Category Archives: Education – Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023)

From Cleveland to Jamia: Prof Dr M Mahfuzul Haque’s remarkable journey

NEW DELHI :

Dr Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque

Jamia Millia Islamia Professor Dr Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque has made the university proud.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has granted Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque, a professor in the Department of Biotechnology, a prestigious research grant of approximately Rs 65 lakhs.

This highly competitive grant underscores Prof. Haque’s outstanding contributions to the field of molecular enzymology and will support groundbreaking research in the area of cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer.

The ICMR grant, recognised as one of the highest honours for medical research in India, will enable Prof. Haque and his team to gain more insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying iNOS involvement in lung cancer pathogenesis, potentially identifying therapeutic targets and developing novel treatment strategies for combating lung cancer. The project is intended to address significant challenges in lung cancer and aims to produce outcomes that may significantly influence healthcare practices in India and globally.

Prof. Mazhar Asif, the Vice Chancellor and Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, the Registrar of JMI congratulated Dr. Haque and remarked: “This is a moment of pride for our institution. Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque’s recognition by ICMR reflects our commitment to fostering excellence in research and innovation. We look forward to the transformative impact of this work.”

Commenting on the achievement, Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque said: “I am deeply honored to receive this grant from ICMR. It represents a significant opportunity to advance our research and contribute to improving health outcomes for millions. I am grateful to my team, my institution JMI, and ICMR for their support and encouragement.”

The grant will provide funding for three years, facilitating advanced experimentation, collaboration with leading experts, and the development of innovative approaches. This initiative aligns with ICMR’s mission to promote cutting-edge research and address pressing healthcare challenges facing India.

Dr. Haque is a renowned molecular enzymologist and his research focuses on the biochemistry, structure and function of Nitric Oxide synthase and other flavoproteins, which play a significant role in cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary hypertension and cancer.

Dr. Haque joined the Department of Biotechnology, JMI in 2017 and from 2017 to 2020, he served as Head of the Department of Biotechnology.

Prior to his appointment at JMI, Prof. Haque served as a faculty member in Molecular Medicine at the esteemed Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

He has won accolades and awards in the United States and got many funds from various funding agencies of the Government of India.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 21st, 2024

Jamia’s Dr Khalid Raza secures ₹94 lakh ICMR grant in AI and breast cancer treatment

NEW DELHI :

Work in AI breast cancer treatment is going on and Dr Khalid Raza has bagged Rs 94 lakh ICMR grant for AI breast cancer treatment..

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has selected Dr Raza and his team for a research grant of nearly ₹94 lakh for breast cancer treatment.

The funding is given to him for his earlier contributions to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in drug design.

Dr Raza is Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia.

AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza achievement
This grant is expected to play an important role in advancing innovative research aimed at using AI to develop precise and effective treatments for breast cancer.

Now, Dr Raza and his team will focus on developing advanced tools for AI-driven drug design. Their work will center on optimising drug compounds, pinpointing therapeutic targets, and creating innovative treatment strategies for breast cancer.

One such promising drug compound, DdpMPyPEPhU, already patented by Dr. Raza will be further explored under this initiative.

This research tackles key challenges in breast cancer treatment and is poised to deliver transformative results that could have a global impact on healthcare practices.

Both Professor Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor of Jamia, and Professor Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, congratulated Dr Raza on his outstanding achievement.

“This is a moment of great pride for Jamia. Dr. Raza’s recognition by ICMR highlights the university’s dedication to promoting research excellence and innovation,” said the VC.

Groundbreaking work in AI breast cancer treatment
His groundbreaking work showcases Jamia’s vital contributions to integrating AI in healthcare research, said VC Asif.

Dr Raza said: “I am honoured to be selected for this ICMR grant. This is an opportunity to further our research in AI-driven drug design and make a meaningful contribution to improving health outcomes for millions. I am deeply grateful to my research team, collaborators, and ICMR for their continuous support.”

The three-year funding will facilitate advanced experimentation, foster collaboration with leading experts, and accelerate the development of innovative solutions for breast cancer treatment. This initiative aligns closely with ICMR’s mission to support cutting-edge research addressing India’s critical healthcare challenges.

AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza a distinguished researcher
Dr Raza is a distinguished researcher in the application of AI in healthcare, focusing on designing and optimising drug compounds through AI-based multitarget docking, molecular simulations, and genomics-driven personalised medicine.
Award and grants are not something new for Dr Raza. Stanford University recognised him among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists from 2021-2023.

Dr Raza has served in various academic and administrative roles at Jamia.

