International Films Contending for the 97th Academy Awards

LOS ANGELES, CA, November 22, 2024 — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the feature films eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature Film, and International Feature Film categories for the 97th Academy Awards.

ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

Thirty-one films are eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film category for the 97th Academy Awards.

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM

One hundred sixty-nine features are eligible for consideration in the Documentary Feature Film category for the 97th Academy Awards.

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM

Eighty-five countries and regions have submitted films eligible for the International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.

An international feature film is a feature-length motion picture lasting more than 40 minutes that is produced outside the United States and has a predominantly non-English dialogue track, with more than 50% of the dialogue in languages other than English.

Academy members from all branches are invited to participate in the preliminary voting round. To be eligible to vote in this category, members must meet a minimum viewing requirement. The shortlist of 15 films will be announced on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

Preliminary voting for the 97th Academy Awards will begin on Monday, December 9, 2024, and end on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Shortlists for the 97th Academy Awards will be announced on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

Nominations for the 97th Academy Awards will be announced on Friday, January 17, 2025.

The 97th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.

97TH ACADEMY AWARDS

FILMS ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM CATEGORY

Listed in alphabetical order by country or region

Albania, “Waterdrop”
Algeria, “Algiers”
Argentina, “Kill the Jockey”
Armenia, “Yasha and Leonid Brezhnev”
Austria, “The Devil’s Bath”
Bangladesh, “The Wrestler”
Belgium, “Julie Keeps Quiet”
Bolivia, “Own Hand”
Bosnia and Herzegovina, “My Late Summer”
Brazil, “I’m Still Here”
Bulgaria, “Triumph”
Cambodia, “Meeting with Pol Pot”
Cameroon, “Kismet”
Canada, “Universal Language”
Chile, “In Her Place”
Colombia, “La Suprema”
Costa Rica, “Memories of a Burning Body”
Croatia, “Beautiful Evening, Beautiful Day”
Czech Republic, “Waves”
Denmark, “The Girl with the Needle”
Dominican Republic, “Aire Just Breathe”
Ecuador, “Behind the Mist”
Egypt, “Flight 404”
Estonia, “8 Views of Lake Biwa”
Finland, “Family Time”
France, “Emilia Pérez”
Georgia, “The Antique”
Germany, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”
Greece, “Murderess”
Guatemala, “Rita”
Hong Kong, “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”
Hungary, “Semmelweis”
Iceland, “Touch”
India, “Lost Ladies”
Indonesia, “Women from Rote Island”
Iran, “In the Arms of the Tree”
Iraq, “Baghdad Messi”
Ireland, “Kneecap”
Israel, “Come Closer”
Italy, “Vermiglio”
Japan, “Cloud”
Kazakhstan, “Bauryna Salu”
Kenya, “Nawi”
Kyrgyzstan, “Paradise at Mother’s Feet”
Latvia, “Flow”
Lebanon, “Arzé”
Lithuania, “Drowning Dry”
Malaysia, “Abang Adik”
Malta, “Castillo”
Mexico, “Sujo”
Mongolia, “If Only I Could Hibernate”
Montenegro, “Supermarket”
Morocco, “Everybody Loves Touda”
Nepal, “Shambhala”
Netherlands, “Memory Lane”
Nigeria, “Mai Martaba”
Norway, “Armand”
Pakistan, “The Glassworker”
Palestine, “From Ground Zero”
Panama, “Wake Up Mom”
Paraguay, “The Last Ones”
Peru, “Yana-Wara”
Philippines, “And So It Begins”
Poland, “Under the Volcano”
Portugal, “Grand Tour”
Romania, “Three Kilometres to the End of the World”
Senegal, “Dahomey”
Serbia, “Russian Consul”
Singapore, “La Luna”
Slovakia, “The Hungarian Dressmaker”
Slovenia, “Family Therapy”
South Africa, “Old Righteous Blues”
South Korea, “12.12: The Day”
Spain, “Saturn Return”
Sweden, “The Last Journey”
Switzerland, “Queens”
Taiwan, “Old Fox”
Tajikistan, “Melody”
Thailand, “How to Make Millions before Grandma Dies”
Tunisia, “Take My Breath”
Turkey, “Life”
Ukraine, “La Palisiada”
United Kingdom, “Santosh”
Venezuela, “Back to Life”
Vietnam, “Peach Blossom, Pho and Piano”

Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Rice University Expands to India: A New Chapter in Global Education

Houston, Texas, November 18, 2024 — Rice University, a global leader in research and innovation, is enhancing its international presence by launching Rice Global India. This strategic initiative highlights the university’s commitment to promoting global collaboration and supporting India’s rapidly growing education and technology sectors.

