Bearys Institute of Technology (BIT), in association with BEADS, successfully organized the Talent Hunt 2025, an in-house entrance examination aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent among II PUC science students. The event was held on April 12, 2025, at the BIT campus, Bearys Knowledge Campus (BKC), near Mangalore University, Innoli.
The event commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Anjum Khan, Faculty of Basic Science, who highlighted the significance of early academic encouragement for budding engineers and architects.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. S.I. Manjur Basha, Principal of BIT, and Architect Khaleel Abdul Razak, Principal of BEADS. They emphasized the value of integrated learning, innovation, and the vision behind offering generous scholarships to meritorious students through such initiatives.
A large number of students participated in the Talent Hunt exam, and up to 100% scholarships were awarded to the most outstanding performers, with all participants receiving a minimum of 10% scholarship on tuition fees.
The results were officially announced by Heena, HR at BIT.
Among the top achievers, Ibrahim Nasim from Yenapoya PU College, Udyavara, secured a 100% scholarship, while Ayishath Sahla (Anugraha PU College, Vitla) and B U Khadeejath Thabsheera (Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam PU, Ira) were awarded 50% scholarships each.
Seven other students received 25% scholarships for their exceptional performance.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Joyson from the Department of Basic Science.
The Kasaragod District Kannada Journalists’ Welfare Association has announced the recipients of its annual Endowment Fund Awards. This year, 21 journalists have been selected for recognition, including Vartha Bharathi Mangaluru Bureau’s senior reporter Satyavati, and Kodagu special correspondent Kandakere Ismail Kodagu.
The award ceremony will take place on May 3 at the Seethangoli Alliance Hall in Kasaragod district. Each endowment award comprises a cash prize, an award certificate, and a memento.
The names of the awardees according to a press release issued by the association are as follows,
Satyavati will be honoured with the Lawyer Muhammad Ibrahim Pare Memorial Award, while Kandakere Ismail Kodagu will receive the Mogarodi Gopalakrishna Melanta Endowment Award. Srinivasa Jokatte from Mumbai, who will receive the Brahmakya Edneer Sri Keshavananda Bharathi Swamiji Memorial Award, and Ganesh Kasaragodu, who will be awarded the Journalist Ravi Belagere Memorial Endowment Award.
Srinivasa Nayak Indaje will be awarded with the Avva Trust Hubballi Endowment, Mallikarjuna Reddy Gondi of Belagavi with Retired senior IAS officer Dr. C. Somashekara Endowment, N. Ravikumar with Hawva Hasan Foundation Kudkoli Endowment, Nagaraja Y. Koppala with Non-resident businessman and art patron Joseph Mathias Dubai Endowment, Iswara Alevoor from Mumbai with KVR Tagore Memorial Award, and Muhammad Ansar Inoli with Freedom Fighter and Former Minister Bhimanna Khandre Endowment.
Others receiving awards include C.J. Puneeth of Mysuru (Economist Sudhir Kumar Shetty Enmakaje Endowment), Venu Vinod of Mangaluru (Somanna Bevinamarad Endowment), Maulana Saab Bidar (Kuluru Kanyana Sadashiva Shetty Endowment), Steven Rego of Mangaluru (Mahabaleshwar Bhat Edakkana Endowment), and KG Nagalakshmi Bai of Bengaluru (Sivashankar Nekraje Endowment).
Also recognized are Iqbal Kuthar (James Mendonsa Endowment), Rama Ajekar (Ashraf Shah Manthur Endowment), Ganesh Kasaragod (KWJ State Committee Endowment), Bhaskar K. Kasaragod (KWJ State Committee Endowment), Ajith Swarga (KWJ Endowment), and Mattikere Jayaram of Mandya, who will be awarded the K.K. Shetty Kuttikar Endowment.
The Kasaragod District Kannada Journalists’ Welfare Association, active for over two decades, works in collaboration with pro-Kannada organizations to promote and preserve Kannada language, culture, and art. The association also acts as a cultural bridge between Kannada and Malayalam-speaking journalists.
The May 3 ceremony will be chaired by the reception committee head K.K. Shetty Kuttikar.
