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JERUSALEM — The Palestinian co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land" was attacked by settlers and arrested by the Israeli army on Monday in the occupied West Bank, according to his co-director Yuval Abraham.

In a post on X, Abraham said a "group of settlers" had set upon Ballal.

"They beat him and he has injuries in his head and stomach, bleeding. Soldiers invaded the ambulance he called, and took him. No sign of him since," Abraham wrote.

The incident took place in the southern West Bank village of Susiya, according to the anti-occupation NGO Center for Jewish Nonviolence, whose members said they filmed the events first-hand.

The army said it was verifying the information when questioned by AFP.

Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967. 

"No Other Land", which was directed by Israeli-Palestinian activists, won best documentary at this year's Academy Awards.

Shot in nearby Masafer Yatta, the documentary follows a young Palestinian struggling with forced displacement as the Israeli army tears down his community's homes to make space for a firing zone.

The Israeli army declared Masafer Yatta a restricted military zone in the 1980s.

The West Bank, excluding Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, is home to around three million Palestinians as well as nearly half a million Israelis who live in settlements that are illegal under international law.

PARIS — French actor Gerard Depardieu went on trial at a Paris court on Monday charged with sexually assaulting two women during a 2021 film shoot, as his lawyer vowed to show all the accusations were "false".

Depardieu, 76, who has acted in more than 200 films and television series, has been accused of improper behaviour by around 20 women but this is the first case to come to trial.

He is the highest-profile figure to face accusations in French cinema's response to the #MeToo movement.

Depardieu, dressed in a dark suit with no tie, sat on a stool facing the court as the trial got underway in the early afternoon.

He slowly made his way to the witness stand, wincing as he walked, to confirm his identity. The two plaintiffs were also present in the courtroom.

The trial relates to charges of sexual assault during the filming in 2021 of "Les Volets Verts" ("The Green Shutters") by director Jean Becker.

Anouk Grinberg, a prominent actor who appeared in the film, has backed the two plaintiffs -- a set dresser, 54, and a 34-year-old assistant director. Both women allege sexual violence.

Grinberg said that Depardieu had constantly made "salacious remarks" during shooting, and told AFP that producers who hired him knew they were "hiring an abuser".

Depardieu's lawyer, Jeremie Assous, told AFP just before the hearing started that he would show "in an impartial, objective and undeniable manner that all the accusations are false".

Feminist activists protested outside the courtroom before the trial started.

The defendant's younger daughter, Roxane Depardieu, and her mother, Depardieu's ex-partner Karine Silla, as well as actor Fanny Ardant were among the film star's supporters inside the courtroom.

Ardant then left the room after the defence team cited her as a witness.

Breaks whenever he 'needs'-

The trial, initially scheduled to take place in October 2024, had been postponed due to the actor's ill health.

Assous said back then that Depardieu had undergone a heart bypass operation and suffered from diabetes that was aggravated by the stress of the forthcoming trial.

According to Assous, Depardieu's court appearances will be limited to six hours a day and he will take breaks whenever he "needs".

One of Depardieu's two accusers, the 54-year-old set dresser called Amelie, reported in February last year that she had suffered sexual assault, sexual harassment and sexist insults during filming in September 2021.

She told French investigative website Mediapart that Depardieu boasted he could "give women an orgasm without touching them" and that an hour later Depardieu "brutally grabbed" her.

The actor pinned her by "closing his legs" around her before groping her waist and her stomach, continuing up to her breasts, she added.

She said Depardieu made "obscene remarks".

She described the actor's bodyguards dragging him away as he shouted: "We'll see each other again, my dear."

'Manhunt'

The second plaintiff, the 34-year-old assistant director, alleges the actor groped her "breasts and bum" in August 2021, according to Mediapart.

Overall, around 20 women have accused Depardieu of improper behaviour, but several cases have been dropped due to the statute of limitations.

French actor Charlotte Arnould was the first woman to file a criminal complaint against Depardieu, in 2018.

Last August, the Paris prosecutor's office requested a trial for rape and sexual assault, accusations the famous actor has consistently denied over the years.

"Never, but never, have I abused a woman," Depardieu wrote in an open letter to the conservative daily Le Figaro.

Weeks later, President Emmanuel Macron shocked feminists by complaining of a "manhunt" targeting Depardieu, whom he called a "towering actor" who "makes France proud".

Depardieu is no stranger to scandal, having made headlines for brawling, drink driving and urinating in the aisle of a plane.

