private, to elevate Nigeria’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index. She emphasized that the Nigeria Civil Service cannot achieve this feat alone and encouraged collective action toward this endeavor.

In recognition of innovative excellence, the Office announced a prize pool for winners of the Federal Civil Service Innovation Competition, with the Star Prize Winner receiving Three Million Naira (N3,000,000), among other awards.

In her Opening Remarks, Dr. Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Special Duties Office (OHCSF), reiterated the Office’s commitment to building a world-class, effective, and responsive Civil Service through the institutionalization of innovation.

Goodwill messages from dignitaries including the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Chairman Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters, Senator Oluwole Fasuyi, lauded the Office’s visionary leadership and the positive impact of the innovation competition on the competitiveness and efficiency of the Civil Service.

Yemi Alade Advocates for Integrity Amidst Industry Challenges

Yemi Alade Advocates for Integrity Amidst Industry Challenges

Renowned Nigerian artist Yemi Alade courageously addresses the prevalent issue of sexual harassment within the music industry while emphasizing the paramount importance of preserving personal integrity.

In a candid revelation, Alade sheds light on the pressures she faced early in her career, revealing, “There was a time when the industry demanded compromises of a personal nature in exchange for opportunities. The expectation to engage in inappropriate activities to advance one’s career was alarmingly pervasive.”

Refusing to compromise her values, Alade made a conscious decision to stand firm against such unethical practices, despite the potential consequences. “I made a commitment to myself to never trade my dignity for success,” she affirms.

Despite facing setbacks and missed opportunities as a result of her stance, Alade remains resolute in her conviction. “While the path to success may have been obstructed at times, I take pride in knowing that I have maintained my integrity,” she asserts.

Alade’s unwavering commitment to personal values serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and industry professionals alike. Through her advocacy, she highlights the imperative of creating a culture of respect and ethical conduct within the music industry.

Youngest Female Doctor in South Africa Secures Position at Mapulaneng Hospital

Youngest Female Doctor in South Africa Secures Position at Mapulaneng Hospital

 

Violet Bank, Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga – March 27, 2024 – After enduring months of uncertainty and unemployment, Dr. Thakgalo Thibela has triumphed by securing a coveted position at Mapulaneng Hospital. This marks a significant milestone in her remarkable journey as a medical professional.

At just 24 years old, Dr. Thibela has already etched her name in the annals of South African medical history as the youngest female doctor in the country. Her journey began in the humble village of Violet Bank, nestled within the small town of Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga province.

Demonstrating exceptional academic prowess from a young age, Dr. Thibela’s journey was characterized by rapid advancement. Skipping grades at both Farel Primary School and Lehlasedi High School, she completed her matriculation with an outstanding seven distinctions at the age of 15.

Driven by her passion for medicine and aided by a bursary from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Dr. Thibela embarked on her medical education at the University of Witwatersrand. Remarkably, she graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) at the age of 21, earning accolades as the youngest female medical doctor in the nation.

Following her academic triumphs, Dr. Thibela completed her internship at Helen Joseph Hospital and her community service at Mapulaneng Hospital. Despite facing the challenges of unemployment, her determination remained unyielding.

Now, with her appointment at Mapulaneng Hospital, Dr. Thibela’s journey continues with a renewed sense of purpose. With aspirations to specialize in neurosurgery, she is poised to make even greater contributions to the medical field.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my country,” said Dr. Thibela. “Becoming a doctor was driven by my desire to help people, and I am honored to fulfill that purpose.”

 

 

VALEMTINE ZOZA

The critical role of data in debt recovery amid surge in consumer debt

The critical role of data in debt recovery amid surge in consumer debt

 

 

As South Africans and their pockets are impacted by rising inflation, cost-of-living increases, and a spate of interest rate hikes over the past two years, consumer debt has surged at an alarming rate. More people are turning to credit facilities to keep up with daily expenses, with worrying knock-on effects for businesses and the entire South African economy.

 

With a renewed focus on debt recovery processes and procedures, businesses need to ensure they have the most reliable, up-to-date information available to assist with recovering outstanding monies. “As the cost of borrowing escalates, and the average South African consumer finds themselves allocating approximately 62% of their take-home pay towards servicing debt, the need for efficient, effective debt recovery strategies is a crucial consideration for any business extending credit,” explains Chantelle Frier, National Sales Manager of SearchWorks, South Africa’s largest and most innovative data aggregation platform that allows users to conduct live, accurate searches on individuals and companies, and in-depth KYC checks online.

 

The household debt-to-income ratio in South Africa is projected to hover around 65.00% in 2024. This figure, coupled with an estimated R300 billion in debt owed to municipalities, paints a grim picture of the financial burdens individuals and businesses face. The consequences of massive debt levels also ripple through the broader economy. Postponed or missed payments contribute to inflationary pressures, escalating consumer expenses. The repercussions extend to the public and private sectors, resulting in financial losses that drive up prices and the cost of credit, ultimately burdening taxpayers as service quality deteriorates.

 

In response to these challenges, Frier says there is a need for a more nuanced approach to debt recovery that leverages the latest data aggregation technology. “The key to navigating this complex economic space lies in our ability to access and utilise up-to-date, relevant consumer data. By employing a comprehensive suite of data-driven tools, we can enhance the efficiency of debt recovery processes, from KYC checks to individual and company record tracing,” she notes.

 

Access to reliable, credible data enables debt recovery agencies to perform a wide array of verifications and searches, thereby crafting tailored, effective recovery strategies that take into account debtors’ individual circumstances.

 

“A one-size-fits-all approach to debt recovery is not only ineffective but can exacerbate the very problems we seek to solve,” Frier adds. “Businesses should be empowered to manage their financial risks with precision, ensuring that credit is extended and recovered in a manner that is sustainable for both the provider and the consumer.”

 

She adds that agencies should embrace modern technologies to ensure collections are conducted securely, legally, and with a vision that is sustainable over the long haul. “In today’s competitive market, the ability to streamline processes and maximise resources at the lowest possible cost is not just an advantage but a necessity.”

 

As businesses and individuals grapple with the implications of mounting debt, the role of data in shaping effective recovery strategies has never been more critical. By using SearchWorks, which offers the user 160 different search types and gives instant access to over 20 data sources, including all credit bureaus in South Africa, debt collectors can perform ID and bank account verifications, asset valuation, live tracing on individual and company records and batch tracing for multiple records at once; credit, past employment, property, vehicle ownership and directorship searches; and have access to an income estimator on the new client, all within the confines of the law.

 

“By leveraging technology, debt recovery businesses and departments can play their part in addressing the current debt crisis head-on, fostering a more resilient and equitable financial ecosystem,” says Frier.

NITDA Celebrates Exceptional Women Staff Members in Commemoration of International Women’s Day 2024

NITDA Celebrates Exceptional Women Staff Members in Commemoration of International Women’s Day 2024

In honor of International Women’s Day 2024, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) proudly recognized the invaluable contributions of its female staff members during the Quarterly Staff General Meeting.

Led by the esteemed Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, the event served as a platform to commend and honor female staff members whose remarkable efforts have significantly contributed to the agency’s accomplishments. In a gesture of appreciation and acknowledgment, Director-General Kashifu Inuwa CCIE presented letters of commendation to these outstanding women, underscoring NITDA’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowering women within the agency.

The Quarterly Staff General Meeting not only celebrated the achievements of these exceptional women but also reaffirmed NITDA’s dedication to recognizing and nurturing talent across all gender identities. As an agency at the forefront of technological innovation, NITDA remains steadfast in its mission to create an inclusive and equitable workplace where every individual can thrive and contribute to the advancement of the digital landscape.