HONG KONG, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lingnan University in Hong Kong has entered the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026. In the latest published results, Lingnan ranked among the world’s top 301–350 out of 2,191 universities from 115 countries or territories, delivering a notable performance across several indicators. These include an impressive 47th place in International Outlook, recognising Lingnan University’s achievement in fostering international diversity and collaborative research on a global scale.

Prof S. Joe Qin, President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science at Lingnan University, welcomed the results, saying “Lingnan has made remarkable progress in research output and citation impact in recent years. To further strengthen our capabilities in research and knowledge transfer, we are bringing in world-class scholars through the Lingnan-60 Global Talent Recruitment Campaign and the Lingnan University Institute for Advanced Study (LUIAS), creating a vibrant hub for nurturing the next generation of research talent. As of the end of September 2025, we have recruited 31 leading scholars through Lingnan-60 across emerging fields, including artificial intelligence (AI), data science, advanced materials, and carbon neutrality. This reinforces our commitment to becoming a leading research-oriented liberal arts university comprehensive in arts and sciences in the digital era. We are confident that our achievements will be increasingly reflected in future rankings.”

The THE World University Rankings are based on five core pillars of evaluation: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry.

Earlier this year, Lingnan University gained global recognition by ranking No. 1 worldwide in SDG 4: Quality Education in the THE Impact Rankings 2025. This notable achievement marks the first time a Hong Kong higher education institution has topped the global league table in this category, affirming Lingnan’s internationally recognised contributions to quality education and its commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, 43 Lingnan scholars are featured in the 2025 edition of the World’s Top 2% Scientists list, an increase of almost 50% from last year’s 29. Among them, 19 scholars rank in the global top 100 in their respective disciplines, underscoring the international recognition of Lingnan’s research excellence and rising international impact.

Facility marks EDAN’s 30th anniversary and kickstarts global supply chain ecosystem

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Edan Instruments, Inc. (300206.SZ), a global leader in medical device innovation, announced the official opening of its new U.S. manufacturing hub in San Diego, California, on September 30, 2025. Building on more than 15 years of local presence through its San Diego office, the milestone marks EDAN Diagnostics, Inc.‘s first U.S.-based production site and strengthens the company’s presence in the region, enhancing its ability to support healthcare providers with advanced medical technologies while improving supply chain resilience in North America.

Together with EDAN Diagnostics’ existing 13,588-square-foot San Diego office, the new 20,882-square-foot facility strengthens the company’s U.S. operations. Across its San Diego sites, EDAN now integrates manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, R&D, and pre- and post-sales support — delivering greater efficiency, faster service, and expanded capacity to meet the growing needs of American healthcare systems. The facility is fully certified, including MDSAP and a California FDB medical device manufacturing license.

According to Mr. Hao Zhang, CEO of Edan Instruments, Inc., the launch of the new facility represents more than just an expansion — it embodies EDAN’s 30-year commitment to staying close to the people it serves. The establishment of this hub reinforces the company’s dedication to providing healthcare professionals with reliable, innovative technologies designed around patient needs. It also marks the beginning of EDAN’s global supply chain ecosystem, linking U.S. operations with its international network to enhance efficiency and responsiveness worldwide.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and the North American Representative Office of Shenzhen, China, coincided with EDAN’s 30th anniversary globally and the 15th anniversary of its U.S. subsidiary. To mark the occasion, EDAN dispatched the first shipment from the new facility, symbolizing the beginning of local production and distribution. Employees, partners, and community members joined in a countdown as the first truck rolled out, underscoring EDAN’s growing role in the region.

“We are excited to see EDAN take this next step in San Diego,” said Eduardo Velasquez, Sr. Director of Research & Economic Development at San Diego Regional EDC. “EDAN joins a diverse ecosystem of Life Sciences companies that consistently ranks among the top three in the nation. Their investment is another proof point that global companies find growth opportunities and top-tier talent by expanding into our region.”

About EDAN
Edan Instruments, Inc. is a healthcare company dedicated to improving the human condition by delivering value-driven innovation in medical devices and solutions. With a portfolio that spans Patient Monitoring, Diagnostic ECG, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ultrasound Imaging, Point-of-Care Testing, In-Vitro Diagnostics, and Animal Care Patient Monitoring, Diagnostic ECG, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ultrasound Imaging,  Point-of-Care Testing, In-Vitro Diagnostics, and Animal Care, EDAN has empowered healthcare providers in over 170 countries. Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, EDAN operates 22 subsidiaries worldwide, including its U.S. arm, EDAN Diagnostics, Inc., based in San Diego, California. Follow EDAN on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The World Federation of Neurology (WFN) and the Korean Neurological Association (KNA) will host the XXVII World Congress of Neurology (WCN) in Seoul, South Korea, from Oct. 12-15, 2025. WCN is a major, biennial conference that brings together world-class neurologists, experts, researchers, and clinicians from across the globe to showcase the latest advances in brain science, neurology, and patient care.

