Quanzhou Guesthouse-Tourism news

Soul App Releases International Women's Day Report: Gen Z Women Unplugging to Thrive

SHANGHAI, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- International Women's Day is an annual occasion to extend blessings to women around the world. Recently, Soul App, a leading AI+ immersive social platform in China, together with its research arm Just So Soul Institute, published the Soul App Report on the Life Status and Self-Pleasing Consumption of Gen Z Women. Drawing on a validated sample of 2,618 female users, 97% of whom belong to Generation Z, the report shows that today's young women are increasingly prioritizing internal order over external labels. I. Rediscovering the Authentic Self Over 60% of respondents said they feel indifferent toward labels like "queen." That sentiment is especially pronounced among post-2000s women, where only 16.12% find such terms appealing. The findings point to a growing wariness among young women about excessive labeling. Rather than outright rejecting festive greetings, they simply want to be seen and understood as authentic individuals. In terms of lifestyle, more than 87% of respondents agree that taking an "intermittent mental pause" is a necessary form of psychological self-care. When energy reserves run low, "unplugging" becomes a necessity. Whether through solitary strolls or an information detox, Gen Z women are prioritizing mental well-being as a way to reset their pace. For them, a pause is not a withdrawal; it is a replenishment. It is the essential gathering of strength for the long haul. When it comes to personal growth, only 10.89% of respondents maintain a high frequency of skill-based investments. Most prefer to plan their development at their own pace. They do not shy away from competition or progress, but seek a balance between realistic conditions and personal goals, emphasizing steady advancement over blind conformity. It's worth noting that, according to the data, Gen Z women are particularly drawn to narratives about empowered women and are looking for more inspiring figures to look up to. II. Heart over Hype The sample predominantly consists of women who are either still in school or in the early stages of their careers. Yet, they demonstrate considerable maturity in value judgment and boundary setting. The report shows that 70% of post-2000s women consider "comfort and a sense of meaning in work" as important factors. In the context of widespread AI adoption, more than half of respondents earning over RMB 10,000 per month frequently use AI tools to enhance efficiency. At the same time, 47% believe that automated performance evaluations may negatively impact their sense of well-being, and over two-thirds actively seek ways to reduce algorithmic interference in their lives. These women embrace AI-driven efficiency without sacrificing independent judgment. They refuse to be shaped by algorithms, insisting that technology should offer both utility and warmth. Furthermore, 48% of respondents identify inner alignment as the cornerstone of personal growth. This internal shift is fueled by tangible self-investment: half of those surveyed view spending on new skills as a vital safety net. For them, growth is an intentional pursuit on their own terms, rather than a reactive escape from peer pressure. III. The Evolution of Self-Pleasure For today's women, self-pleasure is undergoing a profound shift. Moving past the checkout counter, it now represents a proactive stance on mental health and personal balance. The report reveals that 59.23% of post-2000s women are investing in "small, frivolous joys," such as stress-relief toys and aromatherapy. These "self-pleasing" purchases act as an "emotional band-aid," providing a vital buffer to restore mental energy. Notably, 65.92% of the respondents reported spending over RMB 2,000 on such purchases. For many, these modest indulgences are more than just shopping; they are intentional acts of emotional recharge and self-repair. The report also highlights a structural shift in aesthetic awareness. Interestingly, 37.27% of women in lower-tier cities identify "aesthetic expression" as a core spending priority — outpacing their counterparts in first-tier hubs. This suggests that, even in contexts with varying resources, aesthetic expression remains an important form of self-affirmation. For these women, clothing choices and personal interests are not about keeping up with others, but about defining who they are in a complex world. Ending Soul App, a key hub for young users, has long championed the value shifts within its community. For the platform, International Women's Day is a call for empathy and insight. By grounding its report in real-world perspectives, Soul App helps shape a more inclusive conversation, spotlighting the multifaceted lives of women today.