A 2023 French television documentary called "The Fall of the Ogre" showed the actor on a 2018 trip to North Korea repeatedly making explicit sexual comments in front of a female interpreter and appearing to sexualise a small girl riding a horse.

Dr. Silvia Zayadin
Veterinarian

Poisoning can be a serious and life-threatening issue for dogs and cats.
There are many common household items that can pose a great risk to our furry friends.

Since dogs and cats are naturally curious, they may chew on or ingest harmful substances.

Hidden Hazards

As pet owners, we do our best to create a safe and loving environment for our furry companions.

From common foods to cleaning products, some substances can be toxic and lead to serious health issues.

Here are a couple to be aware of:

Rodenticides (rat poison)

Rat poison contains chemicals that can cause internal bleeding, kidney failure, or seizures in pets. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include weakness, bleeding gums and difficulty

breathing. If a pet consumes rat poison, immediate veterinary attention is required Lilies and other spring flowers Lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure.

Other dangerous flowers include tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and heart problems.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance toxic to both dogs and cats. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, tremors and seizures. If a pet eats chocolate, it is crucial to seek veterinary help immediately

Cocoa-Based Gardening Mulch

Some types of gardening mulch contain cocoa by products, which can be toxic to dogs due to their theobromine content. If ingested, dogs may experience symptoms such as hyperactivity, tremors and even seizures

Insecticides and herbicides

Springtime brings more bugs and insects, leading to increased insecticide use. These chemicals can be dangerous if pets walk on treated grass or lick their paws afterward.

Human medications

Common medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and antidepressants can be highly toxic to pets.

Symptoms vary depending on the medication but may include vomiting, lethargy, breathing difficulties and even organ failure. Never give your pet any of your

medications, and always store medications safely out of their reach.

Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. Even a small amount can cause serious problems.

Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and loss of appetite.

Pets eating grapes or raisins must go to the veterinary clinic immediately for proper medical management.

Onions and garlic

Onions and garlic can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia in pets. Symptoms include weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing and lethargy.

If ingestion occurs, immediate veterinary care is required to prevent serious complications.

Household cleaners

Many cleaning products, including bleach, floor cleaners and disinfectants, contain toxic chemicals. If ingested, they can cause vomiting, drooling, burns in the mouth and difficulty breathing. In case of exposure, the veterinarian should be contacted immediately.

Fertilizers and pesticides

Many lawn and garden treatments contain toxic chemicals. If ingested, these chemicals can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea and seizures.

Always store garden products safely and keep your furry friends away from treated areas.

What to do?

First of all, you need to stay calm, as panicking can make it harder to help your pet.

Try to identify the poison; this can be done by looking for any packaging or evidence of what your pet may have eaten.

If you find any evidence, handle it carefully to avoid harming yourself. Keeping it safely stored can be extremely helpful when you arrive at the clinic, as it may help the medical team quickly identify the cause and begin treatment sooner.

Call for help immediately and contact your veterinarian. The veterinary team will advise on the best action to take to help your pet.

Never try to induce vomiting unless advised by a veterinary team member, as some substances can cause more harm if vomited.

Poison prevention and awareness

Preventing poisoning is the best way to keep pets safe. Always store chemicals and medications safely and away from children and pets.

Keep food away from pets. Do not leave chocolate, grapes, or other harmful foods within reach. Use petsafe cleaning products. This way you can minimize the exposure risk.

Be cautious with houseplants, as some are toxic for pets.

When working in the garden and using fertilizers and insecticides, keep your furry friends away in a safe place;

try using animal-friendly products to minimize risk to other animals, including outdoor and stray animals. And as always, educate yourself and family members.

Ensure everyone in the household knows what is dangerous for your pet.

Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine 

SEOUL — Growing up in North Korea, Hyuk's childhood was about survival. He never listened to banned K-pop music but, after defecting to the South, he's about to debut as an idol.

Hyuk is one of two young North Koreans in a new K-pop band called 1Verse -- the first time that performers originally from the nuclear-armed North have been trained up for stardom in South Korea's global K-pop industry.

Before he was 10, Hyuk -- who like many K-pop idols now goes by one name -- was skipping school to work on the streets in his native North Hamgyong province and admits he "had to steal quite a bit just to survive".

"I had never really listened to K-pop music", he told AFP, explaining that "watching music videos felt like a luxury to me".

"My life was all about survival", he said, adding that he did everything from farm work to hauling shipments of cement to earn money to buy food for his family.

But when he was 13, his mother, who had escaped North Korea and made it to the South, urged him to join her.

