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Global Times: Dam benefits communities in Xinjiang, paving way for a secure ecological future for region

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BEIJING, Oct. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In the past, the Yarkand River in Xinjiang would flood annually during the rainy season, causing destruction to infrastructure, submerging farmland, and engulfing homes and villages. Bubishare, a Uygur resident who grew up in a village upstream of the river, still vividly recalls the cries of helplessness from those affected by the devastating floods before the construction of the Aratax water conservation project. Thanks to the project, these nightmares are now a thing of the past for local residents.

Located in the Karakorum Mountain Valley, the Aratax water conservation project, known as the “Xinjiang’s Three Gorges” project for its grandeur and construction challenges, was constructed to control the Yarkant River. The 1,289-km-long Yarkant River in the Tarim Basin is Xinjiang’s most flood-prone river, and the towering dam can withstand the turbulent floodwaters in a reservoir with a storage capacity of 2.2 billion cubic meters. 

Today, this dam is gushing with clean water sources, stable power, and also gushing with hope for the minority groups on the desert.

In August 2023, President Xi Jinping urged firmly grasping the strategic positioning of Xinjiang in the overall national situation and better building a beautiful Xinjiang in the process of pursuing Chinese modernization, the Xinhua News Agency reported. 

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, demanded thorough, meticulous, concrete and sustained efforts to develop a beautiful Xinjiang that is united, harmonious, prosperous, and culturally advanced, with healthy ecosystems and people living and working in contentment, in the process of pursuing Chinese modernization.

The building of a beautiful Xinjiang extends from a dam to a relocated ethnic minority community. The relocation of villagers to new homes with improved living conditions, as a result of the dam project, has brought green energy, green fields, and a green dream of prosperity to the villagers.

Path to build new hope

After a challenging 6-hour journey along the rugged Tasha Ancient Road, the Global Times reporter finally laid eyes on the Aratax dam nestled in the mountainside deep within the Karakorum Mountain. Without firsthand experience of this journey, it is difficult to fathom the obstacles encountered during the entire process of researching, designing, and constructing the dam – no roads on the ground, barren mountains devoid of trees, transportation primarily by feet, and communication mainly through shouting. Accidents like overturning were frequent due to the rugged environment.

The Xinhua Hydropower Generation Co, Ltd, a subsidiary of the China National Nuclear Corporation, began construction on the water conservation project in 2011, with a total investment of 10.98 billion yuan ($1.5 billion). The Aratax project has played a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and power generation. The river plain, with a population of 4 million and an irrigated area of over 6.5 million mu (433,333 hectares), is the largest irrigated area in Xinjiang and the fourth-largest in China, benefiting 2.4 million people in the region.

Zhang Yibo, a frontline employee at the developer, told the media, “Over a decade ago, this place was even more desolate and rarely visited, and our water conservancy experts achieved a remarkable feat here.” Confronted by the harsh natural surroundings, the builders traversed mountains, camped under the open sky, drank from rivers when thirsty, and rested in tents outdoor, with a firm passion for building a sustainable dam for locals.

From July 18 to August 17, 2021, the Aratax water conservancy project successfully connected four units to the grid in just one month, a rare accomplishment in the history of global hydropower development. This hydropower station significantly alleviated the power shortage in the four southern prefectures in Xinjiang. The project’s designed annual power generation is 21.86 billion kilowatt-hours, saving 883,100 tons of standard coal annually while reducing smoke and dust emissions by 175,300 tons, and enabling the residents of southern Xinjiang to access cleaner energy.

The dam’s incorporation of advanced technology, such as unmanned compaction technology using the Beidou satellite, improved digital visualization of the construction progress, and magnetic induction devices to assist in fish migration, have been notable features of its intelligent design. 

“Following the completion of this project, it has greatly supported our irrigation efforts. Economic crops like sea buckthorn and apples are now extensively cultivated in the desert, leading to significant improvements in both economic and ecological benefits,” Fan Kexing, Party secretary of Tong’an township, Kashi, Xinjiang, told the Global Times. “Previously, the area was plagued by strong winds and sandstorms, with sand and gravel striking house windows with a loud thud, but this phenomenon has now been alleviated,” Fan noted.