He has published over 140 research articles in prestigious journals, conference proceedings, 14 authored/edited books, and held notable positions, including ICCR Chair Visiting Professor of Computer and Information Sciences at Ain Shams University, Egypt, and is an honorary research fellow at INTI International University, Malaysia.

Dr Raza also serves as Associate Editor for PeerJ Computer Science and Guest Editor for esteemed journals like npj Precision Oncology, Natural Product Communications, and Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry. His remarkable contributions to the scientific community and Jamia are truly remarkable!

This grant represents a convergence of excellence, with the potential to revolutionise breast cancer treatment and affirm Jamia’s status as a hub for transformative research.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 30th, 2024

Adila Khanam – PG student (Virology) makes Jamia proud, awarded the prestigious Princeton Foundation for Peace & Learning National Scholarship (USA) 2024-25.

NEW DELHI :

Adila Khanam

Adila Khanam, currently a second-year M.Sc. Virology student at the Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced Research and Studies (MCARS) at Jamia Millia Islamia, has been awarded the prestigious Princeton Foundation for Peace & Learning National Scholarship (USA) 2024-25.

The Foundation is dedicated to empowering young women by providing holistic education and mentorship. As part of the Princeton Foundation’s flagship initiative, GOAL, Adila will benefit from the financial assistance as well as extensive mentorship and internship opportunities, which include eligibility for both corporate and research internships.

Adila Khanam reacts
Adila expressed her joy regarding the accomplishment and said: “I am excited about the USA-based internship and the opportunity to learn from different mentors who will shape both my personal and professional development. I am deeply grateful to my mentors, especially Dr. Jawed Iqbal, whose unwavering guidance and mentorship have been invaluable throughout my academic journey”

She conveyed her sincere gratitude to Dr Mohan Joshi, Assistant Professor, for introducing her to this remarkable scholarship opportunity, as well as to Prof. Mohammad Husain, Director of MCARS, and the other faculty members of the centre for their encouragement and invaluable mentorship.

In another development on the campus a few days ago, the Faculty of Dentistry organised a workshop on ‘Soft Skills in Dental Practice’ on 5th December 2024, for its fifty BDS Interns of the Batch 2020.

The workshop was conducted by Prof. Poonam Sood Loomba, Professor and Head, Microbiology Department, G. B Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, New Delhi. She is a FAIMER Fellow from CMC Ludhiana and is actively involved in medical education. She is also the National Medical Commission Convenor for the Regional Centre, Medical Education Department, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi.

In the inaugural session, Prof. Keya Sircar, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry welcomed the gathering and emphasised on the need of soft skills in dental practice.

The organising chairperson, Prof. Ashu Bhardwaj, highlighted the origin of the term “soft skills” in the U.S Army in late 1960s, when apart from technical know-how, leadership values and emotional intelligence were considered to be important adjuncts to motivate soldiers. She made the interns aware that over the next few months, they would be stepping into the real world where adhering to soft skills would be a feather in their professional cap.

In her lecture, Prof. Loomba drew the attention of the participants to various aspects of soft skills, such as attitude, ethics and communication. Speaking on the significance of verbal and non-verbal communication, she emphasized on active listening at length, taking informed consent, breaking communication barriers and maintaining ethical standards.

The workshop was conducted through role plays of clinical case scenarios on convincing a patient about the importance of sterilisation, counselling a HIV reactive patient, taking informed consent regarding placement of implants, explaining treatment, and counselling a patient for compliance to dentures, obtaining cooperation of the mother of an anxious child, breaking bad news, communicating the importance of written records and dealing with an agitated patient.

The interns actively participated in the role plays with dynamic inputs from the resource person and the organising team. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by the Organising Secretary, Prof. Zeba Jafri.The event was organized by faculty members – Prof. Ashu Bhardwaj, Prof. Anuradha Sharma, Prof. Zeba Jafri, Prof. Nishat Sultan, Prof. Anupriya Wadhwa, Prof. Kirti Chawla and Dr. Nupur Gupta under the patronship of the Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, JMI, Prof. Keya Sircar.

source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / December 10th, 2024

Farooqia PU College celebrates Chandrayaan-3’s success

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysore/Mysuru:

Farooqia PU College marked the success of Chandrayaan-3 at a celebration during its 42nd Annual Day. The event featured Kamran Ahmed, a scientist and engineer from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Bengaluru and a resident of Mysuru.

Kamran Ahmed played a key role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission. He presented glimpses of the mission and on space exploration, encouraging students to aspire to become accomplished scientists, drawing inspiration from role models like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

Prof. M. Sayeed Ahmed and Dr. Syed Abdul Khuddus presented a memento to Kamran Ahmed and Prof. Riyaz Ahmed unveiled the 35th volume of the college magazine, “Al-Farooq,” featuring the Chandrayaan-3 rocket launch and Vikram’s historic soft landing.

The issue also dedicated a section to late Mujeeb-Ur-Rehman Khan, a key figure in the establishment of Farooqia College in 1980, and paid tributes to freedom fighter Khazi Abdul Ghafoor Khan, known as “Coorg Gandhi.”

Dr. Anisa Ather, Retired Associate Professor of Microbiology, presented cash prizes in memory of her parents late Prof. Mohammed Moula and late Y. Sayeeda Banu to outstanding students — Mohammed Ikram (highest scorer in Science), Mohammed Afnan (Economics) and Zaid (Physics) — in II PU March 2023 exam.

Additionally, the magazine honoured the first method actor of world cinema, Dilip Kumar, with articles and rare photographs, and featured articles on Prof. B Shaikh Ali and Kannada Professor Kareemuddin of MDTDB College.

Special invitees were Dr. Thouqeer Ahmed and Dr. Shaista Ahmedi, an alumna of the college and successful doctors. Dr. Ahmedi announced cash prizes for the highest scorers.

Prof. M Sayeed Ahmed, Hon. Secretary of the College, emphasised the importance of serving parents and society, highlighting the obligation of Huqooq-ul-Ibaad for every Muslim.

Dr. Syed Abdul Khuddus presided over the function, which included Qirath by Mohammed Taufeeq and Naath by M.K. Zakir.

The event, compered by Zahara Jabeen Tabassum, featured a brief report on the college’s 2023 activities by R.H. Basha, Principal. BiBi Ameena proposed a vote of thanks, following cultural programmes, literary competitions and sports events.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 04th, 2024

Dr. Haroon H. Awarded Fellowship of the Geriatric Society of India (FGSI)

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangalore :

Dr. Haroon H., a faculty member in the Department of Internal Medicine at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, was conferred the prestigious Fellowship of the Geriatric Society of India (FGSI) at the convocation ceremony held during the Annual National Conference of the Geriatric Society of India on 14th December 2024 in Cochin, Kerala.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Patron Dr. V. K. Arora, National General Secretary Dr. O. P. Sharma, and President Dr. Sajesh Ashokan.

About Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the health and well-being of elderly individuals. It focuses on managing age-related physical, emotional, and social challenges, with an emphasis on preventive care, chronic disease management, and enhancing the quality of life for the aging population.

About the Geriatric Society of India

The Geriatric Society of India (GSI) is a premier organization committed to advancing geriatric care, education, and research across the country. Through advocacy, training, and collaboration, it aims to improve healthcare standards for senior citizens.

Dr. Haroon’s achievement highlights his dedication to promoting geriatric care, a field of increasing importance given India’s aging population.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / December 15th, 2024

AMU Professor Dr Nishat Afroz gets International Award as ‘Distinguished Researcher in Histopatholgy’ for Research and Innovation in Medical Sciences

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Dr Nishat Afroz receives the international award for research and innovation in medical sciences

Aligarh:

Dr Nishat Afroz, Professor, Department of Pathology, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has been honoured with the award of “Distinguished Researcher in Histopathology” for her contribution and achievement in the discipline of Health and Medical Sciences by the Venus International Foundation.

The award was bestowed upon her at the 10th Annual Research Meet – ARM 2024 on the theme “Diverse Approach to Address Societal Challenges and Deliver Novel Solutions”, organised by the Centre for Research and Innovation – Venus International Foundation at Chennai.

Earlier, Dr Nishat Afroz attended the Pathology Conferences at Subharti Medical College Meerut, Narayana hospital & RN Tagore Medical College, Kolkata and SMS Medical College, Jaipur as guest speaker and workshop convener.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation. Awards> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / December 12th, 2024

Syed Mohammed Hashmi and Husain Ahmed of Osmania Medical College Win the National ‘RBI90 Quiz Competition Trophy 2024’

TELANGANA / Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

Team Telangana comprising Syed Mohammed Hashmi and Husain Ahmed from Osmania Medical College won the final of National RBI90 Quiz conducted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The RBI, India’s central bank, was established on April 1, 1935. This year marks the 90th year of the Bank’s operations. A series of events are being held to commemorate this historic milestone. As part of the events a nationwide quiz was conducted for undergraduate students. The quiz was general in nature and open for participation by students pursuing bachelor’s degree courses across all streams.

In the prize distribution programme held here on December 6, the RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das gave away the trophy, citation and the prize money Rs.10 lakhs to winner team.

In the first round countrywide online contest was conducted.