He realised this could be his chance to escape starvation and hardship, but said he knew nothing about the other half of the Korean Peninsula.

"To me, the world was just North Korea -- nothing beyond that," he told AFP.

His bandmate, Seok, also grew up in the North -- but in contrast to Hyuk's hardscrabble upbringing, he was raised in a relatively affluent family, living close to the border.

As a result, even though K-pop and other South Korean content like K-dramas are banned in the North with harsh penalties for violators, Seok said "it was possible to buy and sell songs illegally through smugglers".

Thanks to his older sister, Seok was listening to K-pop and even watching rare videos of South Korean artists from a young age, he told AFP.

"I remember wanting to imitate those cool expressions and styles -- things like hairstyles and outfits," Seok told AFP.

Eventually, when he was 19, Seok defected to the South. Six years later, he is a spitting image of a K-Pop idol.

Star quality 

Hyuk and Seok were recruited for 1Verse, a new boy band and the first signed to smaller Seoul-based label Singing Beetle by the company's CEO Michelle Cho.

Cho was introduced to both of the young defectors through friends.

Hyuk was working at a factory when she met him, but when she heard raps he had written she told AFP that she "knew straight away that his was a natural talent".

Initially, he "professed a complete lack of confidence in his ability to rap", Cho said, but she offered him free lessons and then invited him to the studio, which got him hooked.

Eventually, "he decided to give music a chance", she said, and became the agency's first trainee.

In contrast, Seok "had that self-belief and confidence from the very beginning", she said, and lobbied hard to be taken on.

When Seok learned that he would be training alongside another North Korean defector, he said it "gave me the courage to believe that maybe I could do it".

'We're almost there' 

The other members of 1Verse include a Chinese-American, a Lao-Thai American and a Japanese dancer. The five men in their 20s barely speak each other's languages.

But Hyuk, who has been studying English, says it doesn't matter.

"We're also learning about each other's cultures, trying to bridge the gaps and get closer little by little," he said.

"Surprisingly, we communicate really well. Our languages aren't perfectly fluent, but we still understand each other. Sometimes, that feels almost unbelievable."

Aito, the Japanese trainee who is the main dancer in the group, said he was "fascinated" to meet his North Korean bandmates.

"In Japan, when I watched the news, I often saw a lot of international issues about defectors, so the overall image isn't very positive," he said.

But Aito told AFP his worries "all disappeared" when he met Hyuk and Seok. And now, the five performers are on the brink of their debut.

It's been a long road from North Korea to the cusp of K-pop stardom in the South for Hyuk and Seok -- but they say they are determined to make 1Verse a success.

"I really want to move someone with my voice. That feeling grows stronger every day," said Seok.

Hyuk said being part of a real band was a moving experience for him.

"It really hit me, like wow, we're almost there."

LE BUISSON-DE-CADOUIN, France — Deep inside a labyrinthine cave in southwestern France, ancient humans who lived around 30,000 years ago carved horses, mammoths and rhinoceros into the walls, a fabulous prehistoric menagerie that has rarely been seen — until now.

Discovered in 2000 by an amateur cave explorer, the Grotte de Cussac in the Dordogne department holds ancient human remains, traces of long-extinct bears and stunning, fragile artworks its custodians go to great lengths to preserve.

Typically, the French authorities restrict access to the cave to researchers, who are only allowed to enter it four weeks per year.

But a team of AFP journalists was recently allowed to visit the cave for the first time, accompanied by scientists working to unravel its mysteries.

After unlocking the metal grate that blocks the entrance, the group put on white protective overclothes, head coverings and gloves, then disinfected the soles of their boots.

Authorities are anxious to avoid a repeat of the damage done to France's famed Lascaux caves by microorganisms brought in by visitors.

The Lascaux caves — which are also located in Dordogne, though their artworks are estimated to be thousands of years younger than the Cussac carvings — were closed to the public in 1963 to save their precious frescoes.

The Cussac cave is accessed by a narrow passage through boulders that have closed off its inner chambers for thousands of years.

Lighting the way with headlamps, visitors cross vast chambers of stalactites and stalagmites, following the same narrow path as Marc Delluc, the late amateur speleologist who discovered the cave in September 2000.

Delluc, who died in 2017, noticed a draft blowing from within the rocks, picked his way through the limestone and uncovered a path of around 100 metres leading to the engravings.

He described the "rush of adrenaline" he felt when he saw the curved figures and silhouettes carved into the rock overhead.