Path to enjoy better life

Over the last six years, the residents of the remote Karakorum Mountains in Xinjiang have experienced incredible changes. Having previously lived in the vast desert with only three mu of arable land per person a decade ago, they had to trek seven kilometers to the mountains for drinking water, which needed to be purified before consumption. Power outages lasting for days at a time were a common occurrence. However, these challenges are now a thing of the past. 

Today, the residents have an average annual income exceeding 10,000 yuan, live in beautifully decorated homes with their ethnicity characteristics, and enjoy access to closer schools, more job opportunities, and reliable water and electricity services. 

Thanks to the construction of the dam, in August 2018, 4,243 individuals from over 1,000 households in Kusilafu township, Aketao county were resettled in Tong’an township, over 100 kilometers away. This diverse community, made up of Uygurs, Kyrgyz, Tajiks, and other ethnic groups, have embraced their new beginning. 

Zhou Jingfang, an expert at the Xinhua Hydropower Generation Co who led the relocation work, still remembers the days of tirelessly conducting site surveys, clearing land, mobilizing villagers to relocate, planning and designing new sites, building resettlement houses, greening rural areas, reclaiming farmland, introducing livestock, and setting up factories, schools, clinics, and markets. 

He told the Global Times that the dedicated team members worked long hours in harsh conditions, and navigated countless checkpoints and roads in the vast desert and rugged mountains without complaint. Nowadays, the villagers are no longer facing the endless desert of despair as they did in the past.

When discussing stories of relocation, 25-year-old Bubishare said, “Our village now has schools, factories, and employment opportunities. The village has supported us to find more diverse ways to make a living.” 

“We have 20,000 acres of farmland, where we not only grow food but also operate cash crops cooperatives. This area is a seabuckthorn forest, and our village recently constructed a seabuckthorn fruit processing plant. Our seabuckthorn beer will soon hit the market. With ample water supply, we are confident in our farming endeavors.” Fan shared proudly while standing amid the seabuckthorn forest. 

In a local farmer’s backyard sheep pen, the Global Times reporter observed over 20 Dolan sheep, known as “living banks.” Zhou explained that by raising two Dolan sheep, a farmer can become prosperous within two years due to their high reproductive rate. In Tong’an, many villagers raise Dolan sheep in this manner and enjoy prosperity. 

Tong’an township has also collaborated with local businesses to establish factories, providing employment for local women to produce items made from Xinjiang cotton, such as down jackets and socks for overseas export, ensuring female workers earn at least 2,000-3,000 yuan per month. “The factory is conveniently located, allowing women to balance family responsibilities while earning an income,” Fan informed the Global Times. 

In one factory, a wall in the workshop reads, “Happiness is achieved through hard work.” These words have accurately described how local women in Xinjiang have embarked on the path to modernization through their own hands.

Along the Yarkand River, beyond the Karakorum Mountain, the villagers of Tong’an are employing their diligence and unwavering efforts to write their own happy stories in the desert. They have left behind isolation and poverty, embracing hope and prosperity within short years. In this vibrant land, a new life of perseverance and success is blossoming with vibrant hues.

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202408/1318454.shtml

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SOURCE Global Times

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OUC celebrates 100 years of excellence

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BEIJING, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from China Daily: On Oct. 25, Ocean University of China (OUC), located in Qingdao, Shandong Province, celebrated its centenary.

OUC, formerly named Private Qingdao University, was established in 1924, as the first modern institution of higher education founded by the Chinese in Shandong Province. Its name changed to OUC in 2002. Since its inception, the university has adhered to the aim of imparting profound knowledge and cultivating learned talent to meet the needs of the country. Over the years, it has evolved into a comprehensive institution, specializing in marine and aquaculture studies. 

OUC is included in China’s “Double World-Class” initiative, which aims to elevate a select group of Chinese universities and their programs to a world-class standard. With distinctive strengths in marine science and fisheries, it is taking the lead in the world in these two areas. According to the US News 2024, it is No. 1 globally in marine and freshwater biology, the Web of Science states that it is the world’s most cited university in the field of fisheries, while the ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023, lists it is No. 1 worldwide in oceanography.

