Category Archives: Education

A ‘desi’ warrior for the weak

Education, Leaders

His thirst for knowledge spurred him on to complete his Masters in Law and then go on to do his PhD from Osmania University. For Vara Prasada Rao, education is important and he helps the poor obtain the same.

Those who know the value of education and who strongly believe in continued education can never give it up at any point of time even if they become cabinet ministers. The Rural Development and NREGS minister of Andhra Pradesh Dokka Manikya Vara Prasada Rao belongs to this group of people.

A prominent lawyer and rights activist in Guntur district, Vara Prasad did not give up his academic pursuance even after becoming an MLA and subsequently a minister. After completing his Masters in Law, Prasad enrolled himself as a PhD student in Osmania University under the guidance of Prof Jaya Kumar five years ago and is eager to complete his doctorate degree very soon. His topic of research is Secularism-Indian constitution. But he carries his erudition lightly. Even in dress, he is a symbol of modesty. Rao prefers to wear normal white pants and shirt all the time. If he goes out alone, nobody recognises him as a minister. “I love to dress as normally as others do and I get accepted everywhere,” he smiles through the salt and pepper foliage.

Rao started his active political career by becoming an MLA in 2004 from Thatikonda in Guntur district. He is also a vociferous fighter of Dalit rights. His name made the headlines as he played a key role in ensuring jail sentence to the accused in the sensational Chundur massacre case. “It was a memorable experience. As a lawyer, I did my bit in bringing justice to the victims and ensuring conviction for the perpetrators of the massacre.”

The first time politician in his family Manikya Varaprasada hails from a poor family and he was brought up in Scheduled Castes Colonies (Dalit a Waada). He always cherished the dream of becoming a leader.

Many people don’t know that Rao was instrumental in moulding the lives of many poor people including orphans. One of the orphan boys supported (both socially and financially) by Rao has gone on to become an alumnus of London School of Economics. The boy is now pursuing his PhD. He also was instrumental in making six students doctors.

His biggest regret in life is not being able to speak English well. He says English does not submit to him. “I tried many times but it fails.” But he is a voracious reader. He has a collection of 1,500 non-fiction books in his library at home. Whenever a new book is launched in the market, Rao makes sure that he procures a copy. “I personally go to book stores and purchase the books,” he smiles.

Personal Profile

Assembly Constituency: Thatikonda

Edu Qualification: Bsc, LLM (PhD)

Spouse name: D Emily (2 sons, 1 daughter)

Elected: Two times (2004, 2009)

Contact No. 040-23454238, 23451135

source: http://www.postnoon.com / Home> City / by Inkeshaf Ahmed / October 12th, 2012

Training institute for technicians to undertake dialysis

Education, Science & Technology
Hyderabad:

NephroPlus, a healthcare speciality chain running kidney clinics, has set up a training institute called ‘Enpidia’, here. The institute will train technicians who will be certified to undertake dialysis.

The two-year international standard, certification programme will focus on training dialysis technicians and nurses. It will be administered by US-based agency and aim to bring the much-needed standardisation to dialysis training in India and ensuring quality kidney care.

Announcing the launch Mr Kamal D. Shah, Co-Founder and Director, NephroPlus, said, “The situation today in India is very dangerous. Many dialysis technicians and nurses do not have the necessary training or qualifications to work at dialysis units. This puts the lives of patients at a huge risk.”

The contemporary programmes in the country are not rigorous enough to train people in dialysis. They do not have the necessary theoretical knowledge to effectively look after dialysis patients. Most of them are taught procedures in a very mechanical manner which is simply not enough, he said in a press release.

STIPENDS

NeproPlus will offer stipends right after the third month of training and can go up to Rs 7,500/month in the second year. The course fee is Rs 12,000 every six months. People with this certification will be eligible for jobs in countries such as the US, the UK, Canada, West Asia as well.

NephroPlus, with seven kidney clinics in South India will also be offering jobs to some of these candidates as it plans to open more centres.

source: http://www.TheHinduBusinessLine.com / Home> Industry & Economy> Economy / The Hindu’s Bureau / Hyderabad, March 08th, 2012

Course introduced for fashion entrepreneurs in Vijaywada

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Education

Fashion Designer Shravan Kumar gives tips at a seminar organised by Samana Institute of Fashion Technology in Vijayawada on Wednesday. /  Photo: V.Raju / The Hindu

The homemakers in the City can now have an option of doing something creative with the introduction of a new “Entrepreneurship Development Programme” (EDP) course in fashion designing.

