|
|
|
|
|
|
Liberal arts courses
admission
scene in ludhiana
career compass: information security analyst
smart strategy: is your new job offer worth considering
Career Hotline How can I become a fund manager? B.Ed through distance learning What is the scope after MSc in agri economics?
|
|
Stretching the boundaries of streams and subjects
Usha Albuquerque Imagine studying dance with business management, or theatre along with engineering! For those grappling with the unenviable task of getting admission at any good college, choosing a course of their liking itself sounds like a big deal. More so, one that seems like more fun than learning. For years, in India, there has been an over-emphasis on professional courses or specialist programmes after school — doing engineering, medicine, or pursuing one subject stream in the sciences or commerce was considered the only sensible and secure path to a promising career. Spending three or four years wandering through several different interest areas before focusing on any one is a new and rather alien school of thinking. Of course the IITs have for many years introduced additional courses in economics, sociology, literature and so on, to broaden the mental perspective of budding engineers. But an inter-disciplinary approach to education, giving students an opportunity to graduate in one major discipline while also pursuing subjects from another stream, is slowly gaining ground in India with the introduction of the liberal arts courses at several new institutions across the country.
A majority of liberal arts and science programmes offer students a chance to obtain a degree while taking a wide variety of courses. They can explore history, philosophy, psychology, do dance and theatre, music or martial arts, rather than getting into a track where they have to take specific courses that train you for a career. By breaking down borders between arts and sciences, theory and practice, living and learning, a liberal education ensures that students develop multi-dimensional skills. So a student can major in humanities while also pursuing one or more courses in subjects like physics or mathematics. This allows students to explore a variety of disciplines and then choose a specialisation that aligns with their interest. Such a course of study sows the seeds of intellectual curiosity and exploration, and acknowledges the importance of a holistic approach to education. Where to study Ashoka University in Sonepat, Foundation for Liberal and Management Education (Flame) University in Pune, Shiv Nadar University in Gurgaon, and Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts, are among the main universities in the country that have introduced the liberal arts degrees. The mostly four-year programme in liberal arts has the first two years dedicated to foundation courses across various disciplines, after which the student majors in a subject of his/her choice in the next two years.
The Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts offers a four-year Bachelor of Arts (Liberal Arts) and Bachelor of Sciences (Liberal Science) in which students have the freedom to pick and choose Minor and Major areas of specialisation from areas previously considered to be 'academically incompatible'. A student can combine subjects like Business studies as a Major with a Philosophy Minor or Mathematics & Statistics as a Major with an Anthropology Minor. Those selecting the Arts degree can major in subjects like economics, media studies, sociology, psychology, business studies, or political science and public policy, while those choosing science have options in biology, mathematics, statistics and computer science. In addition students will also study some core compulsory subjects such as environmental awareness, qualitative reasoning, business analysis, and giving them a broad and diverse foundation for the future. The FLAME University at Pune has also started the liberal arts programme, which offers students an opportunity to choose a variety of inter-disciplinary subjects. The academic programme is divided into the Foundation Stage where students explore various disciplines before moving onto the Specialisation Stage. The foundation modules are designed to equip students with the skills of intensive reading and academic writing, and to familiarise them with theoretical concepts, frameworks and issues across different disciplines, so as to enable them to learn independently and think creatively. At the end of the Foundation Stage, students are expected to identify their areas of specialisation, both major and minor. The flexibility of the course enables students to opt for a major in Business while pursuing Psychology as a minor, or combine programmes with a research and academic focus such as International Studies and Psychology, with programmes that involve more hands-on professional training in Mass Media such as Marketing and Advertising, Film & TV etc. The specialisations offered for the BA programme include economics, psychology, literary & cultural studies, international studies, maths, and environmental studies, while the options for BBA include finance, HR, entrepreneurship, international business, mass media, Film & TV, marketing & advertising, journalism & new media and othersMoreover programmes at FLAME are research oriented in their focus so students are trained in research methodology and are given an opportunity to conduct an independent research project. This helps them to develop a critical grasp over the disciplines and be in a position to generate original insights. By breaking down borders between arts and sciences, theory and practice, living and learning, a liberal education ensures that students develop multi-dimensional skills. Taking its cue from the four-year US liberal arts programme, a key component of all courses is its strong reliance on broad based intellectual learning, and the development of critical thinking and writing skills. Most courses require very detailed reading of selected texts so as to grasp key techniques of reading and textual analysis. Such courses are, therefore, ideal for students strong in the social sciences with natural inclination towards reading and reflection. At the end of the course students are expected to demonstrate their proficiency in writing as well as in oral presentation and their ability to communicate their thoughts on any issue from multiple perspectives. In a country where traditionally education has meant pursuing professionally-oriented courses, an appreciation for breadth and inter-disciplinary education is still to take root. But given the keen interest the new Liberal Arts programmes have evoked, and the desperate need among students for an alternative to the viciously competitive college admission system, there are going to be many takers for these innovative programmes. And with many of the universities offering promising placements and internships for the students, along with study offers for semesters at well known international universities, higher education in India may finally be getting the boost it requires. — The writer is Director, Career Smart Pvt Ltd., New Delhi
|
|
Keeping pace with changing demand
Business Insurance
Where to study: Master Tara Singh Memorial College for Women offers this add on course. 40 seats are available in the college. Who can get in: The students pursuing B.Com can get admission in this course. Admission is on merit basis.
