29 May in Australian History


Harnessing Emotions for Successful Negotiations


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Negotiations are inherently complex interactions that involve multiple parties striving to achieve their respective goals. While logic and reason play significant roles in negotiations, emotions also play a crucial part in shaping outcomes.

By recognising and effectively utilising emotions, negotiators can establish rapport, understand underlying interests, and foster mutually beneficial agreements. In this blog post, we will explore the power of emotions in negotiation and provide practical strategies to leverage them for successful outcomes.

  1. Establishing Rapport: Emotions are fundamental to building rapport and establishing a positive atmosphere during negotiations. Genuine warmth, empathy, and active listening can foster trust and encourage open communication. By acknowledging and validating the emotions of the other party, negotiators can create an environment where both sides feel heard and understood. This sets the stage for more productive discussions and collaborative problem-solving.
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  2. Recognising Emotional Triggers: Understanding emotions, both your own and those of the…

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28 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1851 – The arrival of two convict ships, the Lady Kenneway with 249 male prisoners and Blackfriars with 260 female prisoners, further turns Tasmanian sentiment against transportation.

  • 1968 – Singer and actress, Kylie Minogue (pictured) is born.

International Observances.

  • Armed Forces Day (Croatia)

  • Downfall of the Derg (Ethiopia)

  • Flag Day (Philippines)

  • Menstrual Hygiene Day

  • Republic Day (Nepal)

  • TDFR Republic Day, celebrates the declaration of independence of the First Republic of Armenia and the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic from the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic in 1918. (Azerbaijan and Armenia)

  • Youm-e-Takbir (Pakistan)

Thank you for reading our history post today. We hope you found it interesting. If you’re interested in any of our courses, or our micro-credentials, please complete the following form.

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Breaking Barriers: Women in Management Positions in Australia


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

In recent decades, Australia has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and empowering women in various spheres of life, including the corporate world. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done, particularly in ensuring equal representation of women in management positions.

This blog post explores the current landscape of women in management positions in Australia, the challenges they face, and the initiatives and strategies aimed at fostering gender diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.

  1. The Current State of Women in Management: Despite advancements, women in management positions in Australia still face a gender imbalance. Statistics reveal that women are underrepresented in senior leadership roles across various industries. According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA), women hold just 31.5% of key management positions in Australian organisations. Additionally, the Australian Institute of Company Directors reported that women account for only 31.7% of directorships in ASX…

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27 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1801 – The French cartographic expedition of Nicolas Baudin sighted Cape Leeuwin.

  • 1967 – Australia holds a referendum approving two amendments to the Australian Constitution relating to Indigenous Australians.

  • 2005 – Schapelle Corby (pictured) convicted of drug smuggling by an Indonesian court and sentenced to 20 years in gaol, later reduced to 15 and then reverted to 20 years.

International Observances.

  • Armed Forces Day (Nicaragua)

  • Children’s Day (Nigeria)

  • Mother’s Day (Bolivia)

  • Navy Day (Japan)

  • Slavery Abolition Day (Guadeloupe, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin)

  • Start of National Reconciliation Week (Australia)

Thank you for reading our history post today. We hope you found it interesting. If you’re interested in any of our courses, or our micro-credentials, please complete the following form.

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Strategies for talent acquisition and retention in Australian business


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

In Australia’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for organisations looking to thrive. With the evolving job market and changing expectations of employees, companies must adopt effective talent acquisition and retention strategies to stay ahead. This blog post explores some key approaches to attract and retain exceptional talent in Australia.

  1. Employer Branding: Establishing a strong employer brand is vital for attracting top talent. Highlight your organisation’s unique culture, values, and employee benefits to differentiate yourself from competitors. Leverage social media platforms, company websites, and online job portals to showcase your brand and create a positive employer image.
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  2. Streamlined Recruitment Process: Simplify and streamline your recruitment process to enhance the candidate experience. Lengthy and complicated hiring procedures can discourage potential candidates. Leverage technology, such as applicant tracking systems and video interviews, to streamline the process and reduce time-to-hire. Communicate transparently with candidates…

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26 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1944 – The acting prime minister, Frank Forde announced Australia’s intention of embarking on an active postwar immigration policy.

