Mobile ban in schools not improving grades or behaviour, study suggests

The government is facing a critical moment to recruit 6,500 new teachers in England by the end of its term, as vacancies reach a record high and recruitment remains low. Despite investment and bursary changes, recruitment targets are still being missed. The National Foundation of Educational Research calls for increased funding, pay rises, and flexible working practices to attract and retain teachers. Teaching unions support these recommendations, with potential industrial action looming. The government is...

Roche has agreed to a $5.3 billion deal with Zealand Pharma to develop the obesity drug candidate petrelintide, including a fixed-dose combination with Roche's CT-388, aiming to compete in the weight loss drug market. Zealand Pharma will receive $1.65 billion upfront and potential milestone payments, with shares of both companies rising after the announcement. The partnership will see Roche and Zealand jointly commercialize petrelintide in the U.S. and Europe, sharing profits and losses equally, while...

An Emirati diplomat visited Iran's foreign minister in Tehran, carrying a letter from President Trump regarding talks over Iran's nuclear program, despite Supreme Leader Khamenei's reluctance. Iran faces economic challenges amid US sanctions and internal unrest, while tensions rise with Israel. Trump's overtures come as Iran enriches uranium, prompting fears of military conflict and highlighting the ongoing diplomatic struggle between the two nations. Full Article

Summary: Until recently, the Mekong sub-region in Southeast Asia was making progress towards eliminating malaria by 2030. However, with the outbreak of civil war in Myanmar in 2021, cases have increased significantly. The Trump administration's cuts to foreign aid, including the dismantling of USAID, have raised concerns about losing progress made in combating malaria in the region. The suspension of anti-malaria programs in Myanmar could lead to a resurgence of the disease in Southeast Asia....

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed a bill designating the firing squad as the preferred method of execution for capital punishment, making Idaho the only state in the U.S. to do so. This decision comes after Brad Sigmon was executed by firing squad in South Carolina, and Idaho has nine prisoners on death row. The bill was supported by over two-thirds of the legislature and also kept lethal injection as a backup method. Full Article

In 2019, retired firefighter Mark Sell discovered a Medieval Bishop's ring dating back to the late 12th to early 13th century in Shipdham, Norfolk, England. The ring, in immaculate condition with all gemstones intact, is set to be auctioned at Noonans Mayfair in London. Sell reported his find to the U.K's Portable Antiquities Scheme, and the ring was temporarily displayed at the British Museum before potentially being acquired by the Norwich Castle Museum for permanent...