Monday, March 31, 2008

With a spring in their step....

Preparations are on in full swing for the upcoming inter-college event, Spring Fiesta, which will be held on April 11th, 2008, at the American College of Dubai (ACD) campus.

Last year's defending dance champions, from MAHE - Dubai Campus, are practising hard in their bid to retain the title.
The categories for dance this year will have the following themes:
Eastern Dance: Love Comedy
Western Dance: 70's tunes
Both categories will see a group of 12 dancers each, perform.

Furthermore, our Fashion Department is getting all set to showcase their designs at the event. The theme this year is 'Bridal Wear' and the outfits are to be donned by models from MAHE itself.

Sunday, March 30, 2008

MAHE Girls crowned Champions at the Gulf Medical College Annual Sports Festival

The Manipal University - Dubai Campus Girls basketball team receive their Championship trophy at the Gulf Medical College Sports Festival award ceremony.


The Manipal University - Dubai Campus Girls basketball team crushed all opposition when they beat IITM 51/9 on Thursday, 27 March 2008. Congratulations Girls!

Watch out for more pictures and more updates!


The team celebrates their victory.From left to right the players are-(1st row)Meghna,Galba, Sakina,Anam .(2nd row) Roshny,Rabiya,Krishna,Priyanka, Nidhi. Also with them are Mr.Krishnakumar and the cheer team.

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

IDeaZ ends on a high note!

The last day of the two-day IDeaZ design conference ended on a smooth note today, drawing high praise from every audience member present.

The itinerary for the day opened with a speech from an industry professional, who interacted with students as he took them on an interesting journey into the rapidly developing world of paints. The presentation was delivered by Mr. Manoj Ibrahim of Leigh Paints, who spoke of flame retardant paint coatings and its impact on interiors. Students learnt how these paints reduced the rate at which materials, especially steel structures, caught fire for an hour or two – which could well be the difference between life and death.

The talk was followed by presentations from five students at both Bachelors and Masters level, wherein they showcased the work they’d done the past semester. These presentations were an eye-opener to students in terms of presentation style and the importance of taking their work one step further by learning how to explain their concepts.

Mr. Manoj Ibrahim of Leighs Paints during his presentation. Photo by Anusha P.

The much-awaited prize distribution took place in the afternoon where faculty and students alike were felicitated for their achievements and contributions to the department. Among those honoured were the Visual Communication students of the Department of Media & Communication, led by their professor Mr. Sabir Haque, for their role as creators of the IDeaZ magazine.

By the close of the conference, it was evident that both parents and faculty were equally impressed with the amount of time and effort that had been put into the works showcased. As one parent Ms. Latha Venkatraman put it, "To be able to create ideas and design them into this final product the way these students do, is a truly amazing thing indeed. The conference was interesting and I appreciate the work the students put in." Other parents were unified in their opinion that the conference was "very well-organized".

Mr. Ashok Iyer mentioned in his closing notes that they hoped to make the IDeaz design conference an annual event. In light of this, Ms. Latha also had a few suggestions. "I think there's always plenty of room for improvement. For instance, I felt that the students would've done better to give more emphasis to the design aspect of their presentations than anything else. They could work on their presentation skills, such as their rapport with the audience and being more precise. With practice, they'd be great presenters too, which is very important."

Students listen intently to presentations by fellow classmates. Photo by Anusha P.

Lunch might have been the most… ‘full-filling’ highlight that sealed off the event for some. At the same time, it was an ideal opportunity for everyone to mingle, meet and strike up engaging debates.

With the positive feedback so received, we can indeed expect the Department of Interior Design to be back with a bang this time, next year, too. Conferences and exhibitions are hardly easy feats to pull off – successful ones, that is. But as students were reminded today, when strong team work is involved, the result is evident in the final output - and in this case, the IDeaZ design conference was without a doubt, tagged "Success"!

DIAC Litter Free Campaign

As part of their litter free campaign, DIAC has placed posters all around the Academic City Campus compelling students to rethink where they dispose off their litter.

Be an environmentally conscious citizen and keep the campus clean!


Below is a quiz by the DIAC as part of their litter free campaign:



New arrivals at the MAHE Dubai library

The library has acquired the following books recently:

Please contact the library for more information.

Monday, March 24, 2008

MAHE Girls power their way to Throw Ball Finals

The MAHE Dubai girls team swept aside in straight sets the hosts, Gulf Medical College (15/3), earlier having trounced London School of Economics (15/7) at the Gulf Medical College Annual Sports Festival in Ajman yesterday.

The winning team members:

Sneha Pujari - B.B.A 3rd Year

Ghalba Duggal-Biotechnology 3rd Year

Roshny Ravibdran-Media and Communications 1st Year

Rabiya Sonde-Media and Communications 1st Year
Priyanka Geriya- Media and Communications 3rd Year

Megna Kalvani- Media and Communications 1st Year

Maitreyi -B.B.A 3rd Year

Nidhi Mehra-B.B.A 2nd Year

Alaisha Abraham-B.B.A 1st Year

Judy Evangel-B.B.A 1st Year

Prarthna Balagopal-Media and Communications 3rd Year

Dyvine Samuel-Media and Communications 1st Year

Congratulations Girls! And good luck for the upcoming matches.