2026-03-06

Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption celebrates its 2nd anniversary and fosters regional anti-graft training and exchange worldwide

HONG KONG, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption (HKIAAC), established by the ICAC, has been progressively enhancing its facilities, optimising training and improving hardware support over the past two years. This February, the HKIAAC, celebrating its 2nd anniversary, launched the Nexus – a new learning centre integrating technological elements, and continued to enhance global anti-corruption capabilities through training and deepen anti-corruption collaboration. &amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption Celebrates Its Second Anniversary Addressing the launching ceremony, the ICAC Commissioner, Mr Woo Ying-ming said, "the HKIAAC had launched numerous new initiatives over the past two years. It had been continuously developing various professional local and international training programmes and sharing the Commission's latest experience and insights with participants from various countries. The courses were well-received by participants in these years and gained great acclaim all over the world. The success was not easy to come by." He encouraged ICAC officers to continue their dedicated efforts to make greater contributions to the anti-corruption cause for the country, Hong Kong and the international arena. Mr Woo also mentioned that the HKIAAC would enter a new phase. Instead of conducting point-to-point training for individual countries' anti-corruption agencies (ACAs), the HKIAAC would provide professional exchanges on regional basis globally, enabling countries in the same continent to be trained intensively on one occasion, aiming to maximise the effectiveness of the HKIAAC's resources and benefit more ACAs worldwide. Over the past two years, the HKIAAC organised a total of 43 international anti-corruption training courses, covering over 5,000 participants from more than 90 jurisdictions, including Belt and Road countries and Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The HKIAAC continued to strengthen strategic partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on mastering artificial intelligence and technologies in anti-corruption investigation to tackle increasingly complex corruption cases globally. Also, to contribute to the global prison security and stability, the HKIAAC is collaborating with the UNODC to compile Integrity Behind Bars: Guide on Corruption Risk Management in Prison Systems. In addition, the HKIAAC actively collaborated with renowned experts and scholars from universities on the Chinese Mainland, in Macao and Hong Kong to promote anti-corruption academic research and exchanges. This included research collaborations on corporate anti-corruption policies and system prevention in the securities and banking sectors with Tsinghua University and Peking University respectively. It also partnered with the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Austria, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy under the Department of Justice, and local universities on professional training and experience sharing. "The HKIAAC will continue to fully leverage Hong Kong's leading role in the global anti-corruption field, develop into a global training hub in graft fighting, and further contribute to international anti-corruption efforts," Mr Woo concluded.

2026-03-06

Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption celebrates its 2nd anniversary and fosters regional anti-graft training and exchange worldwide

HONG KONG, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption (HKIAAC), established by the ICAC, has been progressively enhancing its facilities, optimising training and improving hardware support over the past two years. This February, the HKIAAC, celebrating its 2nd anniversary, launched the Nexus – a new learning centre integrating technological elements, and continued to enhance global anti-corruption capabilities through training and deepen anti-corruption collaboration. &amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption Celebrates Its Second Anniversary Addressing the launching ceremony, the ICAC Commissioner, Mr Woo Ying-ming said, "the HKIAAC had launched numerous new initiatives over the past two years. It had been continuously developing various professional local and international training programmes and sharing the Commission's latest experience and insights with participants from various countries. The courses were well-received by participants in these years and gained great acclaim all over the world. The success was not easy to come by." He encouraged ICAC officers to continue their dedicated efforts to make greater contributions to the anti-corruption cause for the country, Hong Kong and the international arena. Mr Woo also mentioned that the HKIAAC would enter a new phase. Instead of conducting point-to-point training for individual countries' anti-corruption agencies (ACAs), the HKIAAC would provide professional exchanges on regional basis globally, enabling countries in the same continent to be trained intensively on one occasion, aiming to maximise the effectiveness of the HKIAAC's resources and benefit more ACAs worldwide. Over the past two years, the HKIAAC organised a total of 43 international anti-corruption training courses, covering over 5,000 participants from more than 90 jurisdictions, including Belt and Road countries and Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The HKIAAC continued to strengthen strategic partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on mastering artificial intelligence and technologies in anti-corruption investigation to tackle increasingly complex corruption cases globally. Also, to contribute to the global prison security and stability, the HKIAAC is collaborating with the UNODC to compile Integrity Behind Bars: Guide on Corruption Risk Management in Prison Systems. In addition, the HKIAAC actively collaborated with renowned experts and scholars from universities on the Chinese Mainland, in Macao and Hong Kong to promote anti-corruption academic research and exchanges. This included research collaborations on corporate anti-corruption policies and system prevention in the securities and banking sectors with Tsinghua University and Peking University respectively. It also partnered with the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Austria, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy under the Department of Justice, and local universities on professional training and experience sharing. "The HKIAAC will continue to fully leverage Hong Kong's leading role in the global anti-corruption field, develop into a global training hub in graft fighting, and further contribute to international anti-corruption efforts," Mr Woo concluded.