  • 1971 – Qantas subject to an extortion hoax.

  • 1998 – The first National Sorry Day protest held (pictured).

  • 2005 – National Sorry Day renamed National Day of Healing

International Observances.

  • Independence Day, commemorates the day of the First Republic in 1918 (Georgia)

  • Independence Day, celebrates the independence of Guyana from the United Kingdom in 1966.

  • Mother’s Day (Poland)

  • National Paper Airplane Day (United States)

  • National Sorry Day (Australia)

Thank you for reading our history post today. We hope you found it interesting. If you’re interested in any of our courses, or our micro-credentials, please complete the following form.

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Negotiation is more about listening than speaking


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Negotiation is an essential skill in both personal and professional contexts. Many people tend to associate negotiation with persuasive speaking and convincing arguments. However, an often overlooked aspect of successful negotiation is the art of active listening.

Listening allows negotiators to understand the needs, concerns, and motivations of the other party, creating a foundation for effective communication and mutually beneficial outcomes. In this blog post, we will explore why listening is more important than speaking in negotiation and provide practical tips for enhancing your listening skills.

  1. Building Trust and Rapport: Listening attentively demonstrates respect and genuine interest in the other party’s perspective. By actively listening, you create an environment that encourages trust and rapport. People are more likely to open up and share valuable information when they feel heard and understood. Establishing a positive connection through listening can lay the groundwork for a successful negotiation.
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  2. Gaining Valuable Insights:

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25 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1870 – Bushranger Captain Thunderbolt is shot and killed near Uralla by Constable Alexander Walker during a highway robbery.

  • 1930 – Amy Johnson arrives in Darwin, completing the first solo flight by a woman from England to Australia.

  • 1991 – The state election in New South Wales produces a hung parliament. Nick Greiner manages to form a minority government with the support of four Independent MPs.

  • 2005 – Entertainer and Gold Logie winner, Graham Kennedy (pictured) dies.

International Observances.

  • Africa Day (African Union)

  • African Liberation Day (African Union, Rastafari)

  • First National Government / National Day (Argentina)

  • Geek Pride Day (geek culture)

  • Independence Day, celebrates the independence of Jordan from the United Kingdom in 1946.

  • Last bell (Russia, post-Soviet countries)

  • Liberation Day (Lebanon)

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How to win friends and influence people in Australian business


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

In the competitive world of Australian business, building strong relationships and influencing others is essential for success. The principles outlined in Dale Carnegie’s classic book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” remain relevant and effective in the Australian business landscape.

In this article, we will explore practical strategies and tips that will help Australian business professionals apply these principles to enhance their networking skills, build meaningful connections, and exert positive influence in their professional lives.

  1. Show Genuine Interest: One of the key principles in winning friends and influencing people is to show genuine interest in others. Take the time to actively listen to colleagues, clients, and business partners. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask open-ended questions, and demonstrate that you value their opinions and perspectives. This approach fosters trust and encourages positive relationships.
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  2. Remember and Use Names: In Australia, using someone’s name is a powerful way to…

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24 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1805 – William Bligh is appointed the fourth Governor of New South Wales, he arrives at Port Jackson to replace King on August 6, 1806.

  • 1870 – Port Adelaide Football Club play their first match.

  • 1905 – Empire Day is first celebrated in Australia.

  • 1917 – Australian boxer Les Darcy (pictured) dies in the United States.

  • 1960 – The Parliament of Victoria authorised Totalizator Agency Boards with the intention to stamp out starting price (SP) betting.

  • 1969 – Keith Payne is the last Australian soldier awarded a Victoria Cross for bravery during the Vietnam War.

