Former Pakistan cricket captain Muhammad Hafeez has reportedly not received payment owed to him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for his brief tenure as the director of the national team. Hafeez was appointed during Zaka Ashraf’s tenure in the PCB management committee but has yet to be compensated for his services. During his time with the PCB, Hafeez also served as head coach during tours of Australia and New Zealand. However, criticism arose after the team faced defeats in Test matches against Australia and lost the T20 series against New Zealand. Following a change in PCB leadership from Zaka Ashraf to Mohsin Naqvi, the coaching approach was altered, leading to questions about Hafeez’s role. Eventually, the PCB announced his departure as team director via social media, ending his initial four-year term just two months later. The PCB’s handling of coaching arrangements during New Zealand’s tour to Pakistan has also faced scrutiny, with the board struggling to secure international cricket figures for the vacant positions.
“Eid Moon Sighting: Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Issue Calls for Observance”
On Saturday, Saudi Arabian authorities issued a call for citizens to observe the Shawwal moon on the evening of April 8, Monday. The Saudi Supreme Court urged residents to report any moon sightings and inform the appropriate authorities in accordance with Sharia law. According to Islamic tradition, the moon can be sighted either with the naked eye or using binoculars, and any sightings must be reported to the nearest court or center. Ramadan began on March 11 in 2024, marking the start of the fasting month for Muslims worldwide. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicted that Eid al-Fitr would commence on April 10, with the Shawwal moon expected to be sighted on April 9. According to the PMD, the crescent moon would appear on April 8 at 11:21 pm and would be between 19 and 20 hours old by the following day around the time of the Maghrib prayer. Additionally, the PMD forecasted that the crescent would be visible for over 50 minutes around sundown, providing ample opportunity for observation.
“Pakistan Army Initiates Fourth Batch of Digital Skills Program in South Waziristan”
The Pakistan Army has initiated the fourth batch of its digital skills program in South Waziristan, a region known for its challenges in terms of employment opportunities. This program aims to address this issue by equipping local youth with valuable skills that are in demand in today’s digital economy. Over a period of three months, participants will undergo comprehensive training in various disciplines, including AutoCAD, video editing, freelancing, graphics designing, and creative writing. By providing training in these diverse fields, the program seeks to empower the youth with the necessary skills to secure employment or pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the digital realm.
One of the notable aspects of this batch is its commitment to inclusivity and gender equality. With seventy-seven students enrolled from different areas of South Waziristan, the program aims to ensure that both male and female participants have equal access to opportunities for skill development. This reflects a broader effort to promote gender parity and empower women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
The impact of the digital skills program in South Waziristan has been significant. Previous batches have already benefited approximately one hundred and eighty young individuals from the region, providing them with valuable skills and opening doors to new opportunities. By continuing to invest in programs like this, the Pakistan Army aims to uplift communities, reduce unemployment, and foster economic growth in underserved areas like South Waziristan.
“Speculation Surrounds Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Departure from Kakul Fitness Camp”
Shaheen Shah Afridi, the talented Pakistani cricketer known for his prowess as a fast bowler, has recently made headlines with his departure from the Kakul Fitness Camp. This move has sparked considerable speculation and discussions within the cricketing community and among enthusiasts. The Kakul Fitness Camp holds significant importance in the cricketing landscape of Pakistan, renowned for its rigorous training programs and its role in preparing players for upcoming matches and tournaments. Afridi’s decision to leave the camp has raised eyebrows and prompted questions about the reasons behind his departure.
While there has been no official statement released regarding the specifics of Afridi’s departure, various theories and conjectures have emerged. Some speculate that personal reasons may have influenced his decision, while others suggest the possibility of fitness concerns or strategic considerations related to upcoming cricketing events. Given Afridi’s stature as one of Pakistan’s key players, particularly in the fast bowling department, any development involving him naturally garners significant attention and scrutiny from fans, analysts, and stakeholders within the cricketing fraternity.