The event will be graced by dignitaries including Karnataka Legislative Council Speaker Basavaraj Horatti, Agriculture Minister Chaluvaraya Swamy, Forest Minister Eshwara Khandre, Karnataka Border Area Development Authority Chairman Somanna Bevinamarada, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor K.V. Prabhakar, Karnataka Working Journalists’ Association President Shivananda Tagadoor, and Kasaragod District Kannada Development Authority President Ravi Naikap, read an official statement.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / April 22nd, 2025
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of education, Iqbal Ahmed, Chairperson of Little Flower Public School and Chairman of Mitra Academy in Bengaluru, was bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award – 2023 by Education Today Magazine.
The ceremony, held at the Taj Hotel Kempegowda International Airport Rd, Bengaluru, on December 11, 2023, celebrated Ahmed’s commitment to educational excellence.
“The accolade is a testament to Mr. Ahmed’s deep-rooted passion for education, driven by a sense of social responsibility. His leadership has not only elevated academic standards within the schools but has also prioritized holistic development, shaping students into well-rounded individuals with both knowledge and character. His dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to educators and learners alike,” a press release stated.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Iqbal Ahmed’s impact on the educational landscape, acknowledging his role in providing exceptional education at an accessible cost.
Expressing gratitude upon receiving the award, Iqbal Ahmed attributed the honour to the collective efforts of the school’s faculty, staff, students, and parents.
In addition to Iqbal Ahmed’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the ceremony also celebrated Tanveer Ahmed, CEO of Mitra Academy and Little Flower Public School, and his wife, Nafeesa Ahmed, Director of Presidency Group of Institutions Bengaluru/Mangaluru, who were honoured with the Power Couple Award for 2023 by Education Today Magazine.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / December 12th, 2023
In the bustling city of Bangalore, where the convergence of tradition and modernity creates a unique educational landscape, Dr Nafeesa Ahmed stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the field of education. Dr Nafeesa has carved out a unique path for herself as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions while also carrying on her father, Dr Nissar Ahmed’s legacy of excellence and innovation.
Dr Nafeesa Ahmed, Director, Presidency Group of Institutions, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Dr Nafeesa’s educational journey is nothing short of impressive. A graduate of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, she holds a Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) degree and pursued postgraduate studies in English literature at Bangalore University. Her commitment to education led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from IGNOU. Venturing beyond Indian shores, Dr Nafeesa enriched her perspective with a Master’s in International Management from Royal Holloway, University of London. This international exposure was instrumental in shaping her understanding of global education trends.
Her dedication to continuous learning took her to the prestigious Harvard School, where she honed her skills in management and leadership. Dr Nafeesa’s academic prowess is underscored by her diverse qualifications, including a BBM, a B.Ed., an MA in English Literature, and a Master’s in International Management. Her educational journey serves as an inspiration, reflecting the importance of a broad and holistic approach to learning.
Leadership at the Presidency Group of Institutions
Taking the reins as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions, Dr Nafeesa has led the K-12 chain of elite institutions with a commitment to “Equal Opportunity in Diversity.” Her vision is to provide high-quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. Focusing on aspects like course structure, pedagogical innovation, and outcome-based evaluation, she has fostered a conducive teaching and learning environment.
During the challenging times of the pandemic, Dr Nafeesa displayed exemplary leadership by seamlessly transitioning the education system from physical to virtual and eventually to a mixed classroom approach. Her leadership has been pivotal in ensuring that the team of highly-qualified educators delivers the finest education to students.
Accolades and Achievements: A Trailblazer in Education
Dr Nafeesa’s journey is adorned with prestigious awards and recognitions, attesting to her significant contributions to the field of education. Notably, she received the Economic Times Power Icon Award for “Exceptional Contribution in Education” in 2020 and was honoured as “The Education Icon of the Year 2021” by Education Today. Her recognition as a ‘Speaker’ at the “APAC 5th Global Education & Skill Conclave” and features in Women Entrepreneurs and Education World India showcase her as a thought leader in the education domain.