All matches for the Gulf Medical College Annual Sports Festival are open to the Public. For further details please contact Mr. Krishna Kumar.

Manipal Girls slamdunk into GMC Sports Festival Basket Ball Finals

The Manipal Girls basketball team powered their way into the Finals of the Gulf Medical College Annual Sports Festival on Sunday beating University of Wollongong Dubai (42/19) and BITS Pillani (38/20). "It was a competitive match with BITS Pilani," said Krishna Priya, "but we beat them!".

The finals will be held on this Friday, 28 March 2008 against I.I.T.M.

The Manipal basket ball team members are:
Ghalba Duggal -Biotechnology 3rd Year
Roshny Ravindran - Media and Communications 1st Year
Rabiya Sonde - Media and Communications 1st Year
Priyanka Geriya - Media and Communications 3rd Year
Megha Pannu - B.B.A 3rd Year
Sana Karim- Fashion Technology 1st Year
Krishna Priya - Media and Communications 1st Year
Sakina Dalwdwala - B.B.A 1st Year
Nidhi Mehra- B.B.A 2nd Year

Wish the team Good Luck for the finals!

IDeaz 2008 - Day 1

The key-note speaker Mr.Kenneth Leidler

"Interior designers are not decorators."
~Designer Kenneth Laidler. M.A, FRSA, President of the Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID).

After hosting 'Kreationz-Unlimited' successfully for the last three years, the Interior Design Department has decided to go a step forward by hosting a design conference titled 'IDeaz 2008'.

Audience at the conference

IDeaz 2008 began yesterday with speeches by the Director of Manipal University, Dr. B. Ramjee’s followed by Mr. Ashok Iyer, the Chairperson for the conference. "IDEAZ is truly a platform giving an opportunity for the young students to display their creativity on par with design professionals and consultants from the industry," he said. This was then followed by the unveiling of the publication, 'Ideaz' by the guest of honour - Kenneth Laidler, along with the heads of the other departments.


Unveiling of the publication - 'Ideaz'. From left: Mr. Kenneth Leidler, Dr. Mohd. Firoz (HOD of Media & Communications) , Dr. Shahul Hameed (HOD of Management Studies), Mr. Ashok Iyer (HOD of Interior Design).

Kenneth Laidler, the President of Kenneth Laidler Design FZ LLC and President of the Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID) then gave his own presentation on the differesnt aspects of interior designing, from what an interior designer does to what were the many perceptions that existed. He spoke from his own personal experience and connected with the audience by giving them a taste of real life situations and projects that he and his team had worked on.

He emphasized on the importance of being pratical in one's design and not just focusing on one's creativity. "Though most designers focus on being creative, remember to always be practical in your approach so that the design in itself will serve a purpose," he said.

This informative and insightful presentation was then followed by presentations that showcased the works of the students titled 'The trip down the memory lane’, presented by Ms. Shraddha and another concept-based presentation, titled 'Unity in Faith' by Rabia Sheikh.

Kenneth Laidler was then presented with a token of appreciation by the Chairperson, Mr. Ashok Iyer and Ms. Vidhya Rao, an Interior Design faculty. This token was personally designed by the students of the department.

Kenneth Leidler being presented with the token of appreciation.

The conference then moved on to it's second half with a product presenation by the well-known Al-Gurg OFIS Furniture, of the Easa- Saleh Al-Gurg group. Afterwhich, there were other presentations given by faculty and students which gave students a varied outlook into the different aspects of the profession.

The 1st day ended with students looking forward to the second day of the conference.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

An interview with Mr. Narayan Rao

Ever wished for a mind-boggling question not to appear for an exam at Manipal University? You cross your fingers or not, it eventually depends on that single examination paper that is randomly handpicked from a whole bundle of similar question papers structured for the exam. And this task of random handpicking is performed by Mr. Narayan Rao, the controller of examination at Manipal University (India) who was recently on a visit to Manipal University in Dubai. Kulsoom Ali, a third year student of Media and Communications, specializing in print media, questioned him with reference to the backstage task of examination control practiced at Manipal University, Dubai.

To read the interview, please visit http://www.blogger.com/www.kulsoom-ali.blogspot.com.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Picture Perfect End to Photography Workshop

Collage by: Afshan Ahmed

The Basic Professional Photography Workshop held by eminent photographer, Ms. Jisha Nair ended last week, the 13th of March 2008. The 2 week long workshop not only taught the students basic photographic skills but challenged them to come up with lighting setups for a photo shoot.

On the last day Ms. Jisha ended the session with her pearls of wisdom and a few simple and cheap lighting techniques to try at home where expensive studio lighting cannot be recreated. She also generously invited the students to her photo shoots for on field assistance and knowledge.


All students were awarded certificate of participation by Ms. Jisha and Dr. B. Ramjee in a small ceremony held in the sound lab. As a token of appreciation, all those who graciously provided their support in making this workshop a success, were given personally signed photo frames.