At the inception of the programme at Samana Institute of Fashion Technology (SIFT), it was introduced in a special seminar by celebrity designer Shravan Kumar from Hyderabad.

The specially targeted course for women will train them in production and marketing of fashionable garments.

“My main intention behind starting this course is to increase the economic standards of women in Vijayawada”, said SIFT CEO Samana Moosavi.

Many women already do some sort of clothes designing from their homes, but they lack proper knowledge about the whole process, she observed.

The course, in 116 sessions over a period of three months, will train them in all the aspects of production house, she added.

The course planned in collaboration with the management of National Institute of Fashion Technology will have classes from renowned designers like Shravan Kumar, P.L. Panda, Krishna Mehta and Zubin Vakil.

Students will be required to spend a minimum of six hours daily for the course but the timings are flexible if a group of people come together, said the CEO.

Admissions

Admissions have already begun for the course and the Institute also provides the facility of getting interested students banking support on their guarantee.

Designer Shravan Kumar gave a special presentation to the students on the changing fashion trends over the world like the Japanese asymmetry. Later, he checked out designs of the students for their upcoming show and gave personal inputs.

“Give a surprise element which your city people are unaware of”, was the advice he gave to the students.

source: http://www.TheHindu.com / Home> News> Cities> Vijayawada / by Staff Reporter / Vijayawada, October 04th, 2012

Biodiversity quiz for school students

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Education

Andhra Pradesh Forest Academy will organise a state-level biodiversity quiz for school students of classes VIII to XII.

Quiz will be held at Hyderabad Public School on September 22 at 3 p.m. and will have three levels of screening. Preliminary round will be conducted through a written test and the top 10 teams would go to the next round. The second round will involve quizzing by a renowned wildlife conservationist and five teams will be shortlisted for the final round.

Winners will be decided in the final round on Sept 23. Cash prizes will be given to top three teams (Rs 5000, Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively).

Schools can send nominations of student for the quiz. Each school can nominate two teams.

Participants should report at the venue in their school uniforms along with ID cards. Any clarifications can be known from Forest Academy deputy director BV Rao on 9440816287 or 040-23097163.

source: http://www.ibnlive.in.com / Home> South> Southern News> Hyderabad / The New Indian Express, Express News Service / September 20th, 2012

Hyderabad: Single-seater aircraft for just Rs 1 lakh

Education, Inspiration /Positive News and Features, Science & Technology

Hyderabad:

Students of mechanical engineering at the Lords Institute of Engineering and Technology have designed and fabricated an aircraft that can be used for commuting within the city, in what is called an effort to solve traffic problems in the city. Made with a budget of about Rs 1 lakh, the single-seater can take off with a short run up of about 100 meters at a cruising speed of 50 to 60 kmph and fly at an altitude of 1000 ft.

The aircraft has a fuel efficiency of around 25 km/litres and can fly at a moderate speed of above 100 kmph. Research is on to further modify the aircraft and make it commercially viable for production.

The aircraft has been developed under the guidance of Dr. Mohd Masood and has been solely developed in the college campus. The project is part of a series of projects planned to solve the day to day problems of citizens of the country.

Students of the Lords Institute of Engineering and Technology have designed and fabricated  the aircraft.

source: http://www.ibnlive.in.com / Home> South> Hyderabad / IBN Hyderabad / The New Indian Express / September 17th, 2012

Hyderabad boys design their own car, win race

Education, Sports

Hyderabad:

Ever wanted to race like Lewis Hamilton? The very sound of the engines, vrooming in and fading like a missile, sets the adrenaline pumping. Now, imagine designing your own car and hitting the track in top gear on a racing circuit. That was exactly what 25 boys from Muffakham Jah College of Engineering and Technology (MJCET) have done and how. Racing at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), Noida with 65 other teams in their own car, the engineering students came out with flying colours, winning the first prize at the SUPRA INDIA 2012 competition held between Sept 6 and 9 and conducted by the Society of Automotive Engineers India.

The team from MJCET bagged the first prize in the marketing presentation (business plan) category winning a trophy and a cash prize of Rs 30,000. In all, 120 teams from across the country vied for honours and of them, 66 made it to the final round and of them, only 25 made it to the last leg. For the Hyderabad team, it was a new and exciting experience as they had never before reached this stage.

