Category Archives: Education

Successful Conclusion of “Study in Hong Kong” India Education Fair: Opening Doors to Global Education Opportunities

23rd July 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India  The “Study in Hong Kong” India Education Fair concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone in fostering international educational collaborations and providing Indian students with insights into higher education opportunities in Hong Kong. The event, which showcased academic excellence and learning opportunities from eight leading government-funded universities in Hong Kong, attracted a diverse audience of students, parents, and educational advisors.

Organized by representatives from top-ranked Hong Kong universities, the fair engaged with students in India and provided them with comprehensive information about studying in Hong Kong. The students interacted with university representatives directly who answered their inquiries regarding various academic programs, admission requirements, scholarship opportunities, and campus life experiences. The attendees also got the opportunity to learn about the academic excellence and research opportunities offered by Hong Kong’s universities, as well as the vibrant cultural and social experiences available in the dynamic city.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Professor Bennett YIM, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and International Student Exchange at The University of Hong Kong, commented on behalf of the event organizing committee, “We are delighted by the overwhelming response to the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ India Education Fair. It was truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity of Indian students and their families as they explored the diverse educational opportunities available in Hong Kong. We are confident that this event has opened doors to exciting possibilities for future collaborations and academic endeavors.”

Representatives from participating universities provided detailed information on support services for international students. While making attendees aware of the higher education landscape of Hong Kong, the event also fostered meaningful connections between students and representatives from top-ranked universities.

The success of the “Study in Hong Kong” India Education Fair underscores the growing interest among Indian students in pursuing higher education in Hong Kong, which has emerged as a leading destination for academic and professional development. Empowered with the valuable insights offered during the event, students and parents will now be able to make the right decision about their plans to study in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong boasts eight government-funded universities known for a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across different disciplines. These institutions are renowned for their distinct academic strengths, adherence to international curriculum standards, and quality assurance. The degrees they offer are globally recognized, with the universities regularly ranking among the best worldwide. Hong Kong’s educational environment promotes academic freedom and culturally diverse campus life, urging students to adopt various perspectives and broaden their horizons. The emphasis on scholarly rigor, research innovation, and international connectivity renders Hong Kong an attractive option for global students and researchers.

Renowned as the world’s premier global financial center, Hong Kong’s location in the heart of Asia helps foster robust connections with Mainland China and the global community. The primary language of instruction in the majority of tertiary education institutions in Hong Kong is English, thus facilitating easy access and creating a favorable environment for international students. Language barriers are effectively eliminated, allowing for a smooth and uninterrupted learning experience, and students can adapt comfortably to the living and academic atmosphere in Hong Kong.

In addition to its affordability, the region’s international ambiance and supportive governmental measures create a beneficial environment for international students. Increasingly, Indian students are choosing Hong Kong for its exemplary education, opportunities for post-study employment, and high living standards.

The city also boasts cutting-edge infrastructures and highly efficient transport systems, positioning Hong Kong as a convenient hub for travel. With its strategic location and well-established networks, students in Hong Kong benefit from unparalleled accessibility, making the city an ideal destination for both living and studying. These factors collectively contribute to an enriching educational experience, where students not only thrive academically but also engage with the vibrant and interconnected global landscape that Hong Kong offers.

French FinTech Studely Expands to India, Offers Comprehensive Solutions to Hassle Free European Studies

23rd July 2024  Bangalore, Karnataka, India  Studely, a pioneering FinTech company headquartered in France, has announced its expansion into India. Being first of its kind, Studely will offer tailored financial solutions to Indian students pursuing higher education in France and Germany, directly addressing their challenges.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs of India, an estimated 750,000 students traveled abroad for higher education in the year 2022 and the market is projected for further growth between 2024 and 2032. Recognizing this trend and the financial challenges faced by students (as highlighted by MPOWER Financing’s Social Impact Report, where 83% of students consider it the biggest obstacle), Studely steps in to provide a one-stop solution. The brand is set to simplify financial planning and ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for aspiring Indian students and their families. The company’s core expertise lies in opening and managing EU-compliant ‘blocked accounts’ for international students, a crucial requirement for student visas as it demonstrates sufficient financial resources for their study.

Beyond accounts, Studely additionally offers logistical support like facilitating payments, finding student accommodation, and even securing health insurance among others. The user-friendly mobile app puts control at students’ fingertips, allowing them to access all these services conveniently. With Studely, Indian students can focus on their studies, not on administrative hurdles.

