For educators, additional stimulus cash exists in unlikely places

Now is the time for educators to get creative. The federal stimulus package contains millions for community health centers, billions for vocational training. and additional funds that could go to schools. Experts in education finance say this is the case even though the programs aren't a part of the dedicated education package.

Reportedly, some of the nearly $4 billion for work force training could be used for adult education, youth training programs and career exploration, especially for fields related to renewable energy or energy efficiency. Details from Education Week, which is offering this premium article for complimentary viewing.

Related: Recovery.gov


Tags: Stimulus, Economy, Education, Education by Sistrunk

Johannesburg to play host to Africa Banking Conference

The recent decision by investors and lenders to infuse $15 billion into the African economy is sure to stir conversation at the 2009 Africa Banking Congress, which will be held July 6-10 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Sandton is situated in an ideal location. The Sandton sits in the hub of this region's commercial activity.

If your company plans to attend the Africa Banking Conference, there’s still time to find good deals on Sandton convention accommodation. Online resources are readily available to visitors seeking details on several popular Johannesburg hotels. See accommodation around Johannesburg here. Sandton delegates can also check here to learn more about the wealth of information and services available to convention goers.

There are deals on a wide range of modern accommodations – ranging from the luxurious Hilton Sandton Hotel to the Town Lodge Hotel Johannesburg, which offers rooms for the budget-conscious. The high-tech Sandton Convention Centre is nestled near several hotels that offer hundreds of rooms and varying amenities. The Sandton is also close to many shops, restaurants, attractions, and other businesses that showcase South Africa's international flavor.

Organizers of the Africa Banking Congress want to facilitate compelling dialogue. Investors and lenders hope to see a restoration of faith in the region’s financial institutions. Holding the conference in Johannesburg’s business center may be a good first step.

Helping Africa weather the financial crisis

Africa's biggest investors and lenders are making available another $15 billion to help the continent weather the global financial crisis. That report comes from the African Press Association. The $15 billion is meant to promote trade, strengthen Africa's financial sector, and increase lending for agricultural projects, infrastructure, and small- and medium-size businesses.

The increased financial support represents a coordinated effort from the African Development Bank, the French Development Agency, the European Investment Bank, the Development Bank of Southern Africa, German Financial Cooperation, the World Bank, and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation.


Tags: Africa, Banks, Economy, Education by Sistrunk

Obama pledges protections for credit-card users

President Barack Obama is throwing his support behind proposed legislation that would place restrictions on fees credit card companies charge consumers. Obama is demanding that credit-card issuers “eliminate some of the abuse” in the industry, citing sudden rate increases.

The president is pressing for consumer protections that go beyond proposals being considered in Congress and rules issued last year by the Federal Reserve. Both the House and the Senate are pursuing bills to give consumers greater protections. Obama said his economic advisers will examine the various proposals and work with Congress and the industry, but he made clear he intends to sign a law.

As unemployment and unpaid credit-card bills rise, card issuers are under fire for policies that impose large late fees and boost interest rates on delinquent customers. Banks, reeling from the recession and credit crunch, say proposed restrictions will raise consumer costs, limit credit availability, and ultimately hurt more borrowers than they help.

Tags: Credit Cards, Recession, Economy, Obama, Education by Sistrunk