From the Editors: No room for risk in UAE schools

NO ROOM FOR RISK IN SCHOOLS: The new COVID-19 safety guidelines issued by Dubai Health Authority for schools and universities are precise and comprehensive . The reduction of physical distancing requirements for students from 2 metres to 1 metre is practical, even as other protocols remain stringent and largely unchanged. This will ensure that there is no risk whatsoever for those attending classes. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

AFGHANS BRACE FOR UNCERTAIN FUTURE WITH TALIBAN SET TO UNWELL GOVERNMENT: Afghans have marked their first day under full Taliban rule, following the US withdrawal. The group has not said it has reached a “consensus” on the formation of a new government. Members of the previous government and other “influential leaders” are said to be among the members of the new government. The number of challenges ahead for the country are staggering. To begin with, the $9.4 billion in Afghan government currency reserves are frozen in the US. Will this money be released? If not, how will the new government function? If the money is not released, imports, including food and fuel, could be held up. How will people then survive? The real test of the new political dispensation in Afghanistan is only now starting. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

DALE STEYN, MODERN PACE BOWLING GIANT, WILL BE MISSED: If pace and movement, aggression are the hallmark of a great fast bowler, Dale Steyn was arguably the greatest in his business in the new millennium. He had been phasing himself out of action in recent years, with injuries bothering him off and on, but the formal decision to walk away from all forms of cricket on Tuesday is still sinking in. England’s James Anderson, for long a rival of the South African, paid the ultimate tribute: ‘The best [emoticon: heart],’ on his Twitter handle below Steyn's announcement of retirement. The debate on who has been the best fast bowler over the last 15-16 years has divided the cricketing world between Anderson and Steyn – but the former’s gesture is a telling one. Thanks for the memories, Dale Steyn! [COMMENT BY: Gautam Bhattacharyya, Senior Associate Editor]

MOHAMMED ASSAF DESERVES HIS MADAME TUSSAUDS HONOUR: Singer Mohammed Assaf’s rags-to-riches story is one of grit and determination that saw a Palestinian refugee reach for the stars on the basis of raw talent. As Assaf takes his place amidst some of the biggest names in the business at Madame Tussauds Dubai as the second Arab celebrity whose wax statue will feature at the museum, his enduring story will continue to inspire many across the world. The museum, which will open later this year on Bluewaters Island, will be the first-ever Madame Tussauds experience in the GCC. [COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor]