Meritorious students from all formats of government-run schools such as Zilla Parishad and Municipal Corporation schools, from classes IX and X, from about 65 schools both in the city and from rural areas were selected to receive the scholarships.

The scholarship amounts were Rs. 5,000 for first rankers and Rs. 3,500 for second rankers and were given away by MLA P.G.V.R. Naidu (Gana Babu), in the presence of GVMC Commissioner M. Hari Narayanan.

The scholarships were given away to students in the form of ATM Cards in collaboration with the State Bank of India.

The orientation board consist of five members.

Political science major Megan KIm said, “I thought it was very helpful, when I was commissioner I wrote some legislations and I was so confused, and now this kind of cleared to me how to write, like for today like when I was writing I just knew what to write because the orientation workshop did a good job in explaining it to me.”

Anthropology major Justin Illescas said, “I think the workshop is very effective they actually taught how to write a legislation, what type of legislations and overall anybody can write legislations if they’re effective as it is.

“I think this is very important for people who are interested in student government because through legislation they can actually make a change here at Cerritos College.”

Presenter Eduardo de la Rosa said,”The purpose of the Standing Setup Orientation Board is to educate new incoming leaders providing information they might had missed.”

First-year senator Luis Islas said, “I’m happy to be part of this orientation board, it talks about how to be a better senator.”

Joseph Fierro, who is in his second year within student government said, “We put in a lot of work into this workshop, hopefully you guys enjoy it.”

De la Rosa went over in what was legislation structure has four topics,

Defining what legislation is

• The different types of legislation within our student government organization
• How properly structure a legislation
• How big of an impact a legislation can go once it’s passed

Fierro said, “Every member came out with this idea on the orientation board, De La Rosa, Islas, Rojas, [and program facilitator of student affairs Amber Dofner].

Dofner said, “As the program facilitator for Student Activities I’m the acting adviser of student government and I’m also the advisor to the senate orientation board.

“I think it’s great we have some senators, Fierro, senator De La Rosa, who have been here for a couple years, and they really felt the need for a legislation workshop as they mentioned at the beginning student government did had several trainings at the beginning of the semester, but legislation was something that was not covered.”

She added, “The board’s particular job is to educate incoming senators, but they felt it was really necessary to open it, not only senators, but to every single branch in student government as well as students that large.”

Dofner believes that students leading this makes it more relatable.

“Coming from students I think is more relatable for other students coming in to see they can actually do this,” she said.

“I think we will see more students attending to workshops, for those students who were unable to come I highly recommend to come to the orientations, as you can see is very educational as senator De la Rosa said to improve student life and get students to engage on campus, I think is really important for the ASCC,” she concluded.

In an informal conversation with reporters after a meeting with the Rajasthan Education Minister, he informed about the decision to re-introduce class X board examination.

Javadekar also said state governments will be given authority to reintroduce class V and VIII board examinations, a proposal for which will be tabled in the Cabinet and then in Parliament.

"The decision to conduct class V and VIII board examinations will be left with the state," Javadekar said.

The main focus of HRD Ministry is on improving the quality of school education, specifically of government schools, he said.

Praising the initiatives taken in school education sector in Rajasthan, Javadekar said much improvement in the quality of education in government schools have been brought in the state, which was 25 years ago called "Bimaru".

He informed that enrolment in government school in Rajasthan has increased by 15 lakh where Utkarsh Adarsh schools have been opened at panchayat level.

Narendra Modi-led government is working to improve academic standard and wants the curiosity among students to grow with education, the minister said.

Asked about suicide by several students preparing for IITJEE at coaching institutes of Kota, Javadekar said a website IIT-PAL will be introduced for free of cost on which students will get facilities like study material, guidance by experts and discussion options.

The committee also mooted developing laboratories at primary schools to motivate students in this regard. The report was discussed at a meeting of CABE – the highest advisory body on education for the central and state governments – last month.

Besides this, the body recommended collating a list of skills vis-à-vis the regions they are required in, and integrating them with the education system. “During deliberations, the sub-committee made a number of suggestions, including the introduction of vocational education from the third standard. Also, it was suggested that state-of-the-art labs be developed even at the primary school level to motivate them,” said a source.

Many members also highlighted the need to focus on vocational education pertaining to skill sectors relevant to the states.

Other recommendations made by the sub-committee included training teachers, keeping the needs of the industry in mind. It also suggested ways to ensure that training in the agriculture sector reaches the backward sections of society.

Before you start the process of applying to study abroad, you should check with your school to make sure the classes you take will transfer. If your school doesn't have a dedicated study abroad office, check with the registrar.

2. Talk to students who have studied abroad.

Talk to alumni of the study abroad program to get a sense of the successes and struggles of their experience. Talking to others who have completed the same program will give you a chance to ask specific questions and allay any fears you might have.

