Category Archives: Education

Empowering Futures: The Role of Centre for Training and Academic Guidance (CTAG)

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

Through its dedication, sensitivity, and comprehensive approach, CTAG empowers individuals from socio-economically weaker backgrounds to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

In the pursuit of a brighter future for all, particularly those from socio-economically weaker backgrounds, initiatives like the Centre for Training and Academic Guidance (CTAG) play a pivotal role. CTAG, a non-profit organization under the auspices of the Human Welfare Foundation, is dedicated to providing career counseling and guidance to students hailing from such backgrounds.

In this exclusive interview, Ayesha Sultana, Assistant Editor of Radiance and an educator and academician by profession, engages in a conversation with Faizy Rahman, a dynamic individual with a diverse educational background, holding a BTECH in Mechanical Engineering from DTU and an MA in Psychology from DU. Currently serving as the Centre In-Charge of CTAG, Mr. Rahman brings a unique blend of technical expertise and psychological insight to his role. With her keen interest in initiatives aimed at empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds, Ayesha delves into CTAG’s mission and impact through her insightful questions.

Q: Could you provide an overview of CTAG’s mission and objectives?

A: CTAG’s mission is to provide career counseling and guidance to students from socio-economically weaker sections of society. We aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed career decisions, thereby opening doors to brighter futures.

Q: What inspired the establishment of CTAG, and how does it aim to make a difference in the lives of its beneficiaries?

A: CTAG was established to address the barriers faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds in accessing career guidance. By providing personalized guidance and support, we strive to empower our beneficiaries to pursue fulfilling career paths aligned with their interests and aptitudes.

Q: Can you elaborate on the services and programs offered by CTAG to achieve its objectives?

A: Certainly. CTAG offers a range of services including psychometric assessments, individual counseling sessions, group workshops, career awareness workshops, and scholarship support. Additionally, we provide training programs for teachers and counseling professionals to enhance their skills in guiding students effectively.

Q: How does CTAG ensure its guidance and assessments are culturally sensitive, particularly in states across North India?

A: Cultural sensitivity is integral to our approach at CTAG. We tailor our assessments and guidance to suit the cultural backgrounds of our students, ensuring that our services are relevant and effective. By understanding and respecting cultural nuances, we aim to build trust and rapport with our beneficiaries.

Q: What initiatives does CTAG undertake to engage with the community and raise awareness about career guidance?

A: CTAG actively engages with communities through outreach programs, workshops, and seminars to raise awareness about the importance of career guidance. We collaborate with local organizations, schools, and colleges to reach a wider audience and provide valuable insights into career options and opportunities.

Q: As CTAG expands its reach, what are some future goals and aspirations for the organization?

A: Our future goals include expanding our reach to underserved communities across India and enhancing the quality and accessibility of our services. We aim to leverage technology and innovation to reach more individuals and provide them with the guidance and support they need to pursue their aspirations.

Q: How does CTAG measure its impact and success in empowering individuals from socio-economically weaker backgrounds?

A: CTAG evaluates its impact through various metrics including the number of beneficiaries served, feedback from beneficiaries and their success stories, partnerships formed with educational institutions and community organizations, and post-counselling tracking of students. We continuously assess and refine our programs to ensure they effectively meet the needs of our beneficiaries.

Q: What kind of help do you provide after career guidance for placements?

A: We offer an Employability Enhancement Program which includes assistance on how to face an interview and writing CVs.

Q: What else does CTAG offer besides career guidance?

A: CTAG also provides training for teachers and mentors, as well as one-day career guidance counselor workshops. Additionally, we offer a Career Guide Training Program for individuals interested in becoming professional career counselors. We also conduct a 5-day program for comprehensive guidance, annually.

Q: How can individuals access all the information provided by CTAG?

A: We have a career library and an updated website which provide information on various courses, admissions, university notifications, etc.

Individuals can access information through our website, www.ctag.in and/or contact us via WhatsApp at 72919 20374.

