Seven celestial events to look out for in 2025

The University of California announced the discontinuation of diversity statements in hiring, a practice that aimed to promote inclusivity but faced criticism for potentially limiting diversity of thought. This decision comes as the Trump administration intensifies attacks on higher education diversity programs, with the university system facing budget cuts and threats of funding reductions. Despite the move away from diversity statements, the university remains committed to embracing a variety of perspectives and life experiences among...

The UK is hosting a meeting of senior military officers from the "coalition of the willing" to discuss plans for a proposed peacekeeping force for Ukraine, with over 20 countries involved. Despite moving towards an operational phase, obstacles remain such as Russian opposition to Nato troops in Ukraine and US reluctance to provide necessary air cover. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to attend after visiting Barrow, where he will lay the keel of a...

German naval systems maker ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems expects its market size to triple by the end of the decade, following the German parliament's approval of increased defense spending. CEO Oliver Burkhard noted that the government's new fiscal policy removes limits on defense expenditures, signaling a significant shift in approach. The company plans to expand its capacity and explore partnerships, such as the recent joint venture with India's Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders to design and build submarines...

During Ramadan in Jakarta, Indonesia, Teguh Islean Septura undergoes free tattoo removal to repent for altering his body as a former musician. The program, run by an Islamic charity, aims to help Muslims seeking to move closer to God by removing tattoos associated with criminality and societal stigma. Participants like Septura and others, including Sri Indrayati and Evalia Zadora, express regret over their tattoos and wish to improve themselves spiritually and socially. Full Article

Carrie Underwood honored Randy Travis at the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, performing his songs "Three Wooden Crosses" and "Forever and Ever, Amen." She moved the crowd to tears when she handed Travis the microphone to sing the closing "Amen." Fans took to social media to praise the emotional performance, with many expressing their tears and admiration for the country music legends. Full Article

Jiang Hui, whose mother was on the missing MH370 Malaysia Airlines passenger jet, commemorates the 11th anniversary of the disappearance in Beijing wearing a shirt honoring the 239 lives lost. Malaysia's government has approved Texas-based Ocean Infinity to resume the search for the plane in the southern Indian Ocean, with a "no-find, no-fee" contract worth $70 million if wreckage is found. The search operation, focusing on a new 15,000-square-kilometer site, aims to provide closure to...