A heartfelt thanks going out to all of the following people:

Ms. Jisha Nair
Mr. Abdulmatalib - (Gulf Colour Labs)
Dr. B. Ramjee
Mr. Joseph (MAC)
Mr. R.N. Shukul (MAC)

Look out for the album with some of the best photographs, created by the students of the workshop.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Manipal University Dubai Basketball Team (Boys)

This are the names of students chosen for the Manipal University Dubai Basketball team. They will represent the university the upcoming sports events. Watch out for more new and indepth profiles of each player:

Imran 3rd yr. B.B.A.
Gohan 3rd yr. Biotech
Yoous 3rd yr. B.B.A.
Shefi 3rd yr. B.B.A.
Rahul Raj 3rd yr. B.B.A.
Rahul Kumar 2nd yr. B.B.A.
Rateesh 2nd yr. B.B.A.
Shreyas 2nd yr. B.B.A.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Manipal University's Controller of Examination visits Dubai Campus

Mr. Narayan Rao, controller of examination, Manipal University. Photograph by Kulsoom Ali

Manipal University's controller of examination, Mr. Narayan Rao is on a 3-day visit to scrutinize the standards and system of the examinations held at Manipal University, Dubai.

He reached Dubai yesterday and observed the arrangement of the MBA examinations conducted at the campus.

Look out for more updates on his views along with an in-depth feature on 'behind the scene' procedure of examination control practiced at Manipal University, Dubai.

Macmillan Dictionary’s Editor-in-Chief interacts with MAHE students

Michael Rundell, Editor-in-Chief of Macmillan English Dictionary poses with a copy of the dictionary. Photograph by Maitri Somaia



Michael Rundell, the editor-in-chief of the Macmillan English Dictionary for Advanced Learners visited the MAHE campus on Sunday 16th March, to enlighten the students about the new edition of the award-winning learners’ dictionary.

A lexicographer by profession, Mr. Rundell briefly presented the approach to compiling the Macmillan dictionary. Titled ‘From corpus to dictionary’, he explained the key features of the dictionary in a nutshell. Starting off with an introduction to a dictionary, he proceeded to describe the syntax of words (how words combine with each other) with an additional insight to collocation (the association between two words) and the word-sketch software.

The latter part of his presentation incorporated a few keys to successful writing coupled with frequency charts and a short exercise to interact with the audience.

However, Mr. Rundell predominantly highlighted the wide-ranging interactive features of the dictionary available on a CD. He displayed the dictionary interface with miscellaneous options and tools that a user can derive benefit from.

Asked if the electronic publication hinders the preference of traditional paper publication of the dictionary, Mr. Rundell said, “There is a huge difference in generations and their respective attitudes. Professors and academicians haven’t grown with the computer age so they still favor a printed publication. However, the youth are computer savvy and choose the dictionary on a CD. Each has its own audience."

This special visit was made possible courtesy Books Plus. Students were also granted discount cards that entitles them to receive a 10% discount at Books Plus situated in Academic City.

**Macmillan English Dictionary for Advanced Learners is available at Books Plus, Academic City. Contact the store dealer for further information.

Dept. of Interior Design hosts IDeaZ 2008


The Interior Design Department will be hosting a Interior Design Conference titled ‘IDeaZ 2008’ on the 24th and 25th of March 2008.

The objectives of the conference are:

· to look into the influence of ‘Interior Design on the Built Environment’,
· to explore the role of Professional Bodies in initiating a discussion amongst the global citizen residing in the ever dynamic built environment of today, and
· to invite the Design Professional of Today & students of the department at the Masters & Bachelors level to explore this influence through a series of papers

The Key Note Speaker for the conference will be Designer Kenneth Laidler. M.A, FRSA, who is the President of the Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID).

OFIS, Al Gurg Office Furniture, an Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group with a very high reputation in the industry, are presenting their products during the conference.
Watch this space for more updates on the design conference.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Health Week hits MAHE

" When a person thinks of health, green is the colour that easily comes to the mind and so we chose this to be our symbol" - Shaahima Fahim - 3rd year student of Biotechnology.


Day 1


Early morning, as students of MAHE-Manipal walked in to the campus they were welcomed with green ribbons to wear to lend their support for the Health Awareness Week being celebrated by the Department of Biotechnology. The first of the four day programme saw special emphasis on the campaign, "Smoking - Don't give up... giving up". The campaign focused on targeting the smokers (students as well as faculty) and informing them of the various negative side effects and implications that can arise due to smoking.

"87% of lung cancer patients are smokers."

This was a fact that was mentioned in the leaflets that were being handed out to students throughout the day. The leaflets were mainly meant for smokers, urging them to undergo a smoker's test to screen an individual for the possibility of having lung cancer. People interested in undergoing the Smoker's Test can contact the company - Eastern Biotech & Life Sciences by checking their website: http://www.easternbiotech.com/ or by calling them on 04-3692061.


Volunteers handing out fruits on Day 1

In order to promote a healthier diet, students were given apples and oranges which were sponsored by Safeer & Co.