Child Care
Where to study: Master Tara Singh Memorial College for Women offers this add on course. As many as 40 seats are available in the college. Who can get in: The students pursuing undergraduate degree in any stream can get admission in this course. Admission is on merit basis.
Call Centre Training Where to study: Master Tara Singh Memorial College for Women offers this add on course. As many as 40 seats are available in the college. Who can get in: The students pursuing undergraduate degree in stream can get admission in this course.
UG Diploma in Stock
Where to
study: The SCD Government College, Ludhiana, will be offering this new course from this session. According to Dr Rajinder Singh, Principal of the college, UGC had given its approval to initiate this course and the admission process was currently on. The college will invite applications for this course separately. Who can get in: The students who have passed Plus II examination in any stream can apply for this course. They have to take an entrance test to get admission to this course. The duration of the course is one year and it will have two semesters. This course will include three months of practical training. Charanjit Singh Teja Colleges in this industrial capital of Punjab have also opened their doors for new and vocational courses under the UGC’s Community College Scheme. Students of the city have shown inclination to join vocational and add on courses to add an extra edge to their bachelor’s degreeand to sharpen their skills for the job market. Here are some of the courses that have been laid out for the city students this year:
|
|
career compass: information security analyst Hemant Kumar Jain With the rise of hackers and data breaches spanning throughout companies and the government, there's a greater need to keep private and top-secret entropy safe from cyber attacks. That's where information security analysts come into the picture. A security analyst is accountable for maintaining the security and integrity of data. The security analysts have to have an understanding of every aspect of information security within the company. Their main job is to examine the security measures of an organisation and finding out how valuable these are. They are responsible for implementing training required to teach staff on proper security measures both offline and online. Scope
Data has become the lifeblood of corporates. Any turnaround of cyber image can harm the company's reputation and wipe out its resources. Therefore, there is a high requirement for precisely schooled and certified security analysts even during economic slowdown. The Bureau of Labour Statistics anticipates network systems and data communications analyst positions to spring up at a high rate in the coming years. Security is very important in high-profile technology companies and large enterprise business environments. As terrorisation continues to increase, so does the requirement for security analysts in companies.
Skill set
People who want to work in this particular area need strong problem-solving and analytical skills and proper understanding of computer systems. Information security analysts must be familiar with security rules and principles. Apart from that the individual should also have the following qualities to step further in this particular profession. *
Serious Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to recognise the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or access to the problems. *
Active Listening: Giving full interest to what other people are saying, bringing time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at unfortunate times. *
Management Skills: Consider the relative costs and benefits of probable actions to choose the most appropriate one. *
Systems Analysis: Finding out how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the surroundings will affect the outcome.
Job Overview
Information security analysts can work in a multiple number of positions within an IT organisation, consulting firms and financial institutions. Employers often invite their analysts to supervise networks for the smallest of security gaps. Security specialists also identify, explore and counterbalance cyber threats as the breaches occur. Specialised analysts install and use multiple security systems and different types of software, such as data encryption, firewalls, and programmes to secure socket layers. Other tasks include performing security infiltration testing, in which a cyber threat is replicated in order to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the obtainable network's security. Security analysts also find the intensities within every aspect of data protection protocol and decide where possible weaknesses can be subjugated. After they conduct a full examination of the organisation's network, they help plan, build up and carry out security standards and best practices that meet the requirements of the company.
Eligibility
Most information security analysts should have a bachelor's degree in computer science, programming, engineering, A management degree with specialisation in IT etc from a reputed college is ideal for getting a good job. Some organisation favour candidates with specialised knowledge of information security, which may be acquired through a formal training programme. Certain positions require work understanding or advanced degrees, such as MBA in Information Systems. Information security analysts usually have a variety of competencies - creativity, inventiveness, leadership and teamwork, among them. A number of specialised certified courses are available to the professional security analysts such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional and Certified Information Security Manager are offered by companies such as Microsoft and Cisco.