In a world where opportunities are often scarce, organizations like CTAG serve as beacons of hope, guiding individuals towards brighter futures. Through its dedication, sensitivity, and comprehensive approach, CTAG empowers individuals from socio-economically weaker backgrounds to pursue their dreams and aspirations. As it continues to expand its reach and impact, CTAG remains committed to shaping careers and transforming lives for the better.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Face to Face / by Ayesha Sultana, Radiance News Bureau / May 05th, 2024

JIH Jamshedpur Honors Kahkasha Parveen for Perfect NEET-2024 Score

Agriculture (since June 07th, 2021), Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jamshedpur, JHARKHAND :

Jamshedpur :

Kahkasha Parveen, a resident of Baganshahi Road No. 7 under Azadnagar Police Station in Mango, has been felicitated for achieving a perfect score of 720 out of 720 in the NEET examination. The accolades poured in at a prestigious ceremony organized by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Jamshedpur in Azadnagar’s conference hall.

The event, graced by Dr. Arifa Khursheed, a distinguished specialist in women’s health, saw Kahkasha Parveen lauded for her remarkable dedication and perseverance in pursuing a career in medicine. Dr. Khursheed emphasized the challenges Kahkasha overcame, noting that her achievement reflects both her academic excellence and personal resilience.

Kahkasha, a source of immense pride for her community in Baganshahi, was joined by others including Tasneem, Kulsum Anwar, Mahrukh Parveen, and Rimsha Ara, who were also recognized for their contributions to society.

Prof. Anjum Ara, representing the Women’s Wing of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Jharkhand, highlighted the solidarity and support extended to Kahkasha during her academic journey, underscoring the community’s unwavering unity in difficult times.

The ceremony, overseen by Amaan Sadiq, included expressions of gratitude by Shahnavaz Qamar on behalf of the gathering.

Notable figures such as Master Ashfaq Anwar, Tanveer Akhtar Romani, and Khursheed Akram Ansari extended their heartfelt congratulations to Kahkasha and her family.

Kahkasha Parveen, with aspirations to serve as a doctor, has pledged to provide free medical care to the underprivileged, underscoring her commitment to community service and welfare.

In another gesture of felicitation, various community leaders and well-wishers visited Kahkasha’s residence. They included Azadnagar Police Station in-charge Rakesh Kumar Singh, Sidhgora Police Station in-charge Ghulam Rabbani Khan, Syed Naushad of Tatanagar Railway Station, and Azadnagar Police Station Peace Committee Secretary Mukhtar Alam Khan. Haji Mohammad Ilyas, Rizwanuj Jama, Syed Asif Akhtar of Al Kabir Polytechnic College, Syed Saifuddin Asdak, Imam of Hussaini Masjid and Founder Chairman of Paigam-e-Islam, Master of Dawat-e-Islami Jamil Ansari all presented bouquets, shared sweets, and conveyed their immense pride and congratulations to Kahkasha Parveen and her family.

Kahkasha’s father, Mohammad Abbas, a fruit seller, and her mother were specifically acknowledged for their unwavering support that played a pivotal role in their daughter’s grand success.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education / by Radiance News Bureau / June 13th, 2024

Aysha Merchant secures 3rd rank in interior design course at Mangalore University

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangalore, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru :

Aysha Merchant, a student of Indian Design School, has secured the 3rd rank in the Interior Design course at Mangalore University. This achievement highlights her hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence in the field of interior design.

Aysha’s journey in interior design began with a passion for creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.

‘Throughout her course, she consistently demonstrated an exceptional eye for detail and a deep understanding of design principles. Her projects, which often blended innovation with practicality, earned her high praise from both peers and faculty members,’ a press release from the institution stated.

‘During her time at Indian Design School, Aysha participated in numerous design competitions and workshops, further honing her skills and expanding her knowledge. Her ability to think outside the box and her keen sense of style set her apart, making her a standout student in her class,’ the release added.

The 3rd rank at Mangalore University opens up numerous opportunities for her future in the interior design industry.

Aysha expressed her gratitude to her family, friends, and mentors who supported her throughout her academic journey. She said, “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my loved ones and the guidance of my professors. I’m excited to embark on the next chapter of my career and to continue exploring the limitless possibilities in interior design .”

‘As she moves forward, Aysha aims to contribute to the field of interior design by combining her academic knowledge with practical experience. She is enthusiastic about creating unique, sustainable, and innovative designs that can transform spaces and enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities,’ it added.

