WAPDA Load shedding & annual examinations

Pakistan - WAPDA announces 6 hours load shedding schedule in all over the country. WAPDA officials confirmed that from 20th March 2009 6 hours load shedding schedule has been passed in all over the country.

On the other hand students are looking worry on this announcement. On the other hand, annual examination schedules are also announced by all the educational boards. The students are feeling it difficult to prepare for their annual examinations. Board of Intermediate and Secondry Education has already announced its schedule for annual examination of Matric level starting from 17 March, 2009 and 1st and 2nd year annual examination are going to start from 21 April, 2009.

WAPDA justified that it is necessary this time to announce schedule
this time and to save light it is necessary to do load shedding for six
hours. The WAPDA officials also confirmed that the light schedule is equal for every area as in urban and ruler areas in residential sector. But they also confirmed that WAPDA will give two hours relaxation to industrial and textile area.

Athens State University

Athens State University is the oldest institution of higher education in Alabama 's state educational system. The Institution was founded in 1822 by local citizens who purchased five acres of land, erected a building, and began Athens Female Academy . Ownership of the school was transferred in 1842 to the Tennessee Conference of the Methodist Church . With the birth of the North Alabama Conference of the Methodist Church in 1870, the Institution came under the jurisdiction of that body.

On May 10, 1974 , the Board of Trustees requested from the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church that the Institution seek affiliation with the State of Alabama . The conference, at its annual meeting in June 1974, gave the Board of Trustees this permission and authorized the transfer of the Institution to the State of Alabama .

In June 1975, the Institution was accepted by the Alabama State Board of Education subject to the appropriation of operating funds by the Alabama Legislature. Later that year, the Legislature appropriated funds for the operation of the Institution to serve the graduates of state junior, community, and technical colleges/institutes.

The institution's name has changed several times in its 180+ year history, following adjustments in purpose and governance. Athens Female Academy , upon transfer to the Tennessee Conference of the Methodist Church in 1842, became Athens Female Institute. Then in 1889 after having been transferred to the newly formed North Alabama conference, the College was known as Athens Female College . In 1931, the College became co-educational and was known as Athens College . In 1975, when the institution became part of the state educational system, it was renamed Athens State College, marking the initiation of an era of increased opportunity for service. In 1998, a bill was passed by the legislature to rename the College to Athens State University . The long history of service by the University is the foundation upon which the future of the University rests.

Mission

Athens State University, offering coursework at the junior and senior level, is the baccalaureate degree granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. Governed under the authority of the Alabama State Board of Education, and in conjunction with the other institutions of the Alabama Community College System, Athens State University provides affordable education in an environment which recognizes diversity and nurtures the discovery and application of knowledge. Located in northern Alabama, Athens State University acknowledges a commitment to primarily serve transfer students of the Alabama Community College System as well as students from other accredited institutions of higher education. The University prepares students for professional careers, graduate school, lifelong learning, and enrichment