The World Federation of Neurology (WFN) and the Korean Neurological Association (KNA) will host the XXVII World Congress of Neurology (WCN) in Seoul, South Korea, from Oct. 12-15, 2025.

The congress theme, “The Soul of Neurological Innovation,” is exemplified through an elite Scientific Program featuring some of the most vital research and most influential voices in the field.

“The world is paying attention to brain health and the field of Neurology is positioned to make groundbreaking changes in the way we diagnose, treat, and care for brain disorders around the world,” said Prof. Wolfgang Grisold, President, World Federation of Neurology. “Through this Congress, we have a unique opportunity to shift the global trajectory of brain health through education, research, and collaboration, which is the core of the mission of the World Federation of Neurology.”

WCN 2025 will feature a diverse schedule of workshops, teaching courses, debate sessions, informal talks with WFN leadership, and plenary lectures delivered by leading neurology experts, discussing the latest developments in their fields.

Additional highlights include:

• “WHO: Neurology Brain Health and Mental Health,” Dr. Tarun Dua, Unit Head, Neurological, Sensory and Oral Conditions, Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health Department at the World Health Organization (WHO), Switzerland
• “When Stroke Strikes,” Prof. Charlotte Cordonnier, Professor of Neurology in the Lille University Hospital, France
• “Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapies,” Prof. Sir John Hardy, Chair of Molecular Biology of Neurological Disease at the UCL Institute of Neurology, London
• “What do we know and What Would We Like to Know about Cellular Senescence in the Brain,” Dr. Mikolaj Ogrodnik, PhD, Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, Austria
• “New Therapies in Autoimmune Neurology: Focus on Car-T Cell Therapies,” Dr. Sean Pittock, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
• “New Therapies in Inherited Neuropathies,” Prof. Mary Reilly, MB, MD, FRCP, FRCPI, FMedSci, Professor of Clinical Neurology and Consultant Neurologist, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London
• “Patient Issues: The Fujitsu Project on Migraine,” Fumihiko Sakai, M.D., Director of Saitama International Headache Center, Saitama Neuropsychiatric Institute, Japan
• “Movement Disorders in Africa: Progress by Education,” Prof. Njideka Okubadejo, Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, University of Lagos, Nigeria

Throughout the Congress, WFN will host a series of interactive conversations about Brain Health, with participation from WHO, and featuring the worldwide advocacy activities of WFN, from Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP) to World Brain Day.

“WCN is committed to fostering a global perspective in the field of neurology, recognizing that diverse health systems and neurological challenges around the world require collaborative efforts to advance better brain health for all,” said Professor Beomseok Jeon, President, XXVII World Congress of Neurology.

Those interested in attending the conference can register to attend in-person or virtually here. Additional news releases will be distributed throughout the week. For media queries, please contact ashley@yakketyyak.com.

About the World Federation of Neurology
With support from its 125 Member Societies, the World Federation of Neurology fosters quality neurology and brain health worldwide by promoting neurological education and training, emphasizing under-resourced areas of the world. As a non-state actor in official relations, WFN supports the World Health Organization (WHO) efforts to give everyone an equal chance to live a healthy life. With Member Societies around the globe, WFN unites the world’s neurologists to ensure quality neurology and advocate for people to have better brain health. Learn more about the World Federation of Neurology at wfneurology.org.

About the Korean Neurological Association
The Korean Neurological Association (KNA), founded in 1981, is the official academic society representing neurologists in Korea. Since its first annual meeting in 1982, which had 206 participants, the KNA has experienced substantial growth, boasting 2,607 members by 2025, comprising board-certified neurologists and residents in training. The KNA plays a central role in the education and training of neurology. The KNA established the Korean Board of Neurology in 1983 and has since managed the certification of all neurologists in Korea.

Media Contact
Ashley Logan, Yakkety Yak
ashley@yakketyyak.com

Education Cannot Wait-funded initiative, implemented by Light for the World and Save the Children, trains teachers in sign language and braille as part of multi-year programme in South Sudan.

