Issue April 2024

Dear learners,
I
extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who joined us this month at EKAM 2024 and
made it an unforgettable event. Your presence made it a wonderful experience filled with learning,
laughter and moments that we’ll cherish forever.

EKAM, our annual in-person meet-up for online learners at MUJ, holds a special place in our
hearts. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit word for unity, truly encapsulates the spirit of what we
experienced together.

We were honoured to be addressed by our esteemed Pro President, Commodore (Dr) Jawahar M.
Jangir. His profound wisdom and insightful remarks left a lasting impression on everyone. And let's
not forget the incredible performances of our learners, who poured their hearts into making this
occasion momentous & successful.

This meet-up would not have been possible without the incredible effort of each one of you who
travelled far and wide and rearranged your schedules. Your dedication and passion for learning
have made this event one for the books.
We eagerly anticipate meeting our new learners next year. Until then, let's
carry with us the valuable lessons gleaned from this gathering: the power of
unity, the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones, and the
immense joy of learning together.

Also, I want to congratulate our Batch 1 and Batch 2 learners on receiving

your results! Your hard work and dedication have paid off. For Batch 2 Post
Graduate students, the official celebration of your achievement arrives in
May at the Convocation. It is going to be a momentous occasion where you'll
officially receive your degrees, marking a significant milestone and the start
of exciting new chapter.
Here's to many more moments of learning, growth, and connection in the
days ahead.
Dr G Mallikarjuna
Director
Centre for Distance and Online Education

News and Views

Highlights of EKAM 2024 held at the Manipal University Jaipur campus on 20 April 2024:
The event commenced with a warm welcome to our learners from MUJ leadership, followed by an interactive
icebreaker session, and an inspiring speech from our honourable Pro President, Commodore (Dr) Jawahar M
Jangir and Director of Centre for Distance and Online Education, Dr G Mallikarjuna.
All the learners united for a group photograph, capturing the spirit of togetherness among MUJ learners.
The interactive session provided learners with a valuable opportunity to have in-depth conversations with faculty
members and programme coordinators.

The creative and engaging performances by our talented learners and faculty stole the spotlight.
The Epic.U Community Managers were honoured for their invaluable contributions to make this student
community a better place.

Dr Kasinathan Subramanian delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude, and leaving us with heartfelt
thanks, marking the end of a memorable event.

Congratulations to Ms Anita Chaudhary, our B4 MBA learner, for qualifying in the 2 km PR3 mixed double rowing event
at the Paris 2024 Paralympics Games. Her dedication and success inspires us all, demonstrating how academic
excellence and personal goals can be achieved hand-in-hand.

Dr Asha Mamraj Sharma (Assistant Professor – Commerce) and Rajkumar Gupta (Assistant Professor – Commerce)
collaboratively presented a paper titled, “Digital transformation and trade: Opportunities and challenges for India” at an
International Conference organized by the Department of Commerce, SRM University, Chennai.

Dr Mredu Goyal (Assistant Professor – Commerce) presented a paper titled, “AI-enhanced marketing: Navigating
ethical implementation” at the 4th International Conference on Recent Advances in Material Science and Computational
Techniques (RAMSACT- 4) organized by Manipal University Jaipur on 4 April 2024.

Dr Ankit Dhamija (Associate Professor – Computer Applications) has been promoted to the role of Associate Editor at
the International Journal of Organizational and Collective Intelligence (IJOCI), an IGI Global USA publisher journal.

Dr Rohit Singh Tomar (Associate Professor – Management) published a paper titled, “Exploring the mediating role of
social media marketing between ease of technology and online impulse buying using R” at the Institute of Electrical
and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Computation, Automation, and
Knowledge Management (ICCAKM) in 2023, SCOPUS indexed.

Dr David Campbell (Assistant Professor – Management) presented a paper titled, “Leveraging regression techniques
to predict crime rates in India: A state-wise analysis” at the 2nd International Conference on Power Engineering
and Intelligent Systems (PEIS 2024) held from 16 – 17 March 2024, conducted by National Institute of Technology,
Uttarakhand, India.

Dr Avnish Vijay (Associate Professor – Management) received “Highly Commendable Paper Award” for presenting
a paper titled, “The role of Artificial Intelligence ht(AI)
tp:/ tinyurand ht p:/ tinyurl.com/4e7bfv5d Learning (ML) technologies in the financial service
l.com/mv63ne7vMachine
industry for creative sustainable competitive advantage” at the 10th IBS Conference on Marketing & Business Strategy
(ICOMBS-2024) held at ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad from 15 – 16 March 2024.