Day 2

The enthusiasm for being healthy could still be felt in the air, with the 2nd day focussing on the down side of alchohol and enerygy drinks. According to studies done, an increased intake of energy drinks can affect the liver due to the presence of Taurine. Volunteers from the department handed out flavoured youghurt and milk, to try and promote these products as substitute energy deriving drinks.


Day 3

This day focused on Junk Food which has been highlighted as the main cause of obesity by many dietitians. To combat the persuausive power of junk food, volunteers handed out nutrition bars which were highly popular. 'Super Size Me', a highly effective documentary on the consequences of eating junk food was shown at the auditorium.

"The main difference between energy bars and energy drinks is that energy bars do not contain Taurine which is a major constituent bile and that's what makes energy drinks so unhealthy," says Ruchika, a Biotech volunteer.


Day 4

Veneral diseases was the subject chosen for the 4th day. While most youth might shy away from sucha topic, the department decided to tackle the problem head-on. The charts that were put up on the 1st floor were more than just informative and actually shed light on a topic that is often considered taboo in many families.

The department also organised for HIV and Hepatitis B testing so that students could know whether they had already contracted the sexually transmitted diseases (STD's).

Overall the campaign was successful, to an extent in informing the youth of MAHE, but more of an effort could have been done to make the campaign more interactive. However a noteworthy mention goes out to the creators of all the educational and informative charts that were put up on the 1st floor. A more intense campaign might actually have been more effective in driving the point home.

Music from around the world comes to sing its tune at MAHE

The group song competition held last Thursday, the 13th of March saw the end of the month long, in-house cultural competitions taking place at the MAHE Dubai auditorium. The competition began with a performance by MAHE’s official band – Novocaine. A very hard act to follow, judging by the audience's reaction. The group song competition saw five groups of five members each who were judged on the basis of melody, harmony and presentation. Music is truly global and can definitely speak to people and this was clearly visible through the choice and selection of songs from gospel to fusion and from a qawwali to a remix. The competition was judged by Mr. Vishwesh Akre from the IT department, Ms. Seema Upadhyay from the Biotechnology department and Ms. Seena Biju from the Management department.

The 2nd place winners presented the very powerful “Pray for me Brother” by A.R. Rahman which is the UN anthem. The group also had a persuasive presentation that backed their song, creating feelings of charity among the audience. Members of the group included: Anandha, Deepa, Sabrina, Nancy and Asma.


Ms. Seema Updhyay presenting the 2nd place prize to Anandha, Nancy, Sabrina, Asma and Deepa. (Photo by Dasney Pereira)

However the judges preferred the qawwali bollywood song “Pardah hai Pardah” from the movie Amar, Akbar and Anthony performed by the group: Jasim, Mufaz, Naeem, Rahul and Imran and adjudged it worthy of the first prize.

Jasim, Naeem, Mufaz, Rahul and Imran - winners of the 1st prize of the group song competition. The group performed the qawwali number “Pardah hai Pardah” from the movie Amar, Akbar Anthony. (Photo by Dasney Pereira)

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Dressing up Newspapers in style!


At MAHE Dubai Campus, it is not just the students who do not cease to amaze, but there are some MAHE Dubai faculty who literally 'make the front page' of newspapers without much publicity. The MAHE Media Dubai Community Blog noticed that one of the popular weekly UAE newspapers 'XPRESS' celebrating its First Birthday (March 13, 2008), had a very unique cover which was of a model wearing a dress completely made of newspapers.

Little did many people in MAHE realize it was a creation by one of our own faculty members and a student from the Department of Fashion Technology behind this innovative design which graced the newspaper's front page for the XPRESS's special first year anniversary edition.

The Department of Fashion Technology was approached by the XPRESS team to dress up aspiring Lebanese model Lana Wehbe for a innovative front page cover design. A team consisting of Mr. Kailash Menon, Sr. Lecturer and Ms. Amrita Laxmi Rajgopalan, a student from the Fashion Department took up the challenge and designed a 'work of art' promptly named by the newspaper as the "XPRESS dress."

Congratulations to Mr. Kailash and and Ms. Amrita Laxmi Rajgopalan! The MAHE Dubai Community Blog hopes that they will showcase more of their designs at the University.

Click on the title to read and see more pictures of Mr. Kailash Menon creating the special "XPRESS dress" - Haut Spot: We are One, March 13, 2008.

Also read the XPRESS Editorial mentioning the concept behind the dress "Birthday confections."


Thursday, March 13, 2008

Anil Kumble visits Manipal University - Dubai Campus

Dr. B. Ramjee, Director, Manipal University - Dubai Campus taking Anil Kumble on a tour of the Dubai Campus. Photograph by Fatima Husain.

Manipal University, Dubai Campus, over the years has progressed by leaps and bound and to add to its milestone events was the presence of one of the most sought after Indian cricketers, Anil Kumble, who is the brand ambassador for Manipal Education Group. The Indian Test Cricket Captain walked the corridors of the University on the 12th of March, 2008 accompanied by CEO of Manipal Education Group Anand Sudarshan and Dr. B. Ramjee, Director, Manipal University, Dubai Campus.

Dr. Ramjee addressing students gathered at the University Auditorium to welcome Anil Kumble stated that Anil Kumble flew down from India to formally promote some landmark decisions of the University in Dubai. He said Manipal University which was formerly known as MAHE in Dubai will now be known as Manipal University in Dubai. Anil Kumble announced plans for a new campus and the launch of full fledged engineering courses that will be offered by Manipal University, Dubai, beginning September 2008.

From the time Anil Kumble stepped foot on the grounds of the Manipal Dubai Campus, he was surrounded by students from all sides trying to get an autograph or a picture with the legend. Anil Kumble was taken on a tour of the 3 storey university. He began with the Fashion and Interior Design Department on the third floor. Flanked by University dignitaries, he ventured into each department spending a few minutes taking in the daily sights and sounds of education. Trailed by numerous shutterbugs and drooling fans he descended to the second floor where he was greeted by the faculty of the Media Department. He was led into labs where the students have churned out masterpieces and was given a glimpse of the potential of the Manipal students. The Business Management and Information Technology Departments showed him the equipped classes where the leaders of tomorrow are groomed and trained. On the first floor, Anil Kumble was shown the highly developed Bio Technology labs with the faculty explaining the latest research experiments the students were involved in.

Anil Kumble addressing an excited audience at the Manipal University - Dubai Campus auditorium. Photograph by Fatima Husain.

The last stop in his tour of the University was the auditorium which was set up for a presentation for the legendary cricketer. Entering to a wave of cheer, Anil Kumble took to the stage where he was honored by an Audio Visual presentation made by the students. Mrs. Uma Prasad, Student Services Officer, started the proceedings and invited the dignitaries to address the audience. Titling him as ‘Captain Courageous’, the MD and CEO of Manipal Education Group, Mr. Anand Sudarshan spoke of Anil Kumble as a persona ‘redefining dignity and grace’. As Anil Kumble took to the stage, his deep baritone echoing in the auditorium made the audience go wild. Thanking the audience for their affection and support this sportsman, who has acquired a degree in mechanical engineering spoke about his association with the organization and didn’t end without mentioning about his passion: cricket. “Having seeing this campus, I think Manipal University gives you the opportunity to chase your dreams,” he said adding that his association with Manipal University has been fantastic. He signed off boosting the crowd with a “Go ahead! Chase your dreams. Put in your 100% and Never say Die!”

Next on the agenda was a ceremony to felicitate students excelling in academics with plaques. Students representing the university in various sports disciplines were thrilled to get sports awards from none less than the sporting legend Anil Kumble. After the half an hour ceremony, he was whisked off for the production of a corporate advertisement for the University by the Department of Media and Communications.

Anil Kumble signing autographs for students of Manipal University - Dubai Campus. Photograph by Fatima Husain.

Anil Kumble felicitates outstanding students

Excellence has always been rewarded at Manipal University - Dubai Campus and the visit by Anil Kumble, Manipal Education's brand ambassador yesterday was just the perfect opportunity to felicitate outstanding students. Two final year students from each department were felicitated and given plaques by Anil Kumble. One for the 'Best Academic Performance' and one for 'Overall Outstanding Performance'. The students are as follows:


Department of Management Studies:
For Academic performance - Simeen Ali Akbar
For Outstanding performance - Sidney Samuel D'souza



Simeen Ali Akbar and Sidney D'souza with Anil Kumble. (Photos by Arun Thomas)

Deparmtent of Interior Design:
For Academic performance - Anusha Parameswaran
For Outstanding performance - Abdul Wahid Pulikkal

Abdul Pullikkal being felicitated by Anil Kumble. (Photo by Arun Thomas)


Department of Fashion Design:

For Academic performance - Amruthalakshmi Rajgopal
For Outstanding performance - Nidhi Jain

Department of Media and Communications:
For Academic performance - Afshan Ahmed
For Outstanding performance - Maitri Kamlesh Somaia

Maitri Somaia being fecilitated by Anil Kumble. (Photo by Arun Thomas)



Department of Biotechnology:
For Academic performance - Sheela Rani
For Outstanding performance - Ruchika Bhatia

Ruchika Bhatia with Anil Kumble. (Photo by Arun Thomas)


Department of Information Technology:
For Academic performance - Farha Rashid Hussain
For Outstanding performance - Abhishekh S. Singh

Abhishekh Singh with Anil Kumble. (Photo by Arun Thomas)

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Skyline College Inter-university Table Tenneis Tournament

MAHE-Manipal teams will be participating in the Skyline College 8th Inter-university Table Tenneis Tournament for Boys & Girls.

Date: 6th-10th April, 2008

Read this blog for more details.

2nd AUS Women Interuniversity Racquet Tournament

MAHE Manipal Teams are participating in the 2nd AUS Women Inter-university Racquet Tournament for:
  1. Badminton
  2. Table Tennis and
  3. Tennis

and that will be on April 6th-April 8th, 2008.

more information for this will be updated later on this blog...

