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Protests in Khartoum, Sudan, as government and International Monetary Fund step up attacks
Mass protests took place in the Sudanese capital Khartoum on June 30, against high inflation and the removal of fuel subsidies, which are increasing food prices and causing further cuts in living standards. Inflation hit 341 percent in March. Fuel will increase from around 35 cents to nearly 70 cents per litre, and the price of diesel will more than double.
On June 29, the International Monetary Fund approved a $2.5bn loan, with strings attached.
Demonstrators outside the presidential palace shouted, “We want the fall of the regime,” and “Bread for the poor.” Police used tear gas against crowds who burned tyres in the streets.
THE SQA is set to be overhauled as ministers bid to quell growing anger over its performance – and despite Nicola Sturgeon telling Parliament the agency has her full confidence. Critics were quick to attack the contradiction between the First Minister’s comments on Thursday and reform proposals announced shortly afterwards by Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville. Oliver Mundell, of the Scottish Conservatives, said: “Trying to tinker round the edges at reforming the SQA simply isn’t good enough. The SQA isn’t fit for purpose and must be axed. “The SNP can’t have it both ways. Nicola Sturgeon said she had full confidence in the SQA, yet a couple of hours later her Education Secretary announces that she wants to reform the SQA after its continued failures.
Submitting.
However, unions called for reforms to be a “significant review”.
Dr Patrick Roach, general secretary of NASUWT, said: It is abundantly clear from the current mess created by the Scottish Government and the SQA over the arrangements for the awarding of this summer qualifications that reform is needed. Teachers have lost confidence in both the SQA and Education Scotland and an overhaul of systems and structures is now needed in the best interests of schools, teachers and pupils.
“These reforms must not be a cosmetic exercise. The NASUWT has already warned that a growing over-emphasis on assessment and bureaucracy is disempowering teachers, damaging their morale and undermining their ability to meet the needs of their pupils.