"I realised the privilege I'd been granted, to enter a place that had been consecrated since the dawn of time," he said.

'Sanctuary' -

The 1.6-kilometre cave has more than 1,000 carved figures, both animals and stylised feminine forms.

Scientists have dated them to between 26,000 and 35,000 years ago, the time of the ancient Gravettian culture in Europe.

"The Grotte de Cussac is exceptional for its well-preserved state. It was probably closed off very soon after it was occupied, which protected the soil and vestiges inside," said Emeline Deneuve, chief heritage conservationist for the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region's cultural affairs department.

Claw marks and signs of burrowing show it was also used by cave bears, prehistoric relatives of the brown bear.

Inside their hibernation chambers, researchers have found the remains of six human bodies, dating to the same period as the engravings.

It is the only known example of a cave used by prehistoric humans for both burials and artworks, said the site's lead archaeologist, Jacques Jaubert.

The site was a "sanctuary", not a dwelling, he said. "The group lived outside, in the open or in shelters under the rocks."

'Fragments of mythology'

Jaubert thinks the cave may have been used for initiation ceremonies, "a rite of passage for adolescents to join the adult world" -- a practice often observed in primitive hunter-gatherer groups.

It would also have been seen "as a place of passage between the world of the living and the world of the dead", he said.

The carvings, which he calls "fragments of mythology", were made with flint, wood and bone.

They depict bison, ibex, geese and other animals, as well as women, often with giant heads and tiny feet.

"After testing the wall of the cave, leaving traces with his fingers, the artist carved the first animal figures, which were followed by others superimposed over them," said researcher Valerie Feruglio, who uses 3D imaging to study the artworks, seeking to decipher their stories.

Safeguarding history

The cave has still not been fully explored.

But authorities are extremely cautious in protecting the site, which was named a historic monument in 2002.

"We are the guardians responsible for preserving and documenting the site," said Deneuve, the conservation chief.

"We support the research carried out there, as long as it is in line with conservation and heritage requirements. Documenting the cave and digitising it in 3D is also part of our goal to bring it to the public."

In October, the Dordogne department opened a free exhibit on the cave in the town of Buisson-de-Cadouin, with reproductions of its artworks.

But authorities say there are no plans to open the cave to the public.

ROME — Donatella Versace is giving up the creative reins of luxury fashion label Versace after nearly three decadesrsday, effectively ending the family's hold over the brand founded by her murdered brother.

The platinum blond fixture of Italian fashion, who turns 70 in May, will be succeeded by Miu Miu's design director Dario Vitale, in what some industry insiders see as a prelude to an upcoming acquisition of Versace by its larger rival Prada, which also owns Miu Miu.

The new role as chief creative officer for Vitale -- a respected but little-known designer who has overseen soaring sales at Miu Miu -- represents a turning point for the Versace label, which was founded in 1978 by Versace's older brother Gianni.

The brand beloved by jet-setters, and famous for its Medusa logo, has weathered ups and downs in its decades on the fashion scene, but the vision and philosophy behind its showy, skin-baring looks have always been steered by a Versace.

Donatella Versace will now become the label's chief brand ambassador beginning April 1, the same day Vitale takes over, owner Capri Holdings Limited said.

"It has been the greatest honour of my life to carry on my brother Gianni's legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity," Versace said.

The designer, who took her customary bow at the end of the runway show at Milan Fashion Week last month, added that she will remain the brand's "most passionate supporter".

As design director of Miu Miu -- Prada's more youthful line -- Vitale oversaw 93 percent retail growth last year in a notoriously challenging environment for luxury fashion.

He said Versace boasts "a unique heritage that has spanned decades and has shaped the history of fashion".

'Newness and wow' 

Fashion group Capri Holdings, which also owns Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors, has owned Versace since 2018, but has struggled to position the luxury label, with its sales sliding 15 percent in its most recent third quarter.Prada is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Versace, with Bloomberg reporting earlier this month a potential price of nearly 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion).

Prada executives have not publicly commented on the discussions with Versace, with Chairman Patrizio Bertelli saying earlier this month he was "very cautious" over any possible acquisitions.

Bernstein analyst Luca Solca told AFP that the creative shuffling could be "good news" for Versace.

"Even the best designers -- like all artists -- tend to become predictable over time," Solca said.

"And predictable is not good enough, in a market where brands fight for consumer attention with newness and wow."

Muse and businesswoman 

One of the industry's most recognisable figures, with her platinum blonde hair and penchant for high heels, Versace spent much of her early life as the self-styled muse to Gianni, who was murdered in 1997 by a serial killer.