Ms Anadi Trikha (Assistant Professor – Management), Dr Arpita Agarwal (Assistant Professor – Management), Dr
Preeti Nagar (Assistant Professor – Management), and Dr Antima Sharma (Assistant Professor – Management)
collaboratively presented a paper titled, “Emerging theoretical concepts on Artificial Intelligence and Human
Resource frontier” at the 1 st International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches for Sustainable Development
in Science & Technology (MASDST – 2024) held from 28 – 29 March 2024.

Dr D Pushpa Gowri (Assistant Professor – Management) presented a paper titled, “Wellbeing matters: Holistic
approaches to mental health and happiness” at the International Conference on Hardware (Brain Health) and
Software (Techniques and Therapies) for Mental Health Management, KAHER, Belagavi, Karnataka held from
27 – 28 March 2024.

Ms Vertika Goswami (Assistant Professor – Management) was awarded the “Best Paper Award” for presenting a
paper titled, “Unveiling the investment behaviour of Gen Y and Z: A study on Artificial Intelligence stocks awareness and
decision making” at the 1 st International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches for Sustainable Development in
Science & Technology (MASDST – 2024) held from 28 – 29 March 2024.

Sonali Singh Chauhan (Assistant Professor – Management) presented a paper titled, “The comprehensive role of
cloud computing for sustainable development: An in-depth analysis of economic, environmental and social benefits”
in a Multidisciplinary National Seminar organized by the Directorate of Higher Education, Panchkula, Haryana on 22
March 2024.

We saw great participation in the Online Manipal Plus webinars. If you missed any, you can check out the recordings
on the learning management system (LMS).

03 APRIL 10 APRIL
Cutting-Edge Career Front End Development
Development Strategies for 101 – A Comprehensive
Modern Workplace Guide

Dinesh Sabnani Rahul Bansal

Senior Project Manager – Microsoft Senior Software Engineer – Hinge Health

17 APRIL 24 APRIL
A Literary Analysis Understanding Generative
Workshop for Sharpening AI: Core Concepts
Critical Thinking

Akarshan Jaiswal Hemang Naik

Group Manager – Digital Strategy & Global Solution Head, AI Gen.AI
Growth – Mirchi Tech Mahindra

This month, we've hosted a myriad of fun activities and contests on Epic.U. Here's a sneak peek! If you haven't joined
Epic.U yet, you're missing out on all the campus fun. Join now! - htAndroid
tps://tinyurl.com/Newsl|etiOS
eraprilepic

Student Spotlight

What is your routine as an online learner? ?

I prioritize my learning by setting clear goals, scheduling study

sessions, exploring online resources, and taking notes to solidify
my understanding.

What are the additional resources you reference to ?

supplement your learning?

Swagat Kumar Patel

I refer to online courses, textbooks, and academic papers to
B5 | BCA
deepen my knowledge on various subjects.
SGPA: 9.40

Any topics that you find interesting? ?

Who inspires you the most and why? ?

I am interested in artificial intelligence and space
exploration.
I draw inspiration from the diverse perspectives and
approaches of people around me. By understanding
their unique journeys, I gain valuable insights that Your professional goals are… ?
help me make better decisions and deal with
problems in my life.
My primary goals revolve around mastering
programming languages and honing my expertise
What made you choose an online degree ? in software development methodology.
programme?

If you could describe yourself in one word, what ?

The flexibility offered by online degree programmes
would it be and why?
perfectly aligns with my need to balance academic
pursuits with other commitments.
“Adaptable , because I can thrive in diverse
environments
” and adjust to different situations.
Outside of your studies you can be found… ?

What is your favourite snack? ?

Beyond my academic endeavours, I enjoy exploring
new hobbies, and spending time with my friends and
family. When it comes to
snacks, nothing beats
the yummy pizza.
Your must-have apps… ?

IntelliJ IDEA.

A book you would like to recommend… ? What place do you spend the most time in? ?

I highly recommend I find comfort in my home, making it the place where

“Clean Code: A I spend most of my time, allowing me to recharge
Handbook of and refresh from time to time.
Agile Software
Craftsmanship” by R.C.
Martin.

What is your routine as an online learner? ?

I've crafted a study schedule that suits my lifestyle, allocating three

hours every week for learning. I engage with study materials, taking
notes, jotting down questions, and practicing them. I monitor my
progress and adjust my study schedule accordingly. Celebrating
small successes keeps me motivated and reminds me of the
benefits of learning.

What are the additional resources you reference to

Boyidi Sai Satya Narayana ?
supplement your learning?
B1 | BBA
SGPA: 9.00
I use Coursera courses and Manipal University Jaipur ’s e-library
to learn more about topics I like. They help me understand things
better and see the big picture.

Who inspires you the most and why? ? Any topics that you find interesting? ?