  • 2006 – Author Geraldine Brooks wins the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

International Observances.

  • Aldersgate Day/Wesley Day (Methodism)

  • Battle of Pichincha Day (Ecuador)

  • Bermuda Day (Bermuda), celebrated on…

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74% of Australian Managers have formal qualifications


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

In today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, effective management plays a pivotal role in organisational success. Australian managers, in particular, hold a crucial position in driving growth, innovation, and productivity.

The National Skills Commission reports that a significant majority of Australian managers, around 74%, possess formal qualifications. Only 26% have no qualifications, and these are usually in low-paying, entry-level positions, which offer little chance for progression. This article delves into the reasons behind the prevalence and importance of formal qualifications among Australian managers.

  1. Demonstrating Competence and Knowledge: Formal qualifications provide managers with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in their respective fields. They signify a manager’s competence in core areas such as leadership, strategic planning, financial management, human resources, and more. A formal qualification showcases a manager’s ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations, leading to informed decision-making and effective problem-solving.
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  2. Enhancing Professional Credibility:…

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23 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1889 – Louisa Lawson founded the Dawn Club, which became the hub of the women’s suffrage movement in Sydney.

  • 1892 – Frederick Deeming hanged at Melbourne Gaol having been unsuccessfully defended by the lawyer Alfred Deakin. Deeming was accused of committing a series of crimes on three continents—theft, perjury, fraud, bigamy and murder; he used at least 20 aliases.

  • 1912 – Walter Burley Griffin’s design for Canberra selected as the winner (pictured).

  • 1944 – Birth of John Newcombe, Australian tennis player.

  • 1994 – Police arrest Belanglo State Forest serial killer Ivan Milat at his New South Wales home. Milat is later sentenced to life imprisonment.

International Observances.

  • Aromanian National Day

  • Constitution Day (Germany)

  • Labour Day (Jamaica)

  • Students’ Day (Mexico)

  • World Turtle Day

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Entrepreneurship in Australia: A Path to Innovation and Growth


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Australia has emerged as a hotspot for entrepreneurship. With a dynamic economy, a supportive ecosystem, and a culture of innovation, Australia offers immense opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful ventures.

In this blog post, we will explore the thriving entrepreneurship scene in Australia and highlight key factors that contribute to its growth.

  1. Supportive Government Policies: The Australian government has implemented various initiatives to foster entrepreneurship. Programs like the National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA) provide funding and support to startups, encourage research and development, and promote collaboration between industry and academia. Additionally, tax incentives and grants are available to help entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses.

  2. Robust Startup Ecosystem: Australia boasts a vibrant startup ecosystem that provides entrepreneurs with access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have a high concentration of coworking spaces, incubators, and accelerators that nurture…

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22 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1856 – First Parliament of New South Wales opened by the governor, Sir William Denison.

  • 1901 – The foundation stone for St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane (pictured) was laid by the Duke of Cornwall and York, the church celebrated 100 years of construction in 2006, and is only gothic-style stone building under construction anywhere in the world.

  • 1998 – Murray Gleeson is appointed as the eleventh Chief Justice of Australia.

International Observances.

  • Abolition Day (Martinique)

  • Aromanian National Day (marginal, celebration on May 23 is more common)

  • Harvey Milk Day (California)

  • International Day for Biological Diversity (International)

  • United States National Maritime Day

  • National Sovereignty Day (Haiti)

  • Republic Day (Sri Lanka)

  • Translation of the Relics of Saint Nicholas from Myra to Bari (Ukraine)

  • Unity Day…

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Is it OK to cry in the office?


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

The workplace is a space where professionals dedicate a significant portion of their lives. It’s only natural for emotions to arise amidst the pressures and challenges encountered.

This blog post aims to address the question: Is it acceptable to cry in the office? We will explore the dynamics of emotional expression in professional settings and shed light on the evolving attitudes towards this topic.

