Wearing a helmet fitted with a headlamp and a protective mask, molecular biologist Raúl da Silva Armando Chomela moves through the confined, low-light interiors of cave systems in central Mozambique, examining bat populations and their byproducts as part of a broader scientific effort to understand subterranean ecosystems.

Chomela, originally from the port city of Beira, has spent two years conducting research inside caves located in and around Gorongosa National Park, a 4,000 square kilometre conservation area recognized for its biodiversity.

His work focuses on bats and guano, a substance formed from accumulated bird and bat excrement that serves as a complex biological environment.“Guano is far more than just bat droppings,” Chomela said in an interview, describing it as a dynamic ecosystem.

According to his observations, guano supports a wide range of cave-dwelling organisms, including beetles, amphibians and microorganisms that have adapted to life in conditions without sunlight.

The caves in Gorongosa represent highly specialized environments. Organisms found within them have evolved to survive in stable, low-light conditions with distinct microbiomes that differ significantly from surface ecosystems.

These systems are characterized by limited external input and reliance on internal nutrient cycles, often driven by organic deposits such as guano.Chomela’s research involves entering narrow passages and descending into enclosed spaces using ropes and ladders, often without full knowledge of the terrain or species present.

According to the park’s science department, the cave networks in the region extend across approximately 183 square kilometres, forming interconnected underground systems.

More than 100 bat species have been identified in Gorongosa, although there is no precise data on how many inhabit these caves. One site, known as Tombo Aphale 5, has been extensively studied and hosts an estimated population of over 10,000 bats.

The cave is also the site of an active archaeological excavation, indicating its broader scientific relevance beyond ecological research.Gorongosa National Park was established in 1960 during Portuguese colonial administration.

Following Mozambique’s independence in 1975, conservation was not prioritized under the ruling Frelimo party. Two years later, the park became a strategic location during the country’s civil war, which involved government forces and the insurgent group Renamo.

Renamo, initially formed with support from the Rhodesian government under Ian Smith and later backed by apartheid-era South Africa, operated within the park’s terrain. During the conflict, armed groups relied on wildlife for sustenance, leading to widespread depletion of animal populations.

By the end of the war, which lasted more than 15 years, approximately 95% of the park’s wildlife had been lost, including nearly all of its estimated 5,500 hippos.The effects of the conflict extended beyond environmental damage.

Local communities experienced forced recruitment and other human rights abuses during the war, contributing to long-term social and economic challenges in the region.

In the decades since the conflict ended, Gorongosa has become the focus of sustained conservation and restoration efforts. These initiatives have involved partnerships between international institutions and Mozambican researchers, aiming to rebuild ecosystems and support local development.

One such initiative is the Paleo-Primate Project, established in 2018 as a collaboration between the University of Oxford and Gorongosa National Park. The project is led by Susana Carvalho and integrates research in archaeology, ecology and geology.

It also provides training and employment opportunities for local researchers and students.Carvalho said the broader Gorongosa Restoration Project has become a significant employer in the region, contributing to economic stability.

The project supports scientific research while also engaging local communities in conservation efforts.Chomela joined Gorongosa’s biodiversity laboratory in 2022 before becoming part of the Paleo-Primate Project in 2025.

His research spans multiple disciplines, including the use of environmental DNA to reconstruct historical ecosystems and metabarcoding techniques to analyze genetic material from bats and primates.

He is currently a first-year doctoral student at the University of Porto in Portugal, with his research based at the EO Wilson Laboratory in Chitengo, located within the park. In addition to his academic work, he leads the genetics laboratory at the facility, contributing to ongoing studies of biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics.

Chomela has also raised concerns about the potential overexploitation of guano resources. While the material is valued for its agricultural and economic uses, he noted that excessive harvesting could alter the composition of cave ecosystems.

“When they see the guano, they see money,” he said, adding that unsustainable extraction could disrupt the balance of species that depend on it.He emphasized the importance of building a scientific foundation to inform conservation practices and community engagement.