In the Name of Health

MAHE-Manipal’s Biotechnology Department is getting ready to celebrate its first Health Awareness campaign starting next week from March 16th –March 19th. The event, being organized by the 3rd year students, hopes to impact the youth through awareness about the various health risks and issues that they face everyday.

The event is being carried over four days, with each day having its own theme. Each day’s theme is as follows:

March 16th – Smoking - Don’t give up…giving up
March 17th - Alcohol & Energy Drinks – The Down Side
March 18th- Junk Food or Finger licking Poison
March 19th – Venereal Diseases – Ignorance is Not Bliss

Watch this space for more updates on this campaign.

Anil Kumble to visit MAHE - Dubai Campus

Anil Kumble (Picture by AP)

Anil Kumble, Indian Test Cricket Captain and Brand Ambassador of Manipal Education, will be visiting the MAHE - Dubai Campus tomorrow to tour the campus and interact with the students. He will also be announcing the launch of new programmes to be offered at the MAHE - Dubai Campus.

Kumble is India's highest wicket-taker for India in both Test and One Day International matches with over 600 Test wickets and 330 ODI wickets. He is also the third highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.

Anil Kumble is known world over as one of only two bowlers in the history of cricket to have taken all 10 wickets in a test innings, the other being Jim Laker of England. Kumble is currently ranked among the top ten bowlers in Test Cricket by the International Cricket Council.

He was awarded the Padma Shri award in 2005 by the Government of India to recognize his distinguished contribution to sports.

It is a great honour to have this esteemed personality on campus.

Read this blog for more updates and pictures....

Sunday, March 9, 2008

Spectacular Salute to the Spirit of Womanhood!

"I think the key is for women not to set any limits."
~ Martina Navratilova


Dr. B. Ramjee, Director, MAHE - Dubai Campus, and Dr. Md. Firoz, Chairperson, Department of Media and Communications, read from the 'Wall of Fame' listing eminent women and their contributions to society.
Photograph by Afshan Ahmed


9th March saw MAHE - Dubai Campus transform into a vibrant venue for the International Women's Day Campaign that was organised by the 3rd year students of Media and Communications, specialising in Advertising and Public Relations.

The campaign saw the campus come alive, with purple and white being the predominant colours used to mark the day. The campaign was sponsored by leading brands like Lipton, Knorr, Al Rawabi, Sapil Perfumes, Torrent Establishment and Roza Perfumes - Al Ain.

Upon arrival, staff and students were given purple badges to wear - as a symbol of their support and participation. Each woman on campus was also given a red rose as a special gesture. Free refreshments were distributed to every one on campus courtesy the sponsors. Lucky draws were also conducted with students walking away with freebies which included perfumes.

Everyone joined in the celebration, as was evident when they continued to sport their purple badges throughout the day.

Fatima Kazia, a 2nd year student of Fashion Design, said, "I feel proud to be a woman. The International Women's Day Campaign is a creative concept that celebrates this feeling."

She was especially appreciative of the Wall of Fame, an entire wall dedicated to women and highlighting the achievements and contributions by eminent women from across the world.

Dr. Ramjee, Director, Manipal University - Dubai Campus, upon seeing the Wall of Fame, remarked, "I'm totally impressed with this collection depicting the history of various famous women who have made tremendous contributions to humanity as a whole."


Mita, student organiser, pins a purple badge - a symbol of women's empowerment - on Women's Day.
Photograph by Mitalee Kurdekar

Around noon, a live band added to the merriment. Students had a separate area to display their skills in Henna tattooing which was a crowd puller with women sporting decorative henna designs on their hands.

Anusha Parameswaran, a 3rd year student of Interior Design, said, "The event in its entirety was extremely uplifting. It is one that will be rememebered through the rest of the year."

Ms. Sitalakshmi Ramanan, Senior Lecturer, Management Department, said of the campaign, "It's a great idea to celebrate women's day at college. I have been proud to be a woman and now I'm proud of our students for this effort. More power to women!"

Ms. H. S. Shubha, Senior Lecturer, Department of Media and Communications, who was behind the entire organisation of the campaign - from conception to execution - felt that the campaign was instrumental in bringing together not just her students - the organisers, but also students from different parts of the campus.

"People are showing up and having a look at the Wall of Fame. It feels like a different day in college today...it's a great feeling," she said.

Dr. Firoz, Chair, Department of Media and Communications, summed up the general opinion, saying, "This campaign has been organised extremely well by the students of Media and Communications, specialising in Advertising and Public Relations. They have given us the confidence and courage to proceed in organising a much bigger event in the future."


Purple Power - Women Power!
Photograph by Rohan Cardoz

Saturday, March 8, 2008

Fun with a Cause

Gems of Al Noor - Photograph: Afshan Ahmed


The MAHE Samaritans! - Photograph: Afshan Ahmed


A weekend with some special kids is the perfect ending to a hectic week.

The Al Noor Center for Children with Special Needs organized its annual Family Fun Fair at its premises in Al Barsha on Friday, 7th March 2008. This crowd puller held between 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, saw people from all over the country participate to extend their whole hearted support to an organization that has dedicated itself to creating awareness and fulfilling the needs of special children in the UAE.

