World not yet ready to 'switch off' fossil fuels, COP28 host UAE says

13 Sept 13:22 Key points summarised by AI

The UAE, as host of the upcoming COP28 climate talks, advocates for phasing out fossil fuel *emissions* through technologies like carbon capture and increased renewables, rather than ceasing fossil fuel *production*.
This position stems from the belief that a full 'switch off' of fossil fuels is premature, as many countries depend on them for revenue and lack sufficient renewable alternatives, necessitating a 'just and pragmatic transition'.
The UAE's stance highlights deep global divisions, with some nations pushing for a complete fossil fuel phase-out while resource-rich countries resist, emphasizing emissions reduction over production halts.
Beyond energy, COP28 will also heavily focus on global food supply systems, which account for nearly a third of global emissions, promoting technology and innovation to address food security and climate challenges.

Examining Thailand’s four-part education revolution

Today 14:22 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Education Ministry is implementing a four-pronged strategy to address its students' below-average performance in PISA 2025 and tackle significant educational inequality.
The plan prioritizes closing performance gaps by increasing funding for small and low-income schools, overhauling the curriculum to foster critical thinking, and adopting a data-driven management system to reduce teacher workload.
Key initiatives include enhancing school safety, combating cyberbullying, and expanding mental health support through peer-to-peer networks, recognizing the severe impact of distress on academic performance.
An education expert advises verifying if PISA improvements stem from structural changes, advocating for a revived STEM curriculum with practical 'learn by doing' methods, and urging bureaucratic reform to link teacher evaluations to student development.