Category Archives: Education

From Isolation to Inclusion, Interpreters Unlimited Urges Equal Education with Language Services

San Diego, CA, June 26, 2024 — As most schools have already ended their ’23-’24 school year, it’s time to look ahead and prepare for the ’24-’25 academic year. Imagine a Non-English speaking student joining your school mid-year without an interpreter—struggling to understand lessons, feeling isolated, and missing out on crucial education, it happened this year in San Diego. In such cases, many rely on AI and Google Translate which often falls short, leading to communication breakdowns and educational inequalities. Interpreters Unlimited (IU) is urging schools across the country to prioritize language interpretation and document translation services to ensure every student receives the education they deserve.

Most schools have the budget for this important resource but so many are not taking advantage of it, not providing an equal education for all. Through a source who wished to remain anonymous, IU learned that at least one school in a district in San Diego received a new student who spoke no English mid school year and yet no interpreter was provided, communication was handled through translation apps. This can work here and there, but with errors and inefficiency. A teacher cannot teach in English and then act as a translation facilitator using a translation app, communicating every single thing they have spoken twice all day long. This equates to a poor education experience, students being left out, confused, unhappy and even scared.

There is a lot of talk about AI translation, but no matter how good it is, it still needs a human touch. You wouldn’t trust an AI robot or machine to perform heart surgery on you without a human doctor there, right? Education should be taken just as serious. When it comes to important instances where wording and nuance matters, like in healthcare, education, and legal, one little mistake can be detrimental.

Planning ahead for language services is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows schools to arrange for these services in advance, reducing the need for last-minute coordination and ensuring smoother operations throughout the school year. Moreover, early planning enables schools to allocate resources more effectively. This includes budgeting for interpreter services, translation software, and staff training. Another critical aspect of preparation is emergency readiness. Preparing for language services in advance ensures that schools can effectively and swiftly communicate emergency information to linguistically diverse populations, safeguarding the well-being of all students and their families.

Language Service Providers like IU offer a full range of services to meet these needs, including interpretation in over 200 languages, American Sign Language and document translation. Schools do not need to be concerned with being locked into contracts either, as companies like IU offer services on-demand whenever needed, or through flexible short-term or long-term contracts. Services are also available in person, virtually via video and over the phone. There is no shortage of options to ensure every student in need receives the services they require.

This year alone, IU provided language services to schools in 40 states, supporting approximately 100 school districts and 300 schools, benefiting over 5,000 students and their families. However, this is only a fraction of the schools and districts that are out there, and so many have yet to tap into this invaluable resource.

The consequences of neglecting language services are significant. Communication breakdowns can create educational inequalities, leaving non-English speaking students at a disadvantage. Schools that fail to address language needs may also face reputational damage and dissatisfaction among students and parents. Looking to Google Translate, other machine translation apps and AI cannot substitute for professional interpreters who ensure accuracy and cultural sensitivity in communication.

Interpreter Fady Bishay remarked, “Having worked as an interpreter in diverse educational settings, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial human interpreters are for bridging the gap for non-English speaking students. It’s about more than just words – it’s about understanding nuances, fostering participation, and creating a truly inclusive learning environment.”

Author Maral Tyson’s New Book Maral’s Kitchen

Colorado Springs, CO, June 26, 2024 — Maral Tyson, who is originally from Armenia and serves as a translator for the US Army, has completed her new book, “Maral’s Kitchen”: a captivating compendium of cuisine bursting with vibrant colors, bold sources, and mouthwatering recipes that serve as a celebration of the author’s passion for food and her rich cultural heritage.

Since she was a little child, author Maral Tyson has been interested in and loved cooking. She started cooking with her mom at the age of seven and knew it was going to be her passion. She took a break from cooking only when she served in Iraq with the US Army as a translator during the war. Then after a short time living in Germany, she came to the United States and was then able to start exploring her passion. Beginning in 2014, she met her husband, and with his help, motivation, and encouragement, she began to gather the recipes, make the dishes, and take photos, leading to this work.

“This book is intended to represent what I truly love in food,” writes Tyson. “The flavors, colors, spices, and most of all tastes in this book will allow me to share my experience and love of food with all of you. Inside you’ll find recipes from all over the world, from my home of Armenia to the Middle East and America. Please enjoy and try all my recipes. You might find a new taste and food you never knew about. If more different foods isn’t for you, no worries; I have prepared all the more tradition favorites as well!”

Author J. Edwards’s New Book Space Goblyns

New York, NY, June 26, 2024 — J. Edwards, a lifelong artist who currently resides in Connecticut with his beloved wife and young daughter, has completed his new book, “Space Goblyns”: a charming tale about a young alien girl and her pet who set off on an exciting adventure to visit other worlds and make new friends along the way.

“‘Space Goblyns’ is a children’s fictional rhyming story,” writes Edwards. “The story follows Lilyoblyn and Squito on one of their regular adventures across the galaxy. They search the furthest corners of space with high hopes of finding new friends.”

Published by Page Publishing, J. Edwards’s engaging tale came to be as the author’s daughter began reading, inspiring the author to write a children’s book that she could enjoy. With colorful artwork and imaginative characters, “Space Goblyns” is sure to capture the hearts and minds of readers of all ages, inviting them to dream big and be brave while making new friends just like Lilyoblyn and Squito.

Destination Japan- A Japa n-Focused Skill Development Program Attracts Japanese MNCs & Universities to SRM University-AP

26th June 2024  Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, India  SRM University-AP, with its uniquely curated “Destination Japan” program for its highly skilled Engineering & Non-engineering Students, is an initiative by the university to address the growing demand for human resources in Japan. The “Destination Japan” program provides well-equipped engineers with valuable industry skills and well-acquainted with Japanese culture. Under the program, students are trained in the Japanese language, Japanese traditions, and work culture from the first year onwards, which helps them easily assimilate into the country’s workforce. The initiative also welcomes reputed companies from Japan to directly hire skilled engineering graduates from core engineering fields to enhance their manpower.

SRM University-AP has also signed MOUs with multiple universities in Japan for faculty & student exchange programs, collaborative R&D projects, Hi-tech & innovative labs and other academic initiatives complementing the “Destination Japan” program.

To further enhance this mutual alliance, the Director of Corporate Relations & Career Services of SRM University-AP, Dr Vivekanandan M S, has visited prospective companies and industries in Hamamatsu, Japan, during which he presented the stellar record of engineering graduates being nurtured at the varsity and the possible partnership for recruitment and employment.

SRM University-AP has also signed an agreement with the Shizuoka Government to foster Indo-Japanese academic and recruitment partnerships. These partnerships enable internships in Japanese organizations, admissions to universities for higher studies, and good career placement opportunities for their students in Japan.

Under the “Destination Japan” program, direct campus recruitment has begun with the visit of recruitment teams from two reputed Japanese companies, Forum Engineering Inc. and CRESCO Ltd., to hire proficient engineering graduates. This is a remarkable accomplishment for the university to ensure international placements for its students.

A recruitment team of four from CRESCO Ltd., including the Managing Executive Officer, and a team of two from Forum Engineering Inc. visited the university campus. The team included engineers, HR Managers and other professionals.

Many more Japanese companies are lined up for campus visits & recruitment in the coming months.

In an interaction with the recruitment teams from Japan, Mr Satoshi Iwami, Managing Executive Officer of CRESCO, remarked, “As we are facing a shortage of IT engineers not only in our company but all over Japan, and with the SRM AP harbouring excellent IT engineers, we decided that an alliance would greatly benefit both parties.”

Ms Saho Funahashi, UI/UX Designer at CRESCO, said, “The students’ Japanese skills have impressed me. SRM University-AP has helped students understand the practical way of studying engineering through its impressive resources. This would greatly benefit them in a techno-driven country like Japan.”

Mr Mitsutaka Sekino, Operating Officer of Forum Engineering and Director of Cognavi India, is very impressed with the excellent students he has hired from the university, their proficiency in Japanese, and their work ethic.

He said, “Japan’s declining population will hurt the Japanese economy, but recruiting talented engineers from SRM AP and expanding this trend will greatly contribute to Japanese companies and the Japanese economy.”

Mr Masahiro Koizumi, Senior Operating Officer of Forum Engineering and Managing Director of Cognavi India, said, “Forum Engineering came to India to recruit highly skilled engineers, secure excellent human resources, and energise existing employees by hiring its first non-Japanese. We are also looking forward to working with Forum Engineering’s clients.”

In addition, Forum Engineering’s clients, Japanese electrical and mechanical equipment manufacturers, are facing a shortage of engineers and are looking for help solving this structural problem.

This program is guided and driven by SRM Global Consulting Private Limited, a consulting company of SRM Group established in Japan. Speaking on this, Mr Sankar Karunanidhi, Country Manager, SRM Global Consulting, mentioned, “SRM Group has had a long-standing relationship with Japan for over 25 years. This association has helped us design this unique program and training for our university students.”

This flagship initiative by SRM University-AP is helping Japan alleviate its labor shortage in various industries. Highly skilled graduates from India can get lucrative placements in Japan, ensuring a good work-life balance and career growth opportunities. SRM University-AP, continuing its success of placing students in Japan with the dedicated program and the team behind Destination Japan, envisions placing a minimum of 120 Highly Skilled students in Japan year-on-year.

Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, Prof. Manoj K Arora, said this remarkable venture by the two parties would enrich the student’s academic experience, molding them into global citizens with exceptional industry acumen. “We have established a prolific alliance with Japan. We plan to extend our collaborations to place our students in Taiwan, Canada, Germany, and other European countries,” stated the head of the institution.

The continuous dedication and support from the team’s leading both nations guarantee prospective Indian graduates a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure their dream careers in Japan.

Galgotias University and Samsung India Forge Groundbreaking Partnership to Launch Upskilling Programme for Samsung Employees

26th June 2024  Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India  In a pioneering move, Galgotias University and Samsung India Electronics Pvt. Ltd. have entered into a strategic partnership to launch an innovative upskilling program. This initiative marks the first of its kind in India, aiming to enhance the skills of the workforce through a unique collaboration between academia and industry. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today in the presence of key representatives from both organizations.

A Visionary Partnership:

The MoU was signed by Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, and Mr. Leesoo Kim, Managing Director of Samsung India. Senior officers from HR Department and HODs from various departments from Samsung India and Dr. K. Mallikharjuna Babu – Vice Chancellor along with the Dean and other members of Academics from Galgotias University were also present to witness this landmark event.

Statements from the Leadership:

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia expressed his enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating, “We are extremely excited about our collaboration with Samsung India. This partnership is not just a benchmark for us but also for the entire educational and industrial landscape in India. Our joint vision emphasizes the critical importance of investing in our most valuable asset – our workforce. Together, we can drive innovation, enhance education, and contribute to societal progress.”

Echoing his sentiments, Mr. Leesoo Kim of Samsung India said, “Samsung India is proud to partner with Galgotias University to launch this unprecedented upskilling program. In a world where technological advancements and market dynamics are constantly evolving, continuous learning and skill enhancement are imperative. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to creating a knowledgeable and skilled workforce that can navigate and lead in this ever-changing environment.”

The Importance of the Deal:

This MoU signifies more than just a partnership; it represents a strategic alliance designed to leverage the strengths of both entities. The program aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering an environment where innovation and practical knowledge go hand in hand. With rapid technological advancements, there is an ever-present need for continuous learning and skill enhancement. This initiative is designed to equip the workforce with the necessary skills to stay ahead of the curve.

Galgotias University’s Commitment to Excellence:

Since its establishment in 2011, Galgotias University has grown into a leading academic institution, renowned for its rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and commitment to societal impact. The university boasts NAAC A+, NIRF and NBA accreditation and is ranked among the top 50 universities in India. It has received the QS I-GAUGE’s highest Platinum rating for Hospitality Management, Pharmacy, and Agricultural Sciences, and is recognized by the Indian Patent Office as one of the top three academic institutions in India for patent filings.

State-of-the-art Facilities:

Galgotias University is equipped with modern laboratories, research centers, and collaborative spaces designed to support innovative research and learning. The campus houses over 12 industry-supported labs, including a newly added iOS Development Center in collaboration with Apple and Infosys, ensuring that students and faculty have access to the latest technological advancements.

A Collaborative Future:

Dr. Galgotia highlighted, “At Galgotias University, we are committed to excellence in education, research, and industry collaboration. We believe that our shared vision with Samsung can lead to groundbreaking advancements and innovative solutions. This partnership is poised to be a catalyst for extraordinary achievements, advancing knowledge, innovation, and societal well-being.”