Afridi’s departure from the fitness camp comes at a critical juncture for Pakistani cricket, with several important matches and tournaments on the horizon. His absence from the camp raises questions about his readiness and preparedness for these upcoming challenges, adding an element of uncertainty to Pakistan’s cricketing plans. However, until official clarity is provided regarding the reasons behind Afridi’s departure, speculation is likely to continue, underscoring the keen interest and scrutiny surrounding developments involving one of the nation’s most promising cricketing talents.
Madina Visit: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Offers Prayers at Prophet’s Mosque
During his visit to Madina Munawara, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif performed the Isha prayer and additional prayers at Riazul Jannah in Masjid-e-Nabwi (Mosque of the Prophet) on Saturday. Prior to this, he visited the Roza-e-Rasool (Prophet Muhammad’s PBUH shrine) and offered prayers for the advancement and prosperity of the nation, as well as for the Muslim communities in Palestine and Indian Occupied Kashmir. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also visited the Roza-e-Rasool and prayed for the nation’s progress and prosperity. Upon his arrival in the holy city, Madina Governor Prince Salman Bin Sultan extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Surge in Volunteerism: Saudi Arabia Reports Record Participation in 2023”
In 2023, Saudi Arabia witnessed a remarkable surge in volunteerism, with over 834,300 men and women actively participating in various volunteer activities across the kingdom. This significant engagement positively impacted the lives of more than 75 million individuals, demonstrating the immense social contribution made by volunteers. According to reports from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the economic value of these volunteer efforts exceeded SR1.23 billion ($327 million), underlining the substantial societal benefits derived from such initiatives.
The Saudi National Volunteer Portal played a pivotal role in facilitating these volunteer activities, offering a platform for individuals and entities to connect and engage in meaningful projects. Throughout the year, the portal provided a staggering 528,310 volunteering opportunities, surpassing its annual target by a considerable margin. Volunteers dedicated a total of 53,551,818 hours towards these initiatives, showcasing their commitment and dedication to serving their communities.
The surge in volunteering reflects Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to social development and the ambitious goals outlined in Vision 2030. By encouraging citizens to actively participate in volunteer work, the kingdom aims to foster interconnected and prosperous communities, promoting a culture of social responsibility and collective action.
Volunteering during Ramadan, in particular, witnessed enthusiastic participation from individuals across the kingdom. Charitable events and initiatives during this holy month further exemplified the spirit of giving and community support prevalent among Saudi citizens. Overall, the surge in volunteerism underscores the kingdom’s commitment to building a more inclusive, compassionate, and resilient society for all its citizens.
“Pakistan Women Cricketers Injured in Tragic Car Accident”
On the outskirts of Lahore, a tragic car accident involving several Pakistan women cricketers occurred, resulting in injuries to multiple players. The incident took place while the team was traveling for a training camp ahead of their upcoming series. Reports indicate that the accident was caused by a collision with another vehicle, leading to significant damage to both cars. Emergency services rushed to the scene to provide medical assistance, with the injured players transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. While the extent of injuries sustained by the cricketers remains unclear, officials have assured that they are receiving the necessary medical care. The cricketing community has expressed shock and concern over the incident, with messages of support and prayers pouring in for the affected players. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident and ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Danish School Initiative and Education Reforms in Pakistan
The Danish School initiative, spearheaded by Federal Secretary for Education and Professional Training Mohiuddin Wani, marks a significant step towards providing quality education to deserving and needy children in Pakistan. With the establishment of a Danish School in Karachi, children from underprivileged backgrounds will have access to education from the 6th grade to the intermediate level, addressing a crucial need for educational opportunities among marginalized communities. This initiative not only focuses on academic learning but also aims to foster entrepreneurship skills, with plans to introduce entrepreneurship education at matriculation and intermediate levels in government schools nationwide. Wani emphasized the holistic support provided to students in Danish schools, including free education, food, and accommodation, mirroring successful models implemented in Punjab.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment to educational reforms extends beyond the Danish School initiative. Efforts to digitize government schools in Islamabad and align school and college curricula with contemporary standards demonstrate a proactive approach to enhancing the quality of education. Practical measures to improve public school facilities in Islamabad are underway, reflecting a concerted effort to address infrastructure gaps and ensure a conducive learning environment for students. Overall, these initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to advancing education and empowering future generations in Pakistan.