Remuneration
The positions in this field are diverse and purely organisation oriented. By and large these particular positions are headed by senior persons who have spent a substantial time in the organisation. Since the jobs are at different levels, the compensations are variable in this profession starting salaries depend on principal qualifications, skills and experience. The average pay for an Information Security Analyst is Rs 4-5 lakh per year. Most people with this job move on to other positions after few years of experience. The highest paying skills associated with this job are Security Risk Management and I Security & Infrastructure. — The writer teaches Information Technology at ERA Business School (EBS), New Delhi
|
|
smart strategy: is your new job offer worth considering Changing a job is one of the most emotional experiences that someone can go through. So the more you know, the less stress you will have Jappreet Sethi
Your intended move deserves careful and thorough research and one should not be naive enough to accept whatever the company is saying. Remeber that their job is to impress you. In the current volatile business climate, it is important to evaluate a prospective employer and the new job from various angles. Remember that it is your future that you are taking a call on and frequent hops are not best highlights of any career. Starting a new job is one of the most emotional experiences that someone can go through and the more you know, the less stress you will have as you would have discounted all the problems that you may face or at best you would be at ground zero in terms of your expectation from the new employer. Additionally, researching the new employer would help you in defining how you can add value and establish credibility quickly. You should use these pointers to evaluate whether you should jump ship or not. In case you find any leakage in the company’s armor; you can always use it to defend or bump up your starting salary. Do a Reality Check
The questions to ponder over are: *
Does the new job help you build and leverage your strengths, or will it make you work on your weakness? It is difficult to make your weak areas match your strengths. *
Is this a new position or a backfill, How long did the last person stay put in this role?, make sure that you don't wear a crown of thorns knowingly. *
How soon can you start contributing to the new company’s success in your new job? *
What is the leadership / managerial style of the company, and will it sync with your values or preferred style? *
What is the financial position of the company? Is it under heavy debt and interest liability and there are market reports of cost cutting measures and layoffs in the offing? *
Does the company have high attrition levels, and does it have a record for letting go of people every few years after extracting everything of value from them? *
Will this job eat up all your family time,thereby putting your post work hour activities at risk? *
Will this job involve a tiring commute or travel is more than two weeks a month and it will impact your personal life.
The Second Angle — Your employability in the future
Questions to ask are: * Does the company have a structured training program to help you grow through the corporate maze, Will they invest in you or they believe in harvesting you from day one? *
Whether you will be able to do something in this job which you can be proud of in a few years? *
Does this job make your skills sharp and will you be more valuable in the job market in future? - Makes you work on a new tech / new product etc.?
Finally — The Market Perspective
Questions to ask are: * Does the proposed job cater largely to domestic demand or is largely dependent on foreign markets? Roles which cater to external demand can be risky in a downturn. The prospects of getting a good pay raise would be lower in that case. *
Does the job directly contribute to the company’s profit or you will be in back office support — which may be at the risk of outsourcing? *
Does the company operate in sunrise sectors or in sunset sectors which are witnessing consolidation or over-capacity? *
Does the company have a good record of ethical practices? * Does it have a top-grade statutory auditor? You don’t want the skeletons in cupboard to pop out after you join them. A bad brand will lessen your chances of future job options. *
Is it recognised as an employer of choice by independent industry associations? *
You can obtain a lot of the information you require through the Internet. Another good source is the company’s financial records, which would be available in the public domain if it is a listed entity. Of course, word-of-mouth information from current and previous employees of the company is worth its weight in gold, check sites like glassdoor.com for employee reviews. In the end, If you decide to stay put and still find that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, why not try watering yours to make it greener. — The writer is an HR and Strategy consultant for start-up ventures and owner of www.humanresourcesblog.in
|
|
Driving success
Satya Nadella: CEO Microsoft
"Be passionate and bold. Always keep learning. You stop doing useful things if you don't learn" X-Factor: The ability to lead and value team effort. He believes that if one is able to bolster self-confidence in the people whom one is leading, then one is on the path to success. He had a hawk-eyed vision to pay equal attention to people and their output. This unique trait has won him the label of a walking contradiction. Daily takeaways: Contrary to his predecessor, Nadella is known for his humane and humble approach in life. His employee-first attitude has helped him gain the respect and loyalty of his workforce whom he duly gives the credit for his achievements as a leader. Nadella, who took over as CEO of Microsoft, has sliced out three distinct principles which keep him striving towards perfection. These are: *
Stay focussed on the cards in hand and be fiercely honest with yourself. * Give positive air and a booster dose of confidence to your employees. *
Reinvention of innovation models and fostering progress.
Sir Richard Branson: CEO and Founder Virgin Group
“What leadership boils down to is people. Whatever your style, whatever your method, you need to believe in yourself, your ideas and your staff. Nobody can be successful alone and you cannot be a great leader without great people to lead.” X-Factor: Well, it is interesting that most of the things that he did were no less than X-factor situations for any other ordinary entrepreneur. Sir Branson has given immense importance to employees and detail. His unique temperament and vision made him carve a niche in leadership matters. He stressed on brand presence as a share of mind and heart of everyone. Daily takeaways: He likes simplicity over technical jargon; he likes ordinary everyday settings for making toughest business decisions; he likes to listen to his employees rather than imposing ideas which they find hard to connect with. He is seen as a leader who values work but values fun at work equally, etc. These are some traits which have shaped Virgin's culture and core strategy. His success mantra can be summed up as: *
Be relevant, be simple, especially in expression of ideas, as he says, “if it cannot be explained at the back of an envelope, it is rubbish”. *
Have fun at whatever you do. “There is no point in being in business if it is not fun.” *
Dream and strive to make it happen as “unless you dream, you’re not going to achieve anything”.
