Acharya Nagarjuna University, Centre for Distance Education, Andhra Pradesh offers B.Tech in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Computer Science and IT.
The eligibility criterion is Diploma in Engineering in relevant branch of engineering or section A of AMIE in respective branch or B.Sc with Mathematics either at degree or Intermediate level as one of the subjects. Employees in public or private sector who have completed Intermediate with Mathematics and Physics as optional subjects (or any equivalent examination recognised by the ANU), with two years of work experience can also apply. For details, log on to www.anucde.com
Allahabad Agricultural Institute Deemed University, Directorate of Distance Education, Allahabad offers B.Tech in IT and Computer Science Engineering in distance mode. The eligibility criterion is 10+2 with Mathematics as a subject. For details, log on to www.aaidudec.org
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi offers B.Tech in Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. The eligibility criteria for Civil Engineering are three-year Diploma in Engineering in Civil/ Mechanical/ Electrical/ Computer/ Architecture/ Chemical Engineering from a recognised Polytechnic or its equivalent and the candidate should be employed/self employed in equivalent capacity. For Mechanical Engineering, the candidate should have finished three-year Diploma in Engineering in Mechanical/ Electrical/ Electronics/ Agriculture/ Computer/Civil Engineering or completed at least first year of B.Tech programme from a recognised university (to apply for credit transfer) or have successfully completed Advanced Diploma/ Diploma in Computer Integrated Manufacturing and employed in Central or State-level industrial organisation / public sector. For details, log on to www.ignou.ac.in
Saturday, October 18, 2008
RBI launches scholarship
To encourage learning about the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) - the central bank of India, among the youth of the country, RBI has decided to launch ‘RBI Young Scholars Award Scheme’.
The purpose of the scheme is to expose youngsters to an actual banking and financial environment .
Students who have completed their Intermediate or its equivalent from recognised institutions/boards and are currently pursuing their undergraduate studies are eligible to apply.
However, those having enrolled for or having acquired degree(s) higher than graduation will not be eligible. Candidates should be of more than 18 years of age and less than 23 years as on December 1, 2008.
Further details can be had on www.rbi.org.in
The purpose of the scheme is to expose youngsters to an actual banking and financial environment .
Students who have completed their Intermediate or its equivalent from recognised institutions/boards and are currently pursuing their undergraduate studies are eligible to apply.
However, those having enrolled for or having acquired degree(s) higher than graduation will not be eligible. Candidates should be of more than 18 years of age and less than 23 years as on December 1, 2008.
Further details can be had on www.rbi.org.in
New website for TOEFL
Educational Testing Service (ETS) recently announced the launch of its new and enhanced TOEFL website ( www.toeflgoanywhere.org). The site helps students with everything from practice and preparation for the TOEFL test to planning for the study-abroad experience.
Phillip Tabbiner, Senior Vice-President of ETS’s Global Division, said, “India, China, Korea and Japan consistently rank as the top TOEFL test-taking countries. This new website is created specifically for students, parents and counsellors to improve their knowledge of, and experience with, this premier test.” The unique features of the website include quick and improved access to online TOEFL test registration; TOEFL Practice Online, the only official site with actual TOEFL test questions; new webisode series with entertaining, helpful hints for test preparation; bookmarks and other links to dozens of online resources such as skills tests, lesson podcasts and TOEFL community blogs, all of which now provide the most comprehensive test prep experience; video testimonials from leading educational institutions; a brand new FAQ section that helps test takers maximise their preparation; testing locations, dates and times throughout India and around the world; and the complete list of over 6,000 colleges and universities that accept TOEFL test scores.
“This year, more students will be able to register to study abroad and more students will take the TOEFL test. This website is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to measure and improve his or her use of English. It’s a roadmap to success,” Mr. Tabbiner said.
Phillip Tabbiner, Senior Vice-President of ETS’s Global Division, said, “India, China, Korea and Japan consistently rank as the top TOEFL test-taking countries. This new website is created specifically for students, parents and counsellors to improve their knowledge of, and experience with, this premier test.” The unique features of the website include quick and improved access to online TOEFL test registration; TOEFL Practice Online, the only official site with actual TOEFL test questions; new webisode series with entertaining, helpful hints for test preparation; bookmarks and other links to dozens of online resources such as skills tests, lesson podcasts and TOEFL community blogs, all of which now provide the most comprehensive test prep experience; video testimonials from leading educational institutions; a brand new FAQ section that helps test takers maximise their preparation; testing locations, dates and times throughout India and around the world; and the complete list of over 6,000 colleges and universities that accept TOEFL test scores.
“This year, more students will be able to register to study abroad and more students will take the TOEFL test. This website is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to measure and improve his or her use of English. It’s a roadmap to success,” Mr. Tabbiner said.
Going places with IGNOU
The open university is now providing globally certifiable skills to workers in many sectors.
Indira Gandhi, former Prime Minister, once said: “Education is the spirit of enquiry, the ability to keep one’s mind and heart open to beauty and goodness, indeed all that surrounds us, to be able to think and judge for oneself. Education should inculcate a life-long habit of learning. And today, this is all the more necessary because the corpus of knowledge is increasing at a tremendous pace, often making what one has learnt obsolete.”
The 11th Plan has proposed an unprecedented ten-fold increase in outlay for higher education. The current plan seeks to achieve the ambitious target of increasing the higher education access rate to 15 per cent by 2012 from the current 10 per cent.
V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai, vice-chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), speaking on the sidelines of the CII-National Summit on Quality Education in Bangalore, said that Open and Distance Learning has been recognised and accepted as an important mode for achieving many of these targets. Conventional teaching-learning methods are being effectively supplemented with Information and Communication Technology and satellite-based teaching-learning systems all over the world. “The open education system in the country, comprising IGNOU, 13 State Open Universities, over 150 distance education institutes in conventional universities, the National Institute of Open Schooling with a country-wide network of open school units and a Distance Education Council at the national level, has significant pedagogical, developmental, organisational and economic implications,” he said.
Enrolment up
Over the past 22 years, IGNOU has played an important role in the qualitative and quantitative expansion of the higher education system. In 2007, IGNOU’s fresh annual enrolment crossed five lakh and the cumulative student strength was about 1.8 million. “This amounts to about 15 per cent of the total student population in the universities in the country. About 300 new study centres and eight more regional centres of the university were started in 2007,” he said.
Dr. Pillai also said that several measures have been taken in 2007 to strengthen the learner support systems. To ensure minimum necessary infrastructure, steps have been taken to provide broadband connectivity to all the study centres.
He said that IGNOU’s academic programmes and courses, in content, structure, design and delivery, address the varying needs of a heterogeneous and diverse set of learners. The variety of programmes reflects the local and global concerns of contemporary development. Several new courses have been introduced to ensure a greater percentage of the population enter the higher education sector. IGNOU’s unique academic, professional, continuing education, extension and training programmes with an appropriate use of technology for delivery are aimed at achieving the same objective.
One of the major programmes recently introduced was providing globally certifiable skills to those working in different sectors. “Of the total workforce in the country, only five per cent have some sort of diploma/ certificate/ degree, compared to around 50 to 80 per cent in developed countries,” Dr. Pillai said.
Though most of the workforce may have the required knowledge or skills, they lack the requisite certification from a body/institute, which is necessary for any kind of horizontal or vertical mobility.
Teaching modules
“We are entering into memorandums of understanding with leading companies in different sectors. IGNOU and the companies will jointly develop modules on the type of skill and knowledge requirements. The additional skills and knowledge will be provided at the workplace itself,” he said.
IGNOU has tied up with the Indian Retailers’ Association and developed modules for a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) degree in retailing. At the end of the first year, candidates will be awarded a certificate, a diploma at the end of the second year and the BBA degree at the end of three years. “One unique feature is that candidates may complete the course at their own pace. This course is open for candidates who have passed 10+2 and are basically from the rural areas.”
Another initiative is the assessment of skill and knowledge of those employed in the traditional knowledge sector such as carpenters, craftsmen, artisans, etc. Australia has already developed a pattern and brings those in the traditional knowledge sector into the educated field. “We have identified certain areas in major vocations and are now trying to develop modules,” Dr. Pillai said.
For example, under the programme, one may assess what level of skill and knowledge carpenters possess, provide them with additional knowledge, certify them and provide them a degree or diploma. “If a carpenter is provided training in computer-aided design, he will be able to market his skills in a much more effective manner. This initiative has been taken up under the School of Vocational Education and Training which was launched with a purpose of bringing them on a par with a trained person.”
Under Corporate Education and Training, IGNOU has tied up with Accenture to provide training for the Business Process Outsourcing sector.
“We have identified 17 areas after looking at the requirements of the corporates and have jointly developed modules. Another sector we are looking at for introducing a similar initiative is insurance.”
IGNOU is also making a foray into paramedical training and has tied up with a group of hospitals. Through the tie-up, it will be providing on-the-job training for the capacity addition of paramedical staff. The modules are being developed in different languages. Multimedia capsules and self-learning materials are congenial and user-friendly.
Indira Gandhi, former Prime Minister, once said: “Education is the spirit of enquiry, the ability to keep one’s mind and heart open to beauty and goodness, indeed all that surrounds us, to be able to think and judge for oneself. Education should inculcate a life-long habit of learning. And today, this is all the more necessary because the corpus of knowledge is increasing at a tremendous pace, often making what one has learnt obsolete.”
The 11th Plan has proposed an unprecedented ten-fold increase in outlay for higher education. The current plan seeks to achieve the ambitious target of increasing the higher education access rate to 15 per cent by 2012 from the current 10 per cent.