2026-03-06

Maxon and Tencent Cloud Partner to push 3D boundaries with Artist First Generative AI

BARCELONA, Spain, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026, Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global technology company Tencent, announced its partnership with Maxon, a leading provider of professional software solutions for 3D design, motion graphics, and visual effects, among other creative applications. This partnership introduces powerful generative AI capabilities designed to augment the creative process, putting the artist firmly in the driver's seat. Founded in Germany and now contributing to creative communities worldwide, Maxon is recognized for delivering powerful yet approachable tools that help creators across industries. Through its partnership with Tencent Cloud, the company is integrating Tencent HY 3D Global into its Oscar-winning Cinema 4D tool on iPad and desktop, bringing scalable generative AI directly into the workflows of millions of creators around the globe. Powered by Tencent's self-developed generative AI model, Tencent HY 3D Global offers API-based services for high quality 3D model generation and processing. With this integration, Cinema 4D — already established as a leading solution for 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering — gains new AI-driven capabilities that enhance speed, reliability, and creative flexibility. Cinema 4D's new feature is expected to be available in late 2026. This partnership comes at a pivotal moment, as the artistic community is raising concerns that AI could undermine human creativity, replace jobs, or rely on models trained without clear ethical standards. Tencent Cloud and Maxon are responding to these concerns with transparency and a creator-first approach, ensuring that artists remain firmly in control. At MWC, Tencent Cloud presented the first recorded demonstration of the integration, highlighting a workflow where the creator leads every step of the process. In this setup, generative AI functions as a supportive assistant, enhancing efficiency and unlocking new creative possibilities without replacing human ingenuity. This partnership builds on the long-standing relationship between Tencent and Maxon to introduce new ways for creators to experiment and responsibly enhance their workflows with generative AI. Together, they signal a shared commitment to innovation and a joint effort to shape the future of modern 3D design tools. Fred Sun, General Manager of Europe, Tencent Cloud International, said, "We are proud to partner with Maxon to bring Tencent HY 3D technology into Cinema 4D. This collaboration underscores our leadership in scalable AI solutions and highlights our commitment to empowering creators with tools that enhance productivity while preserving artistic integrity. We are opening new opportunities across 3D design, character creation, and immersive experiences, demonstrating how innovation can responsibly support the creative community." David McGavran, CEO of Maxon, said, "This partnership reflects our core values of delighting customers, empowering the artistic community, and fostering curiosity and exploration. That is why we are approaching generative AI thoughtfully. Our commitment remains unchanged: to build tools that amplify human creativity and strengthen the professional workflows our users rely on. By integrating Tencent's HY 3D technology into Cinema 4D, we are providing a tool that streamlines tedious tasks and helps creators move more quickly from concept to execution, while the artist remains fully in control." Philip Losch, Chief Technology and AI Officer of Maxon, added, "Working closely with Tencent Cloud has given us the agility to experiment and iterate quickly. The collaboration unlocks new levels of scalability and reliability for creators. It ensures generative AI delivers high quality results that expand what artists can achieve, while maintaining the flexibility and precision they expect. This sets the stage for a new era of creative workflows." ### About Tencent Cloud: Tencent Cloud, one of the world's leading cloud companies, is committed to creating innovative solutions to resolve real-world issues and enabling digital transformation for smart industries. Through our extensive global infrastructure, Tencent Cloud provides businesses across the globe with stable and secure industry-leading cloud products and services, leveraging technological advancements such as cloud computing, Big Data analytics, AI, IoT, and network security. It is our constant mission to meet the needs of industries across the board, including the fields of gaming, media and entertainment, finance, healthcare, property, retail, travel, and transportation. About Maxon: Maxon makes powerful, yet approachable software solutions for content creators working in 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, visual effects and visualization. Product lines include the award-winning Cinema 4D suite of 3D modeling, simulation and animation technology; the diverse Red Giant lineup of revolutionary editing, motion design and filmmaking tools; the leading-edge, blazingly fast Redshift renderer; and ZBrush, the industry-standard digital sculpting and painting solution available on desktop and on the iPad.