Students took MCQ format quiz in teams of two. Teams which qualified through the online contest participated in an in-person quiz for the state level round.

State level winners faced Zonal levels-five different zones. This was held in Chandigarh, Kochi, Guwahati, Indore and Bhuvneshwar.

The Zonal winners competed for the top prizes in the final contest.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / December 11th, 2024

From Brick Kiln to Medical College: The Inspirational Journey of Sarfaraz

Purba Medinipur District, WEST BENGAL :

A labourer’s son in West Bengal defies all odds to achieve his dream of becoming a doctor

New Delhi :

In an era where mobile phones are often criticised for their harmful impact on society, the story of 21-year-old Sarfaraz from East Medinipur, West Bengal, shines as a beacon of hope. Once a labourer carrying bricks under the scorching sun, Sarfaraz’s remarkable journey to gaining admission into the prestigious Nil Ratan Sarkar Medical College for an MBBS degree showcases grit, determination, and the transformative power of education.

Born into a family with limited financial resources, Sarfaraz’s childhood was marked by hardships. His father, also a labourer, earned a meagre daily wage, barely enough to feed the family of six. Despite these challenges, Sarfaraz excelled in his studies, harbouring the dream of joining the National Defence Academy (NDA).

An unfortunate accident dashed his NDA aspirations, but Sarfaraz did not let despair consume him. “Life was never easy, but giving up was never an option,” he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought a glimmer of hope in Sarfaraz’s life. With financial assistance from the government, his family bought a smartphone. This device became Sarfaraz’s lifeline, as he used free YouTube tutorials and online ed-tech platforms to prepare for the NEET, India’s highly competitive medical entrance exam.

“I studied through free YouTube videos initially and then enrolled in an online course with a concession in fees. It changed everything for me,” Sarfaraz said.

For three years, Sarfaraz juggled gruelling physical labour and relentless academic preparation. His daily routine involved carrying 400 bricks under the blazing sun for a wage of Rs 300, followed by seven hours of uninterrupted study.

“My father and I would work from morning until afternoon. After that, I would come home and dive into my books. It was difficult, but I never lost sight of my dream,” Sarfaraz explained.

In 2023, Sarfaraz’s NEET score qualified him for a dental college, but the prohibitive costs forced him to forgo the opportunity. Undeterred, he decided to make a final attempt at NEET in 2024.

“I thought, I’ve worked so hard — let’s try one more time. This was my last chance. If I hadn’t succeeded, I would have given up,” he said.

Sarfaraz scored an impressive 677 out of 720 in NEET 2024, securing his place in Nil Ratan Sarkar Medical College.

Behind Sarfaraz’s unwavering determination was his mother’s dream of seeing her son become a doctor. Her sacrifices inspired him to push through every obstacle.

“My mother always wanted me to be a doctor. I promised myself that I would make her dream come true,” Sarfaraz said, his voice filled with emotion.

Now donning a white coat and stethoscope, Sarfaraz is a source of pride not only for his family but also for his entire village.

Sarfaraz’s success has brought hope to his village, where many children often abandon their studies due to financial difficulties. Determined to give back, he has started mentoring young students.

“When I become a doctor, I want to work among the poor. My village folks have supported me throughout this journey, and now it’s my turn to support them,” he said.

Sarfaraz’s story has inspired countless people. His former teacher, who guided him in his early years, remarked, “Sarfaraz always had a spark. Despite his circumstances, he was determined to learn and grow. His success is a testament to his perseverance.”

A fellow villager, moved by his journey, said, “He has proven that no obstacle is insurmountable. He is the pride of our village.”

Sarfaraz’s journey from a labourer at a brick kiln to a medical student serves as a reminder of the potential within every individual, regardless of the circumstances. His story resonates deeply, offering hope to those who dream big despite the odds stacked against them.

“Dreams do come true if you work hard enough,” Sarfaraz said with a smile.

As Sarfaraz begins his medical education, his journey is not just a personal victory but a source of inspiration for countless others. It proves that with determination, resilience, and the right opportunities, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.

source: http://www.clarionindia.com / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> Indian Muslim / by Mohammad Alamullah, Clarion India / November 26th, 2024

Meet 18-year-old Samaira Hullur from Karnataka, among the youngest in India to get commercial pilot licence

Vijayapura, KARNATAKA :

Samaira cleared six examinations and gathered over 200 hours of flying experience in around one-and-a-half years..

An inspiration: Samaira Hullur from Vijayapura who has obtained commercial pilot licence at the age of 18. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Samaira Hullur from Vijayapura has obtained a commercial pilot licence at the age of 18.