Pakistan Railway Revenue Hits Historic High
Pakistan Railway has achieved a significant milestone in its revenue generation during the initial nine months of the fiscal year 2023-24. The railway reported a historic rise in earnings, reaching Rs66 billion, marking a substantial increase compared to previous periods. This achievement underscores the efforts of Pakistan Railway to enhance its operational efficiency and financial sustainability. Aamer Ali Baloch, the CEO of Pakistan Railways, expressed optimism about the railway’s financial performance, projecting that the revenue would further climb to Rs80 billion by the end of the fiscal year. Baloch attributed this success to various initiatives aimed at improving service quality, optimizing routes, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Additionally, he highlighted the strategic measures taken to ensure uninterrupted services during peak periods, such as the Eid holidays, including full bookings for special trains and adequate fuel supply to maintain operations. The positive trajectory in revenue reflects Pakistan Railway’s commitment to modernization, expansion, and meeting the evolving transportation needs of the country.
“BYD’s Investment in Pakistan’s Electric Vehicle Industry: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Transportation”
China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, in partnership with Mega Conglomerate Private Limited, has expressed interest in investing in Pakistan for the production of advanced electric vehicles. This move aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and adopting more energy-efficient transportation options to improve air quality. The collaboration aims to make environmentally friendly products more accessible to Pakistani consumers and contribute to the expansion of the country’s automotive industry. BYD plans to manufacture electric vehicles locally in Pakistan, including the production of Right Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles for export. This investment highlights the efforts of Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council to attract foreign investments and boost economic growth. Furthermore, Pakistan and China have agreed to establish a Working Group (WG) to oversee five new economic corridors as part of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These corridors, based on the 5Es framework developed by the Planning Ministry, include initiatives focused on job creation, innovation, green energy, and inclusive regional development. The agreement signifies a strengthened partnership between Pakistan and China in advancing economic development and sustainable initiatives.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Offers Special Discounts for Flights to Saudi Arabia
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced significant discounts for flights to four destinations in Saudi Arabia, aiming to facilitate travel for passengers during the upcoming holiday season. The discounted fares are applicable to flights from Pakistan to Jeddah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Dammam. Passengers can take advantage of these reduced fares to visit these key destinations for religious, business, or leisure purposes.
The special discounts come as part of PIA’s efforts to make air travel more accessible and affordable for passengers, especially during peak travel periods such as holidays and religious festivals. By offering discounted fares to popular destinations in Saudi Arabia, PIA aims to cater to the travel needs of a wide range of passengers, including pilgrims performing Umrah or visiting holy sites, as well as business travelers and tourists.
The discounted fares are expected to attract a significant number of passengers, as travelers seek affordable options for their journeys to Saudi Arabia. PIA remains committed to providing reliable and convenient air travel services while ensuring affordability for passengers. With these special discounts, PIA aims to make travel to Saudi Arabia more accessible and convenient for travelers from Pakistan, further strengthening the air connectivity between the two countries.
“Shahid Afridi: From Cricket Captain to Potential Politician”
“Shahid Afridi: From Cricket Captain to Potential Politician”
Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has hinted at entering politics, expressing his desire to serve the people of the country. In a media interaction, the 47-year-old cricketer stated, “I want to venture into politics and contribute to Pakistan’s betterment, but my elders have advised me against it.” Afridi emphasized the importance of individuals like himself engaging in politics for bringing about positive change. He expressed his belief that without the involvement of people like him, significant transformation would be challenging to achieve.
Regarding the recent change in leadership within the national cricket team, Afridi disclosed that he had consistently advised his son-in-law, Shaheen Shah Afridi, to refrain from taking on the captaincy role. “I always discouraged Shaheen from taking on the captaincy,” Afridi stated, highlighting his efforts to steer the young cricketer away from the responsibility and encourage him to focus on his game. Afridi recounted advising Shaheen against accepting the captaincy offer from Lahore Qalandars, expressing his disappointment that Shaheen did not heed his advice.