JUBA, South Sudan, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a sunlit classroom in Juba, 24-year-old Beatrice stands in front of her fellow student teachers, her hands moving with newfound confidence as she practices the signs she has learned. “At the beginning, it was a bit difficult, but after the introduction to sign language, the sessions are now getting interesting and we are learning it with much love,” says student teacher Beatrice.

Student teacher Beatrice practices her signs at the front of the RNTTI classroom in Juba, South Sudan. © Light for the World/Nema Juma

Beatrice is one of 1,400 aspiring educators from across the country who will receive training at three national teacher training institutes over the next two years through a transformative programme launched by Light for the World, in partnership with the South Sudan Ministry of General Education and Instruction. 

The initiative is part of the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) Multi-Year Resilience Programme in the country – implemented by Light for the World, Save the Children, Norwegian Refugee Council and Finn Church Aid, as well as other partners. The teacher training, which also includes braille and inclusive education pedagogy, aims to ensure that no child in South Sudan is left behind – regardless of ability.

LEARNING TO TEACH, TEACHING TO CHANGE

“Today, I learned the alphabet, how to greet someone, how to ask someone their name and how to introduce myself in sign language,” says Beatrice.

For her, this is more than professional development.

Before joining the Rombur National Teachers Training Institute (RNTII), she taught at Sacred Heart Primary School in Magwi County, where students with disabilities were noticeably absent. “You rarely saw children with disabilities since there were not enough teachers to teach sign language and braille, and I believe that is why they chose to stay at home.”

The goal of the teacher training initiative is to tackle barriers to inclusive learning.

Over the span of nine months, teachers like Beatrice will gather to learn sign language, braille and strategies to promote inclusive education in their classrooms – taught by technical experts from ECW partner Light for the World. By equipping teachers with the skills to include and teach both children with and without disabilities, schools become more inclusive for all.

With less than half of children in South Sudan currently in school, inclusive education isn’t optional – it’s essential. “This crucial training will help address an urgent need for qualified teachers in inclusive education to accommodate and support children with disabilities,” adds Mohammed.

The ECW-supported initiative not only provides training, but also builds safe, accessible learning spaces and provides children with the assistive devices they need to attend school. Through this holistic approach, the aim is to remove the barriers that many girls and boys in South Sudan face in accessing their right to quality education.

Alex, another student teacher at RNTTI, echoes Beatrice’s passion. “I am really proud to be a part of this programme because, before entering the institute, I taught several boys and girls who had hearing impairments, as well as those with visual and other forms of disabilities. I felt terrible in class because of the communication barrier. Now, I am overjoyed that I am being trained by Light for the World. After I graduate, my expertise will be transformed when I return to school,” he says.

The initiative is already changing lives. 

In Magwi County, 18-year-old Moses, a pupil at Obbo Nursery and Primary School, missed his first term examinations when his mobility tricycle broke. “It was easy for me to come to school when I had a tricycle, but it broke. I had to stop coming because the school is far away from home.”

Disability Inclusion Facilitators from Light for the World took action. Working with Save the Children, they acquired a new tricycle for Moses. Though it may seem like a simple gesture, it made all the difference between Moses dropping out of school or continuing his education. Today, he is back in class and learning alongside his classmates. 

ECW IN SOUTH SUDAN

South Sudan remains one of the most challenging places in the world for children to access education. Conflict, displacement and poverty continue to disrupt learning for millions. More than 2.8 million children are out of school in the country today. Children with disabilities face even greater hurdles, often hidden from sight and forgotten by systems not designed for them.

Since 2020, ECW has supported partners in improving access to quality inclusive education for crisis-affected children and increasing retention rates. ECW’s funding focuses on the most vulnerable groups, including girls, internally displaced children and children with disabilities. Interventions range from covering school fees and reaching students remotely to training education personnel and implementing child protection pathways in schools.

ECW has invested US$73.8 million to support those left furthest behind in South Sudan. The most substantial portion of this investment, US$40 million, was announced in 2023. To date, ECW support in the country has reached 328,000 crisis-affected children across 14 counties. This progress is made possible by the work of implementing partners Light for the World, Save the Children, Norwegian Refugee Council, Finn Church Aid, UNICEF and more, in close conjunction with the Ministry of General Education and Instruction and other partners.

Despite these investments and the dedication of implementing partners and educators, education continues to be one of the most underfunded sectors in the country. Now more than ever, we must rally global support to close the funding gap and ensure that crisis-affected children in South Sudan, including those with disabilities, are not left behind.