V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai, vice-chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), speaking on the sidelines of the CII-National Summit on Quality Education in Bangalore, said that Open and Distance Learning has been recognised and accepted as an important mode for achieving many of these targets. Conventional teaching-learning methods are being effectively supplemented with Information and Communication Technology and satellite-based teaching-learning systems all over the world. “The open education system in the country, comprising IGNOU, 13 State Open Universities, over 150 distance education institutes in conventional universities, the National Institute of Open Schooling with a country-wide network of open school units and a Distance Education Council at the national level, has significant pedagogical, developmental, organisational and economic implications,” he said.
Enrolment up
Over the past 22 years, IGNOU has played an important role in the qualitative and quantitative expansion of the higher education system. In 2007, IGNOU’s fresh annual enrolment crossed five lakh and the cumulative student strength was about 1.8 million. “This amounts to about 15 per cent of the total student population in the universities in the country. About 300 new study centres and eight more regional centres of the university were started in 2007,” he said.
Dr. Pillai also said that several measures have been taken in 2007 to strengthen the learner support systems. To ensure minimum necessary infrastructure, steps have been taken to provide broadband connectivity to all the study centres.
He said that IGNOU’s academic programmes and courses, in content, structure, design and delivery, address the varying needs of a heterogeneous and diverse set of learners. The variety of programmes reflects the local and global concerns of contemporary development. Several new courses have been introduced to ensure a greater percentage of the population enter the higher education sector. IGNOU’s unique academic, professional, continuing education, extension and training programmes with an appropriate use of technology for delivery are aimed at achieving the same objective.
One of the major programmes recently introduced was providing globally certifiable skills to those working in different sectors. “Of the total workforce in the country, only five per cent have some sort of diploma/ certificate/ degree, compared to around 50 to 80 per cent in developed countries,” Dr. Pillai said.
Though most of the workforce may have the required knowledge or skills, they lack the requisite certification from a body/institute, which is necessary for any kind of horizontal or vertical mobility.
Teaching modules
“We are entering into memorandums of understanding with leading companies in different sectors. IGNOU and the companies will jointly develop modules on the type of skill and knowledge requirements. The additional skills and knowledge will be provided at the workplace itself,” he said.
IGNOU has tied up with the Indian Retailers’ Association and developed modules for a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) degree in retailing. At the end of the first year, candidates will be awarded a certificate, a diploma at the end of the second year and the BBA degree at the end of three years. “One unique feature is that candidates may complete the course at their own pace. This course is open for candidates who have passed 10+2 and are basically from the rural areas.”
Another initiative is the assessment of skill and knowledge of those employed in the traditional knowledge sector such as carpenters, craftsmen, artisans, etc. Australia has already developed a pattern and brings those in the traditional knowledge sector into the educated field. “We have identified certain areas in major vocations and are now trying to develop modules,” Dr. Pillai said.
For example, under the programme, one may assess what level of skill and knowledge carpenters possess, provide them with additional knowledge, certify them and provide them a degree or diploma. “If a carpenter is provided training in computer-aided design, he will be able to market his skills in a much more effective manner. This initiative has been taken up under the School of Vocational Education and Training which was launched with a purpose of bringing them on a par with a trained person.”
Under Corporate Education and Training, IGNOU has tied up with Accenture to provide training for the Business Process Outsourcing sector.
“We have identified 17 areas after looking at the requirements of the corporates and have jointly developed modules. Another sector we are looking at for introducing a similar initiative is insurance.”
IGNOU is also making a foray into paramedical training and has tied up with a group of hospitals. Through the tie-up, it will be providing on-the-job training for the capacity addition of paramedical staff. The modules are being developed in different languages. Multimedia capsules and self-learning materials are congenial and user-friendly.
Study in Sweden
Sweden is the place if students are looking for quality education, excellent atmosphere and research options
Higher education in European countries hardly attracts Indian students besotted with US, UK or Australia for whatever reasons. Call it non-promotion of their education or lack of knowledge about the facilities available, European countries rarely figure in their search. More so, countries like smaller countries like Sweden.
But Indian students looking for free quality education and excellent atmosphere coupled with ample research opportunities, Sweden perhaps is a good choice.
14 universities
With 14 universities and 22 other higher educational institutions, Sweden is an excellent country where the academic system aims to develop critical thinking and independence of thought and action. With a budget of nearly 67 million SEK Swedish higher education appears to be well placed to appreciate challenges to higher education and reposing itself to globalisation compulsions in terms of courses and curriculum. There is no tuition fee for any course in Sweden and about 15 per cent of university budgets are for the welfare of the disabled. State runs the 14 universities and one of the objectives is that higher education is expected to be relevant to the practical life closely related to the real lives of the people. To make education much more relevant the Swedish government has set up a Globalisation Council recently to promote deeper knowledge on globalisation and its various issues and economic and social implications of that. Uppsala University is the oldest university set up in Nordic 1477 followed by Lund University in 1660. Uppsala is ranked as one of the best universities in the world. It offers 18 masters level programmes through seven faculties including Arts, Languages, Law, Medicine, Science & Technology, Social Sciences and Theology. The range and relevance of the programme are much appreciated. Nearly 1,500 students apply for this course every year from about 50 countries.
(Details can be had on www.statsvet.uu.se or by emailing to infodevmaster@statsvet.uu.se). The programme is found to be useful for working in foreign services, United Nations and Non-Government sectors.
The minimum eligibility for admission to the two-year master’s programme is a three-year degree. Usually the deadline is February. But more information can be had from www.uu.se.
Selection
Selection is usually based on previous academic record, statement of intent, work experience if any degree subject focus and quality,
There are options to write dissertations also. It is sometimes possible to complete the two-year course within one year. Admissions are finalised in May. The academic calendar is divided into two semesters. i.e. autumn from September to January and spring semester from January to June.
Prof. I. Ramabrahmam & Prof. B. Chandrashekhar Rao,
LineasPalme Fellows,
Uppsala University, Sweden
Higher education in European countries hardly attracts Indian students besotted with US, UK or Australia for whatever reasons. Call it non-promotion of their education or lack of knowledge about the facilities available, European countries rarely figure in their search. More so, countries like smaller countries like Sweden.
But Indian students looking for free quality education and excellent atmosphere coupled with ample research opportunities, Sweden perhaps is a good choice.
14 universities
With 14 universities and 22 other higher educational institutions, Sweden is an excellent country where the academic system aims to develop critical thinking and independence of thought and action. With a budget of nearly 67 million SEK Swedish higher education appears to be well placed to appreciate challenges to higher education and reposing itself to globalisation compulsions in terms of courses and curriculum. There is no tuition fee for any course in Sweden and about 15 per cent of university budgets are for the welfare of the disabled. State runs the 14 universities and one of the objectives is that higher education is expected to be relevant to the practical life closely related to the real lives of the people. To make education much more relevant the Swedish government has set up a Globalisation Council recently to promote deeper knowledge on globalisation and its various issues and economic and social implications of that. Uppsala University is the oldest university set up in Nordic 1477 followed by Lund University in 1660. Uppsala is ranked as one of the best universities in the world. It offers 18 masters level programmes through seven faculties including Arts, Languages, Law, Medicine, Science & Technology, Social Sciences and Theology. The range and relevance of the programme are much appreciated. Nearly 1,500 students apply for this course every year from about 50 countries.
(Details can be had on www.statsvet.uu.se or by emailing to infodevmaster@statsvet.uu.se). The programme is found to be useful for working in foreign services, United Nations and Non-Government sectors.
The minimum eligibility for admission to the two-year master’s programme is a three-year degree. Usually the deadline is February. But more information can be had from www.uu.se.
Selection
Selection is usually based on previous academic record, statement of intent, work experience if any degree subject focus and quality,
There are options to write dissertations also. It is sometimes possible to complete the two-year course within one year. Admissions are finalised in May. The academic calendar is divided into two semesters. i.e. autumn from September to January and spring semester from January to June.
Prof. I. Ramabrahmam & Prof. B. Chandrashekhar Rao,
LineasPalme Fellows,
Uppsala University, Sweden
IIPM graduates step out confidently
The 2007 batch of the Indian Institute of Planning and Management (IIPM) Hyderabad celebrated its convocation ceremony with the big men from industry highlighting the promising path that lay ahead of them and revealing the secrets of success.
The convocation ceremony was held for the students of the Post Graduate Programme in Planning and Entrepreneurship and of the MBA degree from IMI Brussels.
Utpal Sen Gupta, President Agro Tech Foods Ltd; N.R. Ganti, chairman and managing director; SQL Star; Laxmi Narsimham, C OO, United Spirits; Shalini, regional director sales south, BIG FM; Sheen S. Akkara, VP Talent, Deloitte Consulting; and Sanjeev Mehrotra, head, E and B School shared their experiences with the outgoing students.
Mr. Sen Gupta felt that Indian Institute of Planning and Management is playing a leading role in redefining education and re-engineering it to ensure sustainability with ever-increasing access to a large variety of programmes to meet the changing needs of the society.
After the felicitation and award of medals and degrees, the successful candidates proudly threw their hats into the air reflecting their confidence that they are ready to take on the world.
Nischal Mahajan, dean (placements); Shyam S. Pujala, dean (administration); and faculty were among those present on the occasion.
The convocation ceremony was held for the students of the Post Graduate Programme in Planning and Entrepreneurship and of the MBA degree from IMI Brussels.
Utpal Sen Gupta, President Agro Tech Foods Ltd; N.R. Ganti, chairman and managing director; SQL Star; Laxmi Narsimham, C OO, United Spirits; Shalini, regional director sales south, BIG FM; Sheen S. Akkara, VP Talent, Deloitte Consulting; and Sanjeev Mehrotra, head, E and B School shared their experiences with the outgoing students.