2026-03-06

Maxon and Tencent Cloud Partner to push 3D boundaries with Artist First Generative AI

BARCELONA, Spain, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026, Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global technology company Tencent, announced its partnership with Maxon, a leading provider of professional software solutions for 3D design, motion graphics, and visual effects, among other creative applications. This partnership introduces powerful generative AI capabilities designed to augment the creative process, putting the artist firmly in the driver's seat. Founded in Germany and now contributing to creative communities worldwide, Maxon is recognized for delivering powerful yet approachable tools that help creators across industries. Through its partnership with Tencent Cloud, the company is integrating Tencent HY 3D Global into its Oscar-winning Cinema 4D tool on iPad and desktop, bringing scalable generative AI directly into the workflows of millions of creators around the globe. Powered by Tencent's self-developed generative AI model, Tencent HY 3D Global offers API-based services for high quality 3D model generation and processing. With this integration, Cinema 4D — already established as a leading solution for 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering — gains new AI-driven capabilities that enhance speed, reliability, and creative flexibility. Cinema 4D's new feature is expected to be available in late 2026. This partnership comes at a pivotal moment, as the artistic community is raising concerns that AI could undermine human creativity, replace jobs, or rely on models trained without clear ethical standards. Tencent Cloud and Maxon are responding to these concerns with transparency and a creator-first approach, ensuring that artists remain firmly in control. At MWC, Tencent Cloud presented the first recorded demonstration of the integration, highlighting a workflow where the creator leads every step of the process. In this setup, generative AI functions as a supportive assistant, enhancing efficiency and unlocking new creative possibilities without replacing human ingenuity. This partnership builds on the long-standing relationship between Tencent and Maxon to introduce new ways for creators to experiment and responsibly enhance their workflows with generative AI. Together, they signal a shared commitment to innovation and a joint effort to shape the future of modern 3D design tools. Fred Sun, General Manager of Europe, Tencent Cloud International, said, "We are proud to partner with Maxon to bring Tencent HY 3D technology into Cinema 4D. This collaboration underscores our leadership in scalable AI solutions and highlights our commitment to empowering creators with tools that enhance productivity while preserving artistic integrity. We are opening new opportunities across 3D design, character creation, and immersive experiences, demonstrating how innovation can responsibly support the creative community." David McGavran, CEO of Maxon, said, "This partnership reflects our core values of delighting customers, empowering the artistic community, and fostering curiosity and exploration. That is why we are approaching generative AI thoughtfully. Our commitment remains unchanged: to build tools that amplify human creativity and strengthen the professional workflows our users rely on. By integrating Tencent's HY 3D technology into Cinema 4D, we are providing a tool that streamlines tedious tasks and helps creators move more quickly from concept to execution, while the artist remains fully in control." Philip Losch, Chief Technology and AI Officer of Maxon, added, "Working closely with Tencent Cloud has given us the agility to experiment and iterate quickly. The collaboration unlocks new levels of scalability and reliability for creators. It ensures generative AI delivers high quality results that expand what artists can achieve, while maintaining the flexibility and precision they expect. This sets the stage for a new era of creative workflows." ### About Tencent Cloud: Tencent Cloud, one of the world's leading cloud companies, is committed to creating innovative solutions to resolve real-world issues and enabling digital transformation for smart industries. Through our extensive global infrastructure, Tencent Cloud provides businesses across the globe with stable and secure industry-leading cloud products and services, leveraging technological advancements such as cloud computing, Big Data analytics, AI, IoT, and network security. It is our constant mission to meet the needs of industries across the board, including the fields of gaming, media and entertainment, finance, healthcare, property, retail, travel, and transportation. About Maxon: Maxon makes powerful, yet approachable software solutions for content creators working in 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, visual effects and visualization. Product lines include the award-winning Cinema 4D suite of 3D modeling, simulation and animation technology; the diverse Red Giant lineup of revolutionary editing, motion design and filmmaking tools; the leading-edge, blazingly fast Redshift renderer; and ZBrush, the industry-standard digital sculpting and painting solution available on desktop and on the iPad.