His death thrust the youngest Versace sibling to the helm of the family fashion empire, which she began to lead as its new chief designer at age 42 with no formal fashion training.

Some of the Versace's most well-known looks -- including Jennifer Lopez's cut-to-there green gown worn to the 2000 Grammy's -- were due to the younger Versace's bold choices and ability to attract celebrities to the brand.

As brand ambassador, Versace will now focus on the company's philanthropic and charity work.

After a period of sales slumps and restructuring, Capri brought the company for 1.83 billion euros in 2018.

Versace's portfolio now includes hotels and homeware along with fashion and accessories. It owns 230 boutiques around the world and has more than 400 licensed stores.

Before Thursday's announcement, industry observers had considered Vitale a potential candidate to lead the creative design at Gucci, which let go Sabato de Sarno in February after just two years on the job.

LOS ANGELES, United States — "Novocaine," an action-comedy starring Jack Quaid as a banker who cannot feel pain, topped the North American box office in its debut weekend, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported on Sunday, but ticket sales overall were brutally slow.

The Paramount film took in an estimated $8.7 million from Friday to Sunday -- in one of the lowest-grossing debuts ever to take the top spot, at least since the uber-lows of the pandemic, according to Variety.

Slipping to second place was "Mickey 17", a black comedy from Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho starring Robert Pattinson, at $7.51 million.

Pattinson plays Mickey, who volunteers for hazardous space missions and, when killed, is repeatedly "reprinted" to be sent out again. Steven Yeun, Toni Collette and Mark Ruffalo also star in the Warner Bros. film.

"Black Bag", a spy thriller from Oscar winner Steven Soderbergh starring Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett, debuted in third place just behind "Mickey 17" with $7.5 million.

Marvel and Disney's "Captain America: Brave New World" landed in fourth place, earning $5.5 million.

The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starring Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford has so far grossed $185.4 million at home, and $203 million overseas.

"The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie" -- a new animated caper featuring Porky Pig, Daffy Duck and other familiar characters -- debuted in fifth place at $3.2 million.

AMMAN — Ramadan in Dubai, organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) in partnership with Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), has brought the city to life with an extraordinary line-up of arts, culture, and entertainment events, offering residents and visitors countless ways to embrace the spirit of the season until March 30.

From mesmerising poetry nights and interactive art exhibitions to thrilling anime showcases and world-class performances, Dubai’s cultural scene is buzzing with energy and inspiration.DFRE invites everyone to experience the joy of art, culture, and entertainment through these incredible events.

Rhythm, poetry, and culture

An inspiring evening of music and heritage heads to Zabeel Theatre at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on 15 March, featuring Palestinian singer Dalal Abu Amneh. The renowned singer will be joined on stage by a group of grandmothers, to collectively share traditional stories and songs passed down through generations of Palestinian and Arab women. Doors open at 9pm.

On 21 March, Dubai Opera hosts a magical evening of poetic brilliance with Ramadan Nights, featuring the rhythmic expressions of renowned poets Faisal Al Adwani, Mohammed Saakran  and Nasser Alwobair. Audiences can expect an immersive experience as these literary masters bring their verses to life, weaving together tradition and contemporary reflections in an unforgettable night of culture and storytelling.

From March 14 to March 23, Ramadan Nights at Al Shindagha Museum offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the UAE. Through a series of interactive experiences and cultural showcases, attendees can explore the deep-rooted traditions and customs that define Ramadan in the region, making for a truly memorable and enlightening journey.

Etihad Museum invites guests to embark on an exploration of heritage and artistry in two engaging workshops that explore the intricate history and beauty of henna, and the meticulous craft of handmade paper. These interactive sessions offer a hands-on way to connect with the region’s artistic heritage while gaining new skills and appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Art and reflectionReturning in an exciting weekend format, Ramadan Nights at Jameel Arts Centre takes place from March 14 to March 16, offering engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and the highly anticipated debut of the Ramadan Souk. Families and visitors of all ages can participate in holistic workshops led by local creatives, explore self-guided activities, and discover Art Jameel’s current exhibitions.

Alserkal Avenue brings a captivating programme entitled “Interrupting Patterns”, inviting visitors to reflect through poetry, performance, film and theatre. This initiative provides a unique opportunity to pause, rethink inherited narratives and discover new perspectives through the power of creative expression. Art lovers and curious minds alike will find inspiration in this transformative experience.