“We want a scientific base to convince the community,” he said, referring to efforts to align local economic interests with environmental sustainability.

The integration of scientific research, conservation policy and community involvement remains central to ongoing work in Gorongosa, as researchers continue to document and restore one of Africa’s most ecologically significant regions.

Finland has been ranked the world’s happiest country in the latest World Happiness Report, which also highlighted concerns over the impact of heavy social media use on youth well-being, particularly on platforms driven by algorithmic content and influencer culture.

The 2026 report found that increased time spent on social media is associated with declining well-being among young people in several regions, with researchers pointing to structural features of platforms as a key factor shaping user experience and mental health outcomes.

Researchers involved in the report said that while social media remains a central mode of interaction for younger populations, its effects vary significantly depending on how platforms are designed and used. Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, one of the contributors to the report, said there is a need to restore the original purpose of online interaction.

“It is clear that we should look as much as possible to put the ‘social’ back into social media,” De Neve said, underscoring concerns that current platform dynamics may be undermining meaningful engagement.

The report identified heavy social media use as an important contributing factor to declining youth well-being in some countries, although it stopped short of presenting it as the sole cause. Researchers noted that broader social, cultural and economic factors also play a role in shaping outcomes.

According to the findings, platforms that rely heavily on algorithmic feeds, promote influencers and prioritize visual content tend to have more negative associations with well-being. These features, the report said, encourage social comparison, which can adversely affect users’ perceptions of themselves and their lives.

By contrast, platforms that primarily facilitate direct communication between users were associated with relatively better outcomes. The distinction highlights how platform architecture, rather than mere usage levels, can influence the psychological effects of digital interaction.

Researchers emphasized that these patterns are not uniform across regions. In parts of the Middle East and South America, the relationship between social media use and well-being appears to be more positive, and youth well-being has not shown the same levels of decline despite high usage rates.

The report attributed these differences to a range of factors that vary by region, including social norms, patterns of use and broader societal conditions.

Finland retained its position at the top of the global happiness rankings, continuing a trend seen in recent years. The report’s broader findings also pointed to a shift in the geographic distribution of high-ranking countries.

For the second consecutive year, none of the English-speaking countries featured in the top 10. The United States ranked 23rd, Canada 25th and Britain 29th, reflecting a relative decline compared to other regions.

The rankings are based on a range of indicators that assess quality of life and subjective well-being, though the report highlighted that digital behavior is emerging as an increasingly relevant factor in shaping these outcomes.

The report’s focus on social media comes amid growing policy attention worldwide, as governments assess the potential risks posed by digital platforms to younger users. Several countries have already introduced restrictions or are considering bans on social media use for minors.

Researchers said the findings could inform ongoing regulatory discussions by highlighting how specific design features of platforms may influence user well-being. The emphasis on algorithm-driven content and visual engagement aligns with broader concerns raised by policymakers and public health experts.

While the report does not prescribe specific policy measures, it points to the need for a more nuanced understanding of how digital environments interact with social and psychological factors.

“It is clear that we should look as much as possible to put the ‘social’ back into social media.”

Swedish scientist Alfred Nobel’s legacy of invention and the Nobel Prize highlights Sweden’s longstanding role as a global leader in knowledge advancement. Saudi scientist Omar Yaghi’s recent Nobel Prize win underscores the growing scientific and cultural ties between the two nations, enhancing collaboration and mutual inspiration.

Sweden’s success in innovation is closely tied to its education system, which promotes equality, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving from early childhood through free higher education. Ambassador Petra Menander emphasizes that this system nurtures talent that drives sustainable innovation and cross-border collaboration.

Even a simple morning routine in Saudi Arabia reflects Swedish ingenuity. Checking the temperature uses the Celsius scale, created by Anders Celsius, while clothing may include the Swedish invention, the zipper, or brands such as H&M. Refrigeration is made more efficient thanks to the modern absorption refrigerator developed in Sweden, and breakfast items are often stored in Tetra Pak cartons.

