Dr. Mustafa Basthikodi, Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management (SCEM), Mangaluru, has been appointed as a Member of the 9th Academic Senate of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi.
The appointment was officially notified through the Karnataka Governor’s Secretariat Notification (No. GS 06 TUM 2025) dated June 25, 2025, under Section 22 of the VTU Act, 1994. The announcement was made by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of VTU.
The Academic Senate is the highest academic body of the university and plays a key role in shaping academic policies and strategies. Dr. Basthikodi’s appointment is considered a recognition of his work in the field of technical education and research.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 26th, 2025
The inauguration of BRITFORT Academy’s Mangalore branch, in collaboration with Ace Foundation, was held on 18th April at the Kankanady Gate Building, Kankanady Bypass Road. The event marked a significant milestone in expanding quality English language education and study abroad services in the coastal region.
BRITFORT Academy is widely recognised for its excellence in Spoken English and Communicative English courses, along with its expert coaching for international English language exams such as IELTS, OET, and PTE. With a growing network of centers across India, BRITFORT continues to empower students with global opportunities through language proficiency and academic support.
The ceremony was formally inaugurated by Noushad, CEO of BRITFORT Academy, who delivered an inspiring keynote address. He shared the remarkable growth of the academy, noting that over 25,000 students have been successfully trained through their programs. The Mangalore branch represents the 16th center in their journey of expansion and the fourth in Karnataka, reinforcing their commitment to making quality education accessible across regions.
Abubacker, President of Ace Foundation, presided over the function and emphasized the importance of collaborations that empower youth through quality education and skill-building initiatives.
The event was further graced by Dr. R.G. D’Souza, Dean of the Engineering Department at Yenepoya University, who attended as the Chief Guest. B.S. Mohd. Basheer, President of Jamiyyatul Falah (Mangalore Corporation Unit), and Anwar Sadath, Managing Director of Hana Beverages Pvt. Ltd., were the Guests of Honour. All dignitaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative and their confidence in the academy’s positive impact on the region’s youth.
Nazeer Ahmed, Director of Ace IAS Academy, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of enhancing language skills for academic and professional growth. The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Imthiaz Khateeb, Secretary of Ace Foundation, expressing gratitude to all guests and participants for their support. The event was compered by Rafik Master.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / April 2Oth, 2025
In a proud moment for Karkala, Shoukath Azeem from Salmara has secured the 345th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, turning his long-cherished dream of becoming an IAS officer into reality.
Undeterred by repeated setbacks, Azeem attempted the UPSC exam nine times, finally succeeding with an impressive rank in his last attempt, demonstrating unwavering determination and grit.
He is the son of Sheikh Abdulla and Maimoona from Salmara. His father, a truck driver by profession, raised the family with modest means. Despite coming from a humble background, Azeem’s ambition to join the civil services was ignited during his childhood after watching the Kannada movie Prithvi, starring Puneeth Rajkumar.
Azeem completed his early education at the Karkala Government Urdu School and a private school followed by higher education at a private college in Kukkundoor. He later earned his engineering degree a private college in Moodbidri.
In 2022, he had cleared the UPSC exam and was selected for the accounts division of the defence department, currently serving in Pune. Encouraged to try once more, Azeem made a final attempt and achieved his ultimate goal of becoming an IAS officer.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala / April 26th, 2025
Tasneem Fathima Khaleel has had a successful career in academia. However, quite remarkably, she came back to where she started – teaching. M A Siraj reports.
Few people end their careers where they first began; Professor Tasneem Fathima Khaleel is among those few. “I am excited about the opportunity to finish my career in the classroom. And, with a little help, I will be teaching in a new state-of-the-art…facility,” says Tasneem, the first-ever woman to have obtained a doctorate in the State of Mysore in 1970. Prior to returning as a professor of Botany, she served as the dean of faculty at College of Arts & Sciences for a decade at the Montana State University at Billings (MUSB).