Indra Nooyi: CEO PepsiCo
“You cannot over-invest in communication skills.” X-Factor: She took the world in her stride wherever she went through her impeccable communication skills. She ardently believes that her well-known 5C mantra for a rewarding leadership career — competency, courage, confidence, communication and compass (moral) — will be extirpated unless one is able to communicate the idea at the right time and in a right manner. Daily takeaways: Indra’s penchant for effective communication is openly showcased in her blog that she maintains at Pepsi where she talks to her employees regularly. She is also known for writing special thank you letters to parents of her employees. She is often seen going an extra mile to reach out to her customers and build stronger ties. Thus, to maintain the latter she takes great care to be morally strapped when it comes to societal care and personal ownership. Thus, the hallmark of her stupendous success story is undoubtedly: *
Quick decisions which are followed till completed * Determination * Effective and streamlined communication
Mark Zuckerberg: CEO and Founder Facebook
A young billionaire, who along with his wife, topped the Chronicle of Philosophy list of most generous Americans in 2013 with a net worth of $28.5 billion as per Forbes, Mark has touched and changed the lives of millions around the globe. Facebook has changed the way the world connects and conducts business. X-Factor: Mark had a keen eye for passion and innovation. He believes that it is passion that drives perseverance and it is latter which fuels success. He has been a hard-hirer with the only criterion being passion to do something new. The work culture at Facebook is based on five fascinating lessons: Passion, Purpose, People, Product and Partnerships. Daily takeaways: Facebook is driven by innovation and speed. The young CEO believes in that speed is vital for improvement and technological breakthroughs. It is the "hacker way" which is deeply adhered-to and followed. In words of Mark, it means that something can always be improved and made better and thus one should always be working towards perfection. People are given freedom to do things which they like and are not assigned jobs otherwise. Hence, the basic ideals which have driven success at the company are: *
Be passionate about your work. * Innovation should be the aim. * Build strong and lasting partnerships.
|
|
Career Hotline Q.I have done MBA with specialisation in Finance. Presently, I am working with ICICI Securities. I am interested in becoming a fund manager. I want to know what are the special skills (theoretical and financial market experience) required to be a successful fund manager. — Sunit Jain
As a result, several people in equity sales who have an analyst background move into fund management because of this shortage. But don’t be in a hurry to jump in. It takes a few years to groom a good stock-picker i.e. someone who knows how to invest and where to invest — at minimal risk. The agent or distributor assumes the role of a financial advisor and is the key channel for bringing mutual funds to a large number of investors all over the country. The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) which sets the industry standards for all funds operating in India has a certification process — the AMFI Mutual Fund Test. This certification has been made mandatory by SEBI for anyone engaged in selling mutual funds — agents as well as those employed in distribution companies and banks. Upon clearing the test, you can apply for your AMFI registration number which will certify you as an AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Advisor (ARMFA). AMFI has prepared the necessary study material to help you prepare for the Test. The workbook can be obtained from the AMFI office in Mumbai. For details log on to: www.amfiindia.com/testingprogram.html There are some excellent books on the subject. Log onto: www.visionbooksindia.com for an exhaustive list.
B.Ed through distance learning
Q.I have completed my graduation and wish to opt for a B.Ed course. Could you please suggest some universities that are offering a correspondence course in B.Ed? —
Ajay Sandhu
All others must enrol in regular full-time BEd programmes. This rule has been formulated with a view to achieving planned and co-ordinated development and also maintenance of norms and standards in teacher-education system throughout the country. The following universities offer BEd through correspondence in North India. All these courses are of 2-year duration. *
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi 110068 (contact your nearest IGNOU Regional Centre for details). *
Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar * Maharshi Dayanand University, Deptt of Distance Education, Rohtak 124001. *
Panjab University, Directorate of Correspondence Courses, Chandigarh * Punjabi University, Directorate of Correspondence Courses, Patiala 147002. Caution: Please don’t fall prey to private institutions offering BEd courses of XYZ universities. It is always best to enrol directly with the university concerned. And this holds true of most other courses as well.
What is the scope after MSc in agri economics?