2026-03-06

Level Up Your Career: Start Your UTM Journey Through APEL

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), a leading public research university and Malaysia's top institution for engineering and technology, has announced the expansion of its admissions strategy through its Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) pathways offering APEL A, APEL C and APEL Q to widen entry options and reward prior experiential learning. This inclusive approach opens new global pathways for working adults, skilled professionals, and non-traditional learners seeking high-quality academic advancement. Through APEL A pathway, diploma holders with relevant working experience may directly enter master's programmes. Likewise, bachelor's degree holders with related professional experience may be considered for direct entry into PhD or Doctorate studies, offering a flexible route for those whose academic journeys have followed non-traditional paths. DBA APEL Q Cohort 3 with Azman Hashim International Business School (AHIBS), UTM, in an engagement session discussing their APEL Q progress. The APEL A is an internationally recognised process for validating knowledge and skills gained outside formal education. Applicants submit a portfolio of prior learning for evaluation by UTM's APEL Centre in accordance with Malaysian Qualifications Agency standards. Assessment may include previous education, professional certifications, work experience, self-directed learning, and other achievements. Successful candidates receive formal recognition, making them eligible for master's or PhD enrolment, particularly benefiting learners with extensive experience or specialised knowledge but without traditional academic credentials. "APEL is a formal mechanism designed to recognise skills and knowledge gained through real-world experience, especially learning that has never been formally assessed or awarded credit before," Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rohaida Basiruddin, the Director of the UTM APEL Centre, explains: "An APEL certificate represents official recognition of an individual's prior learning and professional achievements, granting eligibility for academic programmes even when traditional entry requirements have not been fulfilled." UTM's APEL pathway provides numerous advantages for learners seeking advanced education. Learners can move quickly from a diploma to master's programmes or from bachelor's to PhD studies, significantly reducing time to completion. Skills and knowledge gained outside traditional education are formally validated, ensuring that prior accomplishments are respected. By opening flexible pathways to advanced study, UTM continues to cultivate global talent and produce graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to research, innovation, and leadership worldwide. This impact is evident in the journeys of its learners, such as Mohd Asrizan Deraman, a recent APEL A-T7 graduate from the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology, who has completed the Master of Education (Technical and Vocational Education). "I am a proud example of how the APEL pathway can transform educational journeys," said Mohd Asrizan Deraman, "With discipline and spirit built from my TVET background, I managed to complete my master's through APEL, even though I came from a non-traditional academic route. The programme acknowledges the expertise and potential of learners from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their academic history, has the opportunity to achieve their higher education aspirations." In expanding access to higher education, UTM continues to advance APEL C, which recognizes and validates professional expertise and work experience as academic credit exemption. This initiative allows students to earn up to 30 percent of their degree credits through prior learning assessment, addressing the growing demand from working professionals and mature learners seeking flexible pathways to qualification. In addition to flexible entry and credit pathways, UTM offers APEL Q that is currently available for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). This pathway is designed for senior professionals with a minimum of 25 years of relevant work experience and demonstrated prior learning gained through formal, non-formal, or informal settings. Through rigorous assessment processes, including comprehensive portfolio evaluation and capstone projects, APEL Q formally recognises extensive professional expertise, enabling eligible candidates to attain a fully accredited doctoral qualification without following conventional coursework routes. This initiative highlights UTM's dedication to lifelong learning by formally recognising professional leadership experience as academic achievement. In line with the newly introduced APEL Q scheme, UTM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysia's National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) to implement accreditation of experiential learning for formal academic qualifications. As stated by UTM's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, during the ceremony: "We welcome this collaboration under APEL Q as an effort to strengthen national human capacity. This partnership will provide viable academic pathways for working professionals and public‑service staff who possess valuable experience but lack traditional credentials." This initiative underscores UTM's focus on expanding access to higher education by recognising prior learning and professional experience within a structured academic framework. Consistently recognised at both national and international levels, UTM continues to demonstrate strong performance in graduate employability, research output, and innovation-driven education. Through initiatives such as the APEL pathways, UTM strengthens its role in developing industry-ready graduates by formally recognising prior learning and professional experience, enabling learners to translate real-world expertise into accredited academic qualifications with global relevance. UTM's diverse international student community further reflects its ongoing engagement with global partners and learners, drawn to its academic standards, experienced faculty, and learning environment that encourages collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. Learners interested in accelerated pathways through the APEL programme can visit https://apel.utm.my and https://admission.utm.my for more information. About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a research-intensive public university specialising in engineering, science, and technology, with a growing international profile in sustainability, innovation, and the humanities. Established in 1904 and located in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM is dedicated to producing global talents, impactful research, and meaningful partnerships that contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