Aysha Merchant’s accomplishment is a proud moment for Indian Design School and Mangalore University. It shows the quality of education and training provided by the institution and serves as an inspiration to other students pursuing their dreams in the creative arts.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home>Karavali / May 27th, 2024

First rank to Sayyed Reha Qadri, Gold Medallist in MSc Chemistry, Mangalore University

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Udupi , KARNATAKA :

Udupi: 

Three students of Dr. G Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Post Graduate Study Centre scored high ranks in the post-graduate exams conducted by Mangalore University for the academic year 2022-23.

Sayyed Reha Qadri, one of the students, has been awarded a gold medal for scoring 8.65 CGPA in MSc Chemistry.

M Preethi Acharya and Nidhi N Pai have scored second and fifth ranks, respectively, in M. Com., a press release from the college stated.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 08th, 2024

AMU Mourns the Demise of Prof Seemin Hasan

Education, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH:

Prof Naima Khatoon, Dr Hamida Tariq, Prof Subuhi Khan and others during the condolence meeting of Seemin Hasan

Aligarh :

The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) community gathered to honor the memory of the late Prof Seemin Hasan, who passed away on May 23.

During a heartfelt condolence meeting organized by the AMU Women’s Club, Vice Chancellor Prof Naima Khatoon paid rich tributes to Prof Hasan, reminiscing about their days together in Abdullah Hall. She prayed for Prof Hasan’s soul to find peace in Jannah and offered solace to her family and friends.

Prof Hasan, a senior faculty member in the Department of English and a valued member of the AMU Women’s Club, was remembered fondly by her colleagues and friends.

Dr. Hameeda Tariq, the founding Patron of the Club, highlighted Prof Hasan’s exceptional abilities as a professional, a friend, and her remarkable culinary skills.

Prof Azarmi Dukh Safavi, former President of the Club and former Dean of the Faculty of Arts, spoke of Prof Hasan’s caring and generous nature. Prof Syeda Nuzhat Zeba, current President of the AMU Women’s Club, praised Prof Hasan’s exemplary character and recounted their long-standing professional and personal relationship.

Prof Subuhi Khan, Secretary of the AMU Women’s Club, expressed the profound sense of loss felt by the community, describing Prof Hasan as a great source of inspiration. Dr. Faiza Abbasi, Director of the UGC MMTTC and founding Joint Secretary of the Club, lauded Prof Hasan as an outstanding English scholar and gracious teacher, emphasizing her role as a diligent role model.

On behalf of the family, Prof Hasan’s son, Dr. Saif, paid rich tributes to his mother and thanked the club members for their support during this difficult time. He mentioned that AMU was integral to her identity and announced the family’s intention to establish an endowment in her name. This endowment will fund commemorative lectures, literary and scholastic events, and quality publications at the university.

The condolence message was handed over to Prof Abrar Hasan, Prof Seemin Hasan’s husband and former Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, by Vice Chancellor Prof Naima Khatoon, Secretary Prof Subuhi Khan, and other club members.

A two-minute silence was observed in memory of Prof Hasan.

Prof Seemin Hasan is survived by her husband, Prof Abrar Hasan, and her sons, Dr. Saif and Dr. Shabih.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / June 10th, 2024

NEET 2024: Arjun of Expert PU College secures first rank, Expert College creates history

Education, Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA:

Mangalore :

Arjun Kishore of Expert PU College Mangalore has created a new history by securing the first rank in the National Entrance and Eligibility Test for Undergraduate Medical Course this year. By scoring 720 of 720 marks Arjun has brought to the college the distinction of securing the first rank at the national level for the first time.

Its a matter of pride for Mangalore that has been recognised as the hub of education in the world map.

Of the total 1551 students of the college 1508 ie, 97% students have secured eligibility this year. While 14 students have scored 700 and more marks 55 students have scored more than 675 marks.

The same way, 109 students scored more than 650 marks, 176 students more than 625, 271 students more than 600 , 359 students more than 575, 451 students more than 550, 534 students more than 525 , 628 students more than 500, 731 students more than 475, 815 students nore than 450, 895 students more than 425 and 977 students scored more than 400 marks.