According to team leader, Mohammed Waseem, the self-designed vehicle was tested for three days on the track before the final race. Around 80 judges from the automobile industry inspected the vehicles for safety check, design evaluation, weight check, egress check, master switch test, noise level test, tilt test, fuel leakage test, brake test, acceleration test, skid pad test, etc. before they were allowed to participate in the final endurance event where the teams had to successfully complete four laps – a total of 22 kms. The Hyderabad team car’s engine had a 796cc Maruthi Suzuki 37 BHP engine. It crossed 110kmph at one point and maintained an average speed of 77 throughout the race.

imagine designing your own car and hitting the track in top gear on a racing circuit

The project, according to the mechanical engineering department of the college, was conceived in July 2011. Following that, the team had passed through the Virtual SUPRA competitions in January 2012 and the fabrication of vehicle started in early March this year. The team was headed by Mohd. Waseem – Captain and Ch. Abhilash – Vice Captain.

The car costs Rs 4 lakh (including engine and transmission) whereas the total cost of the project was about Rs 9.5 lakh, including the cost of car, registration, transportation and accommodation, informed officials. The team was sponsored by Muffakham Jah College of Engineering and Technology, M/s Coastal Power Projects, Butta Group, DB Shapriya, and Reitz India Pvt. Ltd, under guidance of AS Reddy and Mohammed Viquar Mohiuddin, faculty advisors, SAEINDIA MJCET Chapter. It was also actively supported by Prof. S.Khadar Vali, Head of Mechanical Engineering Department and Dr. Basheer Ahmed, Principal MJCET

source: http://www.ibnlive.in.com / Home> South> Hyderabad / IBN Hyderabad / The New Indian Express / September 17th, 2012

ISB competition for social entrepreneurship ideas

Business & Economy, Education
Indian School of Business students at the graduation ceremony in Gachibowli (file photo). — Photo: Nagara Gopal / Business Line
Hyderabad, SEPT 13:

Do you have an idea that has a potential to make a social impact? The Indian School of Business (ISB) has announced iDiya, a nationwide idea competition for working professionals who are interested in starting ventures with a potential to create a positive impact on society.

“The competition seeks to promote scalable and sustainable businesses in the fields of agri-business, health, education, energy, environment, women’s empowerment and disability,” an ISB statement said here on Thursday.

This year’s ISB iDiya Challenge is being organised by about 767 students of the Class of 2013 at the ISB.

The ISB has called for entries for the fourth ISB iDiya Challenge. Those who are interested can submit their ideas online at www.isb.edu/iDiya. The last date for submitting the applications is September 30.

iDiya, which was started in 2009 by students, is a platform for social entrepreneurs with venture capital funds and experts from different fields. This has caught the imagination of not only the students and professionals but also of institutions such as Nabard, Upaya, Social Ventures, Ckinetics and Villgro.

The total investment opportunity for the ideas selected through ISB iDiya this year has increased by four times to Rs 1.73 crore.

Winners in the last three years have been funded and mentored by some prominent names in the industry such as Acumen fund, Intellecap, Unitus capital, Grey Matters Capital, Mumbai Angels and Wadhwani Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at ISB.

Last year’s ISB iDiya Challenge winner was ‘SMV Wheels’, a venture based out of Varanasi that helps rickshaw pullers to fulfil their dreams to become self-employed.

kurmanath.kanchi@thehindu.co.in

source: http://www.TheHinduBusinessLine.com / Home> Industry & Economy> Marketing / by K. V. Kurmanath / September 13th, 2012

Minister for Housing Uttam Kumar Reddy inaugurated two-day All India Students Conference of Company Secretaries in city today

Business & Economy, Education
Report by India Education bureau; Hyderabad:

