Journal Entry: The Last Day of the ITEC Program - December 12, 2023

December 12, 2023

Today marked the culmination of a month-long journey that transcended borders and cultures. The ITEC program, a collaborative effort to enhance knowledge and foster international cooperation, came to an end on this momentous 12th of December, 2023. The air was charged with a mix of excitement and nostalgia as we gathered for the final day's activities.

The day began in the early hours, under the supervision of the esteemed Professor Dr. KSA Dinesh. We were handed forms, a routine but necessary formality for the ITEC program, along with feedback forms that would serve as a testament to our experiences and the effectiveness of the program. These bureaucratic rituals were but a prelude to the main event - the Valedictory Function.

Journal Entry - December 11, 2023 - Back to NITTTR campus

December 11, 2023

The day unfolded with a subtle charm, offering a well-deserved respite for the participants of the NITTTR program. The morning session was declared a moment of reprieve, acknowledging the Hattic journey that had captivated our attention the day before. The echoes of that cultural expedition lingered in the air, prompting some of us to seize the opportunity and explore the vibrant streets of Chennai.

Saravana Stores, a bustling shopping emporium, became the epicenter of our retail therapy. Nestled in the heart of the city, this retail giant is not merely a shopping destination; it is a cultural phenomenon that has evolved over the years. Established in 1969, Saravana Stores has grown from a humble textile showroom to a sprawling retail conglomerate, encompassing diverse segments such as clothing, electronics, and household items. The store's success is deeply rooted in its commitment to providing quality products at reasonable prices, making it a favored haunt for locals and tourists alike.

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.