I'm inspired by Lord Hanuman, my parents, and my I find spirituality, nutrition, mythology, and artificial
surgeon brother. Their dedication and achievements intelligence interesting.
motivate me to strive for excellence and bring out
the best in me.
Your professional goals are… ?

What made you choose an online degree ?

programme? My career aspiration is to become a Management
Consultant, where I aim to devise innovative solutions
to address the most critical challenges faced by
I opted for an online degree due to its flexibility, businesses.
allowing me to study at my convenience and from
any location. It's also cost-effective and enables me
Is there any phrase or quote that you live by or ?
to balance work while pursuing my education.
has had an impact on you?

Outside of your studies you can be found… ?

Forgiveness unlocks the door to true freedom.

I enjoy trekking, mastering traditional recipes, and

If you could describe yourself in one word, what ?
refurbishing motorcycles.
would it be and why?

What is your favourite food? ?

I'm resilient. Even after facing big challenges, I stay
positive and keep working towards my goals.

Oatmeal with nuts and berries.

Your must-have apps… ?

A book/movie/show you would like to ?

recommend… WhatsApp, Reddit, YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify.

I recommend the
book “Bhagavad
Gita ”, the movie
“The Shawshank
What place do you spend the most time in? ?
Redemption”, and
the show “The
Peaky Blinders”. I enjoy spending most of my time at home.

Echoes of Diversity

Get a glimpse of the diversity of students at Manipal University Jaipur with our Echoes of Diversity
section. Immerse yourself in rich cultures and traditions, and expand your horizons.

Hello! My name is Aleena, and I hail from the beautiful state of Karnataka in southwestern India.
Karnataka boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and a spirit of technological innovation.
The state capital, Bengaluru, is a major
hub for IT professionals, earning the
well-deserved nickname “Silicon Valley
of India” due to its position as the nation's
leading software exporter and a major
Aleena Fathima
centre for semiconductors.
B6 | BCA
Believe it or not, Karnataka is a foodie's paradise! Especially in the Dakshina Kannada district,
you'll find delicious dishes that combine flavours from the coast and inland areas. Popular
dishes include Mangalorean fish curries, Goli Baje, Neer dosa, and Kori Rotti. Coconut, rice,
and seafood are commonly used to make these dishes. The food also shows the rich mix of
cultures in Karnataka, with influences from Tuluva, Konkani, and Beary communities.

We celebrate many festivals throughout the year,

with Dasara and Ugadi being especially popular.
Dasara, also called Vijayadashami, is a Hindu festival
about good winning over bad. It's a story from a
famous Hindu epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama
defeats a demon king named Ravana. Ugadi, derived
from Sanskrit words meaning ‘era’ and ‘beginning’ ,
signifies the start of a new era or fresh start.

Student Snippet
Roshan Yadav
B7 | BCA

What motivated you to choose aviation as your Can you describe your typical daily routine as a
profession? pilot?

I've always been fascinated by airplanes and the My daily routine as a pilot can vary greatly depending
idea of flying. Ever since I was a child, I would look on the flight schedule. However, when I am assigned
up at the sky and watch airplanes soaring overhead, a flight, my routine typically involves a few hours of
and I knew that I wanted to be a part of that world. preparation before departure. This includes reviewing
I did my research and discovered the benefits of the flight plan, checking weather conditions, and
working in the aviation industry, and I became even briefing the crew members. Once we're in the air,
more determined to pursue a career in aviation. my main focus is operating the flight safely and
efficiently, while also ensuring that the passengers
are comfortable and well taken care of. After landing, I
complete post-flight procedures and return home for
some much-needed rest and relaxation.

What do you enjoy most about flying?

While I enjoy all aspects of flying, I particularly enjoy

short flights. They offer a level of flexibility and
convenience that longer flights can't match. Short
flights allow me to rest and recharge between flights,
and I find them less exhausting than longer flights.

Could you share any unforgettable moments from

your flights?

I cannot forget that moment during my training,

when an engine of the plane caught fire. It was a
scary and chaotic moment, but it also taught me a
What’s the best part of being a pilot? valuable lesson about staying calm and focused on
the face of unexpected challenges. I'm grateful for
For me, the best part of being a pilot is the experience the experience, as it helped me become a better
of flying. I never get tired of the feeling of soaring and more confident pilot.
through the sky, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be
able to do it as part of my job. Every flight is a new
adventure, and I love the sense of freedom. What do you like least about your job?

I enjoy my job, but managing jet lag remains a

What is your favourite destination to fly to and why?
significant challenge for me.
As a proud Nepalese, my favourite destination to fly to
is Nepal.

What is your number one piece of advice for

someone who wishes to get started in this
profession?

My number one piece of advice for someone looking

to become a pilot is to be prepared to work hard and
stay focused. This profession requires a high level of
dedication, attention to detail, and responsibility.