Rice University, established in 1912, is located in Houston, Texas, recognized as the most diverse metropolis in the United States. The university occupies a 300-acre forested campus and is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice University is distinguished by its highly regarded schools, including architecture, business, continuing studies, engineering and computing, humanities, music, natural sciences, and social sciences.

The university held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new hub in Bengaluru, India’s third-largest city and the heart of its high-tech industry. This event marks a significant step towards establishing formal operations in the region and enhances the university’s expanding network throughout India, including partnerships with leading research and academic institutions.

“India is a country full of immense opportunities, where we believe we can make a significant impact through collaboration in research, innovation, and education,” said Rice University President Reginald DesRoches. “Our presence in India is a crucial step in broadening our global reach, and we are eager to engage more with India’s academic leaders and industries to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This expansion demonstrates our commitment to creating a more interconnected world where education and research go beyond borders.”

As part of its strategic expansion, Rice University is enhancing collaborations with esteemed institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru. According to university leaders, these partnerships promote advanced research initiatives, facilitate exchanges between students and faculty, and collaborate on critical areas of mutual interest, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy.

Why India?

India’s increasing influence in energy, climate change, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology aligns with Rice’s research priorities outlined in the university’s recently unveiled strategic plan, “Momentous: Personalized Scale for Global Impact.” This strategic expansion emphasizes Rice’s intention to contribute to India’s innovation ecosystem by engaging in joint research initiatives, collaborating with faculty, and facilitating student exchanges with leading institutions.

Source: Rice University

Exploring Leadership at the 26th Global Conference of the International Leadership Association

  • Architects of Change: A Gathering of Global Leaders in Chicago.

As the world navigates a complex landscape of geopolitical shifts and societal challenges, the International Leadership Association’s 26th Global Conference brought together a diverse group of leaders, scholars, and development professionals from around the globe to explore the critical role of Leadership in shaping our future.

The conference, which took place at the Hilton Chicago from November 7 to 10, focused on “Architects of Change: Leaders, Followers, and Communities.”

Cynthia Cherrey, President of the International Leadership Association, emphasized the importance of Leadership in today’s challenging times, stating, “Leadership is crucial during these difficult periods, and developing effective leaders is more important than ever. We need leaders who tackle complex global issues, promote collaboration, and inspire positive change. Leadership professionals play a vital role in researching Leadership, applying that knowledge in practice, and preparing the next generation of leaders.”

The conference featured a series of thought-provoking sessions on topics such as:

The Global Decline of Democracy, Trust, and Peace — In the wake of the U.S. presidential election earlier this month, a group of distinguished global experts — including Larry Diamond, Steve Killelea, Mike Hardy, and Peggy Dulany — raised the crucial question: “What Can Leadership Do to Restore Trust and Promote Peace?”

The Role of Higher Education in Shaping the Future — University presidents discussed the strategic importance of integrating public purpose into leadership education and explored the development of future-focused Leadership.

The conference presented a remarkable chance to learn from the foremost leaders and thinkers in Leadership. The International Leadership Association (ILA) embodies its mission of “creating trusted spaces and relevant leadership resources” by uniting a diverse group of stakeholders. The connections forged, and the impactful discussions held during this event will create a lasting legacy in Leadership and beyond.

The International Leadership Association (ILA) is a vibrant global community of leaders, scholars, educators, and development professionals united by a visionary commitment to advancing Leadership for the collective good of people and the planet. As the foremost worldwide network, ILA connects individuals across the globe to elevate the practice and study of Leadership, paving the way for a just and thriving future.

Through creating and curating valuable leadership resources and gathering exceptional talent from diverse sectors, cultures, disciplines, and generations, ILA ignites a powerful multiplier effect that enhances the influence of its members and partners on leadership practices worldwide.

Source: International Leadership Association

— Surender Hastir is a member of the International Leadership Association and holds a Professional Certificate in Leadership and Communication from Harvard University.

Victoria Kjaer Theilvig crowned Miss Universe 2024

Photo: Victoria Kjaer Theilvig from Denmark was crowned Miss Universe 2024 at the 73rd Miss Universe competition held in Mexico. Miss Universe Organization Official Photo.

Mexico City, Mexico, November 16, 2024 — In a dazzling ceremony at the 73rd Miss Universe competition held in the vibrant setting of Mexico, Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe 2024. With her impeccable poise and radiant talent, she captivated the judges and audience alike, distinguishing herself among a remarkable field of 125 contestants from around the world, including India’s elegant Rhea Singha. It was Denmark’s first win in the pageant’s history.

