During ongoing anti-polio drive, 7% of areas of division remain inaccessible due to flooding and rainwater drainage issues, affecting 61 areas with unstable coverage and 35 areas still missing due to various reasons
Private schools of Hyderabad refuse to cooperate during anti-polio drive; Sindh Education Department issues warning
Hyderabad, Sindh
Divisional Commissioner Bilal Ahmed Memon has expressed concern over the prevalence of polio virus in Hyderabad division at a dangerous level, as per claim of the World Health Organization (WHO) representative.
“To eliminate the polio virus, all resources will be utilized to achieve the target set during the anti-polio campaign,” Commissioner said speaking at a meeting attended by Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Zain-ul- abdin Memon, WHO representative, DHO Hyderabad Dr. Lala Jaffer, and other officers on Friday September 13, 2024. Other deputy commissioners of division participated by video link.
The briefings were given on the progress made during the four-day anti-polio campaign. The Issues like refusal cases, obstacles in backward areas, not available cases, and missed cases were discussed.
Commissioner Bilal Ahmed Memon stated that the seven-day anti-polio campaign aims to vaccinate 24,27,868 children under five years, with 94 percent coverage achieved so far, totaling 19,42,266 vaccinations.
He however said that 7% of areas of division remain inaccessible due to flooding and rainwater drainage issues, affecting 61 areas with unstable coverage and 35 areas still missing due to various reasons.
Commissioner Hyderabad encouraged good-performing districts and noted that coverage in four districts, Hyderabad, Badin, Dadu, and Thatta is less than 80% in its five union councils. He emphasized the need to persuade parents in districts with high refusal cases, such as Badin, Thatta, and Hyderabad.
Bilal Memon highlighted the importance of monitoring operations in detecting denied cases and not available cases. With overall 94% coverage completed, he stressed the need to mobilize refusal cases in urban areas and urged stakeholders to work together with the districts administration to end the polio campaign successfully.
Meanwhile, following complaints of non-cooperation from private schools during the anti-polio campaign in Hyderabad, Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad, Zain-ul-Abideen Memon wrote a letter to the Additional Chief Secretary of School Education to inform him of the situation. Consequently, the Sindh Education Department has issued a circular to private educational institutions in Hyderabad, instructing them to cooperate with the district administration during the anti-polio campaign. The circular directs all school administrations to fully cooperate with the polio teams. It further states that action will be taken against school administrations that do not comply. (PR)
Historian Yussouf Shaheen in his book asks: A question is still lingering on as to when the women all over the world, would be recognized as full human beings
Book Review by Ashraf Aboul-Yazid
In his preface, historian Yussouf Shaheen, of Sindh, Pakistan, asks: Over six thousand years have passed, a question is still lingering on as to when the women all over the world, would be recognized as “full human beings” and they shall be bestowed with equal rights similar to men in the power corridors, in Assemblies, in Senate, in Judiciary, in Army and in all the other walks of life? His concise encyclopedic work (SHORT HISTORY OF A WOMAN — THROUGH THE AGES), 40 pages, is his pioneering practice to answer.
Yussouf Shaheen
The nine chapters following the preface are diving into histories, cultures, civilizations and documents to find the status of women in Indus Civilization, in Aryamat (Hinduism), in Mahabharata, in Shiva Purana, in Jainism, in Buddhism, Middle East, in Judaism, in Christianity and the Role of women in Quran/Islam.
In a chapter entitled INDIA, STATUS OF WOMEN IN ARYAMAT (HINDUISM), the author writes: Husband is god, even if he is totally short of virtues, good qualities or unable to provide lust. “A good woman should always worship her husband like a god. Day and night woman must be kept under the dependence by the males (of) their (families), and, if they attach themselves to sensual enjoyments, they must be kept under one’s control. Her father protects (her) in childhood, her husband protects (her) in youth, and her sons protect (her) in old age. Women must particularly be guarded against evil inclinations, however trifling (they may appear); for, if they are not guarded, they will bring sorrow on two families. Considering that the highest duty of all castes, even weak husbands (must) strive to guard their wives.”
On the STATUS OF WOMEN IN JAINISM we read: “In Jain dharam there are different roles for different genders. Females are bound to some extent due to their physical structure and anatomy. Those who want to control their mind and want internal peace should also control their sexual feelings. One of the most fundamental distinctions between Jains is over the nudity of women. It is necessary for all mendicants to conduct their renunciation without clothing. For them, this represents the idealized practice of aparigraha, in which a mendicant renounces all property and possessions, including clothing. Women cannot become ascetics as they could not be naked, which was seen as “an essential component of the path to liberation.”There are also stories about early Jain women whose chastity and righteousness eventually led to their liberation, such as Rājīmatī, wife of the 22nd Tīrthaṅkara Neminātha.”
STATUS OF WOMEN IN BUDDHISM was studied in the following chapter, as we read: “Women are not considered as a complete entity in Buddhism. Their body is not considered fit to attain enlighten- ment and become Buddha. There is a concept that women are not complete until they attain enlightenment to become reborn as a man. It is clearly stated in the Bahudhatuka-sutta that there could never be a female Buddha. In Buddhism, a female nun has to follow the eight Gurudharmas, which are known as very strict rules or the monastic etiquette, Even though Buddhist teachings always say that women have equal ability to become enlightened and may even be better suited for enlightenment than men.”
Female musicians from the Tomb of Nebamun (The British Museum).
Referring to STATUS OF WOMEN IN ZOROASTRIANISM, historian Yussouf Shaheen indicates that “The Arab Muslims, conquerors of the Sassanian Empire, degraded the status of Persian women based on male dominance. Soon after the takeover of Sassanian Empire by Arab Muslims, the Persian women revolted against the Arab conquerors for the restoration of their rights under the leadership of Banu wife of Babak Khorramdin. Within no time the movement for the rights of women turned into a bloody liberation war that continued for over 23 years in which Arab Caliphate lost over 500000 of its warriors. Finally both, Banu and her husband Babak were arrested. Banu was instantly executed, on the other side the hands and feet of her husband Babak were amputated, later his body was sewn into a cow’s skin with the horns at ear level and slowly crushed. Thousands of his supporters were also slaughtered. Today both the resistance fighters Banu and Babak are considered as one of the most heroic freedom fighters and national heroes in Persia and Azerbaijan.”
Regarding MIDDLE EAST, and STATUS OF WOMEN IN SUMER (PRESENT DAY IRAQ), the book shows that “for the first time in the human history, some of the wise rulers of Middle East decided to run the affairs of their society and government through Man Made Laws, Ebla Laws (2500 to 2360 B C)· Eshnunna Laws (2200-2100 BC), Urnammu Laws (2100 and 2050 BC) and Hammurabi Laws (1792–1750 BC). At a later stage the above man made laws were amended, amalgamated and improved by the Laws of Heaven. Such amended laws are still in practice with full force throughout the ages; Laws of Moses- Ten Commandments, Laws of God for Christians and Laws of God for Muslims.