Mr. Sen Gupta felt that Indian Institute of Planning and Management is playing a leading role in redefining education and re-engineering it to ensure sustainability with ever-increasing access to a large variety of programmes to meet the changing needs of the society.
After the felicitation and award of medals and degrees, the successful candidates proudly threw their hats into the air reflecting their confidence that they are ready to take on the world.
Nischal Mahajan, dean (placements); Shyam S. Pujala, dean (administration); and faculty were among those present on the occasion.
MBA admissions in the U.S.
Students have been advised to do extensive research on B-Schools before they apply.
The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in Hyderabad. Two workshops were conducted on admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in the U.S. after MBA. The panellists provided some important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.
On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. “Often, candidates use abbreviations, but it is important to articulate the case in clear and lucid language,” said a panellist. Cultural training, that is, training in American accent and their choice of vocabulary was another important suggestion.
According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that the seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.
Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it is one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work have their own importance.
Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.
The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in Hyderabad. Two workshops were conducted on admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in the U.S. after MBA. The panellists provided some important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.
On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. “Often, candidates use abbreviations, but it is important to articulate the case in clear and lucid language,” said a panellist. Cultural training, that is, training in American accent and their choice of vocabulary was another important suggestion.
According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that the seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.
Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it is one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work have their own importance.
Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.
Opportunities in Commerce related courses
Meritorious Plus Two holders in any subject combination, including commerce, have many higher study options. B.Com. is one among them. There are professional courses such as chartered accountancy; cost and works accountancy; company secretaryship; and chartered financial analysts. Bachelor’s and Masters level courses in business administration; business management; law; journalism and mass communication; fashion design; design; tourism; hospitality and hotel administration are also available. One can opt for any of these courses, but success depends on excelling in the chosen option. The choice must be based on one’s aptitude and interest.
Commerce is a good option. B.Com., M.Com., M.Phil. and Ph.D. courses are popular and are offered by many university departments and colleges. Commerce offers several opportunities for higher studies and employment. Those who pass B.Com. with high marks can go for Master’s programmes in different streams, such as business administration; financial control; personnel management and so on. Diploma in computerised financial accounting using Tally is another option. Those familiar with accounting software such as Tally have a better chance of finding jobs.
Some universities have updated the B.Com. curriculum in tune with the needs of industry and commerce. The syllabus usually includes business mathematics; accountancy; managerial economics; PC software; banking; business statistics; financial accounting; C++; corporate accounting; insurance and risk management; visual programming; business laws; cost accounting; marketing and e-business; foreign trade; company law and secretarial practice; web technologies and e-commerce; management accounting; direct and indirect taxes; Tally; financial management; auditing; working capital management; entrepreneurship development; advertising and public relations; consumer and organisational behaviour; human resource; cooperation; material management; supply chain management and logistics; assets; income tax audit and control practice; and project work.
The syllabus has been worked out to cater to the job market in information technology (IT) and IT enabled services; insurance; travel; tourism; and healthcare. B.Com. with computer applications is offered by a few universities and colleges.
B.Com. degree is considered as the perfect base for MBA; chartered accountancy; cost and works accountancy; company secretaryship; chartered financial analysts; master of financial control and so on.
Chartered accountancy
Chartered accountancy (CA) course offers a career in the specialised area of accounting. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has revamped the scheme of education and training. Candidates have to register with the Board of Studies for the entry-level Common Proficiency Test (CPT) conducted in the months of February, May, August and November every year.
After passing CPT and Plus Two, one can register for level- 2 Professional Competence Course (PCC) and practical training.
A registered student can appear for ‘PCC’ provided he or she has worked for at least 15 months as an articled assistant or audit assistant three months prior to the first day of the examination month. He or she should have completed a course in information technology as specified. An articled assistant is required to undergo practical training for three and a half years. Alternatively, a student may undergo practical training partly as articled assistant and partly as audit assistant.
The Board of Studies will provide a study package to the students, containing books relating to each subject covered in the course. You can attend the virtual classes conducted through ICAI branches at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Palakkad.
After passing the professional competence examinations and completing practical training, you can enter the level–3 final course. Those who pass the final examinations will be qualified to become a member of ICAI and practise as a chartered accountant.
For details, visit www.icai.org or contact the ICAI branches.
Cost accountancy
Another option is cost and works accountancy. If you are aspiring to be a cost accountant, register with the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India (ICWAI).
ICWAI is a statutory body imparting education and training in cost accountancy. There are foundation, intermediate and final courses. Those who have passed Plus Two or equivalent are eligible to register for the foundation course.
Those who qualify the foundation course or secure a degree in any discipline from a recognised university are eligible for admission to the intermediate course. Those who clear the intermediate examination can enrol for the final course. The institute offers postal and oral coaching for these courses. Details can be obtained from the ICWAI chapters in Thiruvananthapuram (Vellayambalam), Kochi (Kaloor), Aluva and Kozhikode.
For details, visit www.myicwai.com/home.asp or www.icwaicochin.com.
Qualified cost accountants are eligible to get suitable jobs in public and private sector organisations. Cost accountants can practise as auditors and take up consultancy assignments.
Company secretaryship
he Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) provides study facilities for foundation, intermediate and final courses to enable one to become a company secretary.
To qualify for the membership of the institute, you should pass the foundation, intermediate and final examinations conducted by ICSI and posses practical experience. Those who have passed Plus Two or equivalent examinations or are appearing for the final examination can register for the foundation course.
Graduates and postgraduates in any discipline, except fine arts, can enrol directly for the intermediate course. Those who qualify the intermediate examinations can go for the final examination.
Admission to these courses are open throughout the year. Oral and postal coaching facilities are available.
Details can be collected from the ICSI chapters in Thiruvananthapuram (Fort), Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Palakkad or from the web site www.icsi.edu.
Several job opportunities are available for qualified company secretaries. Pursuant to section 383(A) of the Companies Act 1956, companies with a paid up share capital of Rs.2 crore or more are compulsorily required to appoint a fulltime company secretary who must be a member of ICSI.
Financial analysts
The Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI) University conducts a Chartered Financial Analysts programme which focuses on corporate finance and control; international finance and risk management; investment analysis and portfolio management; banking and financial services.
Graduates in any discipline are eligible for admission.
For details visit www.icfai.org.
Qualified chartered financial analysts will get job opportunities in the field of corporate finance; capital market services; leasing and hire purchase; share broking; and investment analysis.
Business management
Business administration or management is another suitable option. B.B.A. and B.B.M. courses are available in the Bachelor’s degree level. After graduation in any discipline, one can go for MBA or postgraduate programmes in management.
Choose reputed institutes for doing MBA.
The Master of Financial Control (MFC) course is another suitable higher study option for graduates.
Commerce is a good option. B.Com., M.Com., M.Phil. and Ph.D. courses are popular and are offered by many university departments and colleges. Commerce offers several opportunities for higher studies and employment. Those who pass B.Com. with high marks can go for Master’s programmes in different streams, such as business administration; financial control; personnel management and so on. Diploma in computerised financial accounting using Tally is another option. Those familiar with accounting software such as Tally have a better chance of finding jobs.
Some universities have updated the B.Com. curriculum in tune with the needs of industry and commerce. The syllabus usually includes business mathematics; accountancy; managerial economics; PC software; banking; business statistics; financial accounting; C++; corporate accounting; insurance and risk management; visual programming; business laws; cost accounting; marketing and e-business; foreign trade; company law and secretarial practice; web technologies and e-commerce; management accounting; direct and indirect taxes; Tally; financial management; auditing; working capital management; entrepreneurship development; advertising and public relations; consumer and organisational behaviour; human resource; cooperation; material management; supply chain management and logistics; assets; income tax audit and control practice; and project work.
The syllabus has been worked out to cater to the job market in information technology (IT) and IT enabled services; insurance; travel; tourism; and healthcare. B.Com. with computer applications is offered by a few universities and colleges.
B.Com. degree is considered as the perfect base for MBA; chartered accountancy; cost and works accountancy; company secretaryship; chartered financial analysts; master of financial control and so on.
Chartered accountancy
Chartered accountancy (CA) course offers a career in the specialised area of accounting. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has revamped the scheme of education and training. Candidates have to register with the Board of Studies for the entry-level Common Proficiency Test (CPT) conducted in the months of February, May, August and November every year.
After passing CPT and Plus Two, one can register for level- 2 Professional Competence Course (PCC) and practical training.
A registered student can appear for ‘PCC’ provided he or she has worked for at least 15 months as an articled assistant or audit assistant three months prior to the first day of the examination month. He or she should have completed a course in information technology as specified. An articled assistant is required to undergo practical training for three and a half years. Alternatively, a student may undergo practical training partly as articled assistant and partly as audit assistant.
The Board of Studies will provide a study package to the students, containing books relating to each subject covered in the course. You can attend the virtual classes conducted through ICAI branches at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Palakkad.
After passing the professional competence examinations and completing practical training, you can enter the level–3 final course. Those who pass the final examinations will be qualified to become a member of ICAI and practise as a chartered accountant.
For details, visit www.icai.org or contact the ICAI branches.
Cost accountancy
Another option is cost and works accountancy. If you are aspiring to be a cost accountant, register with the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India (ICWAI).
ICWAI is a statutory body imparting education and training in cost accountancy. There are foundation, intermediate and final courses. Those who have passed Plus Two or equivalent are eligible to register for the foundation course.
Those who qualify the foundation course or secure a degree in any discipline from a recognised university are eligible for admission to the intermediate course. Those who clear the intermediate examination can enrol for the final course. The institute offers postal and oral coaching for these courses. Details can be obtained from the ICWAI chapters in Thiruvananthapuram (Vellayambalam), Kochi (Kaloor), Aluva and Kozhikode.
For details, visit www.myicwai.com/home.asp or www.icwaicochin.com.
