Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia: Kids Hut Montessori Homebased School in Al Khobar recently held its Annual Sports Meet, titled "Twinkle Track," at Orbits' Pioneers Sports Ground in Azeeziya, Khobar. The event showcased the athletic talents of the school’s youngest students and was graced by notable guests, including Hesham Shaikh, Captain of the Saudi International Cricket Team; Imran Rasheed Karkala, President of the Eastern Region Cricket Association; Mohammad Iqbal, HR Professional at Expertise Contracting and former Mangalore University cricketer; former headmistress Thaskeen Tamanna; Principal Sakeena Aarif; and A.M. Aarif Jokatte, Academic Counselor and Recruitment Specialist at Acciona Agua.

The program opened with the recitation of the Holy Quran’s Surah Fatiha by young student Eshaan Ajmal. Teacher Thazneem, Head Teachers Vijila Sanju and Sajna Sabeeb, along with Academic Coordinator Ashura, coordinated the event to ensure a memorable day for all.

Hesham Shaikh inaugurated the sports meet, leading an oath-taking ceremony where the children recited their pledge. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the importance of teamwork and urged parents to support both the academic and athletic development of their children. Imran Karkala shared insights about the Saudi Official International Cricket Team, while Mohammad Iqbal praised the dedication of the students and staff. Thaskeen Tamanna offered motivational words, and Principal Sakeena Aarif expressed her enthusiasm for the event, commending the young athletes.

The program included a vibrant march-past, where students displayed their coordination and teamwork, captivating the audience. An energetic Zumba session led by the children added to the festive atmosphere, showcasing their excitement and enthusiasm.

Throughout the day, awards were presented to students from Junior KG to Grade II for their participation in various sports activities. The event culminated with special recognition for tiny champions Naira Abbas and Aysha Azwa.

The day concluded with applause and cheers, celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of Kids Hut Montessori’s young athletes and educators, leaving lasting memories for families and the community.

 

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Bengaluru, Dec 9: There have been over 3,350 maternal deaths in the last five years in Karnataka, the Chief Minister's Office said on Monday. The fatalities have been on the decline during this period, according to data issued by the government.

The CMO's releasing the data comes in the wake of a controversy surrounding the recent maternal deaths in the state's Ballari district.

The total number of maternal deaths in the past five years stands at 3,364. An analysis of the data reveals the highest number of maternal deaths occurred during Covid-19 when the BJP was in power.

In 2019-2020, 662 maternal deaths were reported, with the number rising slightly to 714 the following year. However, the figures have since dropped, with 595 deaths recorded in 2021-2022, 527 in 2022-2023, and 518 in 2023-2024.

As of November 2024, the number of maternal deaths in the state stands at 348. Karnataka's Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) during this period stands at 64 per one lakh live births, according to the data.

On Sunday, the Karnataka government established a four-member panel to investigate the maternal deaths at Ballari Hospital and other locations across the state.

Since November, the total number of maternal deaths in Ballari has reached five.

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