Do not overlook Africa’s trillion-dollar food and agribusiness sector African Development Bank chief tells investors at World Food Prize Dialogue.

There is a realisation that by 2050, the global population will reach nine billion, creating a pressing need for Africa to increase agricultural productivity to meet rising demands for food.

Africa’s food and agribusiness will be worth an estimated US$1 trillion by 2030, African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) President Dr Akinwumi Adesina told participants of the World Food Prize Foundation’s Norman E. Borlaug Dialogue (https://apo-opa.info/45SJK8Q) in Des Moines, Iowa on Thursday.

The annual event in America’s agricultural heartland, revolved around this year’s theme of “harnessing change,” with delegates and panellists exploring innovative ideas to shore up innovation, adaptation, and diversification, and mechanisms for improving resilience, recovery from shocks, and sustainable systems to feed the world.

Several world leaders are actively bolstering food production and food security in Africa. This includes coming together for a landmark global Feed Africa summit in Dakar (the Dakar 2 Summit- https://apo-opa.info/3pcmbZA) last January.

The continent, which is home to 65% of the world’s remaining uncultivated arable land, ironically imports most of its food. African leaders are intent in ensuring that their countries are self-sufficient in food and become food exporters. There is a realisation that by 2050, the global population will reach nine billion, creating a pressing need for Africa to increase agricultural productivity to meet rising demands for food.

The African Development Bank, which is leading the charge to feed Africa, played an active part in the Borlaug Dialogue. At a session titled “From Dakar 2 to Des Moines” on Thursday, Adesina highlighted the achievements of the Dakar 2 summit, which the Bank organised in conjunction with the Senegalese government and the African Union.

Adesina explained how 34 African leaders endorsed country food and agriculture delivery compacts that produced action- and outcome-driven plans to ensure food security and unlock the continent’s full agricultural potential within five years. This is in line with the core of the Bank’s Feed Africa strategy, which it launched in 2016. Since then, he added, the strategy has supported more than 250 million people, who have benefitted from improved agriculture technologies.

According to Adesina, partners had committed over $70 billion to support the food compacts. The Bank is expected to provide $10 billion over the next five years.

The Bank head said Dakar 2 reflected the collective resolve of African leaders to ensure the continent feeds itself. One of the leaders, President Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia, who was at the Borlaug Dialogue, said: “As African leaders, we are all committed to self-sufficiency in food production. Today, Ethiopia, for the first time in its history, is self-sufficient in wheat production and is a wheat exporter to its neighbours.”

Zewde acknowledged that this groundbreaking achievement had been helped by the African Development Bank’s Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative. TAAT has distributed more than 100,000 tons of certified seeds of heat-tolerant wheat varieties, increasing Ethiopia’s wheat production by 1.6 million metric tons in 2023.

Further underlining the high level of African participation at the Borlaug Dialogue, Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria spoke about the importance of leadership, which he said was essential to feed Africa and develop the continent. “A nation falls or rises dependent on the quality of its leadership,” he emphasised.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Nigeria’s Plateau State—speaking at a World Food Prize side event on transforming African agriculture through Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs)—also emphasised the essence of good leadership. “The time has come to deal with the elephant in the room, and that is corruption,” he said. He added: “We are serious about this, and we want investors to know that investing in Plateau State is a win-win.” Governor Mutfwang also stressed the importance of incentivising investors by reducing unnecessary administrative bottlenecks.

The African Development Bank has already committed US$853 million to public-sector initiated SAPZs and successfully mobilised financing of $661 million alongside its co-financing partners. Collectively, the partners are investing more than $1.5 billion to establish 25 agro-industrial zones and supporting ecosystems in 13 countries.

Adesina invited investors and other stakeholders to invest confidently in the African food and agribusiness sector. He said political will was strong and that results on the ground showed tremendous promise.

The African Development Bank is a regular contributor to the Borlaug Dialogue. Akinwumi Adesina who was the World Food Prize laureate in 2017, is recognised for his exceptional and innovative work in the African food system, including eliminating corruption in the fertiliser industry in Nigeria, leveraging resources for smallholder farmers, and increasing for crop and production efficiency, during his previous tenure as agriculture minister.

This year’s Borlaug laureate is Heidi Kuhn (https://apo-opa.info/3QCCNEC), recognised for her farmer-focused development model and work that revitalises farmlands, food security, livelihoods and resilience in conflicted affected regions around the world.

The African Development Bank’s initiatives to feed Africa drew strong commendation from Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn, President Emeritus of the World Food Prize Foundation, and the Foundation’s President, Ambassador Terry Branstad.

To read the African Development Bank President’s speech at the Dakar 2 to Des Moines event, click here (https://apo-opa.info/3sbp7ae).

To read the full text of the African Development Bank President’s remarks at the SAPZ side event, click here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q9Jw7C).

FIRST AID: A Life Saver

Anyone can experience an accident or medical emergency at any time, whether they are at home, at work, or in a public setting. First aid administered correctly in these circumstances may make the difference between life and death. First aid refers to the fundamental medical procedures and knowledge you can use to treat an unwell or injured person until emergency medical assistance arrives. It is the initial help given to maintain life, stop a condition from getting worse, or encourage healing: FIRST AID: A LIFE SAVER

Meaning and Perspective

Stabilizing an injured person’s condition and giving them urgent treatment is the main goal of first aid in order to stop their condition from getting worse. When time is of the essence, such as during a cardiac arrest or severe bleeding, this urgent intervention can be extremely important, especially in situations where fast medical treatment may not be easily available. Being knowledgeable about first aid can therefore have a big impact not just in life’s emergencies but also on a daily basis.

A variety of techniques are included in first aid, and they can be used as needed depending on the circumstance. These methods consist of evaluating the patient’s condition, delivering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of a cardiac arrest, halting the bleeding, stabilizing fractures, treating burns and scalds, handling choking events, and providing basic life support. Recognizing the symptoms of diseases including heart attacks, strokes, asthma attacks, and diabetic emergencies is another aspect of first aid training.

It is essential to maintain composure, evaluate the circumstances, and put the injured person’s safety first when giving first aid. This means spotting any potential risks and making sure they are taken care of before offering aid. It’s also essential to have effective contact with the distressed person and those around them in order to collect important data and guarantee cooperation with emergency medical personnel.

Everyone should know how to administer first aid, not just medical experts. Many organizations, like the Red Cross and various healthcare facilities, provide first aid training programs that are open to the general public.

FIRST AID: A Life Saver

HISTORY

First aid is the practice of giving emergency care to those who are unwell or injured. Its origins can be traced to ancient civilizations and conflict. However, it was not until the 18th century that institutions devoted to life preservation and the promotion of resuscitation methods started formalizing life-saving procedures. Although the Red Cross and Red Crescent currently lead the globe in first aid delivery, the Royal Humane Society and military surgeons are credited with developing the practice.

In Aberdeenshire in 1878, two military officers named Colonel Francis Duncan and Surgeon-Major Peter Shepherd emphasized the importance of knowing how to bandage and splint wounds from battle. Under the supervision of the recently established St. John Ambulance Association, they invented the concept of teaching first aid to civilians. The organization’s charitable and ambulance transport work made this initiative a logical progression.

First AID Kit

The conception of the first kit was a significant milestone in the evolution of the first aid. A complete first aid kit is one thing every home needs to have. An accessible first aid pack can significantly improve the way accidents are treated and help prevent future harm.

The primary and most evident benefit of having a first aid kit is to offer emergency situations with quick care. Whether it’s a tiny cut from cooking, a damaged ankle from tripping and falling, or a more serious injury. Prompt action can frequently assist in preventing problems and minimizing pain or discomfort.

The contents of a first aid kit can vary based on personal needs and preferences, but there are a few essential items that should be included and they include:

1. Adhesive bandages of various sizes: These are required for covering minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters in order to prevent infection and hasten the healing process.
2. Sterile gauze pads: These can be used as a compress to stop bleeding or to cover larger wounds.
3. Antiseptic wipes: To disinfect cuts and stop the spread of illness.
4. Medical adhesive tape: This is used to keep bandages or dressings in place over a wound.
5. Scissors and tweezers: Used for trimming gauze, removing splinters, and cutting bandages.
6. Disposable gloves: To prevent infection when treating the injured person and yourself.
7. Painkillers: Prior to the arrival of qualified medical assistance, over-the-counter painkillers can help reduce mild aches and pains.
8. Use a cold compress: This is to temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling and inflammation.
9. 9. Emergency contact: Important phone numbers to have on hand for emergency, such as those for your family doctor, the closest hospital, and local emergency services, should be noted down.
10. Cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instructions: Include a manual on how to administer CPR because using the right method can save lives in dire circumstances.

Your first aid kit should be regularly inspected and restocked to make sure all of the equipment is current and in good shape. The shelf life of medications and ointments should be checked, and sterile items like gauze pads should be kept sealed in their unique packaging.

Importance And Principles of First Aid

1. Prompt Action Saves Lives: Time is frequently of the essence in medical emergencies. A first aider’s quick actions can have a big impact on how things turn out. First aid focuses on giving basic treatment until emergency medical help comes. The likelihood of survival and the likelihood of recovery can be considerably increased by carrying out simple operations like CPR, stopping the bleeding, treating burns, and stabilizing fractures.
2. Reduce Potential Complications: Minor injuries can quickly worsen if first aid is not administered in a timely manner. The risk of complications can be decreased by properly cleaning and treating wounds to prevent infections. Understanding first aid procedures enables people to take the proper precautions to reduce complications and speed up healing.
3. Promote safety and readiness: First aid is essential for saving lives as well as for preventing accidents and injuries. People who are knowledgeable about first aid are better able to recognize dangers, weigh risks, and encourage safety in their surroundings. We may make settings safer for ourselves and others by being aware of potential threats and taking preventive action.

Common First Aid Techniques

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): CPR is a valuable skill used to restore blood circulation and breathing in someone experiencing cardiac arrest. Knowing how to perform chest compressions and rescue breathing can help sustain a person’s life until professional help arrives.
2. Choking Management: The Heimlich maneuver is an essential technique for dislodging a foreign object from a person’s airway. By quickly applying pressure to the abdomen, the obstruction can be expelled, allowing the person to breathe again.
3. Bleeding Control: Properly treating and controlling bleeding is crucial in preventing excessive blood loss. Applying direct pressure on the wound, elevating the injured limb, and using a tourniquet if necessary, can significantly reduce the risk of further complications.
4. Basic Wound Care: Cleaning, disinfecting, and dressing wounds properly can help prevent infections. Understanding the use of sterile and non-adherent dressings, along with the appropriate application of pressure bandages, can aid in wound healing.

Implementing First Aid Principles

1. Act right away: Seconds can be the difference between life and death, thus a first responder must be able to act right away to save lives. For instance, it is necessary to respond immediately to someone who is choking or bleeding heavily. First aid should always be administered without hesitation, and this is only possible with the right training.
2. Maintain composure and offer reassurance: It is reasonable for people to get alarmed when an accident results in casualties, but first responders must maintain composure. By doing this, situations are stopped from growing and getting worse and first aid can be delivered effectively. The injured and other concerned parties should be assured that the situation is under control by a first responder.
3. Request medical help: First aid is an emergency procedure. Although it is a necessary treatment, it does not completely resolve a medical issue. If a first responder’s concentration is concentrated on providing first aid, they should call a medical professional as quickly as possible, or ask someone to do it for them. Give crucial data about the event, including the location, the name and phone number of the person calling emergency services, and critical facts about what happened, who was injured, and how seriously they were hurt.
4. Provide the necessary treatment: While awaiting the arrival of a medical professional, first aid must be administered. The type of first assistance depends on the circumstances. To gain a general idea of what needs to be done, there are five things to check on an injured individual:

• Are they conscious?
• Are they breathing?
• Are their airways obstructed?
• Is their heart still beating?
• Are they bleeding?

Training And Certification

To effectively administer first aid, it is highly recommended to receive proper training and certification. This fundamental care can be given by anyone who has taken a first aid course; it might even save a life. What first aid techniques should you be familiar with because various circumstances call for quite different responses?

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A person who has received training in CPR can assist a victim of cardiac arrest in regaining consciousness. CPR involves making sure the person’s airway is clear before maintaining blood circulation by employing rescue breathing and chest compressions.
2. Bleeding: To avoid excessive blood loss, it’s crucial to stop a wound from bleeding. Knowing the type of bleeding will help you gauge its intensity and determine when the patient needs medical assistance.
3. Burns: To treat a burn, turn off the cause of the burn (heat, a chemical, or electricity), and then run water over the injured area for a while.
4. Choking: A blockage that causes choking can prevent an individual from breathing, which can result in unconsciousness or even death. It’s critical to know when someone is choking and requires assistance. Additionally, you must be aware of the proper procedure. When someone can’t cough or talk but is still conscious, for instance, you should perform the Heimlich maneuver; but, for someone who is unconscious, the right
5. Broken Bones: In order to avoid further harm, you should treat any injury to a hand, foot, or leg as if it were a broken bone.

 Conclusion

A solid understanding of first aid can prevent death and lessen the severity of injuries. Anyone has the capacity to save a life if they are ready and have the expertise to act quickly in dire situations. Never forget that it’s never too late to become a first aider. In fact, learning first aid can be the best investment you ever make for your own and the wellbeing of others. See

The Integration of Robotics And Coding In The Classroom

It is essential for educators to give pupils the right knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the digital age; the period of rapid technological innovation. A holistic approach that encourages collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking is provided by incorporating robotics and coding into the classroom. This article discusses the advantages and difficulties of using robots and coding in the classroom, as well as practical implementation tactics: THE INTEGRATION OF ROBOTICS AND CODING IN THE CLASSROOM: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO 21ST CENTURY EDUCATION.

The Integration of Robotics And Coding In The Classroom

AN OVERVIEW OF ROBOTICS AND CODING

The design, manufacture, coding, and application of robots are all part of the multidisciplinary discipline of robotics. It includes several facets of artificial intelligence, computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.

Fundamentally, robotics is concerned with building intelligent robots that can operate on their own or under remote control. These devices, referred to as robots, usually created to interact with their environment and carry out specified tasks.

Industrial robotics and service robotics are two broad categories that can be used to the subject of robotics.

The main focus of industrial robotics is the employment of robots in manufacturing and industrial environments. These robots are frequently employed to automate risky and repetitive jobs like welding, painting, and assembling. Industrial robots are made to be accurate and effective, increasing productivity and lowering the possibility of human error or harm.

One of the major goal of service robotics, on the other hand, is to create robots that can help people in a variety of contexts, including healthcare, agriculture, education, and entertainment. Service robots are designed to carry out duties that can enhance safety, provide convenience, and improve overall quality of life. Robotic exoskeletons that help people are an example of service robots.

Also, robotics as a discipline has made considerable strides recently, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence. Robots powered by AI are outfitted with sensors, actuators, and complex algorithms that enable them to detect and comprehend their surroundings, make decisions, build on prior knowledge, and adapt to changing circumstances. As a result, difficult tasks like speech recognition, natural language processing, and object recognition have been made possible by robots.

The ultimate goal of robotics is to build robots that can carry out human-like jobs, interact naturally with people, and make a variety of contributions to society. The sector is still developing quickly, with continual research and development expanding the capabilities of robots.

Whereas on the flip side, the term “coding on its own aspect” refers to the procedure of writing commands or instructions in a programming language to direct a machine or piece of software what to do. Writing lines of code, which are essentially a collection of precise and organized instructions that enable a computer to carry out particular activities or functions, is a necessary part of the process. These commands might be as basic as showing words on a screen or as complicated as manipulating data, creating software, or creating algorithms to solve issues. Software creation, web development, data analysis, and artificial intelligence are just a handful of the industries that use coding. Effectively writing, testing, and debugging code necessitates logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.

The Need And Benefits of Integration of Robotics And Coding

There are several benefits of integrating robotics and coding in classrooms and education

1. Enhancing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills: Robotics and coding engage students in hands-on activities that require logical reasoning and problem-solving. By experimenting with different coding sequences and troubleshooting robotic systems, students learn how to analyze complex challenges and devise innovative solutions.
2. Fostering Innovation and Creativity: By combining robots and coding, instructors provide students the tools they need to think creatively and use what they’ve learned in real-world situations. They are urged to let their creativity run wild and come up with novel ways to build and program robots to carry out particular jobs.
3. Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration: Robotics projects frequently require students to work in groups, which promotes cooperation and teamwork. Students improve their ability to communicate clearly, assign assignments, respect different ideas, and appreciate others’ viewpoints through cooperative problem-solving. their capacity for collaboration.
4. Increasing Engagement And Enthusiasm: Students that participate in robotics and coding activities receive tangible results, which increases their sense of accomplishment and enthusiasm to learn. As they consistently iterate, experiment, and enhance their robotic and coding designs, they also acquire a growth mentality.
5. Fosters The Development Of Computational Thinking Abilities: Coding requires the dissection of difficult issues into smaller, more manageable chunks. Students gain computational thinking abilities through this process, which they can use in a variety of personal and professional contexts.
6. Boosts Motivation And Engagement: The use of robots and coding makes learning more interactive and hands-on, boosting motivation and engagement among students. When they can apply what they are learning in the actual world, students are more likely to be motivated to learn.
7. Encourages Cross-curricular Learning: Coding and robotics may be used to teach a variety of disciplines, including math, physics, engineering, and even the arts. Students’ learning is made more thorough because to this interdisciplinary approach, which enables them to understand the links between many courses.

8. Prepares Students For Future Careers: Coding and robotics skills are increasingly in demand in today’s job market. By introducing these concepts in education, students gain valuable skills that can help them in future careers in fields like engineering, computer science, and technology.
9. Boosts Self-esteem And Confidence: Building and programming robots successfully can offer kids a sense of accomplishment and confidence. It fosters their self-confidence and motivates them to take on new challenges.

Practical Strategies For Implementation

1. Curriculum Integration: Integrate robotics and coding into existing subjects like science, math, and technology by designing cross-curricular projects. For example, students can program robots to simulate scientific experiments or solve mathematical problems. This approach ensures that learning remains connected to real-world applications
2. Teacher Training: Give educators the chance to take advantage of professional development opportunities to become acquainted with the theories, resources, and tools of robotics and coding. Giving teachers the essential training and knowledge guarantees successful implementation and ongoing assistance for pupils.
3. Interactive Learning: Include interactive exercises using robotics kits, coding environments, and programming languages. This interactive method encourages creativity and problem-solving by allowing students to learn via hands-on experience and exploration.
4. Industry Expert Collaboration: Create alliances with regional businesses and organizations that focus on robotics and coding. Guest lecturers, field visits, and mentoring initiatives can highlight real-world applications and give students priceless knowledge and insights.
5. Promote Project-based Learning: Get students interested in robotics and coding by using project-based learning strategies. This entails giving students assignments or challenges that call on them to use their knowledge of robotics and coding to address real-world issues. This encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
6. Foster Collaboration And Teamwork: Encourage students to work in teams or groups when engaging in robotics and coding activities. This promotes collaboration, communication, and cooperation among students, which are important skills for the 21st century workforce.
7. Continued Assistance: By sponsoring mentoring programs, hosting frequent seminars, granting access to online resources, and other means, continuously help educators and students. This guarantees so students may get the direction and help they need, and that teachers can continually enhance their abilities.
8. Display Student Work: Honor students’ accomplishments in robotics and coding by planning occasions or exhibitions where they can display their creations. As a result, more children are inspired to participate in robotics and coding and feel a sense of pride and determination.
9. Encourage Parent Participation: Inform parents of the value of robotics and coding education and involve them in the process by hosting workshops or informational sessions. Parents’ knowledge and support are strengthened as a result, which encourages pupils to participate and engage more.
10. Evaluate And Adapt: Continuously assess the program’s efficacy in teaching robotics and coding and make appropriate modifications in response to teachers’ comments. parents and pupils. This can entail gathering information on student performance, running polls or focus groups, and making adjustments in light of the results.
11. Provide Tools And Materials: Ensure that schools have the equipment they require, such as robotics kits, coding programs, and laptops and PCs. This might be accomplished by allocating funds, applying for grants, or requesting support from other organizations like business foundations or educational institutions.
12. Create Specific Areas: Designate particular areas in classrooms, such as makerspaces or robotics laboratories, where students can participate in hands-on robotics and coding activities. All pupils should be able to access these areas, which should include the necessary tools and equipment.

Implications And Solutions of Robotics and Coding

IMPLICATIONS

1. Restrictions on Resources: Budgetary restrictions and restricted access to tools and resources might be problematic. Seek To guarantee that all children have equitable access to robotics and coding tools, funding opportunities through grants, collaborations, and community support are available.
2. Teacher Confidence: Teaching coding and robotics to educators might be intimidating for some. To increase teachers’ confidence and ability in integrating these technologies, provide them with access to online materials, peer support networks, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
3. Limited Financing And Resources: Due to financial restrictions, schools could find it difficult to purchase the essential robotics kits, computers, and software.
4. Teacher Preparation And Experience: Many instructors might not possess the knowledge and abilities necessary to instruct robotics and coding successfully, which may make it difficult for them to incorporate these topics into the curriculum.
5. Time Restraints: The current curriculum may be overloaded and offer little room for extra topics like coding and robotics.
6. Limited Access And Equity: The instruction of robotics and coding may not be equally available to all schools or pupils, resulting in unequal educational possibilities.

Solutions

1. Seek External Funding: Schools can apply for grants or explore partnerships with local businesses or organizations that may be willing to provide financial support for robotics and coding education
2. Professional Development For Teachers: Provide thorough training courses and chances for instructors to advance their coding and robotics knowledge and abilities. Workshops, online classes, or partnerships with educational institutions can all help to support this.
3. Integration Of The Curriculum And Time Management: Find ways to incorporate robotics and coding into existing disciplines by identifying overlapping concepts or topics. This Without requiring more time, I can assist in streamlining the curriculum and establishing chances for robotics and coding education.
4. Collaboration And Partnership: Schools can collaborate with regional businesses or colleges that focus on robotics and coding. Students and teachers may benefit from having access to resources, knowledge, and mentoring in this way.
5. Put An Emphasis On Inclusiveness And Accessibility: Make sure that robotics and coding instruction is available to all kids, regardless of their socioeconomic situation or background. Scholarships, after-school or extracurricular programs, or collaboration with community centers or libraries to enable access to robotics and coding resources are all ways to accomplish this.
6. Foster A Culture Of Innovation: Create an environment that encourages experimentation, failure, and learning from mistakes. This can help students and teachers feel comfortable exploring and experimenting with robotics and coding, leading to greater engagement and progress
7. Use Open-source Software And Inexpensive Options: Investigate inexpensive robotics kits and platforms as well as open-source software to make robotics and coding instruction more accessible and economical for schools with limited funding.
8. Continuous Review And Improvement: Monitor the program’s efficiency on a regular basis, get input from parents, teachers, and students, and make the necessary changes to make it better over time.

Conclusion:

By incorporating coding and robotics into the classroom, educators are able to provide kids the critical 21st-century skills they need to become active producers rather than passive users of technology. This all-encompassing approach to education gives students the skills they need by encouraging problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking. to prosper in a world that is increasingly digital. Schools can successfully incorporate robotics and coding education, empowering kids to become the innovators and tech-savvy leaders of tomorrow, with strategic planning, teacher training, and partnership with industry professionals. See