  1. Embracing Emotional Authenticity: Recognising and accepting emotions as a part of the human experience is crucial. Authenticity in the workplace promotes open communication and a supportive environment. Crying can be a genuine response to stress, frustration, or personal matters, and expressing it appropriately can foster understanding and empathy among colleagues.

  2. Compassionate Work Cultures: Creating a compassionate work culture is essential in understanding and accommodating emotional expression. Progressive organisations recognize the importance of mental health and well-being, encouraging employees to address and manage their emotions…

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21 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1912 – The steamship SS Koombana sinks off Port Hedland during a cyclone killing the 126 passengers.

  • 1962 – The Commonwealth Electoral Act 1962 received assent, granting all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the option to enrol and vote in federal elections.

  • 1972 – Hungarian-born Australian Lazlo Toth attacked Michelangelo’s Pietà with a hammer.

  • 1975 – Rugby league footballer and boxer Anthony Mundine is born.

  • 1999 – Eight decaying bodies are found in barrels in a disused bank vault north of Adelaide, marking the beginning of the Snowtown murders case.

International Observances.

  • Afro-Colombian Day (Colombia)

  • Circassian Day of Mourning (Circassians)

  • Day of Patriots and Military (Hungary)

  • Independence Day, celebrates the Montenegrin independence referendum in 2006, celebrated until the next day. (Montenegro)

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The Power of Yarning Circles: Fostering Cultural Inclusion and Collaboration in Australian Businesses


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

In recent years, Australian businesses have increasingly recognised the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. One powerful tool that has gained popularity is the yarning circle, a traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practice of communication and decision-making.

In this blog post, we will explore the significance of yarning circles in the context of Australian businesses, highlighting how they promote cultural inclusion, enhance collaboration, and contribute to overall organisational success.

  1. Cultural Inclusion: Yarning circles provide a safe and inclusive space where employees from diverse backgrounds can share their perspectives, experiences, and knowledge. By embracing the principles of active listening, respect, and equality, businesses can create an environment that values and appreciates the contributions of all team members. Yarning circles encourage open dialogue and enable individuals to express their thoughts and ideas freely, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural inclusion within the organisation.

  2. Collaboration and Decision-Making:…

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20 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1941 – The Battle of Crete, involving the Australian 6th Division (pictured), begins.

  • 1997 – A Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission report calls for an apology for an early government policy of removing Aboriginal children from their parents and placing them in institutions.

International Observances.

  • Day of Remembrance (Cambodia)

  • Emancipation Day (Florida)

  • European Maritime Day (European Council)

  • Independence Restoration Day, celebrates the independence of East Timor from Indonesia in 2002.

  • Josephine Baker Day (NAACP)

  • National Awakening Day (Indonesia), and its related observances:
    – Indonesian Doctor Day (Indonesia)

  • National Day (Cameroon)

  • World Bee Day

  • World Metrology Day

  • In China, May 20 is observed as a celebration of romantic love, because the digits 520 (Chinese: 五二零; pinyin: wǔ èr líng) sound similar to…

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19 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1861 – Dame Nellie Melba (pictured) is born in Richmond, Victoria, Victoria

  • 1942 – The prototype CAC Boomerang, an Australian designed and built fighter aircraft, takes to the air for the first time.

  • 1948 – Federal government announced that Australian rail gauges would be standardised by 1951.

  • 1950 – Cabinet agrees to send forces to aid the British during the Malayan Emergency.

  • 2002 – 19th Prime Minister of Australia, John Gorton, dies aged 90.

International Observances.