Speaking of STATUS OF WOMEN IN JUDAISM, the book presents some facts depending on certain references, such as Torah: “a woman may not be appointed queen over Israel or to any other official position, on the basis of a gendered reading of Deuteronomy 17:15, “You shall appoint a king over yourself”—a king, but not a queen (Sifrei Devarim 157). Such appointments would include judgeship, for which women have been declared unfit because they are not valid witnesses (Mishnah Niddah 6:4). The status of women in Judaism is reflected in the Hebrew Bible. In traditional Rabbinic Judaism, Jewish affiliation is passed down through the mother, although the father’s name is used to describe sons and daughters in the Torah.“
STATUS OF WOMEN IN CHRISTIANITY presents the creation of a woman according to Bible; “God spent six days creating Earth and on the seventh day, he rested. His final creation on the sixth day was a man whom he named Adam. Adam was made from the dust of the ground and God’s own breath. God gave Adam control over all the plants and animals and gave him specific instructions to not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. He said, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, for when you eat from it, you will certainly die.” (Genesis 2:17) While Adam was living in paradise in the Garden of Eden he was still lonely. God saw this and said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18) While Adam slept, God took one of his ribs and used it to create Eve. He presented her to Adam, who was pleased. He said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman’ for she was taken out of man.” (Genesis 2:23)”
Hatshepsut (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York).
Concluding with ROLE OF WOMEN IN QURAN/ISLAM, the author notes that “the story of Adam and Eve is told in the Qur’an. God announced to the angels that He was placing a new specie on earth. God created Adam, fashioning him from clay. He breathed the soul into Adam, taught him the names of all things, and created from the same soul his wife, Eve. God allowed them to dwell in Paradise with free will. God said to the angels, “Bow down to Adam” (They did so in a form of respect, not worship). Satan was present among the angels, though he was not one of them. He was of the jinn, a race of beings possessing free will that God created before Adam from a smokeless flame of fire. When God ordered the angels and those in their company to bow down to Adam, they all did so except Satan, who refused out of pride and arrogance, claiming to be better than Adam because he was created from fire, whereas Adam was created from clay. ”Indeed, Satan was the first racist as the author wrote.
According to The Qur’an Adam is created in heaven and the angels were commanded by God to prostrate themselves before him. Adam dwells in a paradisiacal Garden with his wife Ḥawwā. For the testimony of a woman in certain legal areas, according to the second chapter of the Quran, Al-Baqarah, verse 2:282 provides a basis for the rule that two women are the equivalent of one man in providing a witness testimony in financial situations. According to Imam Abu Hanifa their testimony can be accepted in the following matters: divorce, marriage, slave-emancipation and raju‘(restitution of conjugal rights). Imam Malik was of the opinion that: “There is only one sunna of bringing a witness in cases of divorce and freeing a slave.”
Before the advent of Islam the birth of baby girls was considered a great misfortune in Arabian world. They were mostly buried alive. Surah 81, verses 8-9, affirm that on that Day “…the girl-child that is buried alive is made to ask for which crime she had been slain”. However the barbaric custom was blocked by Islam.
I wonder why Speaking of women in history wouldn’t be complete without referring to women in Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egyptian women had a range of responsibilities in society as well as within the family. They worked in agriculture, in food processing and preparation, and wove garments for sale as well as for use at home. They sold goods at markets on the banks of the Nile. They could carry out their husband’s duties on his behalf. They performed as dancers and musicians for both entertainment and ritual purposes. Women could even work as professional mourners for funerals.
Women in ancient Egypt had the right to buy and inherit property. They could represent themselves in court and own businesses. A woman was free to leave her property to whoever she chose after she died, and she could even divorce her husband. Women were entitled to a 1/3 share of the marital property and kept control over what they owned before getting married.
While many positions of leadership were held by men, women could also wield great power. Some even rose to the highest offices in the land. Queens (i.e. a Pharaoh’s wife) played an important part in maintaining royal power. They were often identified with important goddesses like Hathor. If the Pharaoh came to the throne when he was very young, his mother or another royal woman could rule as regent until he came of age. This meant there were some periods (like the early New Kingdom) when queens were very influential.
Some women surpassed queenship to become Pharaohs themselves. One of the most famous of these ‘female kings’ is Hatshepsut, who lived in the 15th Century BCE. She led at least one military campaign, built some of Egypt’s most impressive monuments, and sent a trading mission to the mysterious land of Punt. Hatshepsut always referred to herself as a woman, but over time her images and statues started to show her in ‘male’ form. Perhaps the Egyptians saw the role of Pharaoh as inherently masculine, but that didn’t mean a woman couldn’t do it.
I hope that another edition of this comprehensive short history of women across 6000 years to include those remarkable feminine icons in ancient history.
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a renowned Egyptian poet, journalist, novelist, travelogue writer and translator. He is author of around three dozen books and Editor-in-Chief of Silk Road Literature Series.
Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, a renowned poet and writer from Chandigarh, India, shares his mystic poetry
Dr. Jernail S. Anand is a Chandigarh-based socialist campaigner, an ideologue who heads the International Academy of Ethics and authored 170 books. Winner of the international award Charter of Morava, his name is inscribed on Poets’ Rock in Serbia. A rare achievement for an Indian author, who was the only one to be honoured by the Serbian Writers Association after Rabindranath Tagore in 1926] Contact: anandjs55@yahoo.com
Renowned Moroccan poet and writer Mohamed Ellaghafi says ‘Writing is an intrinsic part of humanity.’
Interviewed by: Hassane Yarti
Mohamed Ellaghafi is the founder and current president of the Moroccan Creators University, as well as the founder of the National Poetry Award in Morocco. Over his career, he has published more than fifteen books, including poetry collections and short stories. His work has graced significant national and Arab poetry forums, solidifying his reputation as one of the pioneers of modern poetry in Morocco. His literary journey began in the early 1980s when he founded the “Five Senses” poetry movement, an artistic endeavor that aligned with the trajectory of modernity in Moroccan literature.
Ellaghafi’s works have transcended borders, being translated into several languages, including English, French, Persian, German, Albanian, Italian, and Korean.
H. Yarti: First of all, how does Mohamed Ellaghafi introduce himself to the reader?
Mohamed E: I am a human being striving to affirm my humanity through writing and serving the universe in a humane way. My journey in cultural struggle has spanned over forty years, and in all this time, my focus has always been on exploring and expressing the depths of human experience. Writing is my way of communicating with the world, and it’s through this medium that I seek to make my humble contribution to the betterment of our collective existence.