Safety in daily commuting is enhanced by the Swedish three-point seatbelt, invented by Volvo, which revolutionized car safety and became freely available worldwide. Swedish technology continues to enrich entertainment with Ericsson’s Bluetooth enabling wireless connectivity and Spotify offering access to globally popular music.

Swedish contributions extend to industries and companies in Saudi Arabia, with Tetra Pak serving more than 80 percent of the Middle East’s food and beverage producers. The company emphasizes protecting food, people, and the environment while ensuring safety and sustainability. These innovations demonstrate Sweden’s commitment to global solutions and practical applications in everyday life.

The Swedish Embassy in Riyadh plays a vital role in fostering innovation through partnerships, education, and research collaborations with Saudi entities. These efforts encourage knowledge sharing, startup development, and the growth of creative industries, reflecting a culture of lifelong learning and cross-border cooperation.

Sweden’s innovative spirit is evident in its thriving startup ecosystem, ranked as the leading ecosystem in the EU and the sixth globally. New startups inspire others, creating a continuous cycle of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth that benefits both Sweden and Saudi Arabia.

The influence of Swedish culture also encourages openness, collaboration, and the pursuit of ideas that improve lives while supporting safety and sustainability. Cooperation between Sweden and Saudi Arabia continues to expand across education, science, technology, and cultural initiatives, strengthening regional ties and creating opportunities for shared growth.

Ambassador Menander highlights the evolving relationship, noting that both countries benefit from exchanging knowledge, experiences, and innovative solutions. She hopes the partnership will flourish, allowing both nations to thrive through shared expertise and mutual interests.

From daily routines to global collaborations, Swedish innovation enriches lives in Saudi Arabia, blending safety, convenience, and creativity into practical applications. This culture of knowledge and invention continues to strengthen international connections, inspire emerging talent, and promote sustainable progress in the region.

In a significant meeting in Riyadh, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Asheikh, Speaker of the Shoura Council, welcomed Hungary’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Attila Tar, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and exploring avenues for collaboration between the two nations.

The meeting underscored Saudi Arabia’s dedication to deepening political, economic, and cultural ties with European countries, reflecting its proactive approach to global diplomacy.

During the meeting, both Sheikh Abdullah Al-Asheikh and Ambassador Tar reviewed the current state of bilateral relations and identified areas where cooperation could be strengthened. They focused on fostering legislative collaboration, sharing experiences between the Shoura Council and the Hungarian parliament, and promoting dialogue on matters of mutual interest.

This exchange of ideas aims to establish a stronger partnership between the two legislative bodies, enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary cooperation and providing a framework for knowledge-sharing and best practices in governance.

The Shoura Council, as a key institution in Saudi Arabia’s governance structure, plays a crucial role in advising on legislation and supporting the Kingdom’s development objectives.

By engaging with international parliamentary counterparts like Hungary, the Council continues to advance Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, which include promoting global partnerships, enhancing institutional expertise, and fostering international collaboration in governance, education, and policy development.

This engagement aligns with the Kingdom’s broader strategy of integrating global perspectives into domestic policymaking while promoting transparency and accountability.

The meeting also highlighted opportunities to collaborate in areas beyond legislation, such as culture, education, technology, and research.

Sheikh Abdullah Al-Asheikh emphasized that dialogue and partnership with international counterparts are essential for achieving shared goals, exchanging knowledge, and building long-term relationships that benefit both nations.

Ambassador Tar expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to create strong institutional partnerships and reiterated Hungary’s commitment to supporting collaborative initiatives that enhance mutual understanding and development.

The discussion reflected a shared vision of reinforcing ties not only at the governmental and parliamentary level but also in people-to-people connections.

Educational exchanges, joint research projects, and cultural initiatives were identified as potential areas for future collaboration, allowing citizens of both countries to benefit from cross-cultural learning and professional development.

These initiatives are expected to foster goodwill and create a foundation for sustainable, long-term cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Hungary.