Her father Ameen Hullur, an interior designer, has said that she is the youngest in India to clear all tests and get the licence.

Ms. Hullur was trained at the Vinod Yadav Aviation Academy (VYAA) in New Delhi and later, she joined the Carver Aviation Academy in Baramati of Maharashtra.

She cleared six examinations and gathered over 200 hours of flying experience in around one-and-a-half years.

She credits Captain Tapesh Kumar and Vinod Yadav for training and mentoring support. Her initial training was with VYAA after which she faced several examinations and cleared them. She went to Baramati after obtaining her licence. She has about 200 hours flying experience.

Ms. Hullur said that she was inspired by Captain Kumar who got his licence when he was 25. “I always dreamt of being a pilot. My parents supported me in my pursuit,” she said.

Her father Ameen Hullur recalls that it was a joy ride in a helicopter that made her decide on a career in the skies.

A few years ago, the Vijayapura district administration arranged helicopter rides over the city during the Bijapur Utsav.

“We bought tickets and were seated next to the pilot. Samaira was attracted by the pilot’s attire and style and began asking him several questions. He patiently answered them. That was the day she decided she wanted to be a pilot. We supported her by saving money and looking for good quality aviation academies,” Mr. Hullur said.

A bright student all through, she completed her SSLC at 15 and 12th standard at 17. She has been a student of Sainik schools, Shishu Niketan and Shanti Niketan. She has joined the Kendriya Vidyalaya for her 12th standard science course.

“She cleared five of the six examinations conducted by the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation before she turned 18. She was not allowed to appear for the radio transmission technology paper as eligibility was 18 years. She cleared it later. The examinations are apparently tough but she passed all in her first attempt,” Mr. Hullur said.

She obtained over 200 hours of flying experience in night flying and various airplanes, including multi engine aircraft, in around eight months of flying in Baramati, he said.

Mr. Hullur and his wife, a fashion designer and teacher, were pleasantly surprised when her academy declared that she is the youngest in the country to get the licence.

“She is an inspiration for several other girls from backward North Karnataka, where the education levels of girl students is less than the State average,” Omkar Kakade, who is a professor and head of the Department of Journalism in Karnataka Akka Mahadevi Women’s University, said.

“Samaira Hullur’s success will definitely inspire more girls to make courageous and non-traditional career choices. We are proud of her and thankful to her parents for supporting her decision,” Dr. Kakade said.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / December 03rd, 2024

Jeevanadi Cauvery Awards presented to teachers

KARNATAKA :

Mysore/Mysuru:

Ten teachers were  felicitated and presented ‘Jeevanadi Cauvery’ awards in memory of Nambiyapanda Gowru Ponnavva  at a function held in the premises of Akkana Balaga  School in Agrahara in the city on Tuesday.

The award presentation function was jointly organised by Cauvery Balaga and Hiranmayi Pratishtana.

Speaking at the function, writer Bannur K. Raju said it is essential that education and health must be provided to everyone without any bias like in many developed countries.

“Unfortunately in our country, both these vital sectors are in firm grip of private organisations which has deprived both education and health to poor and middle class people,” he regretted saying it has become essential that these two sectors be nationalised in the interest of majority of people in the country.

Teachers S.N. Janaki of Alanahalli Government Lower Primary School, H.D. Kote taluk; M.P. Manjula, Hunsur Govt. Lower Primary School; K. Parveen Taj, Arenahalli Govt. Urdu Lower Primary School, Periyapatna taluk; G. Ratna, Beeregowdanahundi Government Lower Primary School, Mysuru taluk; M.T. Akkamma, Ammathi Govt. Higher Primary School, Virajpet taluk; M. Rani, Head Mistress, Bharati Sthree Samaja Higher Primary School, Yadavagiri in Mysuru; T.S. Maithili, Physical Education teacher, Government Higher Primary School, Vysarajapura, T. Narasipur taluk and M.T. Saralakumari, Head Mistress, Kajoor, Somwarpet taluk were felicitated at the function with ‘Jeevanadi Cauvery’ awards.

City’s renowned Sculptor Appaneravanda Kiran Subbaiah was given a special award.

Noted Danseuse Dr. Tulasi Ramachandra, retired teacher A. Sangappa and artist Dr. Jamuna Rani Mirle spoke at the function.

President of Cauvery Balaga and retired teacher N.K. Kaveriamma, President of Hiranmayi Pratishtana A. Sangappa, Jnana Vignana Samiti District President H.V. Muralidhar, Art teacher Manohar, Social activist Malini R. Palaksha and teacher Anupama were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> News / May 23rd, 2024