Africa: Leading the Way in the Critical Minerals Race
In this series of blogs, opportunities for Africa and the United States to establish strong partnerships in critical minerals are examined. Africa can better position itself in this competitive global sector, as it has significant reserves and can advance up the value chain through industrialization. Recommendations are proposed to attract investment, such as accelerating mining operations and developing integrated infrastructure.
The New Saudi-Pakistan Defense Pact: Signals and Substance
The new Strategic Mutual Defense Pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan formalizes decades of security and defense cooperation, involving a commitment to mutual defense and possible provision of nuclear deterrence. Saudi Arabia seeks to diversify its defensive alliances amid concerns over Israel and Iran, while Pakistan seeks alternatives to its dependence on China. Greater cooperation in conventional defense and possible collaboration in the defense industry is expected.
Addressing the Wrong Problem: How Parent PLUS Loan Limits Can Fail.
The Parent PLUS program faces challenges in limiting loans without considering parents’ ability to pay, excluding vulnerable families rather than those with ability to pay. Loan limits forgo potential private benefits, but Parent PLUS loans offer payment flexibility and tax benefits. However, upcoming changes will reduce payment options for new borrowers.
Discover the essence of Jordan
The study in Jordan by the Queen Rania Foundation addresses the literacy crisis in skills development. It examines the integration of holistic educational principles into the new Arabic Language curriculum. More than half of 10-year-old children cannot read age-appropriate texts. A commitment was identified in the education system, but lack of capacity and systemic incoherence were cited as obstacles.
Is the credibility of US government data at risk? And why should it matter to everyone.
The credibility of U.S. government data is crucial for the economy and strategic decision-making of businesses. Sectors such as retail trade, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, transportation, and insurance rely on these data to plan and operate. Additionally, they affect citizens through economic and financial policies that impact employment and inflation.