The competition was fierce, but Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina shone brightly as she secured the first runner-up title, impressing everyone with her stunning presence and impressive skills. Meanwhile, Mexico’s own Maria Fernanda Beltran earned the second runner-up position, adding a local touch to the event.

This grand event celebrated global beauty and talent, showcasing the rich cultural diversity and captivating artistry of women from all around the globe. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and admiration for each contestant’s incredible achievements.

Source: Miss Universe Organization

Johns Hopkins Delegation in New Delhi

  • India’s Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, met with a delegation from Johns Hopkins University.
  • Dharmendra Pradhan discussed opportunities for academic and research collaboration.
  • Discussions are underway regarding establishing an offshore Johns Hopkins University campus in India.

New Delhi, India, November 17, 2024 — Union Minister for Education, Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, met today with a high-level delegation led by Mr. Ronald J. Daniels, President of Johns Hopkins University (JHU) in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The delegation also included officials from the Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), an internal unit of JHU focused on fostering collaboration between the JHU community and Indian partners through research, education, policy, and practice.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary of Higher Education, Mr. K. Sanjay Murthy, and senior officials of the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of External Affairs.

Mr. Pradhan emphasized the transformative opportunities created by the National Education Policy 2020, which has opened doors for academic collaborations and advancements in India’s education sector. He appreciated Johns Hopkins’ commitment to building strong partnerships with Indian higher education institutions and contributing to the global knowledge exchange. It includes dual and joint degree programs, the two-way mobility of students and faculty, and research partnerships in emerging fields like data science, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge technologies. He highlighted the potential of these collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both countries.

The discussion focused on enhancing academic and research partnerships between JHU and leading Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The delegation actively explored the possibility of establishing an offshore JHU campus in India.

The visit by Mr. Daniels and the delegation underscores the increasing importance of educational cooperation between India and the United States. During their multi-city tour of India, the delegation will visit several university campuses and engage with key government officials, academic leaders, and embassy representatives. Their goal is to strengthen Johns Hopkins University’s operations in India and enhance efforts toward internationalization.

The 12-member delegation included several distinguished academicians and administrators. Notable members included Fritz W. Schroeder, the Senior Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations; Alexander Triantis, the Dean of the Carey Business School; Judd Walson, the Chair of the Department of International Health at the Bloomberg School; Sridevi Sarma, the Vice Dean of Graduate Education at the Whiting School of Engineering; Jon Goldstein, the Senior Associate Director of Development for International Programs; and Amita Gupta, the Director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins University and Co-Founder of the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute (GKII).

Notable Indian-origin faculty from JHU, including Mathuram Santosham, Professor of Pediatrics and International Health, and Chirag Parikh, Professor of Medicine, also participated.

Source: Ministry of Education, Government of India

President Biden congratulates the New President of the National Press Club Washington DC.

Washington, DC, February 04, 2021 — President Joe Biden congratulated Lisa Nicole Matthews on becoming National Press Club president.

“I am confident you will lead with integrity, promote fact over fiction, and work tirelessly as part of the institution’s all-female leadership team, to keep The National Press Club strong and vibrant during these challenging times,” Biden wrote in his January 30 letter. “I am encouraged by your commitment to increasing the diversity and inclusiveness among members and, in turn, to help bring our fellow Americans closer together.”

Matthews, who received the letter just before being sworn into office on January 30, wrote the following response as a letter to Club Members:

“Greetings Fellow Members,

“I was about to give one of the most important speeches of my life last Saturday, as I addressed you at my Inauguration as 114th President of the National Press Club. Moments before, I received a letter from Joseph R. Biden, President of the United States of America. It’s not every day that you receive a letter from the President. It was a letter of congratulations. It was warm in its tone – just the kind of thing you might expect from President Biden. But for me, there was more to this letter than a friendly President to President congratulation.

“To hold a letter from the President offering congratulations to me and urging me on to great things at the institution of the Press Club was full of meaning for me.

“As for President Biden, we have a membership card with his name on it, and I look forward to the day when COVID has been defeated, and he can walk over to receive it so we can add his picture to the wall of presidents. He has our best wishes, as do all presidents. We wish him the best as we hold him to account. In this way, we both go forward, as do our country and our democracy.”

Legendary CBS News anchor Dan Rather swore in Lisa Matthews of the Associated Press as the 114th president of the National Press Club on January 30, 2020.

Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the World’s Leading Professional Organization for Journalists™, with 3,000 members worldwide representing every leading news organization.

— Surender Hastir is a Member of The National Press Club since 2012.

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