ADVOCATING FOR A FUTURE OF INCLUSION

Beatrice reflects on the training, and the impact it has already had on her career trajectory and mission as an educator. “Now I feel compelled to learn more so that, when I return, we can at least convince parents to send their children with disabilities to school – as well as talk to those students who are already enrolled to encourage others who have been left out to attend,” she says.

She delivers a clear and urgent appeal: “My message to parents is that they should not look down on their children with disabilities – they are just like everyone else. Instead, they should find a route ahead by sending their children to school.”

This isn’t just about access – it’s about societal transformation.

For now, Beatrice practices her signs with determination in Juba. When she returns to her community, she’ll be more than a teacher – she’ll be an advocate, helping children who’ve long been excluded enter the classroom and create a future beyond it.

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Director General of National Export Development, Ministry of Trade, Fajarini Puntodewi, continues to encourage Indonesian businesses to maximize benefits from onsite interactions with international buyers at the largest international trade exhibition in Indonesia, Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) 2025. Marking its 40th edition, TEI 2025 will take place at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) BSD City, Tangerang – Banten, on October 15–19, 2025.

This was conveyed by Puntodewi at the Press Conference on the Implementation of TEI 2025 held at ICE BSD City, Monday (29/9). Also attending the press conference were Denny Abdi  – Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Heru Rizky Jiwayani – Government Business Head of PT Bank Mandiri (Persero), and Vibiadhi Swasti Pradana – Director of PT Debindo Multi Adhiwasti,.

“With thousands of participants and buyers increasing everyday, TEI 2025 opens opportunities for Indonesian products to reach global markets. This strategy is a tangible commitment that exports are not only for large-scale enterprises, but also for export-oriented village-based businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” said Puntodewi.

Carrying the theme “Discover Indonesia’s Excellence: Trade Beyond Boundaries”, as of September 29, TEI 2025 has registered at least 1,015 exhibitors and 6,847 buyers from 106 countries. TEI continues to welcome businesses wishing to participate and buyers to attend the event.

According to Puntodewi, this year TEI targets a total transaction value of USD 16.5 billion. TEI 2025 is also expected to involve at least 1,500 exhibitors and attract 30,000 visitors.

“Buyer registrations have already exceeded the target and continue to grow daily. We invite Indonesian businesses to seize this opportunity to showcase their best products and expand their customer base to the global market,” Puntodewi added.

This year, TEI is once again held fully offline without using state budget funds (APBN). In addition to viewing products directly, buyers can also experience the quality of local goods and services. Puntodewi expressed hope that these face-to-face interactions would help highlight the attractiveness and comparative advantages of Indonesian products to international buyers, as well as offering solutions to the need for new choice of products from Indonesia.

TEI 2025 also introduces innovative programs to further promote Indonesia’s exports. For the first time, the exhibition will feature a dedicated space for village-based businesses under the “Export-Oriented Village” Pavillion, and “BISA SME Pavilion that stands for Berani (Bold), Inovasi (Innovative), Siap (Ready), Adaptasi (Adaptive) for Exports”.

Another new feature this year is the pre-business matching mechanism. Unlike in previous years, business matching is now conducted before the exhibition to ensure more targeted business connections and create greater transaction opportunities.

The exhibition will be divided into three product zones: Food, Beverages, Agricultural Products, Licensing, and Franchising; Manufacturing and Services; and Fashion, Lifestyle, and Home Decoration.

In addition to the exhibition, TEI 2025 will also host business forums, including seminars, talk shows, and workshops. Other activities include business matching, business counseling, delegation meetings, courtesy calls, and the signing of trade Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).

At last year’s TEI 2024, the event featured 1,460 exhibitors and 41,488 visitors. The 39th edition successfully brought in 8,042 buyers from 140 countries and recorded transactions amounting to USD 22.73 billion.

Support for TEI 2025

Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Denny Abdi, expressed full support for the implementation of TEI 2025. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs actively promotes TEI through 132 Indonesian representatives abroad to ensure the success of the event. According to him, TEI creates a significant multiplier effect for the national economy.

“TEI is not only a marketplace, but also a stage to introduce Indonesia to the world. From trade transactions, investment opportunities, to tourism promotion, all can start at TEI 2025. Therefore, it is important for us as hosts to provide a positive experience for international buyers,” said Denny.

As a form of support, Government Business Head of PT Bank Mandiri (Persero), Heru Rizky Jiwayani, stated that Bank Mandiri supports Indonesia’s international trade growth by providing banking facilities that simplify business transactions. As a financial institution, Bank Mandiri serves as a channel for export and import transactions, while strengthening Indonesia’s position in the global market.