H. Yarti: As both a writer and a human being, do you see any distinction between the two roles?
Mohamed. E: For me, there is no distinction between being a writer and being a human. Writing is an intrinsic part of my humanity. The opposite of this is the ignorance that some people have toward life and its true essence. To write is to live, to feel, to understand, and to express. It is an extension of being human. Therefore, to separate the two would be to misunderstand the fundamental nature of what it means to be alive.
H. Yarti: Can you tell us about your very first text? What sparked the inspiration that has carried you to this day?
Mohamed. E: first text was an incomplete love letter. I wrote it with the intent of sending it to a girl who captivated my thoughts, but in the end, I never sent it. I wasn’t satisfied with my style back then, so I kept refining my words. This process of writing and rewriting evolved into personal reflections and later into structured classical texts. It was in 1984 that I founded the “Five Senses Club” for poetic creativity, marking the formal beginning of my literary journey.
H. Yarti: Do you consider your audience when you write? What type of reader do you envision following your work?
Mohamed. E: be honest, I never think about the reader when I write, and I still don’t concern myself with this notion. My writing is deeply personal; it’s a reflection of my inner world, my daily life, and my psychological states. Interestingly, even though I write for myself, it often resonates with others as if I am expressing their own thoughts and feelings. This connection is unintentional but perhaps inevitable when one writes authentically.
H. Yarti: How do you approach language in your poetry? How do you master it to lead it directly toward the poem?
Mohamed. E: Rhe early stages of my career, I believed that writing came to me naturally, as if the poet had special rituals and a unique kind of madness. This was during the years of rebellion and ideological writing. However, my perspective has since evolved. Now, I see writing as an integral part of my being. It’s not something that I summon or control; rather, it’s a mutual process where I write and am written by the language. There’s no need for ritual or madness – writing is as natural as any daily instinct.
H. Yarti: Has literary criticism been fair to your work?
Mohamed. E: Believe the first person to write about my work was the great philosopher and poet, Dr. Mohamed Aziz Lahbabi, in the early 1990s. His article appeared in Al-Alam newspaper, and his recognition of my work was deeply meaningful. Since then, many other prominent voices have discussed my literary journey, and I am proud of this recognition. However, I have never sought validation or flattered anyone for praise. The attention my work has received has always come as a surprise, which, in my view, is a form of genuine recognition without any pretense.
H. Yarti: How do you assess the current Moroccan literary scene?
Mohamed. E: Compare the Moroccan literary scene to the broader Arab and Western landscapes. There are creators who work with deep awareness and meticulous study, laying the foundation for a literary project that deserves attention and praise. These individuals are contributing significantly to our cultural heritage. On the other hand, there are those who have been influenced only by what they see on social media. These individuals often write without depth, believing in the superficial validation of random comments and likes. It’s a mixed scene, but there is certainly a core of serious, dedicated writers who are making important contributions.
H. Yarti: Can you share any details about your upcoming literary projects?
Mohamed. E: We have several projects in the pipeline, which we will announce soon. These include my personal creative works and also some global associative initiatives that I believe will surprise and invigorate the cultural scene. These projects are still under development, but I’m confident that they will make a significant impact when they are unveiled.
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Hassane Yarti
Hassane Yarti is a poet, writer, translator and the editor of Barcelona Literary Magazine.
Received from Angela Kosta Executive Director of MIRIADE Magazine, Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator, promoter
Artist Francesca Sgambato paints on various supports, models ceramics and always experiments with new techniques
By Angela Kosta
Francesca Sgambato aka Liber art was born in Stuttgart on November 23, 1967. She has loved art since she was a child, so much so that it has become an integral part of her life. In ’90 she began to redeem herself by pursuing her dreams, and studied to obtain the qualification of art master from the Caravaggio Institute of San Gennaro Vesuviano, gradually perfecting various decorative techniques with great professionals. In 2016 she opened a fine art and stationery shop that gave her the name of Liber art and from here her stage name began.
There are many people who visit the store. Francesca collaborates with the teachers of various schools and with some, participating as an external expert. She followed a long training course of an American technique called One Stroke which later led her to be a certified teacher with an American and Italian patent. Over the years she has also become a demonstrator and teacher of a three-dimensional technique in Campania called “Sospeso Trasparente – Transparent Suspended” where she was contacted to make this technique known at various fairs in the creative sector between Naples, Rome and Vicenza.
In 2012 she interrupted the activity to devote herself more to herself, to her family and to her beloved art, the updates and in-depth studies of many other techniques continue with great professionals in the sector. She paints on various supports, models ceramics and always experiments with new techniques because only in this way do they stimulate her to give the best of herself.
Sharing and comparison are important for professional growth
With her art she enters the heart of the quadrilles, painting many costumes of the Palmese Carnival, enhancing the desire of the protagonists. In 2019 she became part of a large art therapy project with cancer patients organized by the “Underforty” Association of Naples, in collaboration with Massimiliano D’Aiuto, medical oncologist at the Pascale in Naples and other doctors at the Sapienza University in Rome.
She has a great synergy with many artists because according to her “sharing and comparison are important for her professional growth.” She began to participate in various art collectives; she was awarded various awards of honor and merit. She won second place more than once in various national competitions. She participates in various entertainment events, making the various facets of art known each time. She also began studying to deepen the technique of bodypaenting and bellypaenting. She joined the cultural association of her town as an artist member and engaged in social work with them, painting murals and benches.
In 2019 she became part of a large art therapy project with cancer patients
Francesca participated in the Manto Vital event held in the Royal Gardens of St. Mark’s Square in Venice. She transmits the love for art to children of all ages with creative workshops, spurs them to always give their best, helping them to have more and more self-esteem so as to make them participate in one of their exhibitions for the first time. She has big plans for the future that he hopes to realize in the years to come.
Angela Kosta is the Executive Director of MIRIADE Magazine, Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator, and promoter
Traveler Mohamed Al-Makhzangi pours out his life in lines spread across the paths he took, the cities he inhabited, the ports he crossed, the stations he stopped at
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid
The traveler pours out his life in lines spread across the paths he took, the cities he inhabited, the ports he crossed, the stations he stopped at, and most importantly: the people he met, who in turn represent added lives. And our traveler I got to know him at the beginning through literary creativity as a talented storyteller, with his own language, eloquent and scientific at the same time, and his wise philosophy, but I see that his achievement in travel literature has benefited from his experience in literature and science together to create for us a unique heritage of his own.
Our traveler, Mohamed Al-Makhzangi, was a young man in his thirties when he received a scholarship to study medicine in the Soviet Union (formerly), but his physical and psychological energy was still full of the spirit of the boy he was in his city of Mansoura in the Nile Delta, Egypt. He did not miss an opportunity to travel around that vast country, from Eastern Europe to the Western Pacific Ocean.