3. Find ways to finance your trip.

Studying abroad can be expensive. Prior to committing to any program, estimate how much you will spend during your time abroad. Some students might qualify for federal loans or grants. There are a multitude of scholarships available specifically for students who wish to study abroad. Check with your financial aid office for advice and assistance.

4. Make sure you have all necessary travel documents.

It goes without saying that a current passport will be required in order to enter a foreign country and to return home. However, many countries require a student visa. If your destination country requires a visa, be sure to apply well in advance of your expected departure. Confirm that the visa will cover your entire study abroad period.

5. Get a physical.

Before leaving for your study abroad experience, you should visit your doctor and make sure you're in good health. Tell your doctor where you're going and see if he or she has specific recommendations. It is important that you are up to date with your vaccines. Remember to find out if any additional vaccines are recommended for your planned destination.

6. Get insurance.

Travel insurance is worth the investment should you get sick or have any serious medical issues. If you already have health insurance, check to see if it includes coverage for overseas care. If it doesn't, you can get a policy specific for overseas travel.

7. Search out local connections.

You never know what kind of resources are right under your nose. Let your plans to study abroad be known, and tell people exactly where you're going. Someone you know might have family, friends or another local connection that could end up being invaluable.

8. Make sure you're aware of social customs.

It may be perfectly OK for men and women to be platonic friends in the U.S., but it might not be acceptable elsewhere. To avoid awkward situations, find out as much as you can about local customs before heading overseas. Remember to consider language barriers. Even though you might know the language of the country you are visiting, there are still chances for misunderstanding.

9. Register to vote.

Yes, you can still vote while living overseas! It is recommended to register at your local election office in the United States, but you can always register online while in a foreign country. In order to vote, you must request an absentee ballot. Check the Federal Voting Assistance Program website (www.fvap.gov) to get specific information about absentee voting regulations for your state.

10. Decide what you want to see and do.

Going abroad to study can be more than just going to school in a different country. You will have the opportunity to tour famous sites, museums and recreation areas. Research what you want to see and do while you're abroad. If you are not sure you have enough money, make a budget so you can save up to do what you want. There are a variety of travel guides available; some are geared specifically to students traveling abroad.

11. Find a bank.

Banking in a foreign country is quite different than what you are used to in the United States. You may not be able to use your ATM card or credit card the way you do at home. The easiest way around this is to set up a bank account once you arrive. In doing so, you can have your money nearby and a way to access it quickly. Check with your study abroad advisor to find out what you need to open an account.

12. Know what to do in case of an emergency.

Prior to leaving on your trip, find out how to contact the police, the fire department and any other emergency service available in your host country. Additionally, consider enrolling your trip with the State Department. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that allows the State Department to assist you in an emergency.

13. Know how to find the embassy.

You should know where the closest U.S. embassy is in case of trouble. Keep the phone number handy as well. Consular services are available 24/7. Read more at the U.S. State Department website (studentsabroad.state.gov/embassies.php).

14. Know the law and stick to it.

Be sure to obey the laws of your host country at all times. Find out the laws for common activities, such as driving a car or drinking alcohol. What is not a big deal at home can be considered quite serious in another country. Even a minor incident can create a lot of trouble for a foreigner who is not educated in the local laws.

15. Learn about food and drink safety.

One of the joys of traveling is trying the foods and beverages of the country you are visiting. Before trying the local delicacies, it's in your best interest to research any potential health hazards related to food and drink. The Center for Disease Control's website (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/) has a plethora of information about food safety overseas.

16. Research local religion.

It's not necessarily the case that you'll end up studying abroad in a highly religious area, but it can't hurt to know. Information about religion is available on travel websites and can lend insight into local customs.

17. Write down emergency numbers.

It's a good idea to have a list of emergency numbers available just in case you need it. Include the numbers of trusted local contacts, your parents, your school, the U.S. embassy and other organizations that can help you get out of a jam.

18. Pack smart.

Pack for the climate of the country you are visiting. For example, if you're studying abroad in Sydney, Australia, during the fall semester in the U.S., you should be prepared for spring and summer weather. Find out if you will need any special equipment, like heavy-duty snow gear, for example. Pack copies of important documents, such as plane tickets, passports and credit cards for reference in case of an emergency.

19. Prepare to stay in touch with your friends and family.

Stay in touch with your family and friends in the U.S. while you're abroad by using video chat programs, such as Google Hangout or Skype. Your cell phone might work in another country, but if not, you may be able to get a cell phone locally. Otherwise, you can buy an international calling card to use for phoning home. Being able to talk to your family and friends can go a long way in staving off homesickness.

20. Know that you can't plan for everything.

It's a good idea to arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can prior to your departure, but there is no way to prepare for everything. Keep an open mind about your upcoming adventure. Any planning you do ahead of time will serve you well, but not knowing what will happen is part of the fun of travel.