Q.I am an Economics Honours graduate from Panjab University. Now I want to pursue MSc. Agriculture Economics from Punjab Agricultural University. Will you please guide me about the scope of career after completing this degree? I am also interested in government service. —
Jasleen
Besides land appraisal, crop grading, marketing and sales, an agricultural economist is involved with farm management, co-operative management, farm utilities, custom services, wholesale and retail marketing of agricultural products, priority setting for research, how much to invest, assessment of returns on investment i.e. all those activities that ensure that agricultural productivity grows at planned rate of growth. Job prospects in this field are promising. There are openings in cooperatives, banking and insurance sector, private firms in the agricultural sector, foreign embassies, NGOs and other donor agencies, Ministry of Agriculture, Indian Economic Service as also in the field of research and academics.
|
|
Scholarship roundup
UG courses in Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur
Eligibility: Intermediate/ Plus II students with at least 50% aggregate in physics, chemistry and mathematics are eligible to take the tests to be held across various centres. Details: (A) 20% scholarship for those who have scored- *
Between 71% and 75% from any State Board * Between 76% and 80% from CBSE/ ICSE Board (B) 30% scholarship for those who have scored *
76% and above from any State Board * 81% and above from CBSE/ ICSE Board (C) Additional 10 % scholarships only for those eligible either in (A) or (B) - *
Those who joined NCC/ Scouts in School * Child of personnel serving in J&K *
Child of a war widow How to apply: Candidate may contact at college office or regional offices. Deadline: July 25, 2014 Check out: www.vgu.ac.in Vanier Scholarships The Government of Canada offers Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships for Canadian and international students studying at Canadian universities. Scholarships are available for pursuing PhD level at Canadian universities. Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada and foreign citizens are eligible to be nominated for a Vanier CGS. To be considered for a Vanier CGS, a candidate must: *
be nominated by only one Canadian university, which must have received a Vanier CGS allocation; *
be pursuing your first doctoral degree (or combined MA/PhD or MD/PhD). Note that only the PhD portion of a combined degree is eligible for funding; *
intend to pursue, in the summer semester or the academic year following the announcement of results, full-time doctoral (or combined MA/PhD or MD/PhD) studies and research; Number of awards: Up to 167 scholarships are awarded annually. A total of up to 500 scholarships are active at any time. Duration: Three years. Details: Each Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is valued at $50,000 per year. Notification: Successful candidates will be notified of the competition results in March 31, 2015. How to Apply: Applications are prepared by the student and submitted to the university by the nominating university's internal deadline using the ResearchNet application system. Deadline: November 5, 2014. Check out: http://vanier.gc.ca Joint research grants The Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore are inviting applications for Singapore-India Joint Research Grants from Indian and Singapore scientists to submit their proposals for joint research. This research addresses critical technologies in the area of "Advances in Chemistry, Biology and Technology for Medicine. Scholarship can be taken at India, Singapore. Eligibility: Indian applicants should be scientists/faculty members working in regular capacity in universities/deemed universities, academic institutes and national research and development laboratories/institutes. The Letter of Intent (LOIs) must include the names of two Principal Investigators (PIs), one from India and one from Singapore. Co-investigators may also be included in the application. The PIs are responsible for submitting annual scientific and financial reports in order to ensure continued funding; each project will be funded for a period of three years. Number of award(s): Not Known Duration: The research projects will be funded for a maximum of three years. Details: A maximum of Rs. 60,00,000 per joint project (Rs. 20,00,000) per year to the Indian applicant and SGD 300,000 per joint project to the Singapore applicant for over three years. nExpenditure by project team in their country will be borne by the respective country, i.e, DST would support expenditure on Indian side of the project whereas A*STAR would meet the expenditure of Singapore side. How to apply: Only LOIs will be accepted for the first stage of application. Shortlisted grant applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal in the second stage of application. Indian and Singapore applicants shall write a common application to be submitted to both DST and A*STAR using application form prescribed by DST and A*STAR. Deadline: The application deadline is July 31, 2014. The hard copies should be submitted by August 5, 2014 Check out: http://www.a-star.edu
|
|
Engineering courses
DPGITM Engineering College, Gurgaon invites applications for its four-year full-time degree course in civil/mechanical/electrical/computer/ electronics & communication branches. Eligibility: Minimum Class XII pass with PCM. Diploma Holders/BSC can take admission directly, in IInd year (Lateral Entry). How to apply: Admission brochure can be obtained from the institute against payment of ~500 or by sending a demand draft of ~500 drawn in favour of DPGITM payable at Gurgaon. Deadline: July 30, 2014
Diploma in operation theatre technology
Institute of Professional Studies & Research, New Delhi, invites applications for Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology (DOTT) course. The duration of programme is one year. Eligibility: Minimum qualification for securing admission to diploma course is Class XII pass in any stream from a recognised board. How to apply: The application forms are available till August, 10, 2014. The candidates can visit corporate center at Delhi or can register at the website www.ipsr.co.in Check out: www.ipsr.co.in
MBA in Banking & Finance