Mohamed Al-Makhzangi, was a young man in his thirties when he received a scholarship to study medicine in the former Soviet Union
However, these were repressed trips that almost killed the joy of adventure due to the atmosphere of a society governed by heavy bureaucracy and a police nature. These were trips that left their fragments in memory, because the most important trip in his early biography was on board a white passenger ship called “Bashkir”, which carried him within a month to most of the ports of the Mediterranean.
Traveler in Bosnia with Harith Silajdzic, a Bosnian politician and academic who is fluent in Arabic and the former president of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
With a hundred dollars (as a graduate student), he was able to stay in that luxurious floating hotel between Varna, Piraeus, Istanbul, Naples, Malaga, Marseille, Tangier, Algiers, Tunis, Alexandria, Larnaca, and Latakia.
Al-Makhzangi writes: “Here I learned about my temptation and the focus of my passion in this world, which manifested itself recklessly when I joined the editorial staff of Al-Arabi magazine, and my joining resulted in these journeys that this book includes.”
The book that Mohamed Al-Makhzangi refers to has a main title (South and East) and a sub-title (Travels and Visions). It comes in almost 500 pages, with selected pictures (in black and white). Its pages are distributed among 28 chapters, with inspiring titles such as “Namibia – Africa’s Forgotten Jewel”, “South Africa – What’s Going on in the Head of the Storms?”, “Morocco – The Embrace of Land and Sea”, “Zimbabwe – Where the Rainbow Never Disappears”, “Gori – The Colorful Rock of Groaning!” And so the titles go on as if they were titles of novels or poetry collections.
Apart from the economy and rhetorical abbreviation in the titles, the traveler mostly takes us on a journey that swings us between two worlds
The craft of cultural journalism has bestowed on the pen the blessing of suspense, just as the short story has bestowed on the traveler the value of abbreviation, so that the economical words are transformed into explanatory and revealing titles, exciting to read and expressive of the writer’s innermost feelings and the content of the writing.
In Nepal
Apart from the economy and rhetorical abbreviation in the titles, the traveler mostly takes us on a journey that swings us between two worlds, different, compatible or contradictory: “The spaciousness of the place… the ports of time”, the gift of rain, the sorrow of people”, “the feat of people and stone”, “All this beauty, all this violence”, “A port searching for a port”, the enchantress of the ocean… threatened by the two suspenseful advertisements of an adventure film, pushing the reader’s panoramic view to anticipate the texts, anticipate them, and hope for visual pleasure and spiritual enjoyment, piling up in one giant paragraph the features of the secret of exploration or the journey, without revealing them; this is the role of texts.
“Transparent bays for hordes of flamingos, and wilderness for flocks of free gazelles, deserts from which tropical palm oases emerge, and forests with red soil that touches the clouds, cities that preserve the architecture of the nineteenth century European, and sidewalks teeming with sculptures of ivory and African ebony, a black government with ministers Eggs, a democratic model that respects diversity, a deep-rooted heritage of racial oppression, and a good tendency to transcend the past towards a present that does not know discrimination, a newborn university that speaks the language of the age, and students who have not forgotten their African roots. These are some of the faces of Namibia that resemble a jewel in which a hundred surfaces and surfaces shine, but it is a forgotten jewel of a forgotten continent, forgotten by us who are accustomed to our seasons of migration being towards the north and the abysses of our hearts towards the north, while the friendly south abounds with a thousand joys and delights for the sight and insights, and a thousand of warm shy calls. And the Arab answered the call, despite the low voice and the shyness of the caller.”
Mohamed Al-Makhzangi in the heart of Cappadocia, with its conical components, some call them conical chimneys, obelisks, or cones, but the Arab traveler finds a broad Arabic name for himself, but it suggests the essence of these eternal formations, in general terms “monuments”
In his travels, Mohamed Al-Makhzangi always summons investigative sense that links the past to the present, interrogates history with geography, and explains the relationship between the popular and the imperial, as in his trip inside the Chinese capital:
“We had an appointment with Chinese food at the “Listen to the Whistle” restaurant in the heart of the “Summer Palace”. It was as if we were preparing for the meal with introductions of the old and new Chinese creativity to taste the philosophy of this food with its delicious taste and the elegance of its presentation and consumption. On the way, we saw the peasant houses in the villages located on the outskirts of Beijing, small and modest, as if to highlight the majesty of the walls of the nearby palace. When we turned to enter the palace from its northern gate, my attention was drawn to vast square and rectangular spaces covered with water. I realized that these water spaces were what caught my attention and raised my questions as we flew before landing in Beijing. At the time, I thought that they were rice fields covered with water in the seedling stage, but it was not the time for “rice seedlings”. I ruled out that they were swimming pools or water storage tanks, of course, due to their striking abundance, which is an atmospheric feature that I had not seen the likes of in any country whose skies we had flown before. Our companion, Guang, explained: These are fish ponds. Beijing, far from the sea and deprived of natural rivers, has compensated for itself by digging several artificial rivers lining the banks on the outskirts of the city, and has created giant fish ponds that are almost complete lakes. In order for fishing enthusiasts to practice what they want, they are allowed to fish from these ponds in return for a certain fee that they pay. This Chinese, popular, modern solution finds its objective, ancient, imperial equivalent dating back to the eighteenth century in the “Summer Palace” through whose northern gate we passed.
In his travels, Mohamed Al-Makhzangi always summons investigative sense that links the past to the present, interrogates history with geography
The palace, which consists of a series of imperial buildings amidst gardens, extends over a huge lake called Lake Kunming, which was dug by a hundred thousand people, in addition to entire corps of imperial naval personnel.
Mohamed Al-Makhzangi on the banks of the Mekong in Laos
Interestingly, the buildings of this palace were rebuilt in 1888 by order of Empress Sissi, using what had been allocated in the imperial budget to build a modern navy. Sissi’s behavior is now described as foolish, but what remained of the “modern navy” compared to what remained of stunningly beautiful architecture, gardens that enriched the soul, and a lake that delighted the eyes and was sailed by colorful boats of lovers and children frolicking in other boats in the color of orange and twilight and in the shape of laughing dragons. It is true that the Empress, as a woman, went too far in splendor, as she built a marble ship called the “Stone Boat” at the edge of the lake and placed giant mirrors at the corners of the lake that filled the lake and the surroundings with brilliance. However, she did not neglect the throne room and the hall of longevity. The towers that were destroyed by the Anglo-French forces and restored, and the Buddhist Temple of the Sea of Wisdom. Perhaps the thing that the present will remain indebted to the past, to the obsession of the Empress, is that “long corridor” on the northern bank of the lake, as the colored wooden ceiling of this 700-meter-long marble corridor tells the colorful drawings on its ceiling all the fairy tales of China and the tales of the ancestors, and the adults still take the hands of the children, fathers and sons, or students and teachers, and you see them in the “long corridor” walking slowly with their faces towards the colored ceiling. They contemplate the drawings and listen to the stories they represent. Doesn’t Sissi’s extravagant folly deserve some gratitude? Yes. ”
However, the unique narrative sense of the short story writer never leaves the imagination, because our traveling writer establishes the scene of his journey by evoking a local character whom he gives the heroine of his journey, or his story or his short novel. This character will be the heroine of one or more scenes, moved by the writer as a great director moves his puppet on the stage of the place, so it says what he wants to say, and narrates what he wants to narrate, whether the character is a woman or a man, and whether the hero is a boy or an old man.