Since its inception in 2016, Studely has rapidly expanded its presence in over 19 countries and has assisted over 25,000 students in pursuing their education in France and Germany. In 2023, the company received the highest French recognition – an invitation by President Emmanuel Macron – a testament to its high-quality services and innovative approach. This prestigious distinction reinforces Studely’s commitment to empowering students and simplifying the path to European education.

Talking about the expansion of Studely in India, Claire Noguera, CEO, Studely said, “India is one of the fastest growing markets for students interested in pursuing higher education abroad, but this dream often remains unachievable due to financial barriers, and that’s where we step in. At Studely, our mission is to address and bridge the very evident gap and empower students to pursue their dream courses. We prioritize a seamless experience for every student by negotiating the challenges of overseas education that these students often face. Our focus is to enable students to concentrate on what really counts: their academic path. We are excited to bring our innovative financial solutions to the vibrant student community in India and we aim to grow 2x in the country by next year. Empowering each student with the correct resources and holistic support is not solely about facilitating their journey abroad, but it is essential to help unlock their full potential and pave the way for their future success.”

IIAD Hosts Inaugural Luxury Symposium for Fashion Business Management Students

23rd July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  The Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD) recently hosted its Luxury Symposium, Delhi Chapter, an event designed to foster a dialogue between fashion business management students and established industry leaders from the luxury sector. The event brought together leading luminaries such as CEO of Lamborghini Delhi, Abhimanyu Mehta; Unit Head of Tangerine Skies Pvt Ltd, Sunil Negi (manufacturer of Michael Kors, COACH, and Kate Spade); Co-founder of Sunlight Chronicle, Anisha Malik; and Founder & Director of Stanley Communications, Jessica Singh.

The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally reshaped consumer behaviour across all industries, and the luxury sector is no exception. The high-end clientele now prioritise experiences and have a changing set of expectations. This presents a critical challenge for luxury brands: how can they adapt to meet these evolving demands while maintaining brand identity and a sense of exclusivity?

An alternative avenue emerges through the expanding domain of Fashion Business Management (FBM), often synonymous with Fashion Management. FBM programme at IIAD offer students comprehensive insights into luxury branding, marketing strategies, product development, and distribution channels. Events such as the Luxury Symposium serve as pivotal platforms for students to gain practical insights into the Indian luxury market. Moderated by Abhishek Verma, Associate Professor of Fashion Business Management at IIAD, the symposium, themed “The Future of the Indian Luxury Ecosystem,” provided students with firsthand perspectives on the evolving landscape of the Indian luxury market. Through interactions with panellists, the symposium facilitated meaningful exchanges of ideas among aspiring FBM students, contributing to their understanding of the sector.

Dr. Jitin Chadha, Founder & CEO of IIAD, opened the symposium by highlighting the institute’s dedication to fostering innovation and exploration since its inception in 2015. Highlighting the symposium as one of the many active initiatives, he emphasised, “Our mission has been steadfast that is to bridge the gaps and build enduring connections between design, society and industry transforming fashion business is taught, learnt and practised.”

Following this, the industry experts shed light on the complexities and evolving landscape of the Indian luxury market, offering students exclusive insights. The discussion began with a shift in the very definition of luxury. Abhimanyu Mehta, CEO of Lamborghini Delhi emphasised that luxury encompasses not just the product itself, but also the brand’s heritage, storytelling, and the experience it offers.

Jessica Singh, Founder & Director of Stanley Communications, stressed the importance of effective communication in this new era. She expressed that brands need to craft compelling narratives and leverage diverse media platforms—traditional media, influencers, events—to curate consumer perception and create trends. By a mutual consensus, it was inferred that brands must stay attuned to changing consumer preferences, aspirations, and luxury trends to remain relevant.

The discussion also addressed the challenges and opportunities within the Indian luxury ecosystem. Sunil Negi, Unit Head at Tangerine Skies Pvt Ltd, highlighted the challenges encountered by the luxury retail sector in India, emphasising the importance of traditional handicraft techniques and the invaluable skills of craftspeople. He addressed concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on job displacement, asserting the necessity of preserving generational knowledge for India’s economic prosperity.