The free workshop will be held at the NMC As Terlaje Campus on Building A, Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016. These workshops will be ongoing sessions, so participants can stop by anytime between 9 a.m. and before the end of the workshops at 12 noon. The Cash for College workshop will also be held on NMC’s Tinian and Rota on Dec. 3, 2016.

The aim of the workshops is to assist students and their parents in maximizing scholarship opportunities that are available to students seeking to obtain a college education. The Cash for College workshops are open to new and ongoing students, as well as members in the community.

Participants of the workshop will be provided with personal, step-by-step assistance in completing college financial aid forms, focusing especially on forms for the Free Application for Federal 
Student Aid, the Saipan Higher Education Financial Assistance program, the CNMI Scholarship, the TEACH Grant and more.

Although not required, it is recommended that workshop participants bring a valid form of identification (e.g., a valid passport, birth certificate, or green card), three official transcripts, signed 2015 1040 tax form (2014 W-2 statements if you and/or your parents did not or will not file taxes), and/or proof of CNMI residency for 2014 and 2014 (e.g., CNMI 1040 tax form, employment 
verification from your employer, official transcripts, voters certification, etc.)

For additional information, visit marianas.edu or contact the NMC Financial Aid Office at  237-6792 or email daisy.propst@marianas.edu/.

A unique campus

Stone floors are plastered in cow dung as it is supposed to have anti-radiation properties, walls are whitewashed with lime, food is organically produced, milk comes from the 60-odd cows in the barn; in the kitchen, cow dung cake is the cooking fuel and ash works as a detergent. Electricity is the only modern energy source, though its judicious use is underlined several times over. Education is imparted in Sanskrit, Hindi and Gujarati. No fee is charged from students. There are annual holidays and breaks, but no school leaving exams or certification from any school board.

Six months at the Gurukulam, the boy who loved to read and play games on the iPad, says he’s happy to be “stress free”. “I miss books (English books are not allowed until the students turn 16), but otherwise I don’t miss the video games or TV,” he says with the composure of a grown-up.

Started in 2008 by Jain businessman and philanthropist, Uttambhai Shah, and run entirely on donations with no affiliation to any school board, the Gurukulam does not follow the pedagogy of the “Macaulay system” says, principal Deep Koirala. The accent here is on ancient Indian learning, the Vedic methods of mastering the arts and sciences; students are taught metallurgy or space science based on what the scriptures say.

Skills that matter

The system of education has endeared the Gurukulam to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which has been pushing for a similar pattern of learning. How relevant or prudent is this learning methodology at a time when students are exposed to computer-aided learning and developments in sciences?

“Students of the Gurukulum are way ahead of their counterparts in private schools,” says Mukul Kanitkar, joint organising secretary of RSS-affiliated Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM).

He says not only can they compete with their counterparts in streams such as maths and science, but have an edge over them when it comes to life-skills. “They can identify herbs, use their hands to create things, weave cloth…they are equipped for the world,” Kanitkar says.

The BMS, in the forefront of pushing for a change in India’s education policy and removing “western influence” from history, is spearheading the revival of ancient forms of learning rooted in ‘Indianess’. It has found in the Gurukulam an idea that needs incubation. It mentors the Gurukulam, and plans are underway for propagating the concept.

Model school

A similar set up has been started for girls a little distance away from the Gurukulam, where 225 girls are enrolled. This too is run by a Jain sect. Gurukuls run by religious trusts have also come up in Maharashtra’s Kaneri where there are 100 students and in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur which has 50 students. “About 10-15 organisations that have land and resources approached us to set up Gurukuls; some IITs and IIMs have envisaged interest too. But right now, we cannot expand as this is not a commercial enterprise. In Sabarmati we have a student teacher ratio of 100:150. We are now focusing on orienting right Acharyas (teachers),” he says.

Even as Kanitkar holds out the Gurukul model as an answer for “undoing the frailties of western learning concepts” adopted by Indian schools, he is categorical in wanting to keep the government out. “We think sarkar and bazaar (government and businesses) should not have anything to do with imparting education,” he says.

For the RSS, implementation of teaching in the mother tongue and a push for revisiting the knowledge in the Vedas, the gurukul system also offers a shot at inculcating nationalism. Though most of the gurukuls are controlled by religious sects, nationalism, bordering on anti-west sentiments is a perspicuous presence.

Take the case of 10- year-old Manjit Singh, a student at the Gurukulam who earlier went to a school in Alwar; he says the Gurukulam is unlike the “vinashkari” (destructive) education system started by the British. “The traditional gurukul system that produced Kings like Lord Ram was destroyed by the British and if we move away from our culture we will also be destroyed,” says the aspiring musician with a reasoning that belies his age.