Anthem of Creativity and Simplicity
In the journey entitled “China – Anthem of Creativity and Simplicity”, our heroine is the singer “Ten Bi Chen”, the beautiful star who stopped singing professionally while she was at the peak of her youth and glory. Because she got married:
Mohamed Al-Makhzangi on the banks of the Mekong in Laos in the university department for foreign students at the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital in Beijing. A young man, at the beginning of the journey
“I was surprised by a reason like this that would prompt a singing star to retire. I learned that she “devoted herself to her home” but sometimes sings as a volunteer to collect donations for the afflicted, whether they were in China or abroad. Victims of an earthquake, flood or fire. I don’t know why I saw in that personal behavior, of that singer with a delicate face and voice, a consistency with Chinese spiritual and cultural data that seemed distant, in the philosophy of Taoism that the Chinese adopted as a religion since the sixth century BC until Emperor Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan, banned it, and it says that the being is purely subjective and whoever obeys it is emancipated towards the Tao (the path and the ultimate power), and in the beliefs of ancestor reverence that originated in the Bronze Age and the Chang era and are still valid in the folds of contemporary China – despite everything – and in it a woman – when she marries – reveres her husband’s grandfather. And in Buddhism – the dominant Chinese religion – which recommends asceticism and enlightenment, and in the moral code of Confucius that the “Cultural Revolution” fought and was unable to uproot, and he says among his commandments “If the house is built on a sound foundation, the world is safe and peaceful” and by that he meant respect for family hierarchy and family life. Thus, he takes from the biography of his heroine what he uses to establish social life in China, linking the present to history, and the material to the spiritual and philosophical.
Between the River and the Bay
In Poland, we meet another narrative hero, carefully chosen by the travel writer, namely “Sebastim… a handsome boy, about twelve, bold with delicacy and kindness, and surprisingly sweetly tame, whom we met on his bicycle while we were lost in the small winding streets of the new port district “Novi Port” in “Gdańsk”. We were looking for the ferry station that crosses the Motława River heading towards the Gdańsk Bay, meaning that spot on the other bank, between the river and the bay that opens onto the Baltic Sea. From Sebastim’s movement in the travel text, we will approach the objective equivalent of the traveler; because Sebastim, the handsome, tame, delicate Sebastim, was standing on his bicycle in the shade of one of the old, green-laden walls, and his simple, clear English was quite enough, saving me the trouble of talking to people in sign language and saving me from the squinting looks when I had to speak Russian, which many Poles understand and hate to speak. The boy described the way to the ferry station, and we had hardly gone far along the road that skirted the beach and was shaded by wild chestnut and poplar trees when we heard the ringing of little voices behind us: “Click tin tin. ”Click Tin Tin” Sebastim was following us, the colored beads (strung) in the spokes of his bicycle wheels, going up and down with the rotation of the wheels, making this cheerful little tune. The boy did not leave us, and continued to walk slowly with his bicycle next to us, going ahead of us to make sure that our path was correct from the sailors and fishermen on the beach that we walked parallel to, and he would return to reassure us of the correctness of our endeavor. We would talk to him and he would talk to us, and his talk was sweet and sometimes heart-wrenching: – “What is your father’s profession, Sebastim?” – “I have no father. He left my mother and went away when I was very young. My mother raises me and my sister, and she works as a computer programmer.”
There was no dejection or melancholy in his talk. But I noticed a small nervous twitch in his beautiful, pure face. He was studying at a language school and, surprisingly, he was heading towards specializing in cooking. He attended practical lessons in the restaurants of Gdansk and sometimes on board passenger ships anchored in the port. Sebastim did not leave us until the ferry came, and the funny thing was that he entrusted us to a friend he had met at the dock. The new boy explained the geography of the place to us, pointing to the shipyard on the eastern side where the solidarity movement had begun. He said proudly that his father had worked with Lech Walesa and that he knew him personally, having once come to their house for dinner. We bid farewell to little Sebastim with emotion and he kept waving to us as we walked away until he became a distant point… a point of pure life that had a small dream… to grow up and work as a cook on a ship sailing God’s vast and beautiful world. Now he would eagerly await the arrival of a message in his name from a distant land… from people he had met once in the river of life and who were heading towards the other shore searching for the spot from which the fire that was about to devour humanity and burn God’s good world had begun, more than half a century ago.
Mamado Al-Makhzangi!
Thus, by choosing a local character, the traveler will be able to take us from the particular to the general, and from the biography of his hero to the biography of the nation of the place as a whole, which was clearly evident in his journey to Senegal, and specifically to Goré, where he reveals the secret in this diagnostic treatment:
The Young Traveler
“Allow me to divide before you into two, for I have undertaken this journey emotionally as two persons, so that I may dive – even a little – into its forgotten and painful depths. The first person is who I am, with my usual name as an explorer. The second person is a black Negro, whom I called – after a slight distortion of my name – (Mamado), perhaps to enhance my embodiment of a black African entity – a color as beautiful as the night – who comes from three centuries away to accompany me in this exploration with his story, a journey that calls for another, a time that sinks into a distant time, a present that opens up to a past, and a past that I think opens up to some of the mysteries of our days, and our future as well. I promise you one thing, which is to be precise, so I do not allow Mamado’s story to be except by drawing from documented historical facts that I summon in a manner that is almost literal, so that I may hear you this groan. And I break the rule and specify my most important sources for the story of Mamado in the text, not the footnotes. They are (Black African World) by Joseph Ki-Zerbo, translated by Youssef Shalab Al-Sham, (Slavery) by Maurice Langley translated by Elias Marqus, and (Goury) by Jean Claude Blanchard in English.
By choosing a local character, the traveler will be able to take us from the particular to the general, and from the biography of his hero to the biography of the nation of the place as a whole
Thus, what was a sign in many surveys to summon a hero and investigate facts, became a landmark, especially as we tell a painful story about Goré (Goury in English) about the suffering of slaves who would be shipped across the Atlantic after being stamped with hot iron seals bearing the logos of the merchant owners:
“The screams were rising, slaughtered and muffled, while the burning skin smoked under the glow of the seals on the chests, buttocks, breasts and arms. Carrying until death marks that would not disappear except in the graves of the distant black diaspora in the American continent behind the waves and storms of the sea of darkness.”
