Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty lab helps 600m defeat poverty in 20 years

J-PAL works to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence through research, policy outreach and training.
J-PAL works to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence through research, policy outreach and training.
Short Url
Updated 21 May 2023

Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty lab helps 600m defeat poverty in 20 years

Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty lab helps 600m defeat poverty in 20 years
  • This approach to poverty alleviation is spearheaded by J-PAL co-founders Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, who were awarded the Nobel economics prize in 2019 together with their longtime associate Michael Kremer

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab or J-PAL has impacted the lives of more than 600 million people since its establishment in 2003.
Launched at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with foundational support from Community Jameel, J-PAL works to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence through research, policy outreach and training.
J-PAL has pioneered the use of randomized control trials to isolate evidence in order to identify the real impact of policies.
Randomized control trials work by selecting a group of subjects with similar characteristics.
They are divided into a test group that receives the intervention and a control group that does not in order to measure the intervention’s impact.
The results from different evaluations can then be used to generate insights into human behavior and institutions and measure the impact of specific programs and policies.

HIGHLIGHT

The approach to poverty alleviation is spearheaded by J-PAL co-founders Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, who were awarded the Nobel economics prize in 2019 together with their longtime associate Michael Kremer.

These policy insights can help inform decision-making in governments, NGOs, firms and funders by providing direction to decision-makers backed by scientific evidence.
This approach to poverty alleviation is spearheaded by J-PAL co-founders Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, who were awarded the Nobel economics prize in 2019 together with their longtime associate Michael Kremer.
In 2023, J-PAL is celebrating its 20th anniversary, having grown to seven regional offices with a network of more than 294 affiliated researchers at universities across the globe.
Since partnering with J-PAL in 2005, Community Jameel has supported J-PAL’s growth, including the launch of the European Social Inclusion Initiative with J-PAL Europe in 2017, and the newest J-PAL regional office, covering the Middle East and North Africa, in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The J-PAL MENA office is working across the region to scale up evidence-informed policymaking, including through the Egypt Impact Lab, a collaboration between J-PAL MENA and the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development in Egypt, launched in 2022 with support from Community Jameel, the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development and UNICEF Egypt.
Among the projects supported by the Egypt Impact Lab is the “Decent Life” program, which aims to alleviate poverty for 50 million people in Upper Egypt. The Egypt Impact Lab is part of J-PAL’s evidence-to-policy initiative, supported by Co-Impact and Community Jameel.
Fady Jameel, vice chairman of Community Jameel, said: “It is hard to comprehend that J-PAL, in only 20 years, has helped to improve the lives of over 600 million people. At Community Jameel, we are humbled to have partnered with J-PAL for so long, and we congratulate the entire J-PAL community on their impact in the world, born of hard work over two decades by J-PAL staff and researchers past and present.”
To mark the 20th anniversary, J-PAL Europe and Community Jameel will be hosting a two-day colloquium on June 22 and 23 at the Collège de France in Paris, entitled “Science and the fight against poverty: What progress has been made in 20 years and what are the prospects for the future.”
The colloquium forms part of J-PAL’s global advocacy work to identify innovative solutions to some of our most pressing challenges by presenting forward-looking global perspectives.

 


Naif Alrajhi Investment, Tatweer Misr partner to develop real estate in KSA

Naif Alrajhi Investment, Tatweer Misr partner to develop real estate in KSA
Updated 05 June 2023

Naif Alrajhi Investment, Tatweer Misr partner to develop real estate in KSA

Naif Alrajhi Investment, Tatweer Misr partner to develop real estate in KSA

Naif Alrajhi Investment, a leading group in real estate development, investment, partnerships and acquisitions, has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Tatweer Misr, one of Egypt’s foremost real estate development companies. The signing ceremony, held in Riyadh, was attended by dignitaries, including Abdulrahman Al-Tawil, deputy minister for real estate development at the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, and Ammar Mohammad Nour Altaf, assistant deputy of services sectors in the Investment Development Deputyship at the Ministry of Investment. The event also witnessed the participation of officials from both companies and representatives from major media institutions in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

The agreement aims to establish a joint venture between Naif Alrajhi Investment and Tatweer Misr in the construction, building and real estate investment sectors. The collaboration will focus on developing integrated urban projects and tourist resorts in the Kingdom, adhering to international standards. By combining the expertise of both entities, this partnership aspires to contribute to the realization of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The signing of the partnership contract took place at the Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences in Riyadh, a project undertaken by Naif Alrajhi Investment. Naif Alrajhi, founder, chairman and CEO of Naif Alrajhi Investment, and Dr. Ahmed Shalaby, co-founder president and CEO of Tatweer Misr, sealed the agreement, heralding a new era of cooperation and knowledge exchange between the two companies in the real estate sector.