Paving a new path
Tasneem has been teaching Botany in the United States for over 40 years and has received many awards for her teaching and research. She has headed, or has been a member on as many as 23 different academic bodies or advisory councils in the US. For her contribution to research, with nearly 50 research publications on subjects ranging from cyto-embriology to plant reproduction, she was awarded the ‘Outstanding Research Award’ in 1995 by the Montana Research Academy and has also won the Faculty Excellence Award five times.
The year 2014 was a special year for Tasneem – she had the rare honour of an award being named after her, for mentoring at the MUSB. Reno Charette, director for American-Indian Education, was adjudged the winner of the first ‘Prof Tasneem Fathima Khaleel Award for Mentoring’.
Tasneem studied in Bengaluru, before heading to the US in 1975 after marriage. An alumna of Central College, Bengaluru, she has coveted every opportunity to visit her ‘City of Gardens’ – which she ruefully admits is more a part of nostalgia rather than reality.
A passionate researcher, she recalls that very few women could be seen in higher studies in those days. Only a couple of them were pursuing PhD while she was registered in Bangalore University as well as teaching biology as an assistant professor at the University of Agricultural Sciences at Hebbal between 1968 and 1975. Her study of ‘Flora at the GKVK Campus’ and ‘Weeds in Karnataka’ are still quoted as seminal works.
Writing her own destiny
Tasneem had finished her BSc and MSc by the time she was barely 19 years old. Wanting to be a teacher, she had put in her application, but was rejected, as the dean told her, “You look like a school girl, how would the students take you seriously?”
Instead, he directed her to register for a PhD programme, which had just been started in the Bangalore University. The Doctorate took longer than usual to complete because there was lack of guidance and direction, and the programme had several fits and starts.
Finally, at 26 when she got her her doctorate, she was being looked as ‘a confirmed spinster’ in her own cultural surroundings. Marriage was nowhere on her mental radar. It took her brother several sittings to convince her of getting married.
Tasneem travelled a long and twisted path – one shaped by her culture and her drive to excel, to become the distinguished professor that she is today. For most Americans who had only preliminary idea of Islam, a woman with covered head and such drive for excellence and perseverance was a combination of incongruities. “Women have rights in Islam. Muslim women didn’t even have to fight for those rights. The religion has given them those rights,” she says.
Dr Stn Waitr, her successor, says, “Dean Khaleel has raised the level of rigour, excellence and success in the College of Arts & Sciences to a standard that should serve as a model for the entire institution.” Interestingly, Tasneem even built a herbarium at the MUSB, which has around 17,000 specimens and is currently engaged in digitising it. She recalls with pride that she was the most productive member on the faculty of science at the MSU, which has nearly 22,000 students today in two campuses. Tasneem’s most significant discovery was the finding of mammalian steroids in plants, which she says, are responsible for sex expression in plants.
Author of four books, 10 external and 17 internal grants at the MSUB, Tasneem is excited about beginning her teaching career once again. “It had never ended. I had maintained a room in my department building, even while I headed the faculty,” she says.
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Content / by M.A. Siraj / June 26th, 2015
The Bearys Shiksha Suraksha Foundation (BSSF) Scholarship Distribution Program was held on January 11, 2025, at the Seminar Hall of Bearys Institute of Technology (BIT). The event aimed to support the education of the children of BIT’s staff members and contribute to community development.
The program commenced with a prayer song, followed by a welcome address from Principal Dr. S.I. Manjur Basha, who emphasized the importance of the BSSF initiative in fostering educational growth. A total of Rs. 4,79,000 was awarded in scholarships, reflecting the institution’s commitment to empowering future generations through education.
Chairman Syed Mohamed Beary delivered a motivational speech, highlighting the transformative impact of collective efforts in advancing community welfare through education. Distinguished guests also commended the Bearys team for their consistent dedication to education and social initiatives.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Heena Kausar P A, who expressed gratitude to the management, staff, and attendees for their support.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 13th, 2025
Senior scholar, thinker, and writer, Prof. Muzaffar Hussain Assadi, who served as the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Political Science Department at Mysore University, passed away late Friday night at a private hospital in Bengaluru. He was 63 years old.
Prof. Muzaffar Assadi conducted extensive studies on the lives and lifestyles of tribal communities.