Management Development Institute Singapore (MDIS) is inviting applications for its new 12-month comprehensive MBA programme in Banking & Finance. The course has been launched in association with Bangor University, UK. The Course: The course curriculum facilitates a combination of real-world experience work placements, fieldwork and classroom-based activities. The full time course is spread over eight modules and offers rigorous training in Banking & Finance by providing exposure through 4 applied business projects. Eligibility: The eligibility criteria for pursuing the two master's programme is a lower 2nd class Honors degree or equivalent overseas qualification and grade may be considered on a case-by-case basis. English language requirement is IELTS 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each component. Date of commencement: The first session starts in October 2014. Check out: www.mdis.edu.sg
UG courses in economics
An Affiliate Centre of the University of London (UoL), with academic direction from London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE), Indian school of Business and Finance invites students to apply for its 3-year full-time undergraduate honours degree programmes in BSc. Economics, BSc. Economics and Management and BSc. Business and Management, BSc Economics and Finance Eligibility: Applicants who have passed the Class XII examination conducted by CBSE/ISC/State Board/International Baccalaureate (IB)/GSCE A-Levels (by May 2014) are eligible to apply. All applicants for this degree should have demonstrable proficiency in both, English and mathematics. Candidates applying for BSc. Economics need to have proof of competency in mathematics). For other programmes candidates should be able to demonstrate ability in Mathematics How to Apply: Online. Visit www.applytoisbf.com Selection criteria: CBSE/ISC/State Board: Selections are made on the basis of an entrance exam (iMET- ISBF Mathematics English Test) and personal interview. IB and A-Level students are exempted from the entrance exam (per application basis). Selections are made on the basis of a personal interview Check out: www.isbf.com
|
|
Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar
Written test for Assistant Professor at Guru Nanak Dev University Due to overwhelming response for the posts of Assistant Professors, Computer Science and Engineering on contractual basis for the academic session 2014-15, the GNDU has decided to conduct a written test for short-listing the candidates for the walk-in-interviews. According to Prof M.S. Hundal, Dean, Academic Affairs, the written test of eligible candidates, who have applied for these posts, will be held on July 9 at Guru Nanak Dev University main campus, Amritsar. He said the candidates, whose result is awaited or who had passed their master's degrees through distance education mode, were not eligible for this post. However, he said the candidates who have passed their qualifying degrees through correspondence/distance education mode are eligible for this test subject to their equivalency. Refresher Course A refresher course in Health and Life Sciences was conducted at Academic Staff College of the GNDU. As many as 29 teachers from a wide spectrum of disciplines from various states participated in it. Prof. Jai Rup Singh, an eminent scientist and academician and former Vice-Chancellor, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar and founder Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda was the Chief Guest at the valedictory session. In his valedictory address he highlighted the significance and relevance of such courses for the young faculty members. He said that although the number of higher education institutes in India had increased exponentially over the last few decades but an astronomical number of institutes are below average as per surveys of University Grants Commission, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and other bodies. He also expressed his concern over the imminent entry of foreign universities in India, which according to him, are looking to generate revenues rather than to disseminate education. Women Youth Leadership Camp A Women Youth Leadership Camp was organised at the Guru Nanak Dev University Students Holiday Home, Dalhousie. This camp was organised by the Department of Youth Welfare of the University. As many as 73 students from 11 affiliated colleges of the University participated. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A.S. Brar was the chief guest and Dr. SaravjitKaurBrar was the guest of honour at the valedictory function. Tania Mahajan of S.R. Govt. College, Amritsar was adjudged the Best Camper while Ranjana Sharma from Guru Nanak Dev University College, Verkagot the second position. The team of R.R.M.K. Arya Mahila Mahavidayala was adjudged as first best disciplined team and Guru Nanak Dev University College, Verka team was second best disciplined team — Contributed by G S Paul
|
|
|
News board
New feature added to the GMAT exam
Prospective business students taking the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) exam will now be able to preview their unofficial scores before deciding whether to report or cancel them, the Graduate Management Admission Council announced recently. The score reporting feature is available to all test takers and will take effect at approximately 600 test centres around the world that are administering the GMAT exam from June 27, 2014. “The new score reporting feature gives test takers more certainty and control in the testing process and in how their scores are reported to schools. GMAC is committed to helping schools and students connect, and we believe this change, by making the testing experience easier, will be a part of strengthening those connections,” said Ashok Sarathy, GMAC Vice-President, product management. Test takers are given the option of reporting or canceling their scores immediately after taking the test and before leaving the test center. Under the new process, test takers will see their unofficial scores — Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Total — and will be given two minutes to decide whether to accept them. If they do not make a choice, their scores will be canceled. In addition, test takers who decide to cancel their scores at the test center will be able to reinstate them within 60 days of the test date for a $100 fee. After that, scores will not be retrievable. Said