OUC aims to become a world-class comprehensive ocean university by 2030 and to establish itself as a top-tier university in the world with its own distinctive strengths by the middle of this century.

OUC has set its sights on developing top-notch professionals for the country’s marine industry, with the goal of becoming a global hub for marine talent. Over the past century, the university has graduated more than 360,000 exceptional individuals across a range of fields, particularly in marine and aquaculture sectors. Notably, 16 of its alumni have become academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering, while four have served as directors of the State Oceanic Administration.

More than a third of the country’s PhD holders in marine and aquaculture fields graduated from OUC, and over half of the 75 scientists who participated in China’s first Antarctic expedition are proud OUC graduates.

Currently, OUC has four campuses with a total of 35,400+ students. The university has developed a comprehensive system dedicated to marine studies that showcases unique Chinese characteristics. It fosters integration, mutual support, and collaboration across various fields, including marine science and technology, life sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and foundational disciplines.

OUC boasts more than 40 important research centers and platforms, and it has initiated and participated in major international scientific projects. It led the establishment of the International Alliance of Marine Related Institutions and China-Norway Marine University Consortium Alliance, and hosts the CLIVAR Project Office. It is spearheading the implementation of major international marine observation programs and it has successfully secured the right to host the OceanObs’ 29. OUC owns three research vessels, represented by Dong Fang Hong 3, a 5,600 DWT comprehensive research vessel with a Silent-R certificate, forming a mobile laboratory system that covers the nearshore, offshore, deep waters, high seas, and polar regions, with first-tier observation capacity. 

The university has proposed and implemented strategic initiatives, including the “Transparent Ocean”, “Blue Granary”, “Blue Drug Storage”, and “Blue Seeds”, and formed major innovation platforms such as national laboratories in marine-related fields.

Dedicated to global engagement, the university works closely with more than 300 partner institutions across over 50 countries and regions to create global platforms for cooperation and innovation in ocean research and education.

 

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SOURCE China Daily

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D-Link Recognized as Cloud Wireless Networking Provider of the Year at Cloud Connect Conference and Awards 2024

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DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — D-Link, a global leader in networking solutions, proudly announces that it has been recognised as Cloud Wireless Networking Provider of the Year at the Cloud Connect Conference and Awards 2024. This award stands as a testament to the company’s steadfast commitment to empowering businesses to evolve for the modern digital world.

As organizations increasingly adopt cloud-first strategies, D-Link provides innovative, flexible, and scalable solutions. The shift to the cloud, driven by the pandemic, has enabled companies to leverage powerful functionalities for greater efficiency and agility along with revolutionary 5G/LTE technology. D-Link’s D-ECS Cloud platform exemplifies this innovation, offering seamless integration and high-performance networking solutions for mobile edge devices to streamline operations, increase productivity, and improve profitability.

D-Link emphasizes ease of use, seamless integration, and high-performance networking solutions, making it ahead of the competition. This award reflects D-Link’s dedication to exceptional customer care and ongoing innovation, which has earned the trust of organizations throughout their digital transformation journeys.

For more information, please visit www.dlink.com or contact local D-Link representative.

About D-Link

D-Link, a renowned global brand and leader in the networking industry, was established in 1987 in Taiwan. With operations in 90 locations across 43 countries, D-Link provides networking solutions for individuals, homes, businesses, and industries, including a comprehensive range of industry-leading network solutions and AI-driven cloud management services. Find out more about D-Link at www.dlink.com

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SOURCE D-Link Corporation

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Planet Classroom Launches Visionary November Film Slate: Exploring AI, Cultural Connection, and Global Community Empowerment

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AI innovation, cultural immersion, and resilience through community action take center stage.

NEW YORK  , Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Planet Classroom Network is proud to announce its November 2024 film releases, featuring a dynamic array of content that highlights the transformative potential of AI, cultural storytelling, and global community empowerment. Curated for young people by young people, these films offer powerful insights into today’s most pressing issues while showcasing the beauty of human creativity and connection.