To support this, Bank Mandiri has introduced digital platforms Kopra by Mandiri and Kopra Beyond Border, which enable businesses to access trade finance services in real-time. The bank also offers export and SME assistance programs.

“As the official banking partner, Bank Mandiri provides Kopra by Mandiri and Kopra Beyond Border services to facilitate fast, safe, and efficient international trade transactions. Such banking support strengthens Indonesia’s competitiveness in global markets,” Heru explained.

Meanwhile, Vibiadhi from Debindo added that Indonesia’s best products this year will be showcased across seven exhibition halls at ICE BSD. The effort to promote exports is not only carried out by exhibitors, but also supported by 116 media partners and collaboration with more than 30 hotels for international buyers. It is hoped that Indonesian products will gain greater global recognition through TEI.

TEI 2025 will also present special awards as a token of appreciation to both the media and exhibitors. These include the Media Award for media outlets that contribute to disseminating TEI information at national and international levels, and for the first time, the Loyal Exhibitor Award for participants who consistently and actively support the exhibition.

The implementation of TEI 2025 is supported by Bank Mandiri, Pertamina, and the Palm Oil Fund Management Agency (BPDP). TEI is also supported by several associations, including the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI), and the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO).

The 40th Trade Expo Indonesia is organized by PT Debindomulti Adhiswasti.

• Riyadh Air fulfills 2025 commitment with launch flights to London; Dubai to be added later.
• Daily passenger launch flights to London Heathrow on October 26th mark critical ‘Pathway to Perfect’ go-to-market plan.
• Sfeer launches as Riyadh Air’s community-driven loyalty program, uniquely allowing shareability of membership benefits including Level Points to help friends and family reach higher status and unlock greater rewards.
• Early Sfeer members gain priority access to ticket sales on Riyadh Air’s future flights as well as exclusive experiences.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, today reveals two significant milestones as it announces a landmark on its journey towards its 2025 debut: the commencement of its first daily flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) on October 26th. Riyadh Air is also proud to unveil Sfeer, its groundbreaking loyalty offering, which will provide exclusive benefits to its early Founding Members through “The Founders”.

Jamila

Operational Excellence: Paving the Way for a World-Class Airline 

Beginning October 26th, Riyadh Air will commence daily launch flights from Riyadh to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) aboard its designated aircraft, “Jamila”. These carefully sequenced flights, initially on sale to select groups and Riyadh Air employees, are a critical phase in ensuring unparalleled operational readiness while utilizing Riyadh Air’s recently awarded slot at London Heathrow (LHR). Through assessing these initial Jamila flights, the airline builds operational strength for a smooth, reliable, world-class travel experience.

“This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realization of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, a core pillar of Saudi Vision 2030,” stated Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. “Our commitment to begin operations in 2025 is being fulfilled. This rigorous flight program on Jamila allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable, and world-class experience. This carefully sequenced approach is our pathway to perfect, and we are now incredibly close to full operations as our new aircraft are delivered.”

Sfeer: The Future of Loyalty, Designed for a Generation in Motion 

Sfeer, meaning “Ambassador” in Arabic and blended with the English word “sphere”, embodies the vibrant, generous spirit of Saudi Arabia. As it rolls out, Sfeer is set to become one of the world’s most unique and exciting loyalty programs, seamlessly combining community engagement with gamified experiences, all while unlocking the very best of Saudi.

Uniquely, Sfeer members will be able to share level points within their community. Sfeer membership is now open via www.riyadhair.com, and early joiners will be recognized as ‘The Founders’, who will receive priority access to bookings on future flights.

A cornerstone of Sfeer’s innovation is its community-centric design, allowing members to share points, benefits, and Level Points with friends and family, fostering collective reward. Furthermore, Sfeer proudly offers a “no points expiry” policy, ensuring every point and benefit is enjoyed, not wasted.

“With Sfeer, we’re creating much more than just a loyalty program; we’re building a dynamic, digitally immersive lifestyle ecosystem,” added Douglas. “Our vision is to truly change the game, offering unparalleled benefits and fostering a unique sense of community among our members.”

As ‘The Founders’, early joiners receive priority access to bookings on future flights. All Sfeer members can look forward to complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. Joining Sfeer now allows members to start collecting points and gain exclusive early access to routes and priority booking.

Don’t just travel; be a pioneer. This is an invitation to unlock the best of Saudi Arabia.

Sfeer