Sanjana Santhosh Katti of the college who scored 715 of 720 marks secured AIR 255, Utsav R who score 710 marks secured AIR 533, Aman Abdul Hakim with same marks scored AIR 592, Vignesh M R with 705 marks secured 1114 AIR, Mihir Girish Kamath scoring 705 got AIR1164, Sai Bheshaj G scoring 705 marks got AIR 1223, Lingaraj Hiremath scored 700 marks and secured 1708th rank, Pranav Tata R scored 700 marks and got AIR 173700 Pratheek P Gowda with 700 marks secured 1931 AIR, Akash S Kanakavadi scored 700 marks and got 2013th rank, Sanjan D with 700 marks secured AIR 2110, Swastik Akhil Sharma got 700 marks at 2197th rank and Lochan B H with 700 marks secured 2198th rank.

Among other top scorers we have Mahiz Umar securing 2717 th rank ( 696) , Suhas M 2813 th rank( 695), Srujan P Kallagonal 3092nd rank ( 695), Abhiram Bhat 3166th rank( 695), Srujan Shankar Hirereddy 3214 AIR,( 695), Yashwanth V A 3237 AIR ( 695) , Chirag M Yaligar 3925 AIR( 691), Balasubramanya S K 4317th rank( 600 ), Amar Sanchi 4714rd rank( 690), Nihar SR 690, Gowtham Gowda M J 687, Nesar Mahesh Kumar Saavlekar 686, Himani Patil 686, Rahul M Kalloli 686, Harshith Kamath 685, Adithya Anande 685, Mohammad Sohal Sanadi 685, Sarvajya Basavaraj Hubbali 685, Adithya Rittiganiger 685, Pushyanth Sha M R 681, Abhay R Bhaktha681, Dhanvi K 681, Pranav P Achar 681, Anvitha B N 680, Sai Prajwal Patil 680, Nithin Menezes 680, Rufaida S V 678, Nikitha Y Revadkundi 678, Sanvi M R 678, Achinthya Mottengar 677, Lakshmikanth G 677, Anvith S Patil 676, Sarthak Gani 676, Tejas G Kavali 676, S S Yashas Gowda 675, Nehal Reddy 675, Shashwath Gowda A 675, Amoghavarsha Nesari 675, and Irfan Tahsildar with 675 marks.

While 56 percent students secured eligibty at the national level at Expert the percentage of students securing eligibility is 97, said Prof Narendra L Nayak, the chairman. In the KCET 2024 Nihar S R of Expert PU College Mangalore has secured first rank BNYS and BSc Agriculture. He secured a total of 6 ranks across seven categories of KCET.

The chairman Prof Narendra L Nayak and the Vice Chairperson Dr Ushaprabha addressed the media men .

The Principals of Expert Colleges- Prof Ramachandra Bhat and Dr Vijayan, Sri Ankush the IT Director, Mr Subrahmanya Udupa, Mr Shyam Prasad, Mr Vinay Kumar, Mr Gurudath, Mr Karunakar Balkur, the rank holders and their parents were present in the press meet

source: http://www.mangaloretoday.com / Mangalore Today / Home> Main News / by Mangalore Today News Network / June 06th, 2024

Jamia Middle School’s Headmistress Nusrat Jahan Awarded ‘Best District Principal for Promoting STEM Excellence’ by Academic Council of the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF)

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

Nusrat Jahan, the headmistress of Jamia Middle School at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), has been honored with the Best District Principal Award for the academic session 2023-24 by the Academic Council of the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF).

This prestigious award recognizes her exemplary leadership, commitment to academic excellence, and innovative initiatives that have significantly enhanced scientific and mathematical aptitude among her students.

Under Jahan’s leadership, Jamia Middle School saw remarkable achievements, with 72 students earning Gold medals in the Olympiad during the 2023-2024 academic year.

The Science Olympiad Foundation, known for its dedication to promoting STEM education globally, acknowledged Jahan’s transformative initiatives and their positive impact on both students and faculty.

The award comes after a rigorous selection process, considering 79,400 schools from over 1,400 cities across 70 countries that participated in this year’s Olympiad examination. Jahan attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of the school’s dedicated teaching staff and the hard work of the students.

Prof Mohammad Shakeel, the officiating vice-chancellor of JMI, congratulated Jahan on her outstanding achievement and praised her relentless dedication to student success and school improvement. Jahan’s deep knowledge, leadership skills, and pleasant personality have been pivotal in driving the school’s achievements and earning this distinguished award.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / June 08th, 2024

Melkar Women’s PU College, bags MEIF’s ‘Excellence Award’

Amazing Feats, Education, Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

Bantwal (Mangaluru), KARNATAKA :

Melkar Women’s PU College, Marnabail, has been awarded with ‘Excellence Award’ by Muslim Educational Institutions Federation (MEIF) for achieving cent percent results in 2nd PUC in science, commerce and arts for the academic year 2024.