2026-03-06

Level Up Your Career: Start Your UTM Journey Through APEL

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), a leading public research university and Malaysia's top institution for engineering and technology, has announced the expansion of its admissions strategy through its Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) pathways offering APEL A, APEL C and APEL Q to widen entry options and reward prior experiential learning. This inclusive approach opens new global pathways for working adults, skilled professionals, and non-traditional learners seeking high-quality academic advancement. Through APEL A pathway, diploma holders with relevant working experience may directly enter master's programmes. Likewise, bachelor's degree holders with related professional experience may be considered for direct entry into PhD or Doctorate studies, offering a flexible route for those whose academic journeys have followed non-traditional paths. DBA APEL Q Cohort 3 with Azman Hashim International Business School (AHIBS), UTM, in an engagement session discussing their APEL Q progress. The APEL A is an internationally recognised process for validating knowledge and skills gained outside formal education. Applicants submit a portfolio of prior learning for evaluation by UTM's APEL Centre in accordance with Malaysian Qualifications Agency standards. Assessment may include previous education, professional certifications, work experience, self-directed learning, and other achievements. Successful candidates receive formal recognition, making them eligible for master's or PhD enrolment, particularly benefiting learners with extensive experience or specialised knowledge but without traditional academic credentials. "APEL is a formal mechanism designed to recognise skills and knowledge gained through real-world experience, especially learning that has never been formally assessed or awarded credit before," Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rohaida Basiruddin, the Director of the UTM APEL Centre, explains: "An APEL certificate represents official recognition of an individual's prior learning and professional achievements, granting eligibility for academic programmes even when traditional entry requirements have not been fulfilled." UTM's APEL pathway provides numerous advantages for learners seeking advanced education. Learners can move quickly from a diploma to master's programmes or from bachelor's to PhD studies, significantly reducing time to completion. Skills and knowledge gained outside traditional education are formally validated, ensuring that prior accomplishments are respected. By opening flexible pathways to advanced study, UTM continues to cultivate global talent and produce graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to research, innovation, and leadership worldwide. This impact is evident in the journeys of its learners, such as Mohd Asrizan Deraman, a recent APEL A-T7 graduate from the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology, who has completed the Master of Education (Technical and Vocational Education). "I am a proud example of how the APEL pathway can transform educational journeys," said Mohd Asrizan Deraman, "With discipline and spirit built from my TVET background, I managed to complete my master's through APEL, even though I came from a non-traditional academic route. The programme acknowledges the expertise and potential of learners from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their academic history, has the opportunity to achieve their higher education aspirations." In expanding access to higher education, UTM continues to advance APEL C, which recognizes and validates professional expertise and work experience as academic credit exemption. This initiative allows students to earn up to 30 percent of their degree credits through prior learning assessment, addressing the growing demand from working professionals and mature learners seeking flexible pathways to qualification. In addition to flexible entry and credit pathways, UTM offers APEL Q that is currently available for the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). This pathway is designed for senior professionals with a minimum of 25 years of relevant work experience and demonstrated prior learning gained through formal, non-formal, or informal settings. Through rigorous assessment processes, including comprehensive portfolio evaluation and capstone projects, APEL Q formally recognises extensive professional expertise, enabling eligible candidates to attain a fully accredited doctoral qualification without following conventional coursework routes. This initiative highlights UTM's dedication to lifelong learning by formally recognising professional leadership experience as academic achievement. In line with the newly introduced APEL Q scheme, UTM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysia's National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) to implement accreditation of experiential learning for formal academic qualifications. As stated by UTM's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, during the ceremony: "We welcome this collaboration under APEL Q as an effort to strengthen national human capacity. This partnership will provide viable academic pathways for working professionals and public‑service staff who possess valuable experience but lack traditional credentials." This initiative underscores UTM's focus on expanding access to higher education by recognising prior learning and professional experience within a structured academic framework. Consistently recognised at both national and international levels, UTM continues to demonstrate strong performance in graduate employability, research output, and innovation-driven education. Through initiatives such as the APEL pathways, UTM strengthens its role in developing industry-ready graduates by formally recognising prior learning and professional experience, enabling learners to translate real-world expertise into accredited academic qualifications with global relevance. UTM's diverse international student community further reflects its ongoing engagement with global partners and learners, drawn to its academic standards, experienced faculty, and learning environment that encourages collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. Learners interested in accelerated pathways through the APEL programme can visit https://apel.utm.my and https://admission.utm.my for more information. About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a research-intensive public university specialising in engineering, science, and technology, with a growing international profile in sustainability, innovation, and the humanities. Established in 1904 and located in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM is dedicated to producing global talents, impactful research, and meaningful partnerships that contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