The two-day 13th All India Students Conference of Company Secretaries kicked off here at Hyderabad today at the Global Peace Auditorium, Gachibowli, Hyderabad. The conference with the theme – ‘Company Secretary (CS) – The Corporate Leader’ was inaugurated by Chief Guest Capt. N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, Minister for Housing, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Prof. (Dr.) Faizan Mustafa, Vice Chancellor, Nalsar University; Mr. CS Nesar Ahmad, President, The Institute of Company Secretaries, New Delhi and many others graced the inaugural session.
Speaking on the occasion Uttam Kumar Reddy said a good Company Secretary is a valuable asset to the company.  In a globalised economy Indian companies have to compete and business environment also becomes complex.  Company secretary role is critical as he guides them in statutory processes.  Adding further he stated that India would soon over take China in the growth of its GDP, he said.
Addressing the gathering Prof. (Dr.) Faizan Mustafa, Vice Chancellor, Nalsar University said India is all about tolerance.  India is about management of diversity.  India’s retains the distinctive identity as the most diverse nation.  India’s management of diversity is the best management of diversity in the world, he said and added that  Company Secretary can play a vital role in managing this diversity in corporate governance.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. CS Nesar Ahmad, President, The Institute of Company Secretaries, New Delhi said their mission is to be a Global leader in promoting good corporate governance.  Our mission is to develop high caliber professionals facilitating good corporate governance.  The Council of the Institute formulated the top ten goals for the period of 2011-2014. Some of the these include developing a Cadre of Competent professionals, Improving infrastructure, improving the visibility of the profession and providing leadership on global map etc and others.
To globalise the profession, the ICSI has approached the Commerce Ministry for inclusion of a new Head for Corporate Governance and Company Secretarial Services under the Services Sectoral Classification List of the WTO. The institute has also sought support from parallel institutes in various countries of the world.  The response is encouraging he said.
Eminent Economists, Academicians, Senior Executives from Government and experienced Professionals addressed the participants during the day. The conference is hosted by Hyderabad Chapter of The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
The conference is attended by about 1500 delegates from different parts of the country comprising of students of Company Secretary Course, Chartered Accountants, Cost Accountants, College Students, Corporate Executives, Advocates, practitioners, etc. The conference is being organized here in city after a gap of 14years, they stated.
Company Secretaries are expected to add value as full-fledged corporate managers, corporate leaders and guide the boards to take the right decisions that are in line with the ethical and moral standards, meet the norms of good corporate governance and are not in conflict with the laws of the land. The conference will provide opportunities for participants to upgrade their knowledge and know the ever developing requirements of the profession.
The Conference has sub-themes such as Companies Bill 2011, Role of CS as a strong leader; CS – a key Governance, Risk & Compliance Professional; Emerging Avenues & Newer vistas – Future Transformation of CS; Leadership from the Front; Communicate to conquer; Technology – Strong enabler; Integrity, Ethics & Core Values; and Personal and Professional attributes for success. The themes are designed in such a manner that they impart knowledge on the students that will help them in pursuing their dream.
There have been lot of interactive sessions for the students who attend the conference. Panel discussion with the President, Council members and other office bearers of the ICSI; Interactive session with student speakers; Mock AGM; Mock Board meetings; etc. were .  Participants were given complete insight into the profession.
source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / Home / Friday, September 07th, 2012

BUMCET candidates to go to Vijayawada for counseling

Education
Hyderabad, August 28:

(Siasat News) NTR Health University in conducting Counselling at 10 a.m. on Thursday 30th August at Vijayawada.

Hakeem syed Ghousuddin has informed that all those candidates who have registered their names for proceedings to Vijayawada should assemble at 9 p.m. on Wednesday 29th August 2012 at Siasat office.

For details, please contact Mr. Syed Hameeduddin on phone: 9246196858.

source: http://www.siasat.com / Home> English> Hyderabad–Siasat News / Tuesday, August 28th, 2012

Rotary’s initiative

Amazing Feats, Education, Inspiration /Positive News and Features

Rotary clubs donated 2600 desks to Government schools at a programme in Hyderabad on Tuesday.  / Photo: G. Krishnaswamy / The Hindu

Asma, a fourth standard student at Centenary High School, Secunderabad was all smiles as she looked at the brand new benches on the school ground. She does not have to sit on those decades-old rickety benches anymore and strain her back to write.

Thanks to the efforts of Rotary Club of East, West and 22 other clubs, students of 59 government schools in the capital and other districts would now sport similar smiles, as 2,600 benches were distributed to the schools for free.

This initiative was taken up under the Right to Learn – Literacy programme of Rotary International. The target was to ensure that no student in government schools in the State would sit on the floor and attend classes, said Ravi Vadlamani, chairman of Total Literacy Mission of Rotary International. The programme to distribute one lakh benches was launched last year. Already 70,000 benches were distributed to different schools across the State, claimed Mr. Vadlamani.

As part of the campaign, similar initiative would be launched next year to distribute another 10,000 benches to government schools in the State. Further, efforts were being made to attempt a Guinness Record by distributing 10,000 benches to 218 schools in Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts at a special programme in Hitec city on November 23, he said. R.S. Praveen Kumar, Secretary – AP Social Welfare Residential Schools said there were over 300 social welfare schools in the State. About 1.5 lakh children study in these schools and most sit on the floor in classes. It is a major challenge and initiatives like this would benefit the students a lot, said Mr. Kumar.

The Rotary Foundation Trustee, Ashok Mahajan, Rotary International District 3150 District Governor T.V.R Murti and others also spoke on the occasion.

source: http://www.TheHindu.com / Home> News> Cities> Hyderabad / by Staff  Reporter / August, 15th, 2012