Two Trips to the Emirates
In this travelogue, we conclude with two trips to the United Arab Emirates, the first entitled “Sir Bani Yas… The Island of Wisdom”, and the second entitled “Flying in a Green Horizon”.
Al-Makhzangi writes in the summary of his trip to the Island of Wisdom:
“Caring for the environment is not a (romantic) infatuation for some, but rather it is saving, investment, and a kind of wise future intuition that we should stop at, and indeed all those interested in environmental affairs in the world should stop at, for the experience is worthy of this level of attention, as it offers tangible hope to ward off the horror of desertification that frightens humanity that never stops multiplying. For this reason, I suggest that the island be a global station for environmental studies, where a center for environmental creativity is established, whether this creativity is science or art, that gives the worthy the opportunity to devote themselves to creativity in the embrace of this island, and presents a prize for environmental creativity in literature and art, a branch that seems to be nascent on the global level, and seems almost nonexistent on the level of Arab creativity. … I was filled with emotion as I left the island, and as our flying boat drifted away over the waves of the Gulf, the island sank into the depths of the horizon, appearing like a dreamy specter, or rather like a distant dream, a dream that contains much wisdom for those who contemplate its aspects. For he who learns to be kind to plants, gentle to animals, and compassionate to birds, must be kind, gentle, and compassionate to man and the land on which man walks, and then to his society. This is how I understand the feat of “Sir Bani Yas”… a feat that deserves a grand prize from the World Peace Prizes. Peace is no longer just peace between humans and humans, but it is essentially a necessary axiom between humans and the earth.”
Thus, Mohamed Al-Makhzangi’s journeys go south and east, forward-looking, founded on optimism in the power of science and humanity, and rationality fueled by reading history. We always find his letters between sound and echo, in eloquent dualities that call for contemplation, reflection and action, and the pursuit of similar journeys to discover more, for man does not only discover places, but he rediscovers himself, and the path is made by walking.
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a renowned Egyptian poet, journalist, novelist, travelogue writer and translator. He is author of around three dozen books and Editor-in-Chief of Silk Road Literature Series.
The national teams of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan have been competing against each other since the start of international tournaments, and heated disputes often occur, both on and off the field
Astana
The Kyrgyz national team in kok-boru, the traditional horse game, defeated Kazakhstan 10-4 and won the gold medal at the fifth World Nomad Games in Astana.
The match consisted of three periods, and the Kyrgyz riders didn’t allow their opponents to win a single one.
The score in the first period was 5-1, and the second ended at 8-3. Beksultan Abdykalyil uulu threw the goat into the kazan in the final seconds for the ninth point, but it wasn’t counted.
The game ended with a score of 10-4. The only goal in the last period was given to the Kazakh team without resistance towards the end.
Earlier, the Kyrgyz team lost 5-4 in extra time in the final of the Kazakh “Kokpar” competition. A scandal erupted as the Kyrgyz coaching staff accused the referees of biased judgment and filed a protest. The athletes demonstratively removed their silver medals and left the podium.
The national teams of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan have been competing against each other since the start of international tournaments, and heated disputes often occur, both on and off the field. However, most of the time, the Kyrgyz team emerges as the stronger side in these matches.
More than 2,000 athletes from 89 countries across all continents are participating in the World Nomad Games which stated earlier this week.
National Database and Registration Authority will launch special drive from September 16 to 20 to register brick kiln workers in Umerkot and other districts in lower Sindh
The research has revealed the precarious situation of brick kiln workers in Sindh
90 per cent of brick kiln workers are forced to take loans (Peshghi) just to meet their basic needs, which is trapping them in a vicious cycle of debt bondage
There are estimates that 10 per cent of the world’s total bonded labor prevails in Pakistan
Karachi, Sindh
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will launch a special campaign from September 16th to 20th to register brick kiln workers in Umerkot and other districts in lower Sindh.
This initiative aims to ensure that these workers, many of whom remain unregistered, can obtain their national identity cards and gain access to fundamental rights and social protection benefits.
This was stated by Iqbal Detho, Chairman of the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), during a consultation on bonded labor and kiln worker rights in Sindh. The event, held at a local hotel, was jointly organized by the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC), SHRC and Aga Khan University.
File Photo
“Registration with NADRA is a crucial first step towards ensuring that brick kiln workers and their families can access essential services and benefits, including social security, healthcare, and education,” stated Detho. He emphasized that a lack of official documentation often leaves these vulnerable workers susceptible to exploitation and denies them their fundamental rights as citizens.
Discussions at the consultation centered on the Sindh Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act-2015, its implementation challenges, and the need for stronger mechanisms to rehabilitate bonded laborers. The practice of “Peshgi,” a system of debt bondage prevalent in the brick kiln industry, was identified as a critical area requiring further scrutiny and legislative action.
Detho revealed that the SHRC is compiling detailed recommendations to address the issue of bonded labor, including strengthening the implementation of existing laws, improving access to legal aid for workers, and raising awareness about worker rights among both employers and laborers. He also mentioned the Labor Department’s ongoing efforts to introduce a law specifically addressing domestic child labor, signaling a positive step towards protecting vulnerable children.
Dr. Zafar Fatimia, the lead researcher of the AKU study on bonded labor in Sindh, said the research has revealed the precarious situation of brick kiln workers in Sindh, highlighting their extreme vulnerability to exploitation, debt bondage, and health hazards. The study, which also focused on the impact of the 2022 floods on these workers, underscores the urgent need for greater regulation and support within the industry.
“Our research found that 90 per cent of brick kiln workers are forced to take loans (Peshghi) just to meet their basic needs, which is trapping them in a vicious cycle of debt bondage,” stated Dr. Zafar Fatimia. He said “The devastating floods of 2022 exacerbated their plight, as work was suspended for months, further crippling their already meagre incomes.”
The study revealed that the brick kiln sector in Sindh remains largely unregulated, with work primarily carried out manually under harsh conditions. Workers, largely belonging to landless minority communities, often reside on-site in inadequate housing with poor sanitation and limited access to essential services like healthcare and education.
Lack of literacy and accounting skills makes workers vulnerable to exploitation through wage manipulation and unfair deductions by employers, he said adding that Residing in cramped, unsanitary conditions on-site exposes workers and their families to communicable diseases. Exposure to extreme heat, dust, and risk of injuries further jeopardizes their health.
Miandad Rahoojo, SESSI Commissioner, emphasized the need for improved law enforcement and highlighted the Islamic perspective that firmly condemns bonded labor. He called for practical measures to protect laborers, including formal work agreements, minimum wage standards, and improved access to government support programs like SESSI Card, Benazir Mazdoor Car and the Benazir Income Support Program.