S M Rashid Hanji, chairman of Mangaluru Education Enhancement Trust (MEET) received the award on behalf of the management committee of the college during the recent MEIF annual conference held in Mangaluru.

Mohammed Farhaad, pro chancellor of Yenepoya University; Nisar Ahmed, chancellor of Presidency University; Syed Mohammad Beary, chairman of Bearys Group of Institution; Musabba Beary, chairman of MEIF; Iqbal Ahmed, Umar Teekay and others were present.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daiji World / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal (VP) / June 03rd, 2024

Amina Arif Kadiwala, an urdu medium student from Mumbai bags AIR 1 in NEET UG 2024

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Amina Arif Kadiwala

Amina Arif Kadiwala, an Urdu medium student, has achieved an extraordinary feat by securing the first position in the All India NEET UG 2024 examination. Hailing from Madni High School in Jogeshwari, Mumbai, Amina outshone approximately 25 lakh students across India to claim the top spot. Her success is particularly remarkable given the competitive nature of the exam and the high level of preparation required.

Amina’s journey to the pinnacle of NEET UG 2024 is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and perseverance. As an SSC student from an Urdu medium background, she faced numerous challenges but remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence. Her achievement has not only brought pride to her family and school but also serves as an inspiration to countless other students from similar backgrounds.

Madni High School, known for its commitment to providing quality education, played a significant role in nurturing Amina’s talent. The school’s supportive environment and dedicated teachers provided her with the guidance and resources needed to excel in her studies. Amina’s accomplishment underscores the importance of providing equal educational opportunities to students from all linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds.

Aspiring to study MBBS, Kadiwala has studied till class 10 in Urdu and then took admission into SVKM’s Mithibai College. She completed her schooling at Madni High School, Jogeshwari.

She revealed that initially, it was a challenge for her as she was weak in English, but slowly she learned the language and aced the exam

Amina’s success story has garnered widespread acclaim and admiration. Her exceptional performance in the NEET UG 2024 has opened doors to some of the best medical colleges in the country, paving the way for a promising career in medicine. As she embarks on this new journey, Amina is determined to continue working hard and making a positive impact in the field of healthcare.

In an era where the importance of education cannot be overstated, Amina Arif Kadiwala’s achievement stands as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring students across India, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, any obstacle can be overcome.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Staff / June 05th, 2024

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui is on a mission to smarten Urdu school students

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA:

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui And his wife Zahida with students during a quiz programme

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui, founder and chairman of Quiz Time, Mumbai, has organized more than 275 general knowledge quiz shows to promote the Urdu language across the megacity of Mumbai.

Committed to the promotion of the Urdu language and education in Mumbai, Siddiqui has been holding general knowledge quiz competitions in modern style for more than three decades.

He is so popular among students who are learning Urdu that as soon as he reaches a school, children gheroa him. They run towards him chanting “Uncle Hamid Iqbal aa gaye…”

Iqbal Siddiqui received the title of “Superstar of Urdu Students” long ago. besides, The Times of India publication has also honoured him with the title of “City Angel.”

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui delivering a motivational lecture

Siddiqui told Awaz-the Voice that apart from their syllabi, today’s children must have a good knowledge of arts, science, sports, technology, politics, civilization and culture, film, medicine, history, mathematics, current affairs (current affairs), etc.

“It plays an important role in a child’s success in life. If we look at our education and job entry examinations, it cannot be denied that questions in general knowledge are asked in almost every examination and this percentage is quite high. If attention is paid to this aspect from the early stage of children, the preparation process for any competitive exam can be started from the primary school.”

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui said that it was during 1992-93 that he and some of his close friends decided to do something for the youth. “I was given the responsibility of teaching General Knowledge. I used to conduct Islamic quiz competitions in madrasas during my student days. I also used to make Islamic quiz programs on the streets by putting up a stage in a street, However, those programs were also quite popular among the students. Therefore, I did not face any particular difficulty in organizing the General Knowledge Quiz competitions.”