The partnership seeks to foster cooperation and exchange of expertise between the two companies in the real estate sector. It aligns with the strategic visions of both companies to achieve comprehensive urban development, including the development of projects that provide a distinguished quality of life and various services for communities, thereby creating added value for residents, project stakeholders and neighboring areas. The partnership will support real estate development and work on the creation of residential, commercial, administrative, educational, recreational and hospitality projects. It will also contribute to promoting investment within the Kingdom at the current stage and in Egypt in later stages.

Chairman Alrajhi said: “We are pleased to enter into this collaboration with Tatweer Misr, a renowned company in the field. Leveraging our extensive experience in investment and real estate development, we will steer strategic partnerships toward new horizons, in alignment with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Our focus on vital sectors that support the national economy, particularly the real estate sector, which has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, reflects our commitment to propelling comprehensive urban development.”

Emphasizing the robust support extended to the real estate sector in Saudi Arabia, Alrajhi highlighted the array of administrative and investment facilities available to attract local and international investments. The Saudi market presents a myriad of investment opportunities within the real estate sector, he said.

Shalaby, meanwhile, said: “The strategic partnership with Naif Alrajhi Investment group marks the initial step in our company’s journey to expand into regional markets, replicating our successful experience in urban development in Egypt.”

We have chosen to initiate this venture in Saudi Arabia in light of its thriving economy and rapid urban development, complemented by an investment climate that offers favorable incentives. Tatweer Misr aims to establish a partnership with Naif Alrajhi Investment to leverage their extensive experience across various investment sectors, including real estate. This collaboration will contribute to the success of joint projects in Saudi Arabia and subsequently in Egypt, with an exchange of experiences to better understand the real estate trends in both countries and deliver real estate products that cater to customer needs.”


NASA visit fuels imagination of Dunes students

NASA visit fuels imagination of Dunes students
Updated 05 June 2023

NASA visit fuels imagination of Dunes students

NASA visit fuels imagination of Dunes students

Students of the Alkhobar-based Dunes International School were recently taken on an educational trip to the Kennedy Space Center Orlando, one of NASA’s renowned field launch sites.

The NASA tour, the second one organized by the school, offered an extraordinary and transformative experience to its students. This immersive adventure not only broadened the students’ horizons but also ignited their passion for space exploration.

“Our students enjoyed unlimited access to a three-day robotic program, the space simulator shuttle launch experience, an IMAX film screening, the Rocket Garden and the Space Shuttle Atlantis,” the school said in a press release. “An eagerly anticipated rendezvous with Sam Gemar, an esteemed astronaut, further fueled our students’ curiosity and ambition. The excited students delved into the intricacies of programming and artificial intelligence and participated in track and surface challenges, where they added another feather to their caps by obtaining the highest score among the competitors.”

Besides exploring the space center, Dunes students enjoyed additional treats by indulging in fun and adventure activities at Universal Studios and Disneyland. Next, they had a once-in-a lifetime experience at Niagara Falls, Maid of the Mist, and Niagara National Park. Their hectic schedule with curated events in Washington, DC, included guided tours of the White House, Capitol Hill, the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, plus a memorable concluding experience at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.

“We would not have achieved this major milestone without the vision and support of our School Director Amjad Khan, who envisions Dunes as a pioneer institution in the region, harmonizing modern day technologies with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, thus advocating our school motto — ‘In sync with future.’”

The trip required comprehensive planning and dedication to make it a success. Vice Principal Shahzad Bilal took on the responsibility of guiding and supervising the entire expedition. Supporting him fully were Academic Supervisor Rachna Rastogi and senior science teacher Nasreen Fatima. They ensured the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of each student throughout the trip.

“The school is very grateful to the ITL Team for facilitating and arranging the tour so that it was as smooth as possible,” the management said.

According to the press release, Dunes believes in exploring and excelling in order to keep an edge over others. Besides successfully running and delivering results in the CBSE curriculum for more than a decade, the school is reopening its British curriculum from KG to Grade 6 for the 2023-24 academic year.