The altruistic students of MAHE swapped their relaxing weekend for a day of volunteering at the event. They could be seen cheering the children at the Fashion Show and dancing along with them to the steps of Shaimak Dawar. Enjoying every moment, self-satisfaction reflected in their ever move.

The entry ticket of Dhs. 2/- allowed one to indulge in a plethora of activities ranging from shopping, games, pony rides, dancing, shows and also dig into mouth watering goodies, all sponsored for a good cause. The day of giving did not necessarily end with the fair but you can still continue pouring in your support to Al Noor in more ways than one. Just contact them at 04-3404844 or email: alnoorspneeds@alnooruae.org.

For an insight on the event visit my blog : Phoenix Reflections



Friday, March 7, 2008

Yes, the media is all about sensationalism today!

Thrilled champions of the debate flaunt their trophies.
Left to Right: Miss Supriya, Miss Ayesha, Miss Pooja and Miss Disha. ~ Photograph by Fatima Husain


“Wild ones attack seaside – 97 arrested,” began the first speaker Supriya Dominica of Team A, a third year student of Media and Communications during the heated debate held at MAHE auditorium on Thursday, 6th March 2008.

Two teams of four students each were all geared up to air their views on the topic: Is media today all about sensationalism? Participants of Team A: Miss Supriya (3rd year Media and Communications), Miss Disha (1st year Media and Communications), Miss Pooja P. (2nd year Media and Communications) and Miss Ayesha (2nd year Media and Communications) battled out their opponents of Team B to substantiate that the media indeed is all about sensationalism today.

Speakers were allotted four minutes each to present their understanding for the topic with an addition to a rebuttal of two minutes at the end for the teams to refute anyone’s argument put forward during the debate.

The forum moderated by Ms. Shubha, a faculty of Media and Communications, was assessed by a panel of four judges: Dr. Srikrishna Pandey (HOD of IT department), Dr. Sudhakar (Professor of Management) and Mr. Ashok Iyer (HOD of ID department).

The best speaker award was prized to Miss Pooja P. from Team A and Mr. Ritesh Jeswani (1st year Media and Communications) from Team B.

“The debate was very challenging. We did attempt to put our points across but it is very obvious that media is all about sensationalism. What is true cannot be changed, isn’t it?”, said Ritesh from the defeated team but all jubilant for being awarded as one of the best speakers of the debate.

Thursday, March 6, 2008

International Women's Day Campaign.....the countdown begins!

"Don't compromise yourself, you are all you've got."
-Janis Joplin

With just three days to go before the International Women's Day Campaign kicks off on Sunday, 9th March, the organisers - 3rd year students of Media and Communications, specialising in Advertising and Public Relations - are working tirelessly to ensure that the event is a grand success.

Invites have gone out to everyone, including the MAHE Dubai faculty, and last minute details are being finalised for the campaign. There is a feeling of anticipation among the staff and students alike, about what to expect on the D-day. There are loads of surprises in store for you, so get ready to participate in this grand celebration.

Here's to the success of the campaign.....and the spirit of womanhood!

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Flex your writing skills and let your creative juices flow!

For Xerion's second issue and beyond, Team Xerion is looking for:

· Original poems, sketches (scanned), interesting facts and figures
· Articles related to science (biology, in your own words)
· Your own reviews (music, cars, movies and technology)

There's no word limit, topic restrictions or specific themes. Send in your material to our email address for a chance to see your name in print!

You can also directly contact Azam Ghauri, Judy Sebastian or Lata Adnani. You can also email your contributions directly to teamxerion@gmail.com.
Xerion is an independent student initiative with support from the Biotechnology faculty. Contributions are accepted from all departments of MAHE Manipal, Dubai Campus without any preference bias.

Rules and Registration form for the eXpress Awards!

Entires for the 'Express Awards!' hosted by the Manipal Institute of Communication have to be sent in by the 18th of March 2008. There will be no extension of the deadline so make sure you courier in your entries well in advance.

No air travel will be provided by the host and foreign delegates will have to pay for their travel themselves, but food and accommodation will be provided by the institute. For further details on the rules and to download the registration form visit the Article-19 website.

The Charge of the 'Blue Brigade'


"We've chosen the path to equality, don't let them turn us around."
- Geraldine Ferraro

The first in a series of events meant to mark the International Women's Day Campaign was held on 5th March, when the Blue Brigade - comprising of a group of 9 boys - made their presence felt throughout the MAHE Dubai Campus.

The Blue Brigade, as their slogan ('You'll know more when we're around') suggests, went around college in a bid to create awareness and build up interest for the campaign that will take place on 9th March.

Steven John, a member of the Blue Brigade and 3rd year student of Media and Communications, said, "The Blue Brigade was formed to create awareness about the campaign. We want to speak about the importance of women around the world and highlight their achievements and contributions to this world."

Farzana Parveen and Ashima Bhatia, 2nd year students of Media and Communications, said that the Blue Brigade interacted with their class and spoke to them about the upcoming campaign.

