Stories from 8 January 2014
A Mobile Phone Based Virtual School System In Pakistan
Sri Lankan blogger Nandasiri Wanninayaka writes: Rehan School is a mobile phone based virtual school system that allows anyone who has a mobile phone access the prerecorded video lessons free of charge. With expanding mobile coverage in Pakistan, this will be an exciting way to reach the rural illiterate communities....
Happy New Year from Philadelphia's “Drunk Racist Clown Parade”
The United States' longest-running folk festival is a dizzying array of bright colors, sequins, feathers—and racist stereotypes.
Prominent Russian Actor Asks Putin to Recriminalize Sodomy
A prominent Russian actor, Ivan Okhlobystin, is making headlines for his latest homophobic act: a public letter addressed to Vladimir Putin, asking the President to recriminalize sodomy in Russia.
Brazil's ‘Silent Revolution’ in Education, Inspired by Portugal
Imagine a school without classrooms, schedules or exams. A curriculum which is decided upon by the children, through consensus, and which includes subjects such as circus and meditation.
Reason for President of Central African Republic Djotodia Imminent Resignation
Multiple sources report [fr] that Michel Djotodia, Interim President of Central African Republic (CAR) will step down tomorrow (January 9) as his country is rocked by violent inter-community conflicts. Although the minister of Communication denied [fr] the president's resignation earlier, Simon Koitoua in Bangui, CAR opines that it was bound to happen because of...
PHOTOS: Honor the Treaties With Native Indians
Honor The Treaties, a film by director Eric Becker, documents photographer Aaron Huey‘s mission to portray poverty and the struggles of the Native Lakota people of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in the United States. Huey's original photographs are collected in the book Mitakuye Okasin, which was described by Mother Jones...
Honduran Journalists Use Sensationalised Crime Reporting as a Safety Measure
Honduras has become the ideal transit spot for international drug traffickers. Reporting about crime under this environment has become increasingly dangerous.
Dakar Rally Coming to Tupiza, Bolivia
Many Bolivians are excited that the Dakar Rally off-road race will pass through their national territory. On her personal blog, journalist Fabiola Chambi showcases what tourists that may arrive to her hometown of Tupiza would want to see, as well as some of the prime watching spots along the route...
Chinese President's Bun Shop Now Hub for Protestors
After Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to a local restaurant last week that received massive media attention, petitioners in Beijing think it's a good place for protest. Last weekend they showed up outside of the restaurant hanging banners calling out the government for corruption.