2026-03-06

Zoomlion Showcases North America-Certified and Customized Equipment at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

LAS VEGAS, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion" or "the Company"; 1157.HK), showcased a portfolio of North America-certified and market-customized equipment and solutions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, being held in Las Vegas from March 3-7, 2026, covering engineering hoisting machinery, concrete machinery, earthmoving machinery, mining machinery, and construction hoisting machinery. On the first day of the exhibition, the Company completed product deliveries and signed multiple cooperation agreements across product categories. Zoomlion Showcases North America-Certified and Customized Equipment at CONEXPO-CONAGG 2026 All equipment on display complies with relevant North American certifications, and several models have been developed specifically to meet local regulatory requirements and operational preferences. Among the highlights was the ZRT1500V6 rough-terrain crane, developed for the North American market. The crane features a six-section 198.5-foot elliptical boom and is designed to meet regional lifting and mobility requirements. Its self-loading counterweight system allows transport weight to remain within local road limits which supports efficient relocation between job sites. The enlarged operator cab enhances comfort and site usability. Zoomlion also showcased a range of earthmoving equipment tailored to North American applications, including compact excavators suitable for municipal and confined-space projects, as well as the ZE500G large excavator designed for heavy-duty mining and earthwork operations. The ZE500G is equipped with a high-horsepower engine and cooling system optimized for demanding field conditions which helps to improve maintenance efficiency and operational reliability. In concrete equipment, a pump truck configured with a North America-specific chassis attracted a lot of attention at the show. With a maximum vertical reach of 151 feet and carbon fiber boom sections designed to reduce weight while increasing effective load capacity, the model reflects Zoomlion's focus on adapting product configurations to local performance expectations. Throughout the opening day, customer engagement remained strong, with equipment deliveries completed on site and new agreements signed across crane, earthmoving, and concrete machinery segments. Tan Ruxu, Deputy General Manager of Zoomlion's Overseas Company, said: "North America is an important market in our global development. We have been serving customers here for almost 20 years. At this exhibition, we are presenting equipment that has obtained local certification and has been customized for North American requirements. We will continue improving our local service and support capabilities to respond more efficiently to customer needs and deliver reliable project performance together with our partners."

