Bidar, March 26: The first batch of Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication passed out at a colourful convocation ceremony, held at the main campus of Shaheen Group of Institutions in Bidar on Thursday (March 25). The six-month long certificate was introduced by Shaheen Media Academy last year. 17 students from all over the country received the course completion certificate.

Delivering the convocation address, renowned Islamic scholar Moulana Salman Husaini Nadvi from Lucknow highlighted the significance of journalists to play a very pro-active role in view of the deteriorating and corruption filled media environment. He also stressed the need for an alternative media which can expose the vulgarity and corrupt practices of the mainstream media. Describing the salient features of the bird Shaheen (Falcon) which has been metaphorically referred in the writings of Urdu scholar Allama Iqbal and Islamic teachings, Moulana Nadvi exhorted the students to realize the significance and the self reliant and high-flying nature of the bird and learn lessons of life from it. He appreciated the vision and the approach of Shaheen Group which has incorporated the tenets of Islam in imparting true education.

Chief Guest on the occasion, Abdul Salam Puthige, Editor-in-chief of Kannada daily Varthabharathi, motivated the students to use the opportunity they have and grow with experience. He remarked that mere academic qualification will not be enough to be a good journalist, but one should have knowledge and skills to achieve the objectives of being socially productive. “If you are happy with the status quo then this is not the field for you; journalism is for those who find problems with the present standards of the society and want to change the status quo” he said.

In his opening remarks, Chairman of Shaheen Group of Institutions, Dr. Abdul Qadeer went down the memory lane an described the establishment and development of the institution and said that along with producing talent pool of future doctors, the group had initiated move to open courses that will provide platform for students to become lawyers, civil servants and journalists among others.

The convocation ceremony was participated by Mrs. Mehar Sultana, director for the program, S. H. Quadri Principal of Shaheen College, Afra Thousif, Principal of Shaheen Women’s College among others. The program was anchored by Srinnivasan Nandagopal from the Department of Outreach, Counseling and Training of Shaheen Group.

Alumni of Shaheen Independent PU College, Swathi, Madiha Shamin, Umrah Mustaf and Syeda Aisha who stood toppers with distinction in the I Year MBBS at Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences (BRIMS) were felicitated on the occasion. Incidentally only the four attained distinction among the 150 students and all four were from Shaheen institutions.

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.



Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.

Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”

Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.

Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.

“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.

He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.

“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.

Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.

“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.

He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.

Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.

“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.

Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.

“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.

When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”