Sarathy, “If there were two things I would recommend to test takers to get the most out of this new feature,they would be: Know what score you're willing to accept so that when asked whether your wish to send your scores or cancel them, you have already considered your answer. nUnderstand that you have 60 days to reinstate a score you might have cancelled but decide later that you want to send. “This new feature empowers test takers to make a better decision in their efforts to apply and go to a business or management program of choice,” said Ashish Bhardwaj, GMAC vice president, Asia Pacific. Mentoring programme for budding entrepreneurs The Entrepreneurship School, Gurgaon, that offers India’s first full time one-year post-graduate level programme in entrepreneurship has launched the 'Wannapreneur to Entrepreneur' Mentoring Programme for upcoming start-ups. This is a three-month development programme for entrepreneurs and start-ups, where the selected start-ups will be provided with infrastructure support, knowledge and expertise that they need to make good business decisions on their own, free of cost. Some of the selected ventures will receive funding support of up-to ~10 lakh from TES. The first batch of 6 start-ups shortlisted for the programme have been selected from 200 entries from across India. The selection process involved taking the Entrepreneurship Quotient Test developed by TES followed by presentation of ideas to selection panel. The mentees are matched with successful entrepreneur mentors, which enables them a one-on-one mentoring relationship, networking opportunities, exposure to mentoring skills that can be applied to any professional or personal situation, business educations discussing greatest successes and lessons learned from peers and top CEOs in the community. Speaking on the occasion Sanjeeva Shivesh, CEO and Founder, TES said, "The mentoring programme enables a great business idea waiting to take off. There is a need to transform great an idea into great businesses and most often in such an endeavor, mentorship is the key element, because if India has to prosper, it has to create a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation that impacts the country's competitiveness, globally." Campus placements As many as 28 companies from various sectors were part of the campus placement initiative at GNA-IMT,Phagwara, which offers numerous courses ranging from an MBA to CAD/CAM and Hotel Management. In the financial sector, eight students were placed with HDFC Life while another five with AXIS Bank. Indiamart ,which is the country's largest online B2B market place also selected four students from the MBA department. Other major recruiters werePnbMetlife, NIIT,Canara Bank, Auxin Capital Management,ITRDC & TCIL,CRISIL, Videocon Telecom, 94.3FM, and DainikBhaskar. The average package offered by these companies was ~3.25 lakh. GNA-IMT has put in place a training and placement cell for its students and offers a career management service wherein each student is aided by a personalised career development plan which takes into account their skills, interests and aspirations.
|
|
|
Happiness @ work
Advice is free. On the path to success, you may get it even without asking for it. So, take such advice with a pinch of salt. In the Mahabharata, Shakuni, the maternal uncle of prince Duryodhana, kept on instigating the prince against his Pandava cousins. Shakuni wanted Duryodhana to corner the throne even while there was no clarity to its claimant. As Duryodhana’s father Dhritrashtra was blind, he couldn’t become King despite being elder to prince Pandu. During King Pandu’s exile and death, the throne fell into Dhritrashtra’s lap. Among the two sets of cousins, Pandu’s eldest son Yudhisthira was elder to Dhritrashtra’s first-born Duryodhana.
On the day before the Mahabharata war, Duryodhana asked grandsire Bhishma how many days would it take him to destroy the Pandava army. “Slaying 10,000 foot-soldiers and 1,000 chariot-warriors every day, it would take me a month,” he replied. Guru Drona said it would take him two months but Karna said he could do it in just five days. Bhishma laughed away the boast saying, “You can continue to fool yourself till you come face to face with Arjuna.” On the prompting of Devadatta, Gautam Buddha’s wicked and ambitious cousin who wanted to head the monks, prince Ajatashatru deposed his father King Bimbisara of Magadha, imprisoned him and finally had him executed. Then, Devadatta forced Ajatashatru to make attempts to kill the Buddha but to no avail. Finally, an incurable illness struck Ajatashatru. He not only regretted the killing of his father, but also became a devotee of the Buddha. Devadatta, too, repented his actions, but he fell dead before he could reach his great cousin. Saint Ekanath gave discourses in Marathi instead of Sanskrit and mixed freely with all castes. This angered the Brahmins in Paithan. So they forced his son Hari Pandit to rebel. After an argument with his father, Hari left for Varanasi. On his wife Girija’s insistence, Ekanath persuaded Hari to return home. One afternoon, Ekanath asked his son to dispose off the banana leaf that he had just finished eating on. When Hari did so, another leaf appeared in its place. This continued till a 1,000 banana leaves were piled up at the dining venue. Hari realised his mistake and stopped interfering in Ekanath’s mission. Don’t base your success on the bubbles other blow. — Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
|
Imagine studying dance with business management, or theatre along with engineering! For those grappling with the unenviable task of getting admission at any good college, choosing a course of their liking itself sounds like a big deal. More so, one that seems like more fun than learning. For years, in India, there has been an over-emphasis on professional courses or specialist programmes after school — doing engineering, medicine, or pursuing one subject stream in the sciences or commerce was considered the only sensible and secure path to a promising career. Spending three or four years wandering through several different interest areas before focusing on any one is a new and rather alien school of thinking. Of course the IITs have for many years introduced additional courses in economics, sociology, literature and so on, to broaden the mental perspective of budding engineers.