  • Greek Genocide Remembrance Day (Greece)

  • Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day (Turkey, Northern Cyprus)

  • Hồ Chí Minh’s Birthday (Vietnam)

  • Malcolm X Day (United States)

  • National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (United States)

  • Hepatitis Testing Day (United States)

  • Mother’s Day (Kyrgyzstan)

Thank you for…

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Dealing with discrimination


If you are tall, short, fat, skinny, old, young, have red or blonde hair, wear glasses or have some other physical trait, then you have probably been negatively stereotyped for it. How did that make you feel? For most of us, there is at least a fleeting moment where we feel not so good about … Continue reading Dealing with discrimination

Strategic Marketing in Australia (With Examples)


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Strategic marketing in Australia involves developing and implementing targeted marketing strategies to promote products, services, or brands in the Australian market. Here are some key aspects and examples of strategic marketing in Australia:

  1. Market Segmentation: Identifying and targeting specific customer segments based on demographics, behavior, or psychographics. For example, a fitness apparel brand may target health-conscious millennials in urban areas who prioritize sustainability.

  2. Digital Marketing: Leveraging online platforms, social media, search engine optimisation (SEO), and targeted advertising to reach and engage with Australian consumers. Companies often create engaging content, run digital ad campaigns, and utilize influencers to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

  3. Localisation: Adapting marketing messages and campaigns to suit the Australian market’s cultural nuances and preferences. This involves considering local customs, language, humor, and seasonal events. Localisation ensures that marketing efforts resonate with Australian consumers and feel relevant to their context.

  4. Cause-Related Marketing: Aligning…

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18 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of in the comments section.

  • 1914 – Ronald Munro-Ferguson, 1st Viscount Novar is appointed the sixth Governor General of Australia.

  • 1974 – John Howard (pictured) enters Parliament as an Opposition backbencher for the electorate of Bennelong.

International Observances.

  • Baltic Fleet Day (Russia)

  • Day of Remembrance of Crimean Tatar genocide (Ukraine)

  • Independence Day (Somaliland) (unrecognized)

  • International Museum Day

  • National Speech Pathologist Day (United States)

  • Mullivaikkal Remembrance Day (Sri Lankan Tamils)

  • Revival, Unity, and Poetry of Magtymguly Day (Turkmenistan)

  • Teacher’s Day (Syria)

  • Victory Day (Sri Lanka)

  • Remembrance Day (Sri Lanka)

Thank you for reading our history post today. We hope you found it interesting. If you’re interested in any of our courses, or our micro-credentials, please complete the following form.

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Work Health and Safety in Australia


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Work Health and Safety (WHS) in Australia refers to the system of laws, regulations, and practices aimed at ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of workers in the workplace. WHS is a crucial aspect of employment in Australia and is regulated at both the federal and state/territory levels.

At the federal level, the primary legislation governing work health and safety is the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. This act establishes a nationally harmonised framework for WHS in Australia. It sets out the general duties of employers, employees, and other duty holders, and provides the legal framework for the management of workplace health and safety risks.

Each state and territory in Australia also has its own WHS legislation that is based on the national framework but may have some variations. These state-specific laws are referred to as the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Acts or WHS Acts. For example, in…

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17 May in Australian History


Craig Hill's avatarAustralian Book and Language Studio

Here are some of the events that happened on this day in Australian history. Please feel free to add others that you know of.

  • 1824 – The Supreme Court of New South Wales is created by Letters Patent.

  • 1928 – The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (pictured) makes its first official flight from Cloncurry to Julia Creek.

  • 1996 – Bob Bellear is appointed to the District Court of New South Wales, becoming the first Indigenous Australian judge.

International Observances.

  • Birthday of the Raja (Perlis)

  • Children’s Day (Norway)

  • Constitution Day (Nauru)

  • Constitution Day (Norway)

  • Feast of ‘Aẓamat (Baháʼí Faith, day shifts with March Equinox, see List of observances set by the Baháʼí calendar)

  • Galician Literature Day or Día das Letras Galegas (Galicia)

  • International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

  • Liberation Day (Democratic Republic of the Congo)

  • National Day Against Homophobia (Canada)

  • Navy Day (Argentina)

  • World Hypertension Day

  • World Information Society…

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