Mr. Kim added, “This upskilling program is a forward-thinking initiative that aligns with Samsung’s goal of fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning.”

Both Galgotias University and Samsung India are committed to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and enhancing societal well-being. This partnership is expected to catalyze extraordinary achievements and set a new standard for industry-academia collaborations in India.

Gallowglass Books Breaks Ground with Debut Publication MONAD

Palm Beach, FL, June 25, 2024 –MONAD is a compendium of philosophical writings by Plotinus, Porphyry, and Proclus translated by Thomas Taylor. This 800 page hardcover behemoth features The Enneads by Plotinus, On The Abstinence of Animal Food by Porphyry, and The Elements of Theology by Proclus. These Alexandrian philosophers, commonly referred to as Neoplatonists, built upon the legacy of Ancient Greek philosophy with new influences from the East. Their worldview has inspired theologians, kabbalists, philosophers, alchemists, psychologists, emperors, mystics, Renaissance artists, and hermeticists alike over the past 1,500 years. This book brings together many great Neoplatonic writings in their finest translations. These philosophers cut through complex issues of ethics, metaphysics, and cosmology with a dexterity potentially unmatched since. MONAD is as difficult as it is rewarding and deserves careful study.

Galen Fries’s New Book Up To Speed

Tacoma, WA, June 25, 2024 — Fulton Books author Galen Fries, a retired sergeant first class who served for thirty years in both the active-duty Army and the Army National Guard, as well as a certified military instructor and a certified wildland firefighter, has completed his most recent book, “Up To Speed: A Preppers Guide”: a thorough discussion about the proper steps one should take in order to be ready for disasters, man-made or otherwise.

An avid hiker, shooter, motorcycle rider, and boater, author Galen Fries has spent a lifetime outside building a healthy respect for nature. Having a family consisting of a wife, three kids, three step kids, and multiple grandchildren, he feels his family is an extremely important part of his life. Although Galen doesn’t consider himself a survivalist, when his military unit took the Y2K threat to the infrastructure seriously, he recognized the importance of preparing oneself and one’s family for undesirable situations. Having had countless conversations with friends, coworkers, and loved ones about being ready for unexpected and undesirable events, he decided to finally write it all down, hence “Up to Speed: A Prepper’s Guide.”

“The book has been carefully broken up into levels of importance,” writes Fries. “It begins by addressing a survival mindset. It then goes on to discuss ways we can set ourselves up for success when it to comes to reuniting with loved ones, having a home to come home to, and finally what we should consider as we step out of our homes in order to keep our families safe. ‘Up to Speed’ tries to take the daunting task of protecting what is truly important to us and break it down into small manageable pieces.

“This is not a survivalist book. This is just a discussion and shouldn’t be considered the end-all in preppers’ manuals. In it you will find references to many other books that will supplement your preparedness library.”

Author Kelvin Rankin’s New Book Rankin v. Rankin

Vicksburg, MS, June 25, 2024 –Kelvin Rankin, an Army veteran who holds two master’s degrees in divinity from Wesley Biblical Seminary and a joint degree in workforce education leadership from Mississippi and Alcorn State Universities, has completed his new book, “Rankin v. Rankin: A Male’s Perspective of an Elongated Divorce and Custody Fight(s) within the Mississippi Judicial System”: a riveting and candid exploration of the triumphs, biases, legalities, and “gray areas” inherent in contested divorces and parental custody disputes.

“Through the experience of the prementioned case and its articulation, men should be able to have a foundation to realistically understand an ensuing divorce or custody fight for themselves or provide effective support to a colleague,” writes Rankin. “Secondly, women who read this ‘case study’ should consider advocating for truth related to divorce and paternal rights as an ‘equal fight under the law,’ not intertwined with other social issues or a play in support of femineity. Although this published work is from a male’s perspective, both estranged husbands and wives, courts, and child advocacy institutions can glean knowledge from ‘Rankin v. Rankin’ by understanding parts of the previously unknown backstories.”

Tourism Malaysia Appoints Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali as Director for New Delhi

25th June 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Tourism Malaysia is delighted to announce the appointment of Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali as the Director of Tourism Malaysia’s office in New Delhi, effective from today.

Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali brings with him over 34 years of invaluable experience in tourism promotion and international relations. His illustrious career within Tourism Malaysia, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture, has been marked by outstanding achievements and dedication to promoting Malaysia as an exceptional tourist destination, showcasing its unique wonders, attractions, and cultures.

Throughout his tenure with Tourism Malaysia, Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali has received prestigious awards and recognition for his exemplary service, including the Silver Medal Award by the Right Honourable Governor of Sarawak in September 2012, the Long Service Award by Tourism Malaysia in April 2011, and the Bintang Khidmat Terpuji (BKT) Award by the Right Honourable Governor of Melaka in October 2007.

In addition to his accolades, Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali has held several senior leadership positions within Tourism Malaysia, including:

Senior Deputy Director, Package Development Division (January 2021 – present): Supervising the Niche Tourism Product Team and leading the Intelligent Unit to ensure positive industry development.

Senior Deputy Director, Human Resources Division (January 2019 – January 2021): Meticulously planning human capital needs, succession plans, and staff movements, while implementing job rotations to establish leadership at all levels.

Senior Deputy Director, International Promotion Division (July 2017 – January 2019): Demonstrating strategic leadership in promoting Malaysia to international markets.

Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali’s significant skills in public speaking, event management, marketing, and sales have been instrumental in his various leadership roles within the organization.

Educationally, Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali holds a Master of Business Administration in Tourism Management from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), achieving a remarkable CGPA of 4.0, and an Associate’s Degree in Tourism Administration from UiTM.

“We are thrilled to appoint Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali as the Director of our New Delhi office,” said Muhammad Akmal Hafiz Abdul Aziz, Acting Director, Tourism Malaysia, New Delhi. “His extensive experience, remarkable achievements, and exemplary skills make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts in promoting Malaysia as a premier tourist destination among Indian travellers.”

Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I am honoured to have the opportunity to further strengthen the ties between Malaysia and India and to promote Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant tourism offerings to Indian travellers.”

Jewel Master Institute Facilitates Successful Graduation from Certification in Jewelry Retail Course

25th June 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Jewel Master Institute (JMI) has successfully concluded its recent ‘Certification in Jewelry Retail Course,’ empowering candidates with comprehensive skills essential for jewelry trading. The course, in collaboration with the Gem and Jewelry Sector Skill Council of India (GJSCI), has garnered significant acclaim for its thorough curriculum and practical approach.

Participants underwent rigorous training covering fundamental aspects of the trade, from understanding gold pricing mechanisms to executing sales and generating invoices. Additionally, they received essential insights into diamonds, gemstones, order management, goldsmith calculations, manufacturing processes, old gold exchange, stone weight assessments, margin calculations, and more.

The program emphasized hands-on learning, with candidates extensively practicing customer measurement techniques for various jewelry items such as rings, bangles, chains, and bracelets. Practical scenarios, including role-playing exercises on customer engagement and theft prevention, further enriched their learning experience.

Upon successful completion of practical sessions, viva, and written exams, all candidates were awarded certificates adorned with the logos of GJSCI and JMI, symbolizing their competence in the jewelry retail sector. The course, designed to be inclusive and affordable, attracted a diverse cohort, including enthusiastic young individuals seeking career opportunities in the thriving gems and jewelry industry.

Notably, several participants leveraged their newfound skills to register businesses under the Udyog Aadhar scheme, marking a significant step towards entrepreneurship in jewelry trading.

Alagu Chidambaram Muthiah, Founder of Jewel Master Institute, expressed his satisfaction with the program’s outcomes, particularly highlighting the emergence of entrepreneurs among the graduates. He remarked, “Training individuals who go on to become entrepreneurs aligns perfectly with our vision. The overwhelming interest in jewelry trading education reflects the broader goal of empowering women entrepreneurs, echoing the vision of our Honorable Prime Minister.”

Looking ahead, JMI plans to expand its impact by responding to increasing demand from jewelry associations and retail outlets for staff training under the Skill India scheme. This initiative aims to further elevate the standards of jewelry retail sales associates across the industry.

Talking to student Nahe Parekh Said, ‘I attended the jewelry retail course at the Jewel Master Institute, and it was an outstanding experience! Special thanks to our trainer, who made complex techniques easy to understand with their patience, expertise, and passion, leaving me well-equipped with new skills. I highly recommend the Jewel Master Institute for anyone interested in this field.’