Liberal arts and sciences, as it is sometimes called, is offered by many universities abroad, particularly in the US. The Association of American Colleges and Universities defines a liberal education as "a philosophy of education that empowers individuals with broad knowledge and transferable skills, and a stronger sense of values, ethics, and civic engagement. It is based on the medieval concept of education which evolved through the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment when subjects such as Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and Astronomy was considered essential for individuals to have an active civic life. While the modern liberal arts are conceived somewhat differently, they have come to mean an education which empowers the individual with the skills considered essential to actively contribute to public work and living. 
In August, Ashoka University at Sonepat starts its first year of the liberal arts programme where students will have an opportunity to explore a range of academic disciplines before deciding where their passion lies. In the first two years students take Foundation courses that cover a broad spectrum of subjects from literature to maths, economics to philosophy, and history to leadership. In the third year students can choose pure majors tailored to their interests and aptitudes or stay flexible by majoring in an interdisciplinary programme. The majors offered at Ashoka include economics, sociology, finance, computer science, psychology and so on. A unique aspect of the programme is the Ashoka Quest, a social internship which will not only help nurture social responsibility but develop an analytical mode of thinking by which to approach the many social issues that plague this country. 
The course:
This is a UGC-funded add on course. Commerce students can join this course to get practical knowledge. Students intending to join the insurance sector can also opt for this course. The course provides a good deal of practical knowledge about the insurance sector. 
The course: This course is especially for girl students wherein they are given training to take care of a child. The course has been introduced to meet the demand for nannies in foreign countries. The students get training in feeding the child and other practical knowledge on the subject. The certificate holders get a preference in Gram Sewak jobs under Zila Parishad.
The course: Under this course students will be trained to work in call centres. As it is an add-on course being offered under the UGC Add-On Scheme, the students pursuing undergraduate degree can opt for this course for one year. The certificate holders get preference in jobs in call centres. The course helps the students to improve communication and English-speaking skills.
The course: This course has been initiated by the UGC under the Community College Scheme to build skills for stock market trading and financial sector. According to Dr Ashwani Bhalla, Professor in Commerce and Management at SCD Government College, the students opting for this course can work as stock brokers in stock market, financial analysts, investment guides, financial journalists and also work with mutual fund companies. Computer and communication skills are also enhanced.
Your career growth prospects in your present company may be limited, or your salary package may be too small or you may simply have a yen to try your hand at something completely different. Whatever the case, a change of jobs involves a change in companies. There is no scope of snap decisions in such a scenario and what’s the point of jumping from the devil into the deep sea.
Heading a company which has transformed the way the world perceives and looks at technology is much more than extraordinary. The man has proved his mettle on various parameters during his 22- year-long career with Microsoft before he was picked for the top slot. An ardent cricket fan, he attributes many of his leadership qualities to his short stint with the game which he played in school.
A larger than life personality who befriended controversy and success is a huge inspiration for budding entrpreneurs. While he figured in the 100 most influential Britons in 2002, he also made it to the list of 100 worst Britons in 2003. Despite the clouds which always surround him, he was showered with Knighthood by the Queen for his excellence in entrepreneurial skills.
Being a woman in a man’s world was never a hurdle in her path as Indra Nooyi made her way up the corporate ladder in America to get to the top position in PepsiCo, leading a workforce of 3,00,000 employees successfully over the years. She not only cut across the gender biases but also her immigrant status in another country. Indra has become an inspiration and role model for every young girl who is determined to make a change for a better future and larger good.
"Find the thing you are super passionate about. A lot of founding principles of Facebook are that if people have access to more information and are more connected, it will make the world better; people will have more understanding, more empathy. That's the guiding principle for me. On hard days, I really just step back, and that's the thing that keeps me going."
A.Despite soaring salaries, there is an acute shortage of fund managers at higher levels. Poaching from rivals is rampant. Adding to the crisis, even top-notch fund managers move to less stressful positions such as consultants or advisors that offer even fatter pay checks coupled with a more leisurely lifestyle.
A.Under the guidelines issued by the National Council for Teacher Education (www.ncte-in.org ), the apex statutory body for co-ordinating and monitoring teacher education in the country, only working teachers with minimum two years of experience in a recognised school (primary, secondary or higher secondary) within the jurisdiction of the university concerned can enrol for BEd (DE) courses.
A.Achieving food security is the overriding goal of our agricultural policy. To achieve this goal, we need not only agricultural scientists but also agricultural economists who can apply the principles of economics to ensure greater productivity in agriculture. The growth in this sector being a result of greater liberalisation and investment, the demand for agricultural economists is on the rise.
Vivekananda Global University (VGU), Jaipur, is offering scholarships for undergraduate BA, BCom, BSc., BTech and Diploma courses in engineering.
Being just a good dice player, Shakuni was banking on the military skills of Bhishma, Drona and Karna to weave nephew Duryodhana’s dream. But Krishna’s stratagem and Bhima and Arjuna’s skills punctured the bubble on the Kurukshetra battlefield.