The panel also explored career prospects within the luxury sector. Jessica highlighted the abundance of opportunities in areas like PR, marketing, CGI, and performance marketing. Interestingly, a key takeaway was the potential benefits of working with external agencies. Anisha Malik, Co-founder, of Sunlight Chronicle, explained that agencies can provide fresh perspectives, access to a wider network, and cost-effectiveness compared to training in-house teams.

A significant point emerged about how today’s luxury is expanding beyond traditional fashion brands. Consumers are seeking luxury experiences across various sectors, creating exciting new opportunities for brands that can cater to this evolving demand.

The discussion also addressed the concept of exclusivity in the luxury market. Jessica explained how brands maintain exclusivity through targeted marketing campaigns, curated events, and controlled media communication. Special previews and restricted media access ensure the niche audience remains the primary focus. However, aspirational marketing strategies are also employed to cultivate a sense of desire for these products amongst a broader audience.

The symposium concluded with a lively Q&A session, addressing a wide range of student concerns. Initiatives like the luxury symposium underscore the importance of academic institutions, bridging the gaps between industry and academia. This exposure allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the luxury market, pushing them to decode the market’s underlying dynamics and anticipate future trends. Through such initiatives, academic institutions like IIAD position their students to become valuable contributors to the ever-evolving Indian luxury landscape. Fueled by the success of this year’s event, the symposium aims to expand its reach in the coming years.

Finance Major Student Groups Allotted Rs. 1 Lakh Each for Real-World Investment Scenarios in Great Lakes, Chennai as Part of New Elective Program

22nd July 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  The Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, introduces the Real-life Investment Decision Experience (RIDE) elective, an experiential program designed specifically for finance majors enrolled in the PGDM program. Spearheaded by Professor Vishwanathan Iyer, Senior Associate Professor, Finance & Accounting, and Director of Accreditation, this unique program aims to provide firsthand experience in equity research and portfolio management to future managers.

Hands-on Learning for Future Managers

Announcing the program, Professor Vishwanathan Iyer, said, “While traditional investment management courses focus on theoretical knowledge, RIDE offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to manage a real investment fund with real money, with each team of five students handling a corpus of Rupees One Lakh for approximately eight to nine months. The program allocates a total corpus of Ten Lakhs, enabling students to apply academic insights to real-world investment scenarios.”

He added, “RIDE aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Students learn to manage an actual investment fund professionally, applying financial market principles and procedures. RIDE distinguishes itself from trading-focused electives by fostering a long-term investment mindset. Unlike day-trading courses, RIDE encourages students to think like fund managers, with a horizon of nine months. While technical analysis remains integral, the emphasis is on strategic investment rather than short-term trading.”

Empowering Students for Market Realities

RIDE participants undergo rigorous preparation during their summer term, culminating in the submission of an investment proposal outlining their philosophy, stock selection, and risk management strategy. Teams manage their portfolios throughout the academic year, presenting their strategies to a panel of fund managers at the course’s conclusion. Structured as a 3-credit elective, RIDE evaluates students based on research reports, presentations, participation in practitioner sessions, investment diaries, and portfolio performance. The evaluation components ensure comprehensive learning and practical application of financial concepts.

Overall, the Real-life Investment Decision Experience (RIDE) elective at the Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, represents a transformative leap in finance education. This pioneering program equips finance majors with practical skills and strategic insights essential for navigating the complexities of real-world investment management. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, RIDE empowers future managers to make informed decisions, manage risks effectively, and achieve long-term investment success. With its rigorous curriculum, firsthand approach, and focus on market realities, RIDE sets a new standard for experiential learning in finance education, ensuring that students emerge as proficient and confident investment professionals.

Author W.A. Flickinger’s New Book Understanding Capital Improvements

Atlanta, GA, July 20, 2024 — W.A. Flickinger, who invested over a half century in performing Project Management in Capital Improvements for large and small industrial and commercial projects, both private enterprises and governmental agencies, has completed his new book, “Understanding Capital Improvements: A Guide to Compliance and Documentation”: a crucial guide for governmental entities that aims to empower townships, cities, counties, and states with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the intricate landscape of public-funded capital improvement projects.

“All townships, cities, counties, and states perform capital improvements using public funds and, often, additional funding from other governmental agencies,” writes Flickinger. “All expenditures are regulated by city or county codification of ordinances, state statutes, or Federal Acquisition Regulations. All capital improvements are subject to audit by the institutions providing the funding. All ordinances, state statutes, and the Federal Acquisition Regulations provide regulations or laws that require specific adherence to many issues in order to maintain funding or be eligible for future funding. Under audit, the governmental agency performing or that has performed the capital improvements must show documentation that exhibits adherence to all the requirements. Unfortunately, the various regulations and laws do not provide the means or methods to document the required compliance.