At the Gurukulam

• Kautilya’s treatise on governance ‘Arthashastra’, Vedic Maths, music, arts and ayurvedic medicine are part of the curriculum as is astrology

• There are no cramped classrooms, groups of students are taught together based on their mental ability and proficiency. A music class, for instance, could have students from 6 to 16 learning together

• Students from the age group of 6-18 are enrolled

• For recreation there is the traditional gymnastics (Malkhamb) and horse riding

Degree of learning

The lack of certification is not a deterrent for most here; though some students opt to enroll in the National Open School system for a certificate. No students have passed out yet from the Gurukulam, but most want a career in fine arts, music; with some wanting to become monks.

“We do not discourage students from enrolling as private candidates, but a majority is happy with the learning outcome here,” says Koirala, himself a product of a gurukul.

The Gurukulam also doubles up as an ecosystem for organic practices, a throwback to what was followed centuries ago.

Jeetu Bhai Balad, a trustee, has converted a portion of the complex into a repository for ancient knowledge. On the top floor of a building are workshops for creating special paper and ink used for writing scriptures. “We are reviving ancient practices that were eco-friendly. We want to cut down on chemicals that are poisoning the environment and life,” he says.

Signs that you need to take a closer look at your brain health, according to Chapman's research, include a recurring feeling of mental fatigue or low mental energy, increased instances of forgetfulness, difficulty making decisions, the feeling that you're overwhelmed by information and the inability to plan or create innovative solutions.

Often, these symptoms are reversible. What can help here, Chapman says, is to reduce toxic "brain habits" and make the conscious decision to adopt a more brain-fit lifestyle. (However, she adds, if you or a loved one exhibits changes in memory noticeable to others, or periodic bouts of a lack of insight or failure to pay bills on time, seek the advice of a healthcare professional.) Here are the six brain-boosting habits Chapman recommends:

1. Limit multitasking.

Multitasking diminishes mental productivity, elevates brain fatigue and increases stress.

2. Get an adequate amount of sleep.

Make sure you regularly get seven-to-eight hours of sleep. Information is consolidated in the brain at a deeper level of understanding during sleep.

3. Commit to an exercise routine.

Get 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three to four times a week, to improve memory and increase attention and concentration and brain blood flow in the brain-memory area.

4. Construct bottom-line messages.

Summarize your task-assignment reading, training seminars, articles, movies you see or books read. Abstracting novel ideas, versus remembering a litany of facts, builds a brain with an enhanced long-term memory for global ideas and the ability to retrieve fundamental facts.

5. Laser-focus on important tasks.

Block out information that is relatively unimportant. Limiting the intake of information is a key brain function associated with brain health.

6. Stay motivated.

A motivated brain builds faster and more robust neural connections. Identify your passions and learn more about them.

Parents can apply online for next year's primary admissions at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/admissions, and have until 15 January 2017 to get their preferences in.

And Staffordshire County Council have released some tips to make the process as easy as possible, and give parents the best chance of being allocated one of their primary school choices.

Parents must make an actual formal application between now and 15 January, even if they have an elder child in attendance at their preferred school.

Attendance at a nursery class does not give any priority in the Reception Class admissions process. The most important thing is for parents to make sure they apply for at least three schools. Just putting down one school in the hope it will be allocated doesn't always work, and parents may end up getting a school they would not normally have chosen.

Make sure to understand the admission criteria for the school that is being applied for, as this will give an idea of the likely outcome of a preference

Parents should visit preferred school – talk to the headteacher and other teachers so they can be sure it is the right one for their child.

Visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/admissions for the latest performance data on schools in the local area, and for the county council's new school guide which helps parents compare local schools.

County Councillor Ben Adams, Cabinet Member for Learning and Skills said: "Year on year, the majority of parents are allocated their first choice school, and we are constantly above the national average for allocating parents one of their top three preferred schools. This is despite rising birth rates putting pressure on school places across the county.

"Because of this, we need all applications in by 15 January 2017 as a lot of work goes into organising the process.

"We understand the pressures we are facing on primary school places, and are putting in a lot of work to ensure we have enough to accommodate the increase in population in some areas of the county. This work means we can still have a consistently high percentage of parents allocated one of their top three primary schools, and help give every child in Staffordshire the best possible start in life."

The amount of Rs 2,374 lakhs, required for disbursing scholarships pending for the academic period of 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17, would be given to Kerala State Higher Education Council as supplementary demand for grant, Raveendran had informed the assembly on Wednesday.

Replying to a submission moved by Anwar Sadath (Cong), the minister said the Council finds the amount for scholarship from the grant-in-aid, sanctioned by the government annually.

The government had not sanctioned grant-in-aid to the council for the year 2015-16 and "that is why scholarship was not given during that period," he pointed out.

Sadath said the delay in disbursal of the scholarship had affected students, especially those belonging to financially poor background.