Journal Entry - December 9th-10th, 2023

 December 9th, 2023

Today marked an exciting chapter in our journey at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR). On the 9th of December 2023, participants were treated to a delightful day of sightseeing, exploring the cultural and historical gems of Mysuru.

Our adventure commenced with a visit to the renowned Mysuru Zoo, officially known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Nestled in the heart of Mysuru, this zoo has a rich history dating back to 1892 when it was established by the then Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar. Covering an expansive area of 157 acres, the zoo is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including exotic species from around the globe.

Journal Entry: December 5-8, 2023 - Cyclone

In the aftermath of the cyclone that hit on December 5, 2023, our guest house became a refuge but also a challenge. The torrential rainwater flooded the premises, rising to a daunting 2 meters. With power cut off from the evening of the first day, we found ourselves steamed under the relentless heat, our usual comforts stripped away. In these challenging times, Mr. Shankar, the caretaker of the guest house, and the dedicated cooks worked tirelessly to serve us meals, offering a glimmer of solace for which we were profoundly grateful.

The second day dawned, but the water showed no signs of receding. Undeterred, we continued our survival routine, finding strength in unity and the generosity of those around us. As the day unfolded, we remained resilient, grappling with uncertainty. The unwavering commitment of Mr. Shankar and the kitchen staff played a pivotal role in keeping our spirits high amid the challenging conditions.

Journal Entry - Cyclone MICHAUNG

Journal Entry - 04/12/2023

Today marked an unexpected turn of events as the Government of Tamil Nadu, through G.O. Ms.No.751 dt., declared a public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881. The reason behind this unusual declaration was the looming threat of Cyclonic Storm 'MICHAUNG.' The storm, a formidable force of nature, had prompted authorities to take swift action in ensuring the safety of the public.

In line with the government's directive, the Director of the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR) in Chennai promptly announced the closure of the institute for the day, acknowledging the severity of the situation. This decision aimed to prevent unnecessary risks and potential harm to the students and staff.

The term 'Michaung,' proposed by Myanmar, symbolises strength and resilience. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) is responsible for managing the rotating name lists assigned to each tropical cyclone basin.

The cyclonic storm 'Michaung' is active and likely to intensify further over the Bay of Bengal into a severe cyclonic storm.

Journal Entry - Saravana Stores

Journal Entry - 03/12/2023

Today marked a delightful continuation of our routine shopping adventures with our Myanmar friends. The camaraderie and excitement of exploring the vibrant markets of Chennai once again filled the air as we embarked on another memorable outing. The day unfolded with a ride that came to define convenience and efficiency - an Uber journey to the renowned Saravana Stores near T-Nagar.

This iconic shopping complex stood tall, spanning from the ground floor to the eighth, promising a plethora of shopping opportunities for eager shoppers like us. As we entered, the bustling atmosphere and the myriad of shops beckoned, each one showcasing an array of products catering to diverse tastes and preferences.

Journal Entry: Ritchie Street, Mount Road, Mobile Hubs

Journal Entry - 02/12/2023

Today marked an exciting day as our diverse group of friends embarked on a visit to Ritchie Street, Mount Road, the bustling hub of mobile technology in Chennai. Accompanied by friends from Ethiopia, Genia, Niger, and our usual Bhutanese trio, we were set for a day filled with technology exploration and unexpected surprises.

Ritchie Street, located on Mount Road in Chennai, is renowned as a technological haven, particularly famous for its mobile hubs. This vibrant marketplace is a melting pot of electronic gadgets, accessories, and, most notably, a plethora of mobile devices. From the latest smartphones to laptops and smartwatches, Ritchie Street caters to the tech-savvy needs of a diverse clientele.

Our journey began with an Uber ride that cost us Rs. 350 for a one-way trip. The rain showered mildly, adding a refreshing touch to the atmosphere as we eagerly anticipated the treasures awaiting us at Ritchie Street. The group comprised three of us from Bhutan, two friends from Ethiopia, one from Genia, and another from Niger, creating a harmonious blend of cultures and perspectives.

Journal Entry: December 1, 2023-Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)

December 1, 2023

Today marked an exciting day as our group embarked on a journey that commenced at the early hour of 5:30 AM. The destination was the prestigious Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) in Chennai, a renowned private university sprawling across an expansive 378 acres. This visit was organized as part of the ITEC program, and it promised a day filled with exploration and insights into the educational landscape.

The VIT campus, with its vast expanse, caters to five different campuses and hosts an impressive 40,000 students from around the world. As we set out, the anticipation of what lay ahead filled the air, and the early morning sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, setting the tone for an adventurous day.

Journal Report: Project Management: An Overview by Professor Dr. K.S.A Dinesh Kumar

30/11/2023

Today marked an insightful session on Project Management led by the esteemed Professor Dr. K.S.A Dinesh Kumar. The session delved into the fundamental aspects of project execution, emphasizing the significance of effective management for successful outcomes. The lecture covered various facets, including the definition of a project, the essentials of project management, challenges faced, and the triple constraints that dictate project success. Additionally, a practical application of the knowledge gained was demonstrated through a course activity focusing on project design. The afternoon session further broadened our horizons with country presentations from Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Niger, Ethiopia, and Malaysia, offering cultural insights and perspectives on accreditation systems.

Journal Entry: E-Government System

29/11/2023

Today marked a fascinating exploration into the realms of E-Government Systems for Higher Education, led by the distinguished Professor Dr. V. Shanmuganeethi. The intricate web of digital tools and applications designed to streamline educational processes unfolded before us, revealing the transformative power of technology in academia.

The lecture commenced with an insightful discussion on the fundamental applications of E-Government Systems within educational institutions. The trio of Content Management System (CMS), Learning Management System (LMS), and Learning Content Management (LCM) emerged as the keystones of this digital infrastructure.

Journal Entry: Total Quality Management (TQM) for Educational Institutions

28/11/2023

Today marked an enlightening session as Professor V. Sivakumar delved into the intricacies of Total Quality Management (TQM) for Educational Institutions. The day commenced with a comprehensive recapitulation of key concepts related to quality assurance in accreditation, setting the tone for an insightful exploration of educational methodologies and strategies.

Professor Sivakumar emphasized the distinction between techniques, methodologies, and strategies. Techniques, he asserted, are transient—such as infusing humor into a lesson. Methodology, on the other hand, encompasses the processes applied throughout an entire lesson, while strategy embodies a management approach geared towards long-term success.

Journal Entry - 27/11/2023

Today marked another delightful chapter in our journey through Chennai, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unexpected encounters. The six of us, a mix of Bhutanese and Myanmar friends, embarked on a shopping adventure that unfolded into an unforgettable experience.

In the morning, our eager footsteps led us to the Cotton House shop near the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR) in Chennai. This establishment, adorned with a diverse array of clothing, became a treasure trove for our shopping spree. Three of us from Bhutan and our three friends from Myanmar scoured the racks, excitedly picking out numerous jeans and shirts that caught our fancy. The highlight, however, was when our friends from Myanmar chose exquisite saris as presents for their families back home.