Qualified cost accountants are eligible to get suitable jobs in public and private sector organisations. Cost accountants can practise as auditors and take up consultancy assignments.
Company secretaryship
he Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) provides study facilities for foundation, intermediate and final courses to enable one to become a company secretary.
To qualify for the membership of the institute, you should pass the foundation, intermediate and final examinations conducted by ICSI and posses practical experience. Those who have passed Plus Two or equivalent examinations or are appearing for the final examination can register for the foundation course.
Graduates and postgraduates in any discipline, except fine arts, can enrol directly for the intermediate course. Those who qualify the intermediate examinations can go for the final examination.
Admission to these courses are open throughout the year. Oral and postal coaching facilities are available.
Details can be collected from the ICSI chapters in Thiruvananthapuram (Fort), Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Palakkad or from the web site www.icsi.edu.
Several job opportunities are available for qualified company secretaries. Pursuant to section 383(A) of the Companies Act 1956, companies with a paid up share capital of Rs.2 crore or more are compulsorily required to appoint a fulltime company secretary who must be a member of ICSI.
Financial analysts
The Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI) University conducts a Chartered Financial Analysts programme which focuses on corporate finance and control; international finance and risk management; investment analysis and portfolio management; banking and financial services.
Graduates in any discipline are eligible for admission.
For details visit www.icfai.org.
Qualified chartered financial analysts will get job opportunities in the field of corporate finance; capital market services; leasing and hire purchase; share broking; and investment analysis.
Business management
Business administration or management is another suitable option. B.B.A. and B.B.M. courses are available in the Bachelor’s degree level. After graduation in any discipline, one can go for MBA or postgraduate programmes in management.
Choose reputed institutes for doing MBA.
The Master of Financial Control (MFC) course is another suitable higher study option for graduates.
IIT Kharagpur to host KSHITIJ 2009
The four-day KSHITIJ, the annual techno-management fest of Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, will be held from January 29 to February 1, 2009.
According to the organisers, KSHITIJ will provide the student community, inclusive of all branches and departments, a place to mingle and collaborate to conceive and execute ideas, plans and presentations.
The 2008 edition of KSHITIJ saw the participation of nearly 6,000 students from IIT Kharagpur, and 3,500 out-station participants from India and abroad.
There were students from the various Indian Institutes of Management, Indian Institutes of Technology, and also from Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, National University of Singapore, and Kyoto University.
It witnessed 45 events, guest lectures, exhibitions and workshops. Prizes worth Rs. 35 lakh were won by the students. Workshops on cryptology, rocketry, carbon trading and sustainable development, kite modelling, Java Netbeans, and microfinance were held.
In addition, exhibitions also found space. Exhibitions on biped robots, 4D Globe, 3D structures, etc., were put up. Similar workshops and exhibitions are being planned for this edition too.
The mainstay of the fest is however the events.
Almost 30 technical and 15 managerial events will be organised under the categories of coding, mechanical, electronics, structures, fun, robotic, and entrepreneurship. Some of the major attractions are: car design, refrigerationthe senate,zero hour,b-plan,Opensoft,woodstock,and robotix.
According to the organisers, KSHITIJ will provide the student community, inclusive of all branches and departments, a place to mingle and collaborate to conceive and execute ideas, plans and presentations.
The 2008 edition of KSHITIJ saw the participation of nearly 6,000 students from IIT Kharagpur, and 3,500 out-station participants from India and abroad.
There were students from the various Indian Institutes of Management, Indian Institutes of Technology, and also from Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, National University of Singapore, and Kyoto University.
It witnessed 45 events, guest lectures, exhibitions and workshops. Prizes worth Rs. 35 lakh were won by the students. Workshops on cryptology, rocketry, carbon trading and sustainable development, kite modelling, Java Netbeans, and microfinance were held.
In addition, exhibitions also found space. Exhibitions on biped robots, 4D Globe, 3D structures, etc., were put up. Similar workshops and exhibitions are being planned for this edition too.
The mainstay of the fest is however the events.
Almost 30 technical and 15 managerial events will be organised under the categories of coding, mechanical, electronics, structures, fun, robotic, and entrepreneurship. Some of the major attractions are: car design, refrigerationthe senate,zero hour,b-plan,Opensoft,woodstock,and robotix.
Ambedkar University offers MBA healthcare management
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) will be offering a “unique” programme — MBA in Healthcare Management — in collaboration with Apollo Hospitals Education and Research Foundation (AHERF) from this academic year.
Unlike other BRAOU programmes that are offered through distance mode, this will be conducted ‘on-campus.’
MoU signed
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed between BRAOU Registrar B. Sunder Rao and Vice-President of AHERF V. Surender Reddy at the university recently. BRAOU Vice-Chancellor O.R. Reddy, faculty of various departments and officials of Apollo hospitals group were present.
The admission would be through an entrance examination followed by a group discussion and personal interview to be conducted by the university.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university now turned its attention to offer programmes aimed at helping medical and non-medical graduates enrich their knowledge.
The MBA (Healthcare Management) allows both medical and non-medical graduates with at least 50 per cent marks to apply for the programme.
Four semesters
pread over four semesters, theory and practical classes for the two-year programme would be conducted at Apollo College of Physiotherapy in Apollo Health City. Faculties of both the institutes would be taking the classes.
The programme is open for students from other States. Hostel facility at Apollo Health City campus would be limited to a few students.
A notification about the programme would be issued shortly, a university official said.
Unlike other BRAOU programmes that are offered through distance mode, this will be conducted ‘on-campus.’
MoU signed
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed between BRAOU Registrar B. Sunder Rao and Vice-President of AHERF V. Surender Reddy at the university recently. BRAOU Vice-Chancellor O.R. Reddy, faculty of various departments and officials of Apollo hospitals group were present.
The admission would be through an entrance examination followed by a group discussion and personal interview to be conducted by the university.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university now turned its attention to offer programmes aimed at helping medical and non-medical graduates enrich their knowledge.
The MBA (Healthcare Management) allows both medical and non-medical graduates with at least 50 per cent marks to apply for the programme.
Four semesters
pread over four semesters, theory and practical classes for the two-year programme would be conducted at Apollo College of Physiotherapy in Apollo Health City. Faculties of both the institutes would be taking the classes.
The programme is open for students from other States. Hostel facility at Apollo Health City campus would be limited to a few students.
A notification about the programme would be issued shortly, a university official said.
Classes on medicinal plants
Hyderabad: The Agri-Horticultural Society is conducting three-day training classes on medicinal plants and their uses on its premises at Nampally between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., said a press release.
For details contact: 23299779 / 65591474
For details contact: 23299779 / 65591474
Free GRE test
Visu International Ltd. will conduct a free GRE test at its office at 11 a.m. at its office on M.G.Road on Sunday Oct 19th.
The test will be followed by a seminar on global educational opportunities.
The test will be followed by a seminar on global educational opportunities.
Interviews
Rotary Club (Visakhapatnam) will conduct the interviews for this year’s Group Study Exchange programme at Hawa Mahal, Beach Road, on October 25 from 4.30 p.m. onwards. Interested candidates with good educational qualifications and communication skills and in the age group of 25 to 40 years may appear for the interview in person.
Details can be had on 9441200158 or 9848285415.
Details can be had on 9441200158 or 9848285415.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
IIT Kharagpur fest from Jan. 29
IIT Kharagpur’s techno-management fest KSHITIJ is back again. Registrations for the fest, KSHITIJ-2009 that kick starts from January 29 are now open.
One of the largest of its kind in Asia, KSHITIJ provides the student community a place to mingle and also to conceive and execute ideas and plans. The fest is expected to witness participation of over 20,000 students with more than 4,000 outstation participants.
Over 45 events, guest lectures and workshops will be conducted. To reach out to maximum number of students, IIT Kharagpur will be conducting a workshop at Osmania University on ‘Remote Controlled Glider Design’ on October 10. For further details contact the KSHITIJ team on contact@ktj.in or log on to ‘ www.ktj.in’.
One of the largest of its kind in Asia, KSHITIJ provides the student community a place to mingle and also to conceive and execute ideas and plans. The fest is expected to witness participation of over 20,000 students with more than 4,000 outstation participants.
Over 45 events, guest lectures and workshops will be conducted. To reach out to maximum number of students, IIT Kharagpur will be conducting a workshop at Osmania University on ‘Remote Controlled Glider Design’ on October 10. For further details contact the KSHITIJ team on contact@ktj.in or log on to ‘ www.ktj.in’.
M.Tech. at IITs
Majority of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) provide M.Tech. study facilities in electronics and communications or related engineering disciplines. Meritorious engineering graduates in electronics and communication or respective branches with valid GATE scores are eligible for admission.
The Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, conducts M.Tech. in communication systems; control guidance and instrumentation; digital signal processing; and micro electronics and VLSI design. Meritorious B.Tech. holders in electronics and communication engineering with valid GATE scores are eligible for admission. IIT Madras also offers M.S. and Ph.D.
programmes. Research facilities leading to Ph.D. in wireless communication; fibre optics; optical communication and networks; signal and image processing; networking and so on are also offered. For details, visit www.iitm.ac.in.s The Centre for Applied Research in Electronics, IIT Delhi, conducts M.Tech. in radio frequency design and technology; and electronics (communication) engineering. Research facilities related to signal processing; microwave and micro electronics are also offered. ( www.iitd.ac.in/pg/mtech.htm ) Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering of IIT Guwahati offers M.Tech. in two specialisation areas — signal processing and VLSI.