He served as the chairperson of a committee appointed to address the displacement of tribal populations. His research and contributions spanned areas such as agricultural studies, globalization, Gandhian philosophy, political sociology, democratic theories, social movements, comparative governance, Indian politics, human rights, and global political theories, earning him significant recognition.
Hailing from Shirva in Udupi district, Dr. Muzaffar Assadi completed his postgraduate degree from Mangalore University, followed by an M.Phil. and Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.
He later pursued a Rockefeller Fellowship and Post-Doctoral studies at the University of Chicago.
He authored 11 books during his illustrious career.
As the chairperson of the High Court Committee on Tribal Displacement, he submitted an impactful report.
His notable works include Multifaceted Feminist Narratives and Movements in Karnataka, Asmita, among others.
Previously, he served as the Special Officer of the newly established Raichur University.
Prof. Assadi received numerous honors, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / January 04th, 2025
Masood Group of Institutions inaugurated its new campus building on Sunday at Saripalla village, located on the outskirts of Mangaluru city. The event was marked by the presence of several eminent dignitaries, with the Hon’ble Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, UT Khader Fareed, formally inaugurating the facility.
Joining the occasion was Dr. Riyaz Basha, Registrar Evaluation, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) along with other distinguished guests.ix
Al Haj KS Mohammed Masood, former MLC, ex-chairman of the Karnataka State Minorities Commission, and the President of Masood Educational and Charitable Trust, presided over the event.
During his address, UT Khader Fareed congratulated Al Haj KS Mohammed Masood and his family for their visionary efforts in prioritizing education at a time when it is crucial for the progress of society. He lauded their commitment to creating opportunities for learning and empowering the younger generation.
Khader expressed his confidence that the Masood Group of Institutions would emerge as one of the premier educational establishments in the country, setting benchmarks for excellence in academics and overall development. He urged the students to take their studies seriously, emphasizing that education is the foundation for personal growth and societal advancement.
Highlighting the significance of such initiatives, Khader remarked that starting educational institutions is a form of true patriotism. He stated that by investing in education, the trust is not only nurturing young minds but also contributing to the upliftment and progress of the nation as a whole.
In his address, Riyaz Basha highlighted the growing demand for health sciences education in Karnataka, particularly in the post-COVID era. He noted that the pandemic underscored the critical importance of a robust healthcare system, leading to significant transformations in the state’s health sciences infrastructure. According to Basha, this evolution has positioned Karnataka as a hub for advanced medical education and healthcare services, attracting students and professionals alike.
He observed that India’s healthcare system is gradually transitioning towards a Western model, where the concept of teamwork in medicine is gaining prominence. Basha explained that unlike the traditional approach where the doctor was viewed as the sole authority, the emerging system emphasizes the collaborative efforts of an entire team of health sciences professionals. This shift, he pointed out, places greater responsibility and opportunities on allied health professionals, nurses, technicians, and administrators, making their roles indispensable in delivering holistic patient care.
Basha urged students to view education not merely as a means to attain degrees but as a tool for building strong character and moral values. He emphasized the importance of humility, stating that true education goes beyond academic achievements and is reflected in one’s behavior and attitude. He encouraged students to remain grounded, focus on continuous learning, and contribute positively to society, embodying the essence of education through their actions and interactions.
UT Iftikhar Ali, Chairman of the Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council, addressed the gathering with a special request to Riyaz Basha, urging him to consider designating Masood College as an examination center for Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS). He emphasized that such a move would be a significant step forward for the institution, providing convenience to students and enhancing its standing within the academic community.
In addition, Ali took the opportunity to invite everyone present to participate in the inauguration of the Regional Centre of RGUHS in Mangalore, scheduled for January 17. He highlighted the importance of this event in strengthening the presence of RGUHS in the region and its commitment to advancing health sciences education. Ali also reaffirmed his support for Masood Group of Institutions, pledging to assist in every possible way to help the institution achieve its goals and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector.
MLC Ivan D’Souza, addressing the gathering, spoke about the highly competitive nature of the world today, emphasizing the importance of providing students with the right environment to excel. He remarked that the facilities and infrastructure at Masood Group of Institutions are designed to create an atmosphere conducive to learning, growth, and overall development.