“This book provides an understanding of the capital improvement process and various methods of documentation, including specific language within supplied forms and contract front-end documents that will support and provide the necessary documentation showing adherence to the regulations and laws. The proper understanding of the process and documentation may be the difference between a successful audit or a failure and possibly the loss of current or future funding.”

Published by Page Publishing, W.A. Flickinger’s educational guide serves as a valuable resource for public officials, project managers, and administrators involved in infrastructure development and public works. Drawing upon the author’s years of experience and professional insight, “Understanding Capital Improvements” is an essential companion for anyone responsible for managing or overseeing public-funded projects, providing a clear roadmap for ensuring compliance and securing the necessary documentation to support successful audits.

Author William A. Eaddy II’s New Book Insider Information: What Wall Street Doesn’t Want Your Street to Know

Chicago, IL, July 20, 2024 — William A. Eaddy II, a recognized leader in banking, investments, nonprofit, city and county government, entertainment, and more, has completed his new book, “Insider Information: What Wall Street Doesn’t Want Your Street to Know”: an engaging guide that reveals the truth about why banks offer the products and services they render.

Author William A. Eaddy II has over twenty-five years of executive leadership and management experience and credits all his success to his faith in God and his parents Dr. Michael and Lady Christine “Rose” Eaddy. He started his career as a nineteen-year-old peak-time coin teller working fifteen hours per week. Ten years later, he became one of the youngest first vice presidents and retail district managers in the country for JP Morgan Chase, overseeing thirteen bank branches with hundreds of employees and managing over a billion dollars in relationships. Eaddy was recognized by JP Morgan Chase as one of its top 10 percent managers and leaders in their entire retail banking organization worldwide. Eaddy went on to become vice president and retail district manager of every US Bank location within the city of Chicago and its immediate surrounding suburbs. They are twelve in total. At US Bank, he was again a recognized leader in sales, service, and management, featured and celebrated around the country for his phenomenal ability to lead, motivate, show the way, and hold accountable those who reported to him within his organization.

He has been a licensed financial adviser, licensed real estate broker, licensed insurance agent, and more. Eaddy was born and raised in the city of Chicago and advocates and educates the communities in which he resides and serves. He is a proud father of two daughters.

Eaddy writes, “Banks offer checking accounts that do not require keeping a minimum balance of monies in the account at all times. The benefit of this zero balance account is that your money is 100 percent available to you for your use. There are also checking accounts that do require a minimum balance, and in this case, the bank typically will pay you, the customer, interest on the funds within the account as long as that minimum balance is maintained. The benefit of minimum balance requirement accounts is that it helps to discipline you in keeping money in your account at all times.”

Fernandez & Karney Announces Annual Scholarship Opportunity for Pre-Law and Law Students

Los Angeles, CA, July 20, 2024 — Fernandez & Karney, a leading family law firm based in Los Angeles, is thrilled to announce its annual scholarship opportunity for students pursuing a career in law. The Fernandez & Karney Scholarship aims to support promising students who plan to attend school in the fall of 2024 as either pre-law undergraduates or first-year law students.

Eligibility requirements for the Fernandez & Karney Scholarship include:

– U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States.
– Acceptance and plans to attend school as a pre-law undergraduate or entering law school in the fall of 2024.
– Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0.
– Submission of a completed resume, a one to three-page typed essay on a topic related to the area of law the applicant intends to pursue, complete school transcripts, an acceptance letter from a U.S. school, and proof of legal residency in the U.S.

The $1,000 scholarship award is intended to assist with tuition and related expenses. Recipients will receive a check made payable directly to cover these expenses, and they will be expected to submit receipts in accordance with IRS regulations.

Fernandez & Karney are proud to offer this scholarship opportunity to help aspiring lawyers achieve their academic and professional aspirations and look forward to reviewing applications from talented and deserving students across the country.

Completed applications must be submitted through the form available on the Fernandez & Karney website no later than September 15, 2024. The scholarship award recipient will be notified of their selection on or about September 28, 2024.