A Ph.D. programme is also offered. ( www.iitg.ernet.in/ece ). Department of Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering of IIT Kharagpur offers M.Tech. with specialisation in fibre optics and light wave engineering. (http://gate.iitkg- p.ac.in/m.tech)
The Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, conducts M.Tech. in communication systems; control guidance and instrumentation; digital signal processing; and micro electronics and VLSI design. Meritorious B.Tech. holders in electronics and communication engineering with valid GATE scores are eligible for admission. IIT Madras also offers M.S. and Ph.D.
programmes. Research facilities leading to Ph.D. in wireless communication; fibre optics; optical communication and networks; signal and image processing; networking and so on are also offered. For details, visit www.iitm.ac.in.s The Centre for Applied Research in Electronics, IIT Delhi, conducts M.Tech. in radio frequency design and technology; and electronics (communication) engineering. Research facilities related to signal processing; microwave and micro electronics are also offered. ( www.iitd.ac.in/pg/mtech.htm ) Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering of IIT Guwahati offers M.Tech. in two specialisation areas — signal processing and VLSI.
A Ph.D. programme is also offered. ( www.iitg.ernet.in/ece ). Department of Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering of IIT Kharagpur offers M.Tech. with specialisation in fibre optics and light wave engineering. (http://gate.iitkg- p.ac.in/m.tech)
IIT-JEE on April 12
The Indian Institute of Technology-Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE – 2009) for admission to the undergraduate and integrated Master’s degree programmes offered at all IITs, the Institute of Technology of the Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, and the Indian School of Mines Dhanbad will be held on April 12, 2009 across the country.
The IIT-JEE – 2009 scores will also be considered for admission to the marine engineering degree course and B.Sc. national science course conducted by the Marine Engineering Research Institute Kolkata and training ship Rajendra Mumbai respectively.
There will be two papers for JEE – 2009. Paper- I will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and Paper-II from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Both the papers will have separate sections in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics and will be of objective type, designed to test the comprehension and reasoning and analytical abilities of the students.
Online and offline application facilities will be provided from November 19 to December 24, 2008. The last date for submitting application is December 24, 2008.
Candidates should have completed Intermediate or its equivalent or appearing for the final exam with physics, chemistry and mathematics as subjects. Candidates should have at least 60 per cent marks (55 per cent for those belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes categories and differently-abled) in the qualifying examination. A detailed notification in this regard can be expect during November, 2008.
The IIT-JEE – 2009 scores will also be considered for admission to the marine engineering degree course and B.Sc. national science course conducted by the Marine Engineering Research Institute Kolkata and training ship Rajendra Mumbai respectively.
There will be two papers for JEE – 2009. Paper- I will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and Paper-II from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Both the papers will have separate sections in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics and will be of objective type, designed to test the comprehension and reasoning and analytical abilities of the students.
Online and offline application facilities will be provided from November 19 to December 24, 2008. The last date for submitting application is December 24, 2008.
Candidates should have completed Intermediate or its equivalent or appearing for the final exam with physics, chemistry and mathematics as subjects. Candidates should have at least 60 per cent marks (55 per cent for those belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes categories and differently-abled) in the qualifying examination. A detailed notification in this regard can be expect during November, 2008.
New vistas in Merchant Navy jobs
Salaries ranked among the highest in the world, globe-trotting and high-sea adventures — if you like this job profile, the merchant navy is the place to be.
“Twenty-seven thousand officers are needed every year for the next 10 years,” said Captain K. Vivekanand, Director of Maritime Studies at Vels University, Chennai. “You can build a ship in a year, but it takes eight years to train a Captain,” he said, explaining the mismatch between demand and supply. To fill the gap, officers from Croatia and Russia are employed.
The quality of Indian officers is such that they are sought all over the globe. The remuneration is among the highest in the industry. “With 10 years experience, you can earn $ 6,000 to $ 7,000 a month.”
The Indian maritime training story started in 1927, with one training ship T. S. Dufferin. Today, there are 128 training institutes spread over the country. There are 17 training institutes based out of Chennai.
Students who have passed Twelfth Standard or Plus-Two are trained to be Navigating Officers or Marine Engineers over three to four years respectively. The highest rank in a merchant navy ship that a Navigating Officer can attain is that of a Captain. A Marine Engineer can attain the rank of a Chief Engineer.
“There are only around 20 women in the merchant navy throughout India,” said Mr. Misra. He said that in some European countries, women formed 50 per cent of the naval workforce.
And, a career as a merchant navy officer means more than a hefty pay cheque. “It is a rewarding career that gives immense satisfaction. You gain more respect than anyone of your age. It helps build character,” said P. Misra, Principal Officer, Mercantile Marine Department.
“Twenty-seven thousand officers are needed every year for the next 10 years,” said Captain K. Vivekanand, Director of Maritime Studies at Vels University, Chennai. “You can build a ship in a year, but it takes eight years to train a Captain,” he said, explaining the mismatch between demand and supply. To fill the gap, officers from Croatia and Russia are employed.
The quality of Indian officers is such that they are sought all over the globe. The remuneration is among the highest in the industry. “With 10 years experience, you can earn $ 6,000 to $ 7,000 a month.”
The Indian maritime training story started in 1927, with one training ship T. S. Dufferin. Today, there are 128 training institutes spread over the country. There are 17 training institutes based out of Chennai.
Students who have passed Twelfth Standard or Plus-Two are trained to be Navigating Officers or Marine Engineers over three to four years respectively. The highest rank in a merchant navy ship that a Navigating Officer can attain is that of a Captain. A Marine Engineer can attain the rank of a Chief Engineer.
“There are only around 20 women in the merchant navy throughout India,” said Mr. Misra. He said that in some European countries, women formed 50 per cent of the naval workforce.
And, a career as a merchant navy officer means more than a hefty pay cheque. “It is a rewarding career that gives immense satisfaction. You gain more respect than anyone of your age. It helps build character,” said P. Misra, Principal Officer, Mercantile Marine Department.
BRAOU-Apollo initiative
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) will be offering a “unique” programme, MBA in Health Care Management in collaboration with Apollo Hospitals Education and Research Foundation (AHERF) from this academic year.
Unlike other BRAOU programmes that are offered through distance mode, the MBA in health care management would be conducted ‘on-campus’.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed between BRAOU Registrar Prof. B. Sunder Rao and vice-president of AHERF Dr. V. Surender Reddy at the university recently. BRAOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. O.R. Reddy, faculty of various departments and officials of Apollo hospitals group were present.
The admission would be through an entrance examination followed by a group discussion and personal interview to be conducted by the university.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university now turned its attention to offer programmes aimed at helping medical and non-medical graduates enrich their knowledge.
The MBA (Health Care Management) allows both medical and non-medical graduates with at least 50 per cent marks eligible to apply for the programme.
Unlike other BRAOU programmes that are offered through distance mode, the MBA in health care management would be conducted ‘on-campus’.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect was signed between BRAOU Registrar Prof. B. Sunder Rao and vice-president of AHERF Dr. V. Surender Reddy at the university recently. BRAOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. O.R. Reddy, faculty of various departments and officials of Apollo hospitals group were present.
The admission would be through an entrance examination followed by a group discussion and personal interview to be conducted by the university.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university now turned its attention to offer programmes aimed at helping medical and non-medical graduates enrich their knowledge.
The MBA (Health Care Management) allows both medical and non-medical graduates with at least 50 per cent marks eligible to apply for the programme.
MBA admissions and jobs in the US
Students have been advised to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply
The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in the city.
Two workshops were conducted on -- admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in US after MBA. The panellists provided quite a few important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.
On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised on sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.
Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it was one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work -- all the components have their own importance. “For example, if you are from non-profit sector, it gives little advantage against the candidates from most represented sections such as software engineers since the B-schools look for diversity,” she said.
Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.
Job search
On job search, panellists stated that it is important to cultivate good relations with people in the industry, particularly the alumni, through various fora. C.J. Fonzi of Cornell University said that 65 per cent jobs in the US get filled up before they are notified and it is important for students to develop relations in the sector they want to work.
For those who want to shift their function and sector, it is important to do the internships of 8 to 10 weeks period with industry and companies they are looking forward to work with.
The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in the city.
Two workshops were conducted on -- admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in US after MBA. The panellists provided quite a few important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.
On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised on sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.
Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it was one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work -- all the components have their own importance. “For example, if you are from non-profit sector, it gives little advantage against the candidates from most represented sections such as software engineers since the B-schools look for diversity,” she said.
Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.
Job search
On job search, panellists stated that it is important to cultivate good relations with people in the industry, particularly the alumni, through various fora. C.J. Fonzi of Cornell University said that 65 per cent jobs in the US get filled up before they are notified and it is important for students to develop relations in the sector they want to work.
For those who want to shift their function and sector, it is important to do the internships of 8 to 10 weeks period with industry and companies they are looking forward to work with.
Advanced course in molecular diagnostics
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), New Delhi, has offered Rs.75.15 lakh to Bharathidasan University for beginning an advanced diploma course in molecular diagnostics to train postgraduates in life sciences.
The course is being launched under the human resource development programme of DBT to train talented bio-science students in cutting edge technologies like molecular biology, immunology, immuno-technology and genetics of infectious diseases.
The one-year fulltime course will be conducted at the department of biotechnology and biomedical diagnostic laboratory of the university.
According to the course coordinator and senior lecturer at the university, K. Balakrishnan, the course is designed to impart extensive lab-oriented curriculum involving DNA extraction from different clinical samples and environmental pathogens to cloning and expression analysis involving various molecular technologies.
The university has received the sanction to conduct the course for five years with an educational allowance of Rs.5,000 a month to the selected students.
The university is arranging for a tie-up with leading healthcare providers to provide industrial exposure in molecular diagnostics. The national-level screening test for admission will be held on October 20. For application procedure and last date, visit the web site of the university www.bdu.ac.in or contact, phone: 0431–2407086 (Ext: 633) or 098421 14117.