A crowning achievement in her illustrious career is the conferral of a Ph.D., Philosophiae Doctor Honoris Causa (HC) in Education Management by Ecole Superieure Robert De Sorbon (ESRDS), France, Europe. The recognition, awarded at The House of Lords, London, is a testament to Dr Nafeesa’s global impact and commitment to educational excellence.
As Dr Nafeesa Ahmed continues to shape the future of education, her journey stands as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of visionary leadership in the realm of academia. In the words of Dr Nafeesa, “My loved ones have been my rock through thick and thin. Having their back has been crucial to my success.” Indeed, her success radiates not only through personal accolades but also through the positive impact she has had on the lives of countless students and educators.
source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook / Home> Brand Studio / by The Outlook Bureau / March 08th, 2024
The Presidency Group of Institutions (PGI) hosted INSPIR’Ed Awards 2025 on Saturday on the Presidency University campus. The event honoured teaching and non-teaching staff for their contributions to education and service within the Presidency Institutions.
Author Anita Nair and former IPS officer and cybersecurity expert Sanjay Sahay were chief guests at the event. They emphasised the significant role educators play in national development.
Nafeesa Ahmed, Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions, spoke about the central role of teachers in guiding students and strengthening communities.
Kauser Nissar Ahmed, Founder Trustee, expressed appreciation for everyone involved in the growth of the Presidency Schools. Dr. Nissar Ahmed, Chairman of PGI and Founder Chancellor of Presidency University, reflected on his five-decade journey in the field of education.
Awards were presented in several categories, including: Long Service Award, Institutional Legacy Award, Best Teacher Award, Rising Star Award.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / by The Hindu Bureau / April 14th, 2025
The Anjuman Institute of Technology and Management (AITM), Bhatkal, successfully hosted the AITM CodeFest 2025, a 24-hour national-level hackathon that saw participation from student teams across the country. The event, held on the AITM campus, concluded on Sunday evening with a grand valedictory function celebrating the winners and appreciating all participants for their innovative tech solutions and collaborative spirit.
A total of 30 teams participated in the overnight coding challenge, working intensively on real-world problems to develop creative and impactful solutions.
The results were announced by AITM Principal Dr. K Fazlur Rahman at the valedictory ceremony. Team CrashMax, represented by Abul Khair from Yenepoya Institute of Technology, Mangalore, won the first prize of ₹60,000.
The second prize of ₹30,000 was awarded to Team Cyphernova, comprising Hemanth C S and Mohamed Kamran from the National Institute of Engineering, Mysore.
Team Hustlers.dev, featuring Ahamed Ali Z, Syed Iyanulla, and S Tejas from GM Institute of Technology, Davanagere, secured the third prize of ₹15,000.
Apart from the top three teams, the top ten performing teams also received special cash prizes in recognition of their efforts and exceptional coding solutions.
The judging panel for the hackathon included industry professionals and AITM alumni, including Mohsin Khan, Founder of Niveus Solutions; Mubeen Jukaku, Technology Head at Emertxe Information Technologies; and Waseem Ahmed, Founder of Wynteam Global and Director at RaqMEA. They were joined by Dr. J. Anvar Shathik, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, and Dr. Daniel Francis, Professor in the same department.
The valedictory ceremony began with a welcome address by Registrar Prof. Zahid Kharuri.
Participants expressed their satisfaction with the event, highlighting the learning experience, teamwork, and mentorship they received. AITM Secretary Mohiddin Ruknaddin congratulated the students and the organizing team, while Event Coordinator Farkhalit Rida delivered the vote of thanks, marking the successful conclusion of the event.
The CodeFest was supported by several sponsors and partners. Niveus Solutions was the Title Partner, DigiScrypt Technologies was the Organizing Partner, and Mohtisham Builders, SproutXP, iTecs Solutions, Emertxe Technologies, Tahoora, and Wynteam Global were Associate Partners.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / April 14th, 2025
Eva Fathima Basheer, a Grade 3 student of GEMS Millennium School, Sharjah, has been recognised by the India Book of Records for her exceptional feat of reading English storybooks for the longest uninterrupted duration by a child.