My other advice would be to stay calm and

composed, even in stressful situations, and to always
prioritize safety above all else.

Why did you opt for an online degree programme?

I believe that learning is a lifelong process, and I'm

always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and How will this degree help you in your professional
skills. I chose an online degree programme because goals?
it offers the flexibility and convenience to learn at my
own pace, while still providing a high-quality education. I'm pursuing this degree as part of my ongoing efforts
to advance my career in aviation to become a captain.
I believe that the knowledge and skills I'm gaining
through this programme will help me grow in this field.

Faculty Feature
Dr Gunjan Sharma
Associate Professor – Journalism and Mass Communication

Who inspires you the most and why?

My greatest inspiration comes from my family. Their steadfast support and constant
encouragement drives me forward and motivates me to pursue my goals with determination.

What is the best thing about being a teacher?

The best part about being a teacher is that it offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on
the society. Additionally, teaching offers a scope for continuous learning and personal growth.

Are there any resources at MUJ that you would recommend to help students become successful?

Manipal University Jaipur offers a wide range of resources to help students succeed in their
academic pursuits. While I believe these study materials are sufficient to fulfil the learning
requirements of the students, I would also recommend students to enhance their digital literacy
skills. This will help them make the best use of the resources available and better navigate the
virtual learning environment.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I’ m a bibliophile. I enjoy reading books during my free time. It helps me relax and enhance my
creativity and writing skills.

Which book would you say is a must-read?

A must-read book is “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand. It explores the

concept of rational self-interest and the power of pursuing one's own
vision.

What is the one piece of advice you would give your students?

You should focus on what you want to achieve and not worry about others' expectations. You are
in a stage of growth, so actively engage in the activities and opportunities that college offers.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise your students.

I have a hidden talent for singing, and I'm also deeply passionate about gardening.

If you were not a teacher, you would be...

If I weren’ t a teacher, I would likely pursue a career as a Creative Art Director or a Writer.

If you had to eat one dish every day, what would it be?

I would love to eat the Rajasthani dish Dal Baati Choorma

because it has a delicious combination of sweet and savoury
flavours.

Are there traditions or superstitions you believe in?

Yes, I believe it's important to never forget our roots and our culture. My faith lies with Lord Shiva
and his teachings. However, I am not superstitious. I believe there is a scientific reason behind
everything that happens in the universe.

How do you think students will remember you and your class?

I think students will remember me by my teaching style, the practical approach I take, and my
willingness to listen to them and resolve their issues.

If you could grow up in any decade, which would you choose and why?

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is a true hero to me. I would have

loved to live in the time he did! His words like, “Freedom is not
given, it is taken”, are more than just words, they're lessons we
should all live by. Thanks to his vision and leadership, we have
the freedom we enjoy today.

What are your must-have phone apps?

Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp

What song do you know all the lyrics to?

“Ruk jana nahin tu kahin haar ke” by Kishor Kumar.

What is one daily habit that has worked for you?

Time management has worked for me. It helps me complete tasks on time. Also, when I make
up my mind to achieve something, I don't give up until I reach my goal.

What is the one daily habit you would recommend to your students?

I highly recommend that our students plan their day and dedicate specific times to each activity,
whether it's studying, eating healthy meals, exercising, or spending time with family. This will help
them track their progress and avoid feeling overwhelmed by a long to-do list.

Tell us about your favourite holiday till date.

My recent trip to Manali with loved ones was one of the most memorable holidays till date. We
had so much fun spending quality time together and creating memories.

Quiz of The Month

1 What is the theme of ‘World Health Day 2024’ ?

A Building a fairer, healthier world B My health, my right

C Our planet, our health D Support nurses and midwives

2 Canara Bank recently signed an MoU with which institution for providing financial support to start-ups?

A IIT Madras B IIT Bombay

C IIT Delhi D IIT Kanpur

3 Recently, Yoga Mahotsav has been organized at which place?

A Indore, Madhya Pradesh B Pune, Maharashtra

C Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh D Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

4 Papikonda National Park, recently seen in news is located in which state?

A Andhra Pradesh B Gujarat

C Kerala D Tamil Nadu

5 Who is the first Indian woman to be named as a ‘Wisden Cricketers of the Year’ ?

A Smriti Mandhana B Harmanpreet Kaur

C Mithali Raj D Deepti Sharma

Answers to last month’s quiz

1. Your Breath
2. Candle
3. Heat because you can catch a cold
4. M
5. Footprints

Vivek Kumar Ojha (B1 BCA) for getting all the answers right!

Have something
to share?
We invite readers to submit blogs and articles
and get featured! Topics can vary from domain
or programme-specific ones to careers,
wellness, and more.

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