The course is being launched under the human resource development programme of DBT to train talented bio-science students in cutting edge technologies like molecular biology, immunology, immuno-technology and genetics of infectious diseases.
The one-year fulltime course will be conducted at the department of biotechnology and biomedical diagnostic laboratory of the university.
According to the course coordinator and senior lecturer at the university, K. Balakrishnan, the course is designed to impart extensive lab-oriented curriculum involving DNA extraction from different clinical samples and environmental pathogens to cloning and expression analysis involving various molecular technologies.
The university has received the sanction to conduct the course for five years with an educational allowance of Rs.5,000 a month to the selected students.
The university is arranging for a tie-up with leading healthcare providers to provide industrial exposure in molecular diagnostics. The national-level screening test for admission will be held on October 20. For application procedure and last date, visit the web site of the university www.bdu.ac.in or contact, phone: 0431–2407086 (Ext: 633) or 098421 14117.
L.L.M. entrance
The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Thiruvananthapuram, has invited applications for the entrance examination for admission to the L.L.M. course conducted by the government law colleges in the State. Duration of the L.L.M. regular course is 2 years. Only Indian citizens of Kerala origin are eligible for admission. Those who have passed three-year or 5-year L.L.B. or are appearing for the final examination are eligible to apply. There is no upper age limit.
Number of seats for the L.L.M. course and college-wise specialisation are as follows.
•Government Law College, Barton Hill, Thiruvananthapuram — 15 seats (international law, constitutional law)
•Government Law College, Ernakulam — 15 seats (mercantile law, criminal law)
•Government Law College, Thrissur — 10 seats (administrative law, criminal law)
•Government College, Kozhikode — 15 seats (law of taxation)
How to apply
Application forms can be downloaded from the web site www.cee-kerala.org. The duly filled in application along with a demand draft for Rs.800 drawn from a national bank in favour of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations payable at Thiruvananthapuram and copies of relevant certificates should be sent to The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Housing Board Building, Santhi Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 001. Last date for submitting the applications is October 23, 2008.
The entrance test will be held at Thiruvananthapuram on November 8, 2008. For details, visit www.cee-kerala.org.
Sainik School admission
The Sainik School Kazhakootam has invited applications for the entrance examination for admission to Classes VI and IX. Only boys are eligible for admission. The entrance examination will be held on January 4, 2009 at Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Kazhakkoottam and Kavarathi in Lakshadweep. Total number of seats for Class VI is 80 and Class IX is 15.
Prospectus, application form and model question papers can be downloaded from the web site www.sainikschooltvm.org. In such cases, filled-in application should be submitted along with Rs.325 as registration fee for general and defence categories (Rs.225 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes).
Prospectus, application form and model question papers can also be obtained from the Principal, Sainik School Kazhakootam, Sainik School P.O., Thiruvananthapuram —695 585 by submitting a crossed Demand Draft payable at Thiruvananthapuram drawn in favour of The Principal, Sainik School Kazhakootam or on cash payment. By registered post: Rs.375 as demand draft. (Rs.275 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) By hand: Rs.325 as cash or demand draft. (Rs.225 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes)
Eligibility
Students born not before July 2, 1998 and not after July 1, 1999 are eligible to apply for admission to Class VI. For admission to Class IX, students born not before July 2, 1995 and not after July 1, 1996 and studying in class VIII or IX.
Last date for receipt of filled in applications is December 10, 2008.
Number of seats for the L.L.M. course and college-wise specialisation are as follows.
•Government Law College, Barton Hill, Thiruvananthapuram — 15 seats (international law, constitutional law)
•Government Law College, Ernakulam — 15 seats (mercantile law, criminal law)
•Government Law College, Thrissur — 10 seats (administrative law, criminal law)
•Government College, Kozhikode — 15 seats (law of taxation)
How to apply
Application forms can be downloaded from the web site www.cee-kerala.org. The duly filled in application along with a demand draft for Rs.800 drawn from a national bank in favour of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations payable at Thiruvananthapuram and copies of relevant certificates should be sent to The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Housing Board Building, Santhi Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 001. Last date for submitting the applications is October 23, 2008.
The entrance test will be held at Thiruvananthapuram on November 8, 2008. For details, visit www.cee-kerala.org.
Sainik School admission
The Sainik School Kazhakootam has invited applications for the entrance examination for admission to Classes VI and IX. Only boys are eligible for admission. The entrance examination will be held on January 4, 2009 at Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Kazhakkoottam and Kavarathi in Lakshadweep. Total number of seats for Class VI is 80 and Class IX is 15.
Prospectus, application form and model question papers can be downloaded from the web site www.sainikschooltvm.org. In such cases, filled-in application should be submitted along with Rs.325 as registration fee for general and defence categories (Rs.225 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes).
Prospectus, application form and model question papers can also be obtained from the Principal, Sainik School Kazhakootam, Sainik School P.O., Thiruvananthapuram —695 585 by submitting a crossed Demand Draft payable at Thiruvananthapuram drawn in favour of The Principal, Sainik School Kazhakootam or on cash payment. By registered post: Rs.375 as demand draft. (Rs.275 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) By hand: Rs.325 as cash or demand draft. (Rs.225 for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes)
Eligibility
Students born not before July 2, 1998 and not after July 1, 1999 are eligible to apply for admission to Class VI. For admission to Class IX, students born not before July 2, 1995 and not after July 1, 1996 and studying in class VIII or IX.
Last date for receipt of filled in applications is December 10, 2008.
New stars in the biotech sky
The Department of Biotechnology is about to award Star status to 58 colleges across the country.
The Department of Biotechnology (DoB)under the Union Ministry of Science and Technology is in the final phase of awarding Star status to 58 colleges in the country that offer life science and biotechnology education at the undergraduate level. The selection committee, over the past several months, has chosen 58 out of many dozen colleges that had applied for the coveted Star category in biotechnology education.
Suman Govil, who handled the Star programme, said that the Department of Biotechnology had asked for more funds to support the programme. However, she declined to give any further details of the programme, which is expected to support the selected colleges in a big way.
It was early this year that the DoB invited applications from colleges and university departments offering undergraduate education in biotechnology and life sciences for awarding the Star College status, as part of its drive to offer young scholars an opportunity to excel.
The Star award proposal was part of the National Biotechnology Development Strategy announced by the Union Minister for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Kapil Sibal, a few months ago. The strategy was an outcome of a two-year-long nationwide consultation process with multiple stakeholders, including different Ministries; universities; research institutes; private sector; civil society; consumer groups; non-government and voluntary organisations; and international bodies.
According to Mr. Sibal, biotechnology has been recognised as a sunrise sector and, as it needs focused attention, the government chalked out a broad strategy, including the award of Star status to colleges with ambition and potential for excellence. By the programme, the government is aiming at providing academic and physical infrastructure for achieving excellence in teaching and unique exposure for students to experimental science.
The objectives of the Star College programme include not only the strengthening of the academic and physical infrastructure and enhancing the quality of learning, but also stimulating original thinking through hands-on exposure to experimental work and participation in summer schools. It will also promote networking and strengthen ties with neighbouring institutions and other laboratories. It will increase capabilities of core instrumentation resources by procuring new equipment and upgrading of existing facilities. DoB provide a one-time non-recurring grant up to Rs.10 lakh for each science department of the college selected and recurring annual grant of Rs.2 lakh for two years for consumables. Another annual grant of Rs.1 lakh for contingency to cover expenses on visiting faculty, guest lectures and seminars will be provided to each science department for two years. The Centre will continue support for another three years based on the evaluation of performance by the colleges.
Colleges with minimum 10 years of experience in life science subjects and offering minimum four undergraduate courses in basic life science such as botany, zoology, applied life science, microbiology, physiology, biochemistry and biotechnology could apply. The eligibility criteria the colleges had to meet also included having at least five permanent faculty in each science department and three faculty with Ph.D. The faculty improvement programme stipulated by the Department of Biotechnology as part of the programme included participation in summer courses for skill upgradation; curriculum change to ensure more hands-on laboratory work; greater emphasis on communicating research and research process to students; introduction of internal review process by students; and student feedback about faculty competence.
Parameters such as increase in proportion of hands-on experimental work by students, increased access of undergraduate students to laboratory and bioinformatics infrastructure, improvement in access to life sciences related journals and increase in percentage of students pursuing life science as a career will be considered for measuring the progress of the programme.
The Department of Biotechnology (DoB)under the Union Ministry of Science and Technology is in the final phase of awarding Star status to 58 colleges in the country that offer life science and biotechnology education at the undergraduate level. The selection committee, over the past several months, has chosen 58 out of many dozen colleges that had applied for the coveted Star category in biotechnology education.
Suman Govil, who handled the Star programme, said that the Department of Biotechnology had asked for more funds to support the programme. However, she declined to give any further details of the programme, which is expected to support the selected colleges in a big way.
It was early this year that the DoB invited applications from colleges and university departments offering undergraduate education in biotechnology and life sciences for awarding the Star College status, as part of its drive to offer young scholars an opportunity to excel.
The Star award proposal was part of the National Biotechnology Development Strategy announced by the Union Minister for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Kapil Sibal, a few months ago. The strategy was an outcome of a two-year-long nationwide consultation process with multiple stakeholders, including different Ministries; universities; research institutes; private sector; civil society; consumer groups; non-government and voluntary organisations; and international bodies.
According to Mr. Sibal, biotechnology has been recognised as a sunrise sector and, as it needs focused attention, the government chalked out a broad strategy, including the award of Star status to colleges with ambition and potential for excellence. By the programme, the government is aiming at providing academic and physical infrastructure for achieving excellence in teaching and unique exposure for students to experimental science.