At just nine years old, Eva read aloud from six English storybooks for 4 hours, 31 minutes, and 38 seconds without a break. She received the India Book of Records Achievers Award for this accomplishment at a ceremony held on 29 March 2025 at the organisation’s centre in Faridabad, Haryana.
Apart from this record, Eva has excelled in academics, securing gold medals in various national and international Olympiads conducted by reputed institutions. She is also actively involved in extra-curricular and social activities, including cleanliness drives, environmental awareness campaigns, fundraising efforts, and promoting safety practices.
Eva’s interests extend to writing stories, poems, and articles, as well as drawing and singing.
She hails from Aramboor in Sullia, Dakshina Kannada, and currently lives in Sharjah with her parents.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / March 29th, 2025
Shakhapur Village, KARNATAKA / NEW DELHI / Bokharo, JHARKHAND:
Dr. Majid Ahmed Talikoti
The India GCC (Gulf Corporation Council) Trade Council has announced renowned oncologist surgeon Dr Majid Ahmed as its Honorary Health commissioner.
Dr. Talikoti was recently recognised as one of the 100 most influential Indian Muslim figures by Muslim Mirror. He is a chairman of a ‘Medicant Hospital’ in Jharkhand’s Bokaro. The hospital is known and praised for treating patients at very affordable fees.
In an event in Delhi, Dr. Talikoti was presented with the appointment letter of honorary health commissioner. The India-GCC Trade Council presented the offer recognising his contributions in the field of oncology and his health initiatives between India and Gulf countries.
Accepting the letter, doctor talikoti said the role offered to me is a significant step and I am eager to contribute to health initiatives that bridge India and Gulf countries together. Let’s work to build strong diplomatic ties and healthy Nations across borders.
Earlier, Dr Talikoti had gained recognition in Dubai and was awarded with Healthcare “Excellence Asian Arab Award 2025.”
Her dedication to enhancing people’s quality of life sets her apart. With patience, empathy and strong communication skills at the core of her work, she has built deep connections with those she serves.
Introducing Irfana Husen, whose unwavering commitment to understanding the challenges faced by individuals with speech and hearing impairments not only improves their lives but also highlights the power of compassion in transforming communities.
In this special interview with Star of Mysore on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Irfana shares her journey, insights and the driving force behind her mission to create a more inclusive world. —Excerpts:
Star of Mysore (SOM): Tell us about the significance of the ‘Karnataka Brain Health Initiative’ and your involvement in it.
Irfana: The Karnataka Brain Health Initiative (KABHI), launched by the Government of Karnataka in collaboration with National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), aims to facilitate the early identification and management of neurological disorders such as stroke, epilepsy, dementia and headache. The initiative has established Brain Health Clinics in District Hospitals, integrating neurological care into primary healthcare.
My role involves assessing and rehabilitating patients with speech, language and swallowing disorders caused by neurological conditions. I work closely with neurologists, physiotherapists and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. Additionally, I actively participate in awareness campaigns and trainings to promote brain health and early diagnosis.
SOM: What inspired you to take up this profession?
Irfana: My motivation to pursue Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology was shaped by my experiences at the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Mysuru. Witnessing children seeking help ignited my passion for a field that can profoundly impact individuals with communication and hearing challenges. Many children suffer due to late diagnoses and societal stigma, which inspired me to focus on early detection, rehabilitation and community education. My goal is to bridge this knowledge gap and ensure communication accessibility for all, especially for children with disabilities, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
SOM: How do you demonstrate patience, empathy and effective communication in your profession?
Irfana: These qualities are essential for building strong connections with patients, especially children with disabilities. Patience is crucial, as progress can be slow, particularly for individuals with speech delays or autism.
I tailor each session to their pace, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment. Empathy allows me to understand the struggles faced by individuals with speech and hearing impairments. I actively listen to both patients and their families, providing them with emotional support throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Strong communication skills enable me to simplify complex medical information for families, ensuring they understand the treatment process. Additionally, these skills help me collaborate effectively with other professionals, ensuring holistic care.
Awareness programme in the Maternity Ward of District Hospital, Mysuru.
SOM: How do you provide guidance to patients and their families regarding their health issues and treatment options? What about children with special needs?