"They conducted a small contest, gave away prizes and later included our lecturer in a discussion on Women's Day. Overall, it was a good experience," revealed Farzana.



The Blue Brigade interacts with a class
- Photograph by Pooja Unni


Syed Ziauddin, a 2nd year student of B.B.A., said about the entire initiative, "This is a great effort that is being made. It increases our understanding about the importance of women and ensures that they are given respect."

Members of the Blue Brigade (from left to right): Davis, Steven, Hasher,
Rohan, Shihab, Ashwin, Mario, Karthik and Terry
- Photograph by Pooja Unni


Steven further added that most women that he came across like the concept of celebrating International Women's Day. "They find it interesting since it is unique and unlike any other occasion that is celebrated throughout the rest of the year," he said.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Coming Soon: International Women's Day Campaign

"If you want anything said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman.
- Margaret Thatcher

Preparations are in full swing for the International Women's Day campaign that is set to take place at the MAHE Dubai Campus on 9th February, 2008. You've probably seen the teasers around college already and are probably wondering what they are all about. So here's what you need to know:

The Blue Brigade will be coming to interact with you on Wednesday, 5th March. Not only will they tell you more about the campaign itself, but they will also have a number of surprises in store for you. Watch out for them!

The main campaign (9th March) will definitely be something to look forward to, especially with the fun-filled events that are lined up for the D-day:
  • The Wall of Fame will be placed in the Media Department on the 2nd floor. It will include interesting articles, write-ups and information on women from across the world.

  • There will also be Henna Tattooing on the ground floor.

  • Live Music will be played on the ground floor.

  • Join the movement by wearing the Purple Badge to show your solidarity.

So, get set to partake of this celebration of womanhood!







Monday, March 3, 2008

Celebrating the Spirit of Womanhood!

3rd year students of Media and Communications, specializing in Advertising and Public Relations, are organising a campaign in celebration of International Women's Day.

The campaign will be held at the MAHE Dubai Campus on 9th March, 2008 and will comprise of a series of events to mark the special occasion.

So ready yourself to join in the revelry!

Sunday, March 2, 2008

Solo dancers set the stage ablaze!

MAHE Dubai held an in-house Solo Dance competition on Thursday, 28th February. Just as expected the event turned out to be a crowd puller, with breath-taking performances by students from various departments. After a string of spell-binding acts, the following winners emerged:

Eastern Dance:
Hema Bhavanani - 1st place
Sunny Parekh - 2nd place

Western Dance:
Reon D'souza - 1st place
Shalini - 2nd place

Sunny Parekh (2nd place, Eastern Dance) and Hema Bhavanani (1st place, Eastern Dance) pose with their trophies - Photograph by Rohan Cardoz

Auditions for Spring Fiesta '08

Students interested in participating the intercollegiate dance for Spring Fiesta (Eastern and Western) can come in for auditions on 4th or 5th March between 12-12:45pm in the college auditorium.
Please bring a CD along with the music for the dance you are going to audition for.

Buckle up your poetic skills

If you have the passion to write and want your poem to be published in a poetry book, then here's some good news. You can showcase your poetic talent in a distinctive book that commemorates the city of Dubai and the lives of those who live in it.
People of all ages and professions are welcome to participate. Send in your entries to audclass08@gmail.com under the theme 'Celebrate Dubai'. Deadline for submissions is March 15, 2008.

Calling in entries for the eXpress Awards!

The Manipal Institute of Communications is hosting a competition, 'Express Awards' as part of Article 19, an all India communication fest.
The students of MAHE are invited to send in entries for the competition that will be held at the end of March, 2008 in India. You can enter in any/all of the following categories:
Radio Express
Animation Express

Film Express

Photography Express

Documentary Express

Ad Express (Print)

Ad Express (Print)

The deadline for entry and registration is set at 18th March, 2008
For further details visit www.article-19.org

Interior Design trip to Ibn Battuta Mall

The Interior Department students' trip to Ibn Battuta mall for the movie screening of Jodha Akbar is to take place tomorrow i.e. Wednesday, the 5th of March. The educational trip aims to help them analyze the historical aspect in relation to sufism in addition to analyzing the sets, interiors and architecture to jewellery in period styles.

Basic Professional Photography Workshop in Progress


Jisha Nair explaining the nuances of lighting to students. ~ Photography by Afshan Ahmed

The Basic Professional Photography Workshop held by eminent photographer, Ms. Jisha Nair kicked off on the 28th of February with over 30 photography enthusiasts divided into 2 batches. Every student is equipped with a camera (manual settings) to understand the nuances of professional photography.

This certificate workshop conducted by MAHE-Dubai is held every Thursday and Sunday and will go on till the 9th of March.

In the previous two sessions Ms. Jisha shared her expertise and tips on indoor lighting and shooting faces leaving the batches with an assignment on the same that will help bring out their creative spark.

There is a proposal for a intermediate course and advanced course in professional photography. Any one interested can contact Mr. Joseph, Sr. Lecturer, Department of Media & Communications at joseph@mahedubai.com


Students trying their hands at lighting. ~ Photography by Afshan Ahmed