The objectives of the Star College programme include not only the strengthening of the academic and physical infrastructure and enhancing the quality of learning, but also stimulating original thinking through hands-on exposure to experimental work and participation in summer schools. It will also promote networking and strengthen ties with neighbouring institutions and other laboratories. It will increase capabilities of core instrumentation resources by procuring new equipment and upgrading of existing facilities. DoB provide a one-time non-recurring grant up to Rs.10 lakh for each science department of the college selected and recurring annual grant of Rs.2 lakh for two years for consumables. Another annual grant of Rs.1 lakh for contingency to cover expenses on visiting faculty, guest lectures and seminars will be provided to each science department for two years. The Centre will continue support for another three years based on the evaluation of performance by the colleges.
Colleges with minimum 10 years of experience in life science subjects and offering minimum four undergraduate courses in basic life science such as botany, zoology, applied life science, microbiology, physiology, biochemistry and biotechnology could apply. The eligibility criteria the colleges had to meet also included having at least five permanent faculty in each science department and three faculty with Ph.D. The faculty improvement programme stipulated by the Department of Biotechnology as part of the programme included participation in summer courses for skill upgradation; curriculum change to ensure more hands-on laboratory work; greater emphasis on communicating research and research process to students; introduction of internal review process by students; and student feedback about faculty competence.
Parameters such as increase in proportion of hands-on experimental work by students, increased access of undergraduate students to laboratory and bioinformatics infrastructure, improvement in access to life sciences related journals and increase in percentage of students pursuing life science as a career will be considered for measuring the progress of the programme.
NIT-Tiruchi plans to offer telemedicine course
The National Institute of Technology – Tiruchi has evinced interest in starting a Centre for Telemedicine.
The proposal emerged during a recent workshop on ‘Telemedicine’ organised recently by the Institute under the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP).
The Institute Director M. Chidambaram announced that facilities would be created for the purpose.
The Telemedicine Division of the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Telemedicine Society of India have offered support to the Institute for establishing the Centre.
ISRO provides telecommunication network assistance to institutes with potential while the Telemedicine Society renders expert knowledge.
The convergence of medical and engineering sciences is vital in the current scenario to make ‘health for all’ a possibility, according to S. Raghavan and N. Sivakumaran, Workshop Coordinators.
During the day-long workshop, an Outside Broadcast Satellite Medical Van was stationed at the Institute and participants were exposed to demonstrations of live eye consultations, diagnosis and therapeutics.
The proposal emerged during a recent workshop on ‘Telemedicine’ .
The proposal emerged during a recent workshop on ‘Telemedicine’ organised recently by the Institute under the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP).
The Institute Director M. Chidambaram announced that facilities would be created for the purpose.
The Telemedicine Division of the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Telemedicine Society of India have offered support to the Institute for establishing the Centre.
ISRO provides telecommunication network assistance to institutes with potential while the Telemedicine Society renders expert knowledge.
The convergence of medical and engineering sciences is vital in the current scenario to make ‘health for all’ a possibility, according to S. Raghavan and N. Sivakumaran, Workshop Coordinators.
During the day-long workshop, an Outside Broadcast Satellite Medical Van was stationed at the Institute and participants were exposed to demonstrations of live eye consultations, diagnosis and therapeutics.
The proposal emerged during a recent workshop on ‘Telemedicine’ .
Johannesburg varsity officials at UoH
A high-level delegation from University of Johannesburg visited the University of Hyderabad (UoH) and discussed on mutual areas of interest for collaboration. The delegat-ion was led by Ihron Rensburg, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of University of Johannesburg. It met Seyed E Hasnain, Vice Chancellor, UoH.
Date extended for post-matric scholarships
The State Minority Finance Corporation has extended the last date for receipt of online applications fro post-matric scholarships up to October 15. Students may make use of this opportunity. The Ghiasuddin Babukhan Charitable Trust has thanked the Government for this. Students may contact 9866556840 for details, says zonal superintendent A. Khan.
Oxford and Cambridge lectures online for all
About 450 hours of free audio and video podcasts
Available from download provider’s university portal
London: For 800 years Oxford and Cambridge universities have competed in everything from Nobel prizes to boat races. The academic rivalry runs deep: Oxford has tutored 25 British Prime Ministers, while Cambridge claims Darwin and Newton as its own. But today the venerable institutions launch into battle on iTunes, taking their ancient competition into the 21st century.
The universities are simultaneously publishing about 450 hours of free audio and video podcasts of lectures, films and admissions guides for people to download to a computer or MP3 player.
They will be available from iTunesu, the download provider’s university portal, where American institutions have been broadcasting their academic wares for some years. Both universities will provide podcasts advising students on applications, how to choose a college, and how to prepare for an interview.
They deny that Tuesday’s simultaneous launch is designed to start an iTunes race, instead claiming it is a sign they are opening up to a wider audience. Both were happy to provide a rollcall of the great and the good who will be available for all under their respective university brands. It will inevitably invite accusations of a new battleground for the famous foes.
After eight centuries the competition between the institutions is fairly even: Oxford has produced more Prime Ministers but Cambridge claims more Nobel laureates. Oxford’s podcast includes Michael Palin of Monty Python fame in a documentary filmed to promote the university’s £1.25 billion fundraising drive. Lectures come from Professor Joseph Stiglitz, former chief economist of the World Bank; Craig Venter, who led the private effort to sequence the human genome; Sir Nicholas Stern, the climate change academic; and the philosopher Julian Savulescu.
John Hood, Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor, said: “We hope that this service will make Oxford’s diverse range of audio and video material more widely accessible to applicants, alumni, supporters of the university, and the intellectually curious.”
Cambridge features podcasts from the historian David Starkey, who presents a history of the university and town, and British Foreign Secretary David Miliband, and downloads from St. John’s College choir.
“It’s not just for students and potential students but for the wider public,” said Greg Hayman, head of communications at Cambridge. — © Guardian Newspapers Limited, 2008
Available from download provider’s university portal
London: For 800 years Oxford and Cambridge universities have competed in everything from Nobel prizes to boat races. The academic rivalry runs deep: Oxford has tutored 25 British Prime Ministers, while Cambridge claims Darwin and Newton as its own. But today the venerable institutions launch into battle on iTunes, taking their ancient competition into the 21st century.
The universities are simultaneously publishing about 450 hours of free audio and video podcasts of lectures, films and admissions guides for people to download to a computer or MP3 player.
They will be available from iTunesu, the download provider’s university portal, where American institutions have been broadcasting their academic wares for some years. Both universities will provide podcasts advising students on applications, how to choose a college, and how to prepare for an interview.
They deny that Tuesday’s simultaneous launch is designed to start an iTunes race, instead claiming it is a sign they are opening up to a wider audience. Both were happy to provide a rollcall of the great and the good who will be available for all under their respective university brands. It will inevitably invite accusations of a new battleground for the famous foes.
After eight centuries the competition between the institutions is fairly even: Oxford has produced more Prime Ministers but Cambridge claims more Nobel laureates. Oxford’s podcast includes Michael Palin of Monty Python fame in a documentary filmed to promote the university’s £1.25 billion fundraising drive. Lectures come from Professor Joseph Stiglitz, former chief economist of the World Bank; Craig Venter, who led the private effort to sequence the human genome; Sir Nicholas Stern, the climate change academic; and the philosopher Julian Savulescu.
John Hood, Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor, said: “We hope that this service will make Oxford’s diverse range of audio and video material more widely accessible to applicants, alumni, supporters of the university, and the intellectually curious.”
Cambridge features podcasts from the historian David Starkey, who presents a history of the university and town, and British Foreign Secretary David Miliband, and downloads from St. John’s College choir.
“It’s not just for students and potential students but for the wider public,” said Greg Hayman, head of communications at Cambridge. — © Guardian Newspapers Limited, 2008
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Open universities to offer language courses
IGNOU is all set to offer basic language courses, with the stress on improving communication skills and soft skills.
With the rising importance of communication skills and soft skills training in the context of employability, colleges and universities are vying with each other to offer such courses. In this context, it is only right that open universities, or those that offer distance education jump onto the bandwagon too. And that is just what they are planning to do — be it the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) or the Tamil Nadu Open University.
In Chennai recently, IGNOU Vice-Chancellor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai told The Hindu EducationPlus about his university’s vigorous entry into basic language courses offered through the distance education mode.
“This move is based on demand. We are constantly being asked why the university is not offering basic language courses. After all distance education is also meant to satisfy a functional purpose. If the urgency is to impart communication skills, then we should offer such courses,” he said.
This is the first time ever that IGNOU is getting into pure language for communication training courses, he said. Hitherto English and Hindi were the medium of instruction of the main courses and a few courses in regional languages were offered in association with other centres of excellence.
To implement this objective, IGNOU will start a Centre for Modern Indian Languages, which will examine the feasibility and roll out certificate programmes in all the regional languages in the Schedule.
“We are going to look at all major Indian languages, all that are in the Schedule and offer courses for non-resident speakers. For instance, Malayalam courses may be offered for Keralites in Mumbai and Delhi,” Prof. Rajasekharan Pillai explained. There are over 10-11 lakh families in Delhi and there was a request from the representatives of the Malayalee association.
“It is also culture-related. People are migrating more frequently from State to State and feel that their children often miss out on the opportunity to learn their mother tongue. We have had representations from associations bound by culture and linguistic identities. For example, the Tamil Association in Delhi have asked us to conduct Tamil courses and so on,” he added.
As a first step, IGNOU has taken steps to start the first foundation language course in Bhojpuri, estimated to be spoken by at least 20 crore people in states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
According to an IGNOU communiqué, 70 per cent population in Mauritius too speak the language. Given the large scope of its usage, IGNOU set up an eight-member external expert committee to start the process of offering the course.