Dunes offers state-of-the-art infrastructure, agreeable classroom ambience, a well-equipped auditorium, and a spacious soccer field among other facilities.


Messe Frankfurt Middle East and 1st Arabia partner to deliver Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023

Messe Frankfurt Middle East and 1st Arabia partner to deliver Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023
Updated 05 June 2023

Messe Frankfurt Middle East and 1st Arabia partner to deliver Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023

Messe Frankfurt Middle East and 1st Arabia partner to deliver Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has announced its partnership with 1st Arabia, an event organizer in Saudi Arabia, which will begin with Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s only government-supported security industry event. The event, taking place from Oct. 3-5 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, will showcase the latest advancements in the security industry and provide a gateway to the booming market.

“Intersec Saudi Arabia is the only show of its kind in the Kingdom, and we’re thrilled to partner with 1st Arabia to bring this unmissable event to Saudi Arabia,” said Alex Nicholl, group show director for Intersec. “With the security industry growing at an exponential rate, it’s more important than ever to provide a platform for industry players to showcase their latest innovations and network with key decision-makers in the region.”

According to a recent report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the Middle East’s physical security market is expected to reach $14.5 billion by 2024, with Saudi Arabia accounting for a significant portion of this growth. Intersec Saudi Arabia provides the perfect platform for industry players to take advantage of this booming market and connect with potential partners and customers.

“1st Arabia is excited to partner with Intersec Saudi Arabia to bring the latest security advancements to the Kingdom,” said Bilal Barmawi, CEO of 1st Arabia. “We believe this event will provide a gateway to this burgeoning market and help industry players stay ahead of the curve in terms of innovation and technology.”

Intersec Saudi Arabia is set to feature a wide range of exhibitors and products, from video surveillance and access control to cybersecurity and perimeter security. The event will also include a comprehensive conference program, featuring expert speakers and industry leaders discussing the latest trends and challenges facing the security industry.

The event is expected to bring together more than 15,000 visitors and 200 exhibitors from around the world.

“We are confident that this partnership will help drive growth and innovation in the security industry, which is critical to ensuring the safety and security of businesses and individuals in Saudi Arabia,” Nicholl added. “With the market set to grow exponentially, there has never been a better time for industry players to come together and explore new opportunities.”


GO Telecom reports annual operating profit of SR58m and net profit of SR42m

 GO Telecom reports annual operating profit of SR58m and net profit of SR42m
Updated 05 June 2023

GO Telecom reports annual operating profit of SR58m and net profit of SR42m

 GO Telecom reports annual operating profit of SR58m and net profit of SR42m

GO Telecom Company, known as Etihad Atheeb, has announced its financial results for the financial year ending on March 31. The results showed positive performance and continued improvement in the company’s financial and operational performance, transforming the company to profitability, clearing all accumulated losses and achieving retained profits. The company attributed these positive results to continuing the implementation of its transformation strategy.

The company’s financial results revealed that revenues amounted to SR630.3 million ($168 million), a growth rate of 67 percent; total profit amounted to SR182.7 million, an increase of 99 percent; and an unprecedented annual net profit of SR42 million, compared to losses of SR37.7 million for the previous financial year, which represents an increase of 211 percent.

In a press release, GO Telecom said that these annual results reflect the positive development of the company’s operational performance as a result of implementing the company’s transformation strategy, which includes infrastructure modernization, improving customer experience, and providing innovative solutions and products to meet the Saudi market needs. The strategy execution contributed to the revenue increase driven by the growth of the business segment, where the company recently announced signing major contracts with various government entities. These contracts demonstrated the company’s ability to keep pace with the developments in the Saudi communications and ICT sector, which confirms that the company’s transformation strategy is achieving its goals.

Chairman of the Board of GO Telecom Dr. Issa bin Yaslam Ba’isa said: “The financial results reflected the continuous improvement in the company’s profits and the clearance of its accumulated losses, which will reflect positively on the company’s shareholders. The company will continue on its way toward achieving the goals of the transformation strategy and contributing to achieving the goals of Vision 2030 in the telecommunications industry.”

Yahya bin Saleh Al-Mansour, CEO of GO Telecom, said that achieving annual operating profits for the first time since the company’s inception came as a result of implementing the company’s transformation strategy. “The ambition of GO Telecom doesn’t stop at this point. The company’s management is working to strengthen its leadership in the telecom market and to contribute to the development of digital transformation in the Kingdom, to enhance the company’s competitiveness and increase its market share, through the implementation of a number of plans and initiatives that contribute to achieving the objectives of the Saudi communication and information technology market,” he added.