Siddiqui says that even before the advent of quiz shows on television, he had been conducting general knowledge quiz competitions with music, and full pomp and show. At the end of the program, children are awarded prizes, and Siddiqui also presented gifts to their parents and their teachers.

“We presented a gift to each participant in the general knowledge competition. We value his hard work more than winning and losing,” Siddiqui said.

Hamid Iqbal the presentation of prizes to all participants made him quite popular. He says once he distributes prizes worth rs one lakh.

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui with teachers of urdu school

Quizmaster Hamid Iqbal says that it has been wrongly projected that there are no employment opportunities for those studying the Urdu language.

“Those who follow the outdated way of thinking and feel inferior are the ones. They are harming Urdu. Even today, Urdu is the source of livelihood for millions of people in our country. Urdu culture is still very attractive.”

He said that when Urdu is connected with modern technology, higher education, fashion, and entertainment many new opportunities of jobs will flow.

Hamid Iqbal has been working on sustaining and improving the quality of Urdu schools for years. “When the era of e-learning came, he introduced it in Urdu schools. We are continuing with that project without charging the school fees,” he said.

While visiting a school, he always carried chocolates and small gifts for the students. He asks the students questions during his lecture and gives away chocolates and gifts to those who reply or even attempt to reply correctly.

He however regrets the fact that there is no significant change in their condition. “In these schools, no special attention is paid to general knowledge.”

He narrates an incident. During his visit, he asked students the name of the President of the country and the reply was Narendra Modi. They didn’t know who the chief minister of the State was. “I realized that despite conducting General Knowledge Quiz competitions for 26-27 years, there is still a lot of work to be done. That’s why I am paying special attention and giving lectures in Urdu schools to change the mindset and trigger their minds to seek information and knowledge.”

In 1999, Quiztime Mumbai organized the first Inter-School General Knowledge Quiz Competition. The success of this large-scale program encouraged them to continue the trend in 2024 with the 23rd Annual General Knowledge Quiz Competition ‘Dhamal’. 2024′ was successfully organized in February. Fifty schools participated in this competition. A team of three students from each school participated.

A special feature of Dhamal 2024 was that not four but six teams were selected for the competition and they were awarded with trophies and prizes.

Siddiqui’s wife Zahida is the backbone of his operation. Zahida is a teacher in a government school and she spends a part of her salary on Urdu General Knowledge Quiz competitions.

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui with award winners

“She is also my like-minded friend and a friend of Urdu. Ever since she joined us, the quality of our quiz competitions has improved even more. Acknowledging his wife’s talent,” Hamid Iqbal says that Zahida is the best organizer.

Born in 1958 in Mumbai, Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui is the grandson of Allama Seemab Akbarabadi. His family has been serving the Urdu language for more than a hundred years. He has been working as an assistant editor of the 93-year magazine Shayar published in Mumbai.

This literary magazine has been banned for some time now. However, he writes a column for the Urdu newspaper Daily Inquilab. Interestingly, Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui is a trained designer; he is also fond of poetry.

Siddiqui continues to participate in national and international Mushairas. Hamid Iqbal says there have been occasions when he had to choose between attending a Mushaira and children’s quiz competition, he settled in favour of children.

Siddiqui commands an interesting personality, has a charming voice, and speaks polished Urdu. When he picks the mike, the audience is smitten by his way of speaking. He does not let his words burden the environment. The children who participate in Hamid Iqbal’s programs remember him forever. He is very happy. “when I go out, many people coFlecme and greet me. Students who are under study meet me as well as those who are now holding high positions when they mention me.”

Siddiqui has no children and he keeps showering his love, compassion, and sincerity on children.

A few years ago, he wanted to expand his work. he decided to find scribes in the Urdu educational institutions.

Apart from this, he organizes the program ‘Urdu ki Mohabbat Mein‘ every year under the banner of Quiz Time Mumbai. he awards a person who has worked selflessly for the promotion of the language. The award is called ‘Mohab Urdu Honour‘ He has seven books on General Knowledge to his credit so far.

Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui says that Urdu is a complete, modern, and living language. Like all the living languages ​​of the world, science, history, geography, and other modern sciences should be taught in Urdu. However, he says, a lot of hard work, effort, and struggle is needed to improve the quality of the education at these schools.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Shah Taj Khan, Pune / May 31st, 2024