“We are going to make use of technology in order to teach these essentially communication training programmes. We will use the Direct To Home technology through Gyan Darshan which will reach about nine million homes, community radio and Gyan Vani,” Prof. Rajasekharan Pillai said.
The university will develop multi-media packages for students to aid learning during contact classes which will be conducted by organisations which have expertise in that particular language.
The TNOU is also on the same path. The Spoken English course offered by the university has evoked good response among students. The university has now embarked on producing a CD for the subject that could be broadcast over cable networks.
The demand for other regional language courses has also picked up in the State and the university will soon introduce courses during the academic year. Multi media packages will also be prepared for career guidance, yoga, and competitive exams at a cost of Rs.3 crore, M.S.Palanichamy, Vice-Chancellor, TNOU, said.
With the rising importance of communication skills and soft skills training in the context of employability, colleges and universities are vying with each other to offer such courses. In this context, it is only right that open universities, or those that offer distance education jump onto the bandwagon too. And that is just what they are planning to do — be it the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) or the Tamil Nadu Open University.
In Chennai recently, IGNOU Vice-Chancellor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai told The Hindu EducationPlus about his university’s vigorous entry into basic language courses offered through the distance education mode.
“This move is based on demand. We are constantly being asked why the university is not offering basic language courses. After all distance education is also meant to satisfy a functional purpose. If the urgency is to impart communication skills, then we should offer such courses,” he said.
This is the first time ever that IGNOU is getting into pure language for communication training courses, he said. Hitherto English and Hindi were the medium of instruction of the main courses and a few courses in regional languages were offered in association with other centres of excellence.
To implement this objective, IGNOU will start a Centre for Modern Indian Languages, which will examine the feasibility and roll out certificate programmes in all the regional languages in the Schedule.
“We are going to look at all major Indian languages, all that are in the Schedule and offer courses for non-resident speakers. For instance, Malayalam courses may be offered for Keralites in Mumbai and Delhi,” Prof. Rajasekharan Pillai explained. There are over 10-11 lakh families in Delhi and there was a request from the representatives of the Malayalee association.
“It is also culture-related. People are migrating more frequently from State to State and feel that their children often miss out on the opportunity to learn their mother tongue. We have had representations from associations bound by culture and linguistic identities. For example, the Tamil Association in Delhi have asked us to conduct Tamil courses and so on,” he added.
As a first step, IGNOU has taken steps to start the first foundation language course in Bhojpuri, estimated to be spoken by at least 20 crore people in states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
According to an IGNOU communiqué, 70 per cent population in Mauritius too speak the language. Given the large scope of its usage, IGNOU set up an eight-member external expert committee to start the process of offering the course.
“We are going to make use of technology in order to teach these essentially communication training programmes. We will use the Direct To Home technology through Gyan Darshan which will reach about nine million homes, community radio and Gyan Vani,” Prof. Rajasekharan Pillai said.
The university will develop multi-media packages for students to aid learning during contact classes which will be conducted by organisations which have expertise in that particular language.
The TNOU is also on the same path. The Spoken English course offered by the university has evoked good response among students. The university has now embarked on producing a CD for the subject that could be broadcast over cable networks.
The demand for other regional language courses has also picked up in the State and the university will soon introduce courses during the academic year. Multi media packages will also be prepared for career guidance, yoga, and competitive exams at a cost of Rs.3 crore, M.S.Palanichamy, Vice-Chancellor, TNOU, said.
JNAFAU offers courses in architecture, animation
HYDERABAD: Students interested in planning and architecture or animation can still apply for B.Tech programmes in ‘Facilities planning and maintenance’ and ‘Digital techniques and graphics’ at the newly constituted Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNAFAU).
Notification for counselling would be announced soon, said JNAFAU Vice-Chancellor P. Padmavathi at a press meet on Monday.
Even those who have already joined B.Tech in various engineering colleges across the State can appear for the counselling.
The course fee already paid at the EAMCET counter would be transferred to the college facilitating easier admission into the university.
The university would also be offering full-time Master’s degree in fine arts from this academic year. The School of Planning and Architecture in addition to the B.Tech courses would also offer an M.Tech in property management for those with a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or architecture or planning and Bachelor of Design programme in interior design.
A candidate needs pass 10+2 or its equivalent or a diploma in architecture or civil to qualify for the interior design programme. The College of Fine Arts, on the other hand, would offer Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in animation as well as Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in applied arts, sculpture, painting and photography. In addition it would also offer a 3-year part-time BFA bridge course in photography.
Minimum qualification
While the minimum qualification for the BFA is (10+2) or equivalent, for Master’s it is BFA or a five-year diploma in Fine Arts or equivalent.
Candidates can apply directly for non-B.Tech courses. The universityextended the last date for receiving applications for theses courses to October 16. If the number of applications for these courses exceeds the seats available, an entrance exam would be conducted on October 19 .
Details can be had from www.jntu.ac.in/art or http://eamcet.dte.gov.in.
Notification for counselling would be announced soon, said JNAFAU Vice-Chancellor P. Padmavathi at a press meet on Monday.
Even those who have already joined B.Tech in various engineering colleges across the State can appear for the counselling.
The course fee already paid at the EAMCET counter would be transferred to the college facilitating easier admission into the university.
The university would also be offering full-time Master’s degree in fine arts from this academic year. The School of Planning and Architecture in addition to the B.Tech courses would also offer an M.Tech in property management for those with a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or architecture or planning and Bachelor of Design programme in interior design.
A candidate needs pass 10+2 or its equivalent or a diploma in architecture or civil to qualify for the interior design programme. The College of Fine Arts, on the other hand, would offer Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in animation as well as Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in applied arts, sculpture, painting and photography. In addition it would also offer a 3-year part-time BFA bridge course in photography.
Minimum qualification
While the minimum qualification for the BFA is (10+2) or equivalent, for Master’s it is BFA or a five-year diploma in Fine Arts or equivalent.
Candidates can apply directly for non-B.Tech courses. The universityextended the last date for receiving applications for theses courses to October 16. If the number of applications for these courses exceeds the seats available, an entrance exam would be conducted on October 19 .
Details can be had from www.jntu.ac.in/art or http://eamcet.dte.gov.in.
Free training-cum-recruitment
Ujwala Human Development along with the State government and Magna Retail Group are organising a free training-cum-recruitment programme for unemployed youth. Successful youth would be placed in leading supermarkets in the State. Interviews will be held between October 6 and 10 at Magna premises, Kothapet between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For details call: 99086-41777.
Polytechnic courses in Urdu at MANUU
Three polytechnic colleges set up by Maulana Azad National Urdu University will impart diploma courses in computer engineering and information technology in Urdu language. The last date of submission of filled-in application form has been extended to October 25 and the entrance will be held on November 9. More details can be had from www.manuu.ac.in.
Hall tickets dispatched
Hall tickets of B.A./B.Com. (all three years) for supplementary examinations – 2008 being offered by Prof. G. Ram Reddy Centre for Distance Education, Osmania University have been dispatched to respective addresses of the candidates. Those who do not receive them before Thursday can collect their duplicate hall ticket from the distance education centre on October 10 between 10.30 a.m. and 5 p.m. They would need to submit two passport size photographs along with a demand draft of Rs.40 in favour of the Controller of Examinations, OU.
JNTU proposes new courses
Kakinada: Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Kakinada has proposed the introduction of 12 Master of Technology (M.Tech) and two Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) courses in the 11th Plan.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Allam Appa Rao has written to the Principal Secretary of Higher Education Asutosh Mishra seeking permission to start the new courses for ‘modernisation / improvement of academic ambience’.
The detailed project reports pertaining to the above proposals have already been sent to the Principal Secretary.
The proposed M.Tech courses are: Environment and Watershed Management, Infrastructure Engineering and Construction Management, Modern Power Drives, Advanced Insulation Systems, Agricultural Engineering, Energy Systems, Signal Processing and Communications Technology, VLSI and Embedded Systems, Advanced Computer Systems and Technologies, Information Technology, Bio-Technology and Bioinformatics.
B.TECH: The new B.Tech courses are Metallurgical Engineering and Petrochemical Engineering. In addition to the above P.G/U.G courses, MBA (Technology Management) and Master of Science (Materials) have been proposed.
The Vice-Chancellor has also proposed setting up of Centreres of Excellence (physical facilities) in the Departments of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and Civil Engineering (CE).
Earlier this week, the JNTU, Kakinada has introduced M.E (Nuclear Engineering) course with renowned scientist J.S. Rao as the programme advisor. It’s the first University to start that course in Andhra Pradesh.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Allam Appa Rao has written to the Principal Secretary of Higher Education Asutosh Mishra seeking permission to start the new courses for ‘modernisation / improvement of academic ambience’.
The detailed project reports pertaining to the above proposals have already been sent to the Principal Secretary.
The proposed M.Tech courses are: Environment and Watershed Management, Infrastructure Engineering and Construction Management, Modern Power Drives, Advanced Insulation Systems, Agricultural Engineering, Energy Systems, Signal Processing and Communications Technology, VLSI and Embedded Systems, Advanced Computer Systems and Technologies, Information Technology, Bio-Technology and Bioinformatics.
B.TECH: The new B.Tech courses are Metallurgical Engineering and Petrochemical Engineering. In addition to the above P.G/U.G courses, MBA (Technology Management) and Master of Science (Materials) have been proposed.
The Vice-Chancellor has also proposed setting up of Centreres of Excellence (physical facilities) in the Departments of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and Civil Engineering (CE).
Earlier this week, the JNTU, Kakinada has introduced M.E (Nuclear Engineering) course with renowned scientist J.S. Rao as the programme advisor. It’s the first University to start that course in Andhra Pradesh.
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