Faisal Iqbal from the ILO pledged support for the Sindh Labor Department, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data collection on forced labor. He said even though no official data about bonded labor in Pakistan, there are estimates that 10 per cent of the world’s total bonded labor prevails in Pakistan, which is a significant number.
Ms. Tehseen Fatima, Secretary of the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh highlighted the measures being taken by her department to protect of workers’ rights in Sindh. She said the SPARC holds a vast amount of valuable data that can be shared with the department. By adopting a multi-sectoral approach, the Human Rights Department can utilize this data to work more efficiently and create strategies to tackle key issues. She also mentioned ongoing discussions regarding labor courts.
File Photo
SPARC’s Executive Director, Asiya Arif, highlighted that the consultation’s main objective would be to take stock of the current situation concerning bonded laborers and brick kiln workers, and from there, determine the most effective ways to support them.
Zahid Thebo, SPARC’s Provincial Manager, underscored the consultation’s focus on pinpointing critical gaps hindering the effective implementation of the Sindh Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act 2015. He emphasized that a key priority was to develop practical solutions to address the complex challenges associated with rehabilitating bonded laborers, enabling them to rebuild their lives and access their fundamental rights.
Nasir Mansor, Secretary General of the National Trade Union Federation (NTUF) deplored that there is a lack of implementation of labor laws, due to which the workers suffer a lot. He said there is no implementation of Minimum Wages law and most of industries and commercial establishments are not implementing the minimum wages.
Other participants, stressed the importance of empowering local vigilance committees to effectively address bonded labor at the grassroots level. (PR)
Egyptian poet Sahar Anwar’s romantic prayers; which oscillate between expressing oneself and addressing others, in honesty, and with linguistically beautiful expressions
By Ashraf Aboul-Yazid
In a text titled ‘The Journey of the Final Resting Place’, from her poetry book ‘Without a Trace but Me’, the Egyptian poet Sahar Anwar writes:
“There is nothing new under the sun, my friend / Nothing but imperfection / No love, no hate./ Resentment is still in the wind of sadness; / It does not care about the withering of tears / Torment is a tent of the illusion of healing / Or at least a thirst from loss./ Patience is still rewarded / It quenches its thirst from our obedience / For a life whose refuge is illusion / Its mirage is a measure of the evil of toil. / Its joy is infatuated with a sadness whose taste has not changed / It ignites in our eyes / The journey of the final resting place.”
Poetry book ‘Without a Trace but me’ by Egyptian poetess Sahar Anwar
This text is only an example of what I have considered as a poetic prayer, where confession, internal dialogue, and supplication are qualities that these poetic prayers combine and the writer spreads them in sixty prayers distributed over more than a hundred pages.
These romantic prayers; which oscillate between expressing oneself and addressing others, in honesty, and with linguistically beautiful expressions, do not hide the surging emotion and sincere feeling.
The poems in the collection are full and overflowing the poetess Sahar Anwar, with mirrors of images, and with more imagination, you can follow the traces of traditional classical readings
Perhaps the precision of linguistic expression is the daughter of the research aspect represented by Sahar Anwar, as she is the author of a work far from the world of poetry, her book Women in the Business World – Between Financing and Empowerment, in which she spoke about entrepreneurship as one of the factors influencing sustainable development indicators, which countries seek to provide the appropriate climate for in order to achieve the desired goals through financing and empowerment, so that the poet’s first collection of poems comes, as if it were the other face, indicating linguistic maturity, waiting to explode into poetry that does not lack music.
The sand on the cover may be a reference to a beach that we will walk on, leaving traces of our steps that will be erased by the waters after a while when the sea rages, or perhaps the sand refers to the poet’s name derived from the desert, in Arabic, and in both cases, there is no trace of any woman other than her, or of any person other than the poetess…
The poetess addresses her readers weekly in articles in the magazine ‘Nosul Donia’, and this weekly address contributed to the poetess reaching a clear language that attracts many readers, this blogging exercise supports the writer’s approach to also elevate the language of her weekly columns, as if they were an extension of her poetic prayers as well…
“In the House of My Soul
The days have slipped through my fingers
Every night fear guards my door
The cactus tree extends its hand to me
Embracing my ribs
At the table of the past”
Women in the Business World – Between Financing and Empowerment
The poems in the collection are full and overflowing the poetess Sahar Anwar, with mirrors of images, and with more imagination, you can follow the traces of traditional classical readings. Doesn’t the poem (How can a dead person feel the fire?) connect with a question: Does it harm the sheep to be skinned after slaughtering it? And look at the surreal image when she writes:
“I released my naked clothes
Empty wine bottles devour me”
As if the clothes were lined up like bottles, a comparison in which you can find wine equivalent to the woman’s body, and to the naked clothes, with the transparent glass that you see what is underneath, and she, as she says in another poetic prayer, “A woman melted into a woman”, and in her prayer she always turns to the sky:
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a renowned Egyptian poet, journalist, novelist, travelogue writer and translator. He is author of around three dozen books and Editor-in-Chief of Silk Road Literature Series.
Classroom discussion is not just about conveying information but also about fostering reflection.
Teachers play a crucial role in helping students articulate their values, develop habits of inquiry, and refine problem-solving skills.
By Nisar Banbhan and Awesaar Sehaj Banbhan
Classroom discussion lies at the heart of the teaching and learning process, acting as a fundamental vehicle for exchanging ideas, observations, and experiences. It is not merely a goal in itself, but a means to a deeper end—facilitating the achievement of educational objectives and enhancing the efficacy of any instructional activity. In today’s world, where education is rapidly evolving, discussions take on new importance. Teachers, as facilitators of this process, must adeptly navigate the terrain of language, timing, and interpersonal engagement to ensure meaningful exchanges.
Image courtesy: Quick Campus
The Evolving Role of Communication in the Classroom
Educators are engaged in a dynamic, non-interpersonal process of interacting with students, constantly exchanging ideas, information, and feedback, both verbally and in writing. The success of this exchange hinges on the thoughtful use of language. Each individual interprets words through their own frame of reference, shaped by personal experiences and cultural contexts. This is especially true in diverse, modern classrooms where students come from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Consequently, the same phrase may evoke varied reactions depending on the listener, making it essential for the teacher to communicate with clarity and precision.
Effective communication is more than just expression; it is also a tool of influence
Equally crucial is the timing of discussion. There are moments when dialogue is essential—moments when withholding or delaying communication can be strategic, especially in resolving conflicts or facilitating deeper reflection. Effective communication is more than just expression; it is also a tool of influence. The teacher’s ability to gauge the room, adjust their language, and seek feedback from students is what makes the classroom a space for growth and development.
One of the most significant factors that enhance classroom discussions today is emotional intelligence. Modern education increasingly emphasizes the teacher’s role in understanding the emotional landscape of their students. In moments of discussion, teachers must navigate a variety of emotional cues—fear, excitement, anxiety, curiosity—and respond in ways that encourage openness and trust. This emotional attunement helps build a classroom culture where students feel safe to share their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment or dismissal.
Modern education increasingly emphasizes the teacher’s role in understanding the emotional landscape of their students
Understanding and addressing the emotional states of students can help foster deeper engagement. For example, a student who feels overwhelmed may not participate fully in a discussion unless their emotional needs are acknowledged. Teachers should use empathy, reading body language, and facial expressions to interpret these cues and adjust their communication accordingly.
Image courtesy: Chronicle of Higher Education
Modern Tools for Classroom Discussions
With the rise of digital tools, the landscape of classroom discussions is evolving. Platforms like interactive apps, online forums, and virtual classrooms provide new ways to foster discussions and keep students engaged beyond traditional settings. These tools can be used to support peer collaboration, enable quieter students to participate more fully, and promote diverse perspectives within the classroom. Integrating technology into classroom discussions requires a balance, however. While online platforms can enhance collaboration, teachers must remain mindful of maintaining the personal, face-to-face engagement that deepens student-teacher relationships and encourages critical thinking.
A teacher’s language must be comprehensible and accessible to students. Using unnecessarily complex language can alienate learners, especially those from different cultural or linguistic backgrounds. Instead of saying, “You must do this because it’s your responsibility,” teachers should aim to connect ideas through analogies, comparisons, or relatable examples. Brief, clear, and concise communication, along with emphasis on key ideas, is more effective in engaging students. Repetition and reinforcement are commendable teaching strategies, provided they contribute to students’ understanding. However, if a teacher’s language is met with silence or disengagement, it is often a sign that the lesson has not resonated. The Role of Questions in Learning: Questions form the bedrock of meaningful classroom discussions. An effective teacher cultivates a relationship of mutual respect and cooperation with students, creating an environment where questions can flourish.
An effective teacher cultivates a relationship of mutual respect and cooperation with students, creating an environment where questions can flourish.
Questions encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. The right questions, aligned with the lesson’s goals, deepen student engagement and foster a culture of inquiry. Allowing time for students to reflect on and respond to questions is vital. Open-ended questions, in particular, encourage deeper thinking and allow students to explore multiple perspectives. Teachers should also be flexible, acknowledging and preserving students’ responses to foster a sense of value and mutual respect.
Much of what is communicated in the classroom occurs outside of spoken words. Body language, facial expressions, and tone all play critical roles in how students perceive and respond to discussions. A simple smile or nod can motivate students to participate, while negative expressions can inadvertently suppress engagement. Teachers should be attuned to their students’ non-verbal cues and use subtle gestures—eye contact, a pat on the back, or a raised eyebrow—to manage the classroom effectively. Physical gestures, when used purposefully, can reinforce key messages. Pointing to the board, tapping a desk for emphasis, or moving around the room can all serve as powerful tools for maintaining attention. However, overuse of such gestures can detract from the lesson, making it important to strike a balance.
Group discussion- Courtesy: LinkedIn
Building a Reflective Classroom Environment
Ultimately, classroom discussion is not just about conveying information but also about fostering reflection. Teachers play a crucial role in helping students articulate their values, develop habits of inquiry, and refine problem-solving skills. To do so effectively, educators must create a classroom environment that encourages self-expression, critical thinking, and empathy. The role of the teacher is also to act as a guide in helping students understand themselves and their learning processes. By asking thoughtful questions and facilitating open-ended discussions, teachers guide students toward a deeper understanding of their values, beliefs, and intellectual capacities. Classroom discussion, when thoughtfully conducted, is a powerful tool for engaging students and deepening the learning experience. Through skillful use of language, emotional intelligence, questioning techniques, and non-verbal cues, teachers can foster a vibrant, responsive classroom environment. In doing so, they help students become not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their learning journey—equipped with the skills to inquire, reflect, and grow.
Nisar Banbhan is a seasoned professional with nearly 24 years of diverse experience, including 3 years in journalism, 21 years in a public sector organization, and a longstanding career in writing and freelancing. He specializes in content creation, scriptwriting, screenwriting, lyricism, poetry, short stories, and the crafting of articles and columns in both Sindhi and Urdu.
Awesaar Sehaj Banbhan is an advocate with a passion for reading, writing, and storytelling. In his free time, he enjoys exploring thought-provoking films and documentaries, blending his love for learning with creative expression.
Bilal Memon highlighted the importance of monitoring operations in detecting denied cases and not available cases. With overall 94% coverage completed, he stressed the need to mobilize refusal cases in urban areas and urged stakeholders to work together with the districts administration to end the polio campaign successfully.
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a renowned Egyptian poet, journalist, novelist, travelogue writer and translator. He is author of around three dozen books and Editor-in-Chief of Silk Road Literature Series.
Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, a renowned poet and writer from Chandigarh, India, shares his mystic poetry
ANATOMY OF AN EMOTION
THE INDIFFERENT MASS 
There are many people who visit the store. Francesca collaborates with the teachers of various schools and with some, participating as an external expert. She followed a long training course of an American technique called One Stroke which later led her to be a certified teacher with an American and Italian patent. Over the years she has also become a demonstrator and teacher of a three-dimensional technique in Campania called “Sospeso Trasparente – Transparent Suspended” where she was contacted to make this technique known at various fairs in the creative sector between Naples, Rome and Vicenza.
In 2012 she interrupted the activity to devote herself more to herself, to her family and to her beloved art, the updates and in-depth studies of many other techniques continue with great professionals in the sector. She paints on various supports, models ceramics and always experiments with new techniques because only in this way do they stimulate her to give the best of herself.
She has a great synergy with many artists because according to her “sharing and comparison are important for her professional growth.” She began to participate in various art collectives; she was awarded various awards of honor and merit. She won second place more than once in various national competitions. She participates in various entertainment events, making the various facets of art known each time. She also began studying to deepen the technique of bodypaenting and bellypaenting. She joined the cultural association of her town as an artist member and engaged in social work with them, painting murals and benches.
Francesca participated in the Manto Vital event held in the Royal Gardens of St. Mark’s Square in Venice. She transmits the love for art to children of all ages with creative workshops, spurs them to always give their best, helping them to have more and more self-esteem so as to make them participate in one of their exhibitions for the first time. She has big plans for the future that he hopes to realize in the years to come.
Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is a renowned Egyptian poet, journalist, novelist, travelogue writer and translator. He is author of around three dozen books and Editor-in-Chief of Silk Road Literature Series. 