November Highlights:

Highlights Take 2: Nick Bostrom Envisions Our AI Future:

In Highlights Take 2, an original Planet Classroom production, renowned philosopher Nick Bostrom discusses AI’s transformative effect on jobs, essential skills for the future, and ethical considerations in building a healthier society. Gain actionable insights in this audiovisual podcast about how AI is reshaping industries, addressing critical risks, and what’s needed to prepare humanity for a rapidly evolving AI-driven world.

Cultural Immersion through Music and Nature:

Noon Concert: Wherever the Road May Lead offers an innovative musical experience that blends the beauty of nature with art. Featuring performances by soprano Jardena Gertler-Jaffe and other world-class musicians, this walking recital is designed for audiences to enjoy while exploring the Hudson Valley. The film curated by Bard Conservatory creates a unique connection between the audience, nature, and music.

Navigating Cultural Identities in Parenthood:

In The Name, directed by Aaron Strand, audiences follow the emotional journey of a couple grappling with cultural expectations as they choose a name for their child. This poignant short film explores the complexities of merging traditions and identities within family life, offering a touching glimpse into the challenges new parents face.

Clean Water and Community Resilience:

Un Futuro Vivo, directed by Natalie Sipes, tells the inspiring story of Adriana, who leads efforts to provide clean drinking water to her rural Costa Rican community. The film showcases how communities can unite to solve essential human needs, highlighting the power of collective action and resilience in creating sustainable futures.

Celebrating Dance and Cultural Unity:

Directed by Ying Chu, Sisters: We Are Family follows The Chung Wah Dance Group, whose dancers come from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, South Africa, and Mauritius. Through interviews and performances, the documentary illustrates how dance serves as a unifying force across cultures, fostering community and cultural exchange.

Empowering Youth through Dance in Vietnam:

Vietnam Dancing to Connect 2022, directed by Ly Tran Tuan Thanh, highlights the Dancing to Connect program, a collaboration between New York’s Battery Dance and Vietnam’s Arabesque. The documentary captures the emotional and cultural impact of the program, which breaks down barriers and empowers participants through the art of dance.

Love and Loss in a Heartwarming Short Film:

Giulia e il Capoposto, directed by Antonio Maria Castaldo, tells the touching story of a young girl who sends a letter to her late father with the help of a kind fire chief. The film emphasizes the importance of human kindness, connection, and hope during times of loss, delivering a deeply emotional narrative.

AI’s Role in the Future of Education:

Produced by Sadie Judd, Sal Khan and the Future of Learning follows the journey of Sal Khan from founding Khan Academy to introducing Khanmigo, an AI-powered tutor. This film highlights how AI is revolutionizing education by providing personalized learning experiences, enhancing access to quality education, and empowering learners worldwide.

“At Planet Classroom, we focus on empowering young people through diverse, creative content which is the key to building a more inclusive and innovative future,” says C.M. (Cathy) Rubin, Co-Founder and CEO of Planet Classroom. “The films we showcase this November, curated and created by youth, highlight the importance of youth-centered learning, where critical thinking, cultural understanding, and the essential skills needed for the fourth industrial revolution—like creativity, collaboration, and adaptability—take center stage. By connecting young audiences with global stories and perspectives, we aim to inspire a new generation of changemakers equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”

Visit Planet Classroom Network

About Planet Classroom Network:

Planet Classroom Network, organized by CMRubinWorld, connects young people to cultural experiences from around the world. Showcasing the work of musicians, filmmakers, dancers, artists, and technologists, the network offers curated content designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. With over 650 films and partnerships with 30 global cultural organizations, the network continues to serve as a leading platform for youth-centered creative and educational programming.

For more information, visit Planet Classroom or follow @CMRubinWorld on social media.

Media Contact

David Wine, CMRubinWorld, +1 (212) 439-8474, david@cmrubinworld.com, https://www.cmrubinworld.com/

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/planet-classroom-launches-visionary-november-film-slate-exploring-ai-cultural-connection-and-global-community-empowerment-302292553.html

SOURCE Planet Classroom Network

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