The company’s board of directors approved an increase in the company’s capital by an amount of SR250 million in order to move forward with implementing initiatives of the transformation strategy and financing its projects. The company also announced the appointment of Alinma Investment as financial adviser to manage the company’s capital increase and handle all related procedures. The company expects that the capital increase will reflect positively on shareholders’ rights and the company’s performance.

GO Telecom has deployed 5G network in all regions of the Kingdom and fulfilled the commitment of the frequency spectrum license granted by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission. This enhances the company’s ability to provide solutions and technologies aligned with the market needs and better serve its customers.

GO Telecom has launched its new brand identity, which is aligned with the company’s transformation strategy aimed at enhancing its competitive position, increasing its market share, and moving to a new, more distinguished stage on the operational level. Earlier this year, the company participated in the world’s largest technical conference “LEAP.”


Huawei MateBook X Pro: The ultimate in style & performance

Huawei MateBook X Pro: The ultimate in style & performance
Updated 04 June 2023

Huawei MateBook X Pro: The ultimate in style & performance

Huawei MateBook X Pro: The ultimate in style & performance

Flagship laptops are for those who want a laptop that does not compromise on anything. What separates the flagship laptop from other good laptops is how it balances performance, efficiency, portability and comfort. Its display should be easy on the eyes, bright and sharp enough that you are not distracted by jagged edges and visible pixels. It should be powerful for the heaviest tasks, from intensive video editing to advanced gaming. It should be easy to carry around from place to place, and it should be able to last all day without needing to be plugged in. 

Huawei is dedicated to building premium and smart flagship laptops for business people who have high requirements. Here is why the company believes the Huawei MateBook X Pro is the best smart flagship laptop of 2023:

Skin-soothing metallic body

Crafted with a skin-soothing metallic body made from magnesium alloy, this laptop feels as good as it looks. The unique matte surface not only provides a comfortable grip but also adds a touch of elegance to the device. The environmentally friendly micro-arc oxidation coating process used in its construction not only enhances the laptop’s durability but also helps reduce its carbon footprint. Weighing in at just 1.26 kg, this lightweight laptop is perfect for those always on the go. Plus, it is available in three colors: Ink Blue, White and Space Gray, so you can pick the one that best suits your style. 

High-resolution Display

The MateBook X Pro’s stunning 3.1K Huawei Real Color FullView Display features a 14.2-inch screen with a high resolution of 3,120 x 2,080.

Super Device

The Huawei MateBook X Pro is not just a pretty face; it also has pretty innovative connectivity features. The MateBook X Pro takes multi-device collaboration to a whole new level, thanks to Super Device, bringing super productivity with a cohesive multi-device experience. It lets you effortlessly connect to other Huawei devices nearby and collaborate between them all. With tablets like the newly launched Huawei MatePad 11-inch 2023, it is even more useful. In Mirror Mode, the laptop screen is projected onto the tablet, with both devices showing the same content: the tablet can benefit from the laptop’s incredible performance, while the laptop can access the tablet’s stylus, making drawing even easier.

Super Turbo

No one likes waiting around for apps to load or files to open. That is where the Super Turbo feature on the MateBook X Pro comes in, providing users with a faster and smoother operation experience. Using Huawei’s intelligent acceleration engine, Super Turbo accurately identifies scenario-specific loads, fully unleashing the CPU’s frequency advantages for a range of tasks, such as conferencing, internet access, office work and video playback.

13th Gen Intel Core Processor 

Under the hood, the MateBook X Pro is powered by the powerful 13th Gen Intel Core processor, ensuring you have all the power you need for even the most demanding tasks. Paired with the Intel Iris Xe graphics card, you can expect the laptop to provide outstanding graphics performance.

Smart Conference

In this era of remote work and virtual meetings, the MateBook X Pro has you covered with its Smart Conference capabilities. Integrating cutting-edge AI Camera and AI Sound features, this laptop provides an immersive, authentic and natural communication experience during your meetings.

Price and availability

The MateBook X Pro is now available for pre-orders in the Kingdom in White and Space Gray at a starting price of SR6,999 ($1,866) from Huawei’s online platforms as well as certified retailers. A gift bundle valued at SR3,330 is available throughout the pre-order period.

The laptop will be available for purchase on June 8.