GMU honored for ‘Outstanding Student Support’ at the Times Higher Education Awards MENA 2023
Ajman (Press Release): In a remarkable accomplishment, Gulf Medical University (GMU) has been honored at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards MENA 2023, earning acclaim in the category of "Outstanding Support for Students." The projects submitted for consideration were developed internally by the University Quality Assurance and Institutional Effectiveness Unit, in collaboration with the entire GMU community and under the guidance of university leadership.
The initiative titled "Empowering Student Success: A Holistic Approach to Mentorship and E-Portfolio Support" highlights the university's commitment to nurturing a supportive and nurturing learning environment. Through this initiative, Gulf Medical University has implemented a comprehensive approach to mentorship, offering personalized guidance to students to facilitate their academic and professional growth. Moreover, the university's innovative ‘e-portfolio support system’ enables students to curate and exhibit their academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and professional development, instilling a sense of ownership over their educational journey and future career prospects.
Speaking about the recognition, Prof. Hossam Hamdy, the Chancellor of Gulf Medical University, said, "Our achievements at the Times Higher Education MENA Awards are truly an honor. It reflects the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as the continuous support from Dr. Thumbay Moideen, the founder and president of the Thumbay Group. Recognizing this significant milestone in Gulf Medical University's 25th-year history, we are inspired to keep up with innovation, expansion, and continuous improvement."
In addition, Professor Sherief Khalifa, Vice Chancellor for Quality & Institutional Effectiveness and Dean, College of Pharmacy at Gulf Medical University, emphasized, “The recognition for Gulf Medical University in the Times Higher Education rankings for providing exceptional student support is remarkable. Our commitment to offering a supportive learning environment is demonstrated by our initiative, "Empowering Student Success: A Holistic Approach to Mentorship and E-Portfolio Support." Through personalized mentorship and our pioneering e- portfolio system, we empower students to excel academically and professionally, instilling a sense of ownership over their educational journey. This award inspires us to continue innovating and ensuring the holistic development of every student at Gulf Medical University."
Similarly, Prof. Manda Venkatraman, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean of Gulf Medical University's College of Medicine, expressed, "Gulf Medical University's recognition in the 'Outstanding Support for Students' category signifies our commitment to maintaining academic excellence, high-quality education, and noteworthy contributions to healthcare research and innovation. Being an essential component of a renowned academic institution in these subjects is something we are proud of.”
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Iran war halts Marathwada turmeric exports, prices drop in domestic market
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (PTI): The ongoing conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has halted turmeric exports from Maharashtra’s Marathwada region, causing domestic prices to crash from Rs 16,500 to Rs 13,000 per quintal.
Shiv Sena MLC Hemant Patil on Tuesday said that turmeric cultivated in Marathwada is exported to the Gulf and African countries, but the war that broke out last month has halted exports completely.
Turmeric is a cash crop cultivated in nearly 2 lakh acres in Hingoli district, and the Vasmat variety received a Geographical Identification (GI) tag in 2024.
Containers of turmeric from Hingoli and adjoining regions are shipped out of the country from Tamil Nadu and Kerala after processing, said Patil, who also heads the Balasaheb Thackeray Turmeric Research and Training Centre in Hingoli.
"Hingoli, Nanded, Wardha, Parbhani, Yavatmal and Washim are the turmeric belts in Marathwada. These districts produce nearly 25 lakh tonnes of the crop. The land under turmeric cultivation in Hingoli district alone is around 2 lakh hectares," he said.
Prakash Soni, a turmeric trader from Hingoli, said the Iran war has not only completely halted the exports, but the price of the produce in the domestic market has also taken a hit.
"Before the war, turmeric was being sold at Rs 16,500 per quintal. The price has now reached Rs 13,000. The price will drop further if the war continues," he said.
According to data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India exported turmeric worth USD 341.54 million in 2024-25, with Maharashtra alone accounting for USD 155.35 million.
The produce was exported to Bangladesh, the UAE, the US, Malaysia and Morocco.
