President Paudel to address joint meeting of both Houses of federal Parliament on May 11

The government has decided to urge President Ram Chandra Paudel to address joint meeting of both Houses of the federal Parliament on May 11. 

A Cabinet meeting held on Friday made the decision to this effect, government spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel said. 

 

Gold price increases by Rs 1, 300 per tola on Friday

The price of gold has increased by Rs 1, 300 per tola in the domestic market on Friday. 

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the precious yellow metal is being traded at Rs 299, 900 per tola today. It was traded at Rs 298, 600 per tola on Thursday. 

Similarly, the price of silver has increased by Rs 120 and is being traded at Rs 5, 275 per tola today.

Applications invited for VCs in 8 universities

The committee formed to recommend names of Vice Chancellors in different universities has invited applications today. 

The committee has announced vacancies for the post of Vice Chancellors in eight different universities. 

Issuing a notice today, the committee has sought applications for the post of vice chancellors in Tribhuvan University, Purbanchal University, Pokhara University, Lumbini Buddhist University, Agriculture and Forestry University, Mid-West University, Far Western University and Rajarshi Janak University. 

The committee has also released 'Integrated Procedures for the Selection and Recommendation of different Universities' Vice Chancellors, 2083' on the website of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. 

 

World Red Cross Day being marked with slogan 'Unity in Humanity'

The World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is being observed in different countries across the globe today by organizing several programs with the slogan 'Unity in Humanity'. 

In a message delivered today on the occasion, it is highlighted that Red Cross volunteers are not distant actors but are members of the communities they serve, often aiding neighbors while facing crises themselves.

The day emphasizes the commitment to humanitarian values in a divided world, addressing the needs of marginalized groups and fostering resilience.

Additionally, it has also been urged that impartial, independent, and neutral humanitarian assistance reach all those in need, in remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives to human service. 

The concept of observing World Red Cross Day was proposed after the First World War, with the idea of conducting a global campaign for peace. 

The day was first observed on May 8, 1948. Since 1984, it has been celebrated as 'World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day'. 

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent have stated that May 8 is observed on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the first Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Henry Dunant. 

The Red Cross and Red Crescent have provided service during disasters, wars, epidemics, and humanitarian crises through millions of volunteers. 

 

Villa crush Forest to reach first Europa League final in 44 years

Aston Villa reached their first European final for 44 years in memorable style with a 4-0 demolition of Nottingham Forest in the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday, The Daily Star reported. 

Unai Emery's side erased a 1-0 first leg deficit thanks to Ollie Watkins' opener just before half-time and Emiliano Buendia's nerveless penalty after the interval.

Fittingly, it was a late double from skipper and fan favourite John McGinn that finished off Forest to cap Villa's second leg masterclass.

Shakira unveils official World Cup 2026 song

Colombian pop star Shakira has unveiled her official song for the 2026 World Cup, BBC reported. 

The 49-year-old, behind hits such as Whenever, Wherever and Hips Don't Lie, teased Dai Dai on Thursday as the anthem for this summer's tournament in the US, Mexico and Canada.

Shakira posted a one-minute video on Instagram from Brazil's Maracana stadium to tease the track that is out on 14 May and also features Nigerian singer Burna Boy, according to BBC. 

Crystal Palace reach Conference League final after Shakhtar win

Crystal Palace soared into their first European final after Conference League top scorer Ismaila Sarr scored his ninth goal in the competition to claim a 2-1 semifinal second-leg victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, ESPN reported. 

For at least a certain generation of Eagles supporters, this was undoubtedly the most important fixture in nearly 102 years of Selhurst Park history, one the hosts entered with a 3-1 first-leg advantage and went on to settle the tie 5-2 on aggregate.

Freiburg beat 10-man Braga 3-1 to reach Europa League final

Freiburg reached the Europa League final after a 3-1 home win over 10-man Braga on Thursday earned the German side a 4-3 aggregate victory, with Lukas Kuebler scoring twice to fire the hosts into their first European showpiece match, Reuters reported. 

Freiburg, aiming to win the club's first major trophy, will meet Aston Villa in Istanbul on May 20, after they beat fellow Premier League side Nottingham Forest 4-1 on aggregate.