Irfana: Counselling patients and their families requires compassion and clear communication. I hear their concerns, provide emotional support and simplify medical explanations to help them better understand their condition and treatment. For families with children with disabilities, I emphasise the importance of early intervention, educate them on the benefits of therapy and set realistic expectations for progress.
When working with children with special needs, I build trust through play-based therapy, incorporating sensory tools and visual aids to make sessions engaging and effective. I tailor therapy to each child’s strengths and use positive reinforcement to encourage their progress.
SOM: What is the most difficult part of being an Audiologist and Speech Pathologist?
Irfana: The most challenging aspect is addressing the emotional needs of children with disabilities and patients with severe neurological disorders. Families often struggle to accept diagnoses, especially after life-altering events like strokes or brain injuries.
Balancing emotional support with therapy can be demanding, as slow progress sometimes leads to frustration. However, witnessing patients regain communication skills and achieve milestones makes it all worthwhile.
SOM: In what ways do you believe the current lifestyle of young individuals will impact their hearing?
Irfana: The modern lifestyle, particularly excessive headphone use and exposure to loud music, poses a significant risk to hearing health. Prolonged exposure to high-volume sounds, noisy environments and poor ear hygiene can lead to noise-induced hearing loss.
Individuals should limit exposure to loud noises, avoid using cotton swabs for ear cleaning and maintain proper ear hygiene. A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding tobacco can improve blood circulation and nerve function.
SOM: Can you share some tips on maintaining composure and managing time? How do you handle stress?
Irfana: To maintain composure and balance multiple responsibilities, I rely on structured planning, prioritisation and self-care. Creating a daily schedule and setting realistic goals helps me stay organised and efficient.
When dealing with stress, I adopt a calm and solution-oriented approach. Taking short breaks allows me to reset and refocus. Most importantly, the unwavering support of my family keeps me strong. Spending quality time with my children and engaging in activities that bring me joy helps me rejuvenate.
SOM: What message would you like to give to youngsters who want to pursue a career in your field?
Irfana: They must be patient and committed to making a difference in people’s lives. It is not just about diagnosing and treating communication and hearing disorders — it’s about giving individuals a voice, restoring their ability to connect and improving their quality of life.
The demand for skilled professionals is growing, with opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools, research and private practice.
SOM: How do you define women empowerment?
Irfana: Women empowerment is about enabling women to access their rights, opportunities and confidence to make independent choices. It involves ensuring equal participation in all fields while dismantling societal barriers.
True empowerment is achieved when women attain financial independence, social respect and control over their decisions — both in their careers and personal lives.
ACADEMICS & PROFESSION
Irfana Husen holds a Master of Science in Audiology from Dr. Chandrasekar Institute in Bengaluru and a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing from JSS Institute, Mysuru.
Beginning her career at AIISH in 2010, she specialised in advanced assessments and has accumulated over a decade of expertise in healthcare and rehabilitation.
From 2011 to 2013, she gained clinical and research experience at the Samvaad Institute and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Hospital in Bengaluru. Between 2013 and 2016, she served as a Speech Therapist and Audiology Specialist at Shifaa Hospital.
From 2018 to 2024, she contributed to the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre in Mysuru, supporting individuals with disabilities. In her current role, she focuses on speech and swallowing disorders related to neurology.
Beyond her clinical work, Irfana is passionate about advocating for disability rights and actively engages in community interventions and awareness programmes.
In her personal time, she enjoys travelling, cooking and cherishing moments with her children.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / by Shadan Muneer / March 13th, 2025
Muhammad Bishr Karaya from Karaya in Uppinangady has achieved an 11th rank in the prestigious Yamani Degree Examination, conducted by Shamshul Ulama E.K. Aboobacker Musliyar Memorial Islamic Centre, Jamia Yamaniyya, in Kuttikkattoor, Kozhikode, Kerala.
Bishr, who serves as the Executive Secretary of the SKSSF Karaya Unit, has been recognized for his academic excellence in Islamic studies.
He is the son of KH Hamid Musliyar, a teacher at Karaya Badriya Juma Masjid, and Hazra. His achievement has brought pride to his family, institution, and community
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 11th, 2025