Meanwhile, the meeting coincided with Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar receiving the UAE’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Matar Salem Ali Marran Al-Dhaheri, wishing him success in his new role.

This highlights the Kingdom’s consistent efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with both regional and international partners, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a center for dialogue and cooperation.

By engaging with Hungary and other international partners, Saudi Arabia is promoting a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, reflecting its commitment to fostering strong global networks.

The discussions between the Shoura Council and Hungary’s diplomatic representatives are a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to building meaningful partnerships, advancing legislative and cultural exchange, and contributing to global progress.

This visit not only strengthens Saudi-Hungarian ties but also demonstrates the Kingdom’s openness to international collaboration, its emphasis on effective governance, and its proactive approach to fostering partnerships that support peace, stability, and development.

By prioritizing dialogue, knowledge exchange, and mutual support, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its global standing and reinforce its vision of a connected, cooperative, and prosperous future.

The positive outcomes of the meeting are expected to pave the way for future joint initiatives, deepen mutual understanding, and broaden opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors.

Through such high-level diplomatic engagements, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to international partnership, cultural exchange, and the advancement of shared goals for sustainable growth and development.

There’s no evidence to prove that the antibodies created by COVID vaccine cause infertility.

According to a recent study, COVID-19 vaccine doesn’t affect fertility and one’s ability to have a family in the future. The internet is filled with doubts about COVID vaccines, people are questioning and doubting the legitimacy of vaccines.

“As a parent it’s my job to protect my child. If there was a genuine risk that they could die of COVID, I would consider giving them a vaccine for it. But when there is a genuine risk, they could be harmed from the vaccine, it’s a big ‘no’ from me”, said a concerned anti-vaccine father on twitter.

COVID vaccines are falsely linked to infertility because research do talk about COVID-19 virus affecting men’s fertility due to the virus entering the testes cells which are vulnerable to the SARS- COV-2 hence lowering the sperm count of a man and affecting the fertility.

“Though it’s clear the vaccines don’t cause infertility, it’s possible that severe COVID-19 could influence sperm count if someone has a prolonged fever”, said Dr. Sigal Klipstein, chair of the ethics committee at the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.

“The possible risk factors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection on fertility comes from the abundance of angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme‐2 (ACE2), receptor entry of the virus, on testes, a reduction in important sex hormone ratios and COVID‐19‐associated fever”, according to a National Center for Biotechnology Information. The virus can also affect the spermatogenesis process — the male body’s operation of generating sperms.

However, the entire theory of COVID vaccines causing infertility was based on an idea that one of the spike proteins in COVID-19 virus and in the vaccine are the same, but they are not. It has been proven in research that they are distinct from each other. The COVID vaccine works by training our bodies to develop antibodies to fight against the virus and there’s no evidence to prove that the antibodies created by COVID vaccine cause infertility.

In fact, the COVID vaccine can protect one’s fertility by protecting it from severe COVID symptoms.

“Getting COVID can be potentially detrimental to one’s fertility, and getting the vaccine is safe and could even protect fertility by protecting you against the severe effects of COVID disease,” said Jesse Ory, urology fellow in Infertility/Andrology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

The benefit of COVID vaccine can be observed in the UK. 32.2 million, almost 48.4% of the United Kingdom’s population have been fully vaccinated. In the last week UK has seen rise in delta variant of Corona virus with more than 75,000 cases confirmed by genetic analysis and British scientists estimated the variant is 40% to 80% more transmissible than the Alpha variant yet there hasn’t been a rise in hospitalization. According to the data, Over 60s, around 90% of whom are fully vaccinated, make up only 4% of cases.

“Delta variant has dominated in the UK, COVID cases rising. But hospitalizations are not rising meaning vaccines work. Fear mongering doesn’t”, said Faheem Younus, MD VP/CQO/Chief of Infectious Diseases on twitter.

Jaafar Siddiqui earned Bachelors in Journalism from the University of Hertfordshire — United Kingdom. He writes for The Milli Chronicle on Business, Politics, and Culture.