Terran Mitchell Named P.O.W.E.R. Woman of the Month for July 2024

Houston, TX, July 20, 2024 –Terran Mitchell of Houston, Texas, has been named P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) Woman of the Month for July 2024 for her contributions and achievements in education.

About Terran Mitchell
Terran Mitchell is a dedicated educator with over 17 years of experience teaching health and physical education in the Houston Independent School District. In addition to her teaching career, Mitchell has served as the director of athletic training operations and recruitment in the TSU Athletic Training Program and as an adjunct instructor at Lone Star College, mentoring and teaching students.

Mitchell’s passion for education and mentoring extends beyond the classroom. In 2012, she founded a non-profit organization aimed at building, educating, and supporting youth and young adults to help them achieve their life goals. She is committed to bridging the education gap and providing a safe environment for healing and personal development, believing that with the right resources and guidance, anyone can succeed regardless of their environment or circumstances.

“I am driven by my desire to uplift the next generation and prove society wrong by igniting a fire in my students to become more than their environment may suggest is possible,” said Mitchell. She recognizes the challenges many students face, including lack of support from parents and resources in urban communities. Despite these obstacles, Mitchell remains dedicated to helping her students become productive members of society.

Mitchell holds a B.S. in Kinesiology and Athletic Training and a Master of Science in Health Education from Texas Southern University.

Author Ted O. Padgett’s New Book, Vega Simple Speaking Steps

Seymour, TN, July 19, 2024 — Ted O. Padgett, who holds a bachelor of arts from Carson-Newman University, a master of divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a doctor of ministry from Luther Rice Theological Seminary, has completed his new book, “Vega: Simple Speaking Steps”: a transformative guide that equips readers with essential tools for effective communication and overcoming public speaking fears utilizing an effective methodology designed by the author to help individuals of all backgrounds and abilities succeed in any speaking scenario.

After serving twelve years with the Navy and fourteen years with the Marines, author Ted O. Padgett retired from the military as a lieutenant-commander. His military service included the Cuban Crisis, four Vietnam tours, and the Desert Storm conflict. He received twenty-two military medals and ribbons including the Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Meritorious Citation, Vietnam Combat Medal, and other military medals. Now retired, Padgett continues to write, teach, preach, speak, and travel with his wife for over sixty years.

“My reason for writing this book concerning speaking is to present my four basic steps to help others as they speak!” writes Padgett. “‘VEGA,’ the title of this book, comes from the name of one of the brightest stars in our universal galaxy. It is the ‘alpha star’ of the planet Mercury constellation; it is also the brightest star in the northern Lyra group of stars. So Vega is a bright star! 1 This book will use the term ‘VEGA’ as an acronym to present my four steps for speaking. For example: V stands for the word ‘voice,’ E stands for ‘eye contact,’ G stands for ‘gestures,’ and A stands for ‘attitude.’ These four words will form the simple steps to help anyone speak like a star! Vega is a star!

“It is my hope and desire that these simple steps for speaking will assist anyone as they speak and/or strive to communicate with others. These steps have been used by me for over fifty years to have a very successful career as a speaker. It has been in my heart to write this manuscript on speaking to show that anyone can overcome their fear of speaking in front of others by using my simple steps called ‘VEGA!’”

Vels University Awards Rs 1.5 Crore in Research Fellowship Grants to Promote Academic Excellence

19th July 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Vels Institute of Science, Technology, and Advanced Studies (vistas.ac.in.), also known as Vels University, is pleased to announce the award of research fellowship grants to 20 distinguished scholars totaling Rs 1.5 crore. The grants aim to support their pursuit of PhD research across 15 different subjects. Each scholar will receive Rs 20,000 per month for 3 years in recognition of their dedication to advancing academic knowledge and innovation.

The awards were presented at a prestigious ceremony attended by esteemed dignitaries including Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President of the Vels Group of Institutions, Dr. S. Sriman Narayanan, Vice Chancellor of VISTAS, and Dr. M. Bhaskaran, Pro Vice Chancellor of VISTAS. This initiative underscores VISTAS’ commitment to fostering research and innovation in higher education.

“We are delighted to support these outstanding scholars who have shown exceptional promise in their respective fields,” said Dr. Preethaa Ganesh. “These grants reflect our commitment towards advancing indigenous research in science, technology and SDG domains.“

Congratulations are extended to all the recipients of the fellowship grants. Their contributions are expected to have a significant impact on the academic and research landscape at VISTAS and beyond.