The Dubai Balloon at Atlantis, The Palm introduces “Echoes of the Crescent”, a breathtaking fusion of contemporary Arabic artistry, heritage, and panoramic city views. This one-of-a-kind art exhibition transforms the venue into a canvas of cultural storytelling until  March 30, bringing a curated art gallery experience that showcases the talents of emerging homegrown artists. Open to all ticket holders of the Regular Pass or Fast Pass to The Dubai Balloon.

Anime and more

Anime enthusiasts should mark their calendars for Naruto The Gallery Experience, an immersive showcase dedicated to one of the world’s most beloved anime characters. Running until 6 April at Dubai Outlet Mall, this themed exhibition takes visitors through the legendary journey of Naruto, featuring stunning visuals, dynamic video clips, and exclusive artwork by renowned anime artists. With tickets starting from AED 55 and free entry for kids under six, this is a must-visit destination for fans of all ages.

Family Entertainment

Friends and families are invited to witness The Magic of Rob Lake as the world-renowned illusionist brings his spectacular show to Dubai for five breathtaking performances at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 21 to 23 March. Known for his mind-bending illusions and spellbinding stage presence, Lake will leave audiences in awe with his larger-than-life tricks and seamless execution.

Families with children aged 2 and above are invited to grab their party hats and head down to Spot’s Birthday Party, bringing an interactive celebration filled with songs, dancing, and exciting games for the very first time to Dubai. Based on the beloved children’s book “Happy Birthday Spot”, the delightful show brings the pup’s classic tale to life - together with his lovable friends Steve the Monkey, Tom the Crocodile, and Helen the Hippo - at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray from March 21 to March 23.

Ramadan in Dubai is supported by Strategic Partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, Commercial Bank of Dubai, DHAM (Al Seef, Bluewaters, Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall and The Outlet Village), Emirates Airline, ENOC, e&, Majid Al Futtaim (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Merex Investment (City Walk and The Beach, JBR) and talabat.

By Lara Masri, 
Education Specialist

It was just after spring break when two of my students broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of homework they had to submit that day.

These children had passions and activities beyond academics that they longed to pursue. Seeing them in such distress made me truly understand their struggle.

At that moment, I knew I had to take a stand and reflect on how excessive stress could threaten a child’s love of learning and overall wellbeing. That experience forever changed my perspective on homework.

The holidays

School is almost out for the ‘Eid holiday! Should students clean up their desks and head off to enjoy time with friends and family, or are parents and teachers expecting them to use the few days they have to catch up on homework?

The answer, of course, depends on who you ask. 

Not all adults share the same view on homework during the holidays.

This raises an ongoing debate: Should students have homework during breaks or not?

Discussions between teachers and parents have always been heated when it comes to assigning homework during long or short vacations.

While both sides have valid arguments, I wanted to dive deeper into the research and find more statistics to better understand this issue.

Holiday ‘brain drain’

Supporters of homework argue that it prevents the “holiday brain drain” and keeps students engaged in their studies.

Research from the National Summer Learning Association shows that students can lose up to two months of grade-level equivalency in maths and reading skills over long breaks, suggesting that light homework during shorter vacations might help reduce this gap.

Another study also found that students who engaged in academic work during breaks performed better once they returned to school.

Give me a break

On the other hand, opponents argue that students need a break to recharge and that assigning homework during vacations can increase stress and hinder mental wellbeing.

According to the American Psychological Association, 61 per cent of teens report feeling stressed by schoolwork and the pressure to complete homework over breaks can amplify this stress.

A recent survey conducted in Jordan, exploring various perspectives on assigning homework during short holidays or vacations, addressed concerns about learning loss, stress and whether homework should be optional or mandatory.

The results revealed that 80 - 83 per cent of parents and educators agree that it is healthier not to assign homework during breaks.

Rest vs academics

I belong to the 80 per cent of individuals who believe that homework should not be assigned to students, particularly in primary and middle school, during breaks.

I feel that younger students need time away from schoolwork to fully recharge and engage in other aspects of their lives.

However, I do agree with some of my colleagues who advocate for making homework optional for high school students.

This approach ensures that learning loss is minimised and that students return from their breaks prepared to dive into new topics, maintaining a balance between rest and academic progress.

Balance is key

The science behind this debate suggests that balance is key.

Optional light enrichment activities — rather than mandatory assignments — could provide a middle ground, allowing students to stay engaged academically without feeling overwhelmed.

What do you think? I’d love to hear your feedback — feel free to email me at the below address!

Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine