Economics
Which region in the world has the smartest kids? According to the OECD, it’s East Asia
With the release last month of the latest PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) results by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), it is apparent that many of the highest achieving students in the world are in East Asia.
Just as in the recently released TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) results, Singapore leads the world in every subject in PISA, outperforming other economies and countries by a significant margin. Students in Singapore perform at a level that is up to two years ahead of their regional and OECD counterparts in science, mathematics and reading. Moreover, almost all Singaporean students have reached a basic level of proficiency or higher. And they just keep getting better, having significantly reduced performance below basic proficiency.
Japan also outperforms most participating economies in science, mathematics and reading. However, its score in reading has declined since the last round. Still, as in Singapore, 90% of students have reached a basic level of proficiency or above.
PISA is a triennial international survey launched in 2000 which aims to evaluate education systems worldwide by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students. In 2015, over half a million students in 72 countries and economies were assessed in science, mathematics and reading.
Overall, East Asian economies dominate, with 7 of the top 10 entries.
In science, not only do the high income East Asian countries (e.g., Singapore, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong SAR China) dominate, but, for the first time, Vietnam enters the top 10 as well. This is quite an accomplishment for a relatively lower income country. Vietnam’s performance continues to be significantly above average for its income group and above many high-income countries. Its science score remains about a year above the OECD and regional averages.
Prior to 2015, Shanghai was the sole representative of China in PISA and demonstrated exemplary performance. This has been well documented. This year four provinces and cities participated in PISA–Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu and Guangdong. Their performance was well ahead of the OECD average.
But there are challenges
Other East Asian countries do not fare as well. Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand participated in PISA 2015 but all three are performing below the level expected given their level of income. The performance of students in each subject continues to lag the regional and the OECD averages by 2 to 3 years. About 50% of the students are below the basic proficiency level, making them almost functionally illiterate when it comes to 21st century skills. This is despite having completed nine years of elementary and high school.
In Thailand, scores in science and reading declined significantly while scores in mathematics have decreased slightly. While Indonesia has seen significant test score improvements–science test scores have…
Business
Gordonstoun Severs Connections with Business Led by Individual Accused of Espionage for China
Gordonstoun school severed ties with Hampton Group over espionage allegations against chairman Yang Tengbo. He denies involvement and claims to be a victim of political tensions between the UK and China.
Allegations Lead to School’s Decision
Gordonstoun School in Moray has cut ties with Hampton Group International after serious allegations surfaced regarding its chairman, Yang Tengbo, who is accused of being a spy for the Chinese government. Known by the alias "H6," Mr. Tengbo was involved in a deal that aimed to establish five new schools in China affiliated with Gordonstoun. However, the recent allegations compelled the school to terminate their agreement.
Public Denial and Legal Action
In response to the spying claims, Mr. Tengbo publicly revealed his identity, asserting that he has committed no wrongdoing. A close associate of Prince Andrew and a former Gordonstoun student himself, Mr. Tengbo has strenuously denied the accusations, stating that he is a target of the escalating tensions between the UK and China. He has claimed that his mistreatment is politically motivated.
Immigration Challenges and Legal Responses
Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, has faced additional challenges regarding his immigration status in the UK. After losing an appeal against a ban enacted last year, he reiterated his innocence, condemning media speculation while emphasizing his commitment to clear his name. Gordonstoun, on its part, stated its inability to divulge further details due to legal constraints.
Source : Gordonstoun cuts ties with business chaired by man accused of spying for China
Business
China Dismantles Prominent Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
The Chinese government demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Xinjiang, affecting Uyghur culture and commerce, prompting criticism from activists amid concerns over cultural erasure and human rights violations.
Demolition of a Cultural Landmark
The Chinese government recently demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Urumqi, Xinjiang, a vital hub for Uyghur culture and commerce, as reported by VOA. This center, once inhabited by more than 800 predominantly Uyghur-owned businesses, has been deserted since 2009. Authorities forcibly ordered local business owners to vacate the premises before proceeding with the demolition, which took place without any public notice.
Condemnation from Activists
Uyghur rights activists have condemned this demolition, perceiving it as part of China’s broader strategy to undermine Uyghur identity and heritage. The event has sparked heightened international concern regarding China’s policies in Xinjiang, which have been characterized by allegations of mass detentions and cultural suppression, prompting claims of crimes against humanity.
Rebiya Kadeer’s Response
Rebiya Kadeer, the center’s namesake and a notable Uyghur rights advocate, criticized the demolition as a deliberate attempt to erase her legacy. Kadeer, who has been living in exile in the U.S. since her release from imprisonment in 2005, continues to advocate for Uyghur rights. She has expressed that her family members have suffered persecution due to her activism, while the Chinese government has yet to comment on the legal ramifications of the demolition.
Source : China Demolishes Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
Business
Yakult Unveils Restructuring Plans for Its China Operations | ESM Magazine
Yakult reorganized its China operations, dissolving the Shanghai subsidiary while opening a new branch. Manufacturing now consolidates at Wuxi and Tianjin plants, aiming for enhanced efficiency and growth.
Yakult’s Business Reorganisation in China
Yakult has announced a significant reorganisation of its operations in China, aiming to enhance competitiveness and sustainability. The company has dissolved its wholly-owned subsidiary, Shanghai Yakult, which previously managed manufacturing and sales functions. This strategic move is expected to streamline its operations in the Chinese market.
New Branch and Manufacturing Adjustments
Yakult’s head office in China has established a new branch in Shanghai, transferring the sales division from Shanghai Yakult to this location. As of December 6, the branch has started selling various products, including Yakult and its light variants. Meanwhile, the manufacturing plant in Shanghai has ceased operations, with production capacity now absorbed by the Wuxi and Tianjin plants to ensure efficient supply.
Commitment to Growth
The company remains steadfast in its dedication to the Chinese market and is optimistic about future growth. Yakult reassured stakeholders that the reorganisation will have minimal financial impact and aims to enhance efficiency. Founded in 2005 in Shanghai, Yakult China currently employs approximately 2,216 individuals, reinforcing its commitment to customer health and expanding operations.
Source : Yakult Announces Reorganisation Of China Business | ESM Magazine
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