D’Souza commended the institution for its commitment to nurturing young minds by offering a supportive and stimulating environment that prepares them to meet the challenges of a competitive world. He expressed confidence that the campus would serve as a platform for students to not only excel academically but also to develop the skills and resilience needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
In his presidential address, Al Haj KS Mohammed Masood, President of the Masood Educational and Charitable Trust, extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who had gathered to celebrate the inauguration of the new campus building. He expressed his appreciation to all dignitaries, guests, faculty, students, and well-wishers for their support and encouragement, which he said has been instrumental in the institution’s journey of growth and excellence.
Masood made a special mention of UT Iftikhar Ali, Chairman of the Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council, acknowledging his support and guidance. He thanked Ali for his encouragement and for advocating the inclusion of Masood College as an examination center for Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS).
Several members of the staff and those contributing in the construction and development of new campus were felicitated during the event.
Arif Masood, Secretary, of Masood Educational and Charitable Trust welcomed the guests and gathering while his Asif Masood, Trustee of the group presented vote of thanks.
Former MLA of Mangalore South JR Lobo, KPCC General Secretary Inayath Ali, and SM Mustafa of New Bharath Infrastructure addressed the gathering.
Nissar Ahamed KS, Chairman, Nash Engineering Dubai, Bhaskar Moily, Corporator Mangalore City Corporation, Sridhar, Panchayath President Neermarga, Dhanvathi, Ex President Neermarga Panchayath, Dr. Vaishali, Senate Member of RGUHS, Dr. Haji UK Monu, Founder Chairman of Kanachur Group of Industries and Institutions, and others were present during the event.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 05th, 2025
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.
The 2023-24 ESL results have been unveiled, showcasing Fatima Samiha’s remarkable achievement. Hailing from Chikkamagalur district, Fatima, a student of Sri Sadguru Vidyamandir in Basarikatte, chose Sanskrit as her primary language and achieved a perfect score of 125 out of 125 marks in the subject.
Her exceptional performance extends across other subjects as well, with scores of 99 in Kannada, 94 in English, 83 in Mathematics, 69 in Science, and 100 in Social Science, resulting in an impressive overall score of 590 out of 625 marks, equivalent to 94.4%.
Fatima is the daughter of Muhammad Rafiq from Chikkamagaluru and Selikhat Begum from Panemangalore.
source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Latest News / by The Hindustan Gazette / May 12th, 2024
In a bid to bolster access to professional education for economically disadvantaged students, Bengaluru-based Danish Education Trust (R) awarded scholarships to 624 students pursuing professional education across Karnataka with a total scholarship amount of Rs. 1,60,00,000/- for the academic year 2023-24. The Trust selected students through an online application process at www.danishtrust.in.
The scholarship recipients are pursuing various professional courses, including Engineering, MBBS, Law, Journalism, Pharmacy, BUMS, BAMS, BHMS, Veterinary Science, Agriculture, and B.Ed, and are from economically underprivileged backgrounds.
Danish Educational Trust (R) was established in March 2006 by a group of concerned citizens led by philanthropist Mrs. Husna Sheriff, with the belief that education is the seed for development and progress. Since its inception, the Trust has continued its scholarship scheme for poor and needy students pursuing higher education.
Over the years, the Trust has sponsored the education of more than 4000 students, and this year’s scholarship program is another step in empowering young minds to achieve their educational dreams.
Expressing her pride in the trust’s achievements, Mrs. Husna Sheriff emphasized the importance of empowering young minds through education. “We firmly believe in providing a platform for students to thrive academically, regardless of their socioeconomic background. By investing in their future, we are sowing the seeds for a brighter tomorrow,” she remarked.
Looking ahead, Danish Educational Trust envisions expanding its reach further, with plans to increase the scholarship amount to Rs. 1.8 crore and support over 750 students in the upcoming academic year 2024-25. Such ambitions underscore the trust’s unwavering dedication to fostering equitable access to education and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
source: http://www.thecognate.com / The Cognate / Home> Education / by Shaik Zakeer Hussain / March 14th, 2024
