Bengaluru: The Times NIE Summer Training Programme at St Joseph’s Boys’ High School concluded on a high note Tuesday, with 130 students from various schools receiving certificates and prizes after a two-week immersive experience. Students showcased their key takeaways through creative placards.
Chief guest Manish Kothari, president of ISBR Business School, shared anecdotes while stressing the value of communication, seizing opportunities, and chasing dreams.
Kavitha Mohammad, head of counselling at Zinc Services, spoke on career readiness and the role of Artificial Intelligence in the future, presenting insights from an ADA Psychometric Test taken by students. Adhesh Chaddha, head of sales at Zinc Services, also addressed the gathering.
The two-week programme offered students a deep dive into the world of journalism, introducing them to reporting, editing, feature writing, and page design. Through hands-on workshops, participants explored different styles of reporting and learned how to craft effective news stories.
Working in teams, students turned their interests into articles and designed pages, proudly presenting them to peers. They also gained exposure to the business side of newspapers, including marketing, circulation, and advertising. Their sharp questions reflected a genuine curiosity about the inner workings of the media industry.
A key highlight on Day 1 was an inspiring session by Siddharth Kothari, a former NIE summer trainee, who shared how the workshop shaped his journey and perspective.
Throughout the two weeks, students experienced a range of enriching sessions that extended well beyond the classroom. One standout session by Dr Sridhar B, founder of EdQueries LLP, focused on how educational aids can support special needs learning. He introduced a unique e-learning platform that uses gamified tools, like interactive games, puzzles, and drag-and-drop activities, to make education more inclusive and engaging for learners of all ages.
In an age where school projects are the norm, a session by Canon’s regional product trainer, Mathias Lobo, offered students an engaging and creative experience. They explored various ways to use printers and enjoyed hands-on activities like printing calendars and postcards.
The excitement grew with a dynamic photography workshop led by Canon’s Mathew Mohan Das, who shared valuable tips on lighting, composition, balance, and storytelling through images. His showcase of wildlife photography sparked vibrant discussions on creativity and technique.
Ravikumar Malladad, COO of Sprouts Edu Tours, opened students’ minds to educational travel through an engaging session that covered domestic and international trips, treks, workshops, and community service programmes — topped off with a lively travel quiz that had everyone buzzing.
An interactive session on financial literacy by Sumit Kumar, senior manager at Canara Bank’s Centre of Excellence, Bagalur, gave students a valuable introduction to the world of banking, savings, and investments. They learned the basics of money management while being made aware of rising scams, ranging from phishing emails to fake investment schemes and digital wallet fraud.
A visit to the Times Group’s state-of-the-art printing press and the Radio Mirchi station added a new dimension to their learning.
Tata Soulfull, ITC B Natural, and Cakewala provided snacks and refreshments for all the participants.