2026-03-06

Zoomlion Showcases North America-Certified and Customized Equipment at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

LAS VEGAS, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion" or "the Company"; 1157.HK), showcased a portfolio of North America-certified and market-customized equipment and solutions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, being held in Las Vegas from March 3-7, 2026, covering engineering hoisting machinery, concrete machinery, earthmoving machinery, mining machinery, and construction hoisting machinery. On the first day of the exhibition, the Company completed product deliveries and signed multiple cooperation agreements across product categories. Zoomlion Showcases North America-Certified and Customized Equipment at CONEXPO-CONAGG 2026 All equipment on display complies with relevant North American certifications, and several models have been developed specifically to meet local regulatory requirements and operational preferences. Among the highlights was the ZRT1500V6 rough-terrain crane, developed for the North American market. The crane features a six-section 198.5-foot elliptical boom and is designed to meet regional lifting and mobility requirements. Its self-loading counterweight system allows transport weight to remain within local road limits which supports efficient relocation between job sites. The enlarged operator cab enhances comfort and site usability. Zoomlion also showcased a range of earthmoving equipment tailored to North American applications, including compact excavators suitable for municipal and confined-space projects, as well as the ZE500G large excavator designed for heavy-duty mining and earthwork operations. The ZE500G is equipped with a high-horsepower engine and cooling system optimized for demanding field conditions which helps to improve maintenance efficiency and operational reliability. In concrete equipment, a pump truck configured with a North America-specific chassis attracted a lot of attention at the show. With a maximum vertical reach of 151 feet and carbon fiber boom sections designed to reduce weight while increasing effective load capacity, the model reflects Zoomlion's focus on adapting product configurations to local performance expectations. Throughout the opening day, customer engagement remained strong, with equipment deliveries completed on site and new agreements signed across crane, earthmoving, and concrete machinery segments. Tan Ruxu, Deputy General Manager of Zoomlion's Overseas Company, said: "North America is an important market in our global development. We have been serving customers here for almost 20 years. At this exhibition, we are presenting equipment that has obtained local certification and has been customized for North American requirements. We will continue improving our local service and support capabilities to respond more efficiently to customer needs and deliver reliable project performance together with our partners."

2026-03-06

Huawei Launches AI Education Center (AIEC) Solution

BARCELONA, Spain, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- During MWC Barcelona 2026, Huawei hosted a summit titled "Education + AI, Embracing an Intelligent Future." At the summit, Huawei, in collaboration with industry customers and partners, launched the AIEC Solution for basic education. This initiative aims to accelerate the popularization and development of general AI education. Launch of the AIEC Solution by Huawei At the event, Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of the Global Public Sector BU, stated that the core of future AI education is to achieve "the lowest threshold and the widest coverage." As a "technology enabler" and "ecosystem builder" in the journey of digital and intelligent education, Huawei collaborates with customers and partners to create innovative, scenario-based solutions for the AI education sector. Among these, the AIEC Solution for basic education accelerates the popularization of general AI education in primary and secondary schools, opening the door to the future world of technology for every student. Built upon a foundation of hardware computing infrastructure, model services, application platforms, and an AI teaching and laboratory management system, Huawei's AIEC Solution provides systematic general AI education, experimental applications, and curriculum resources for students of all ages in basic education. This equips students with core competencies for the future society, laying a solid talent foundation for national technological innovation and industrial upgrading. Currently, the solution has been implemented in Zhejiang Province, China. In collaboration with partners such as CourseGrading, Huawei provides a general AI education platform for 500+ primary and secondary schools. The platform is equipped with AI computing power, open-source large models, 10+ hands-on AI practice projects, and 50+ experimental tools and applications. It is expected to cover one million students in the future. At the event, Huawei launched the global demonstration project of its AI Education Platform (AIEC) solution in collaboration with Pui Kiu Middle School. The event showcased practical applications of artificial intelligence technology in secondary education. This initiative advances innovative AI applications in education, providing replicable and scalable practical models for digital transformation globally. Huawei's AIEC Solution represents a significant milestone in the synergy between Education and AI. Moving forward, Huawei will continue to act as a technological bridge, fostering an open ecosystem with global partners, striving to spark the potential within every child and co-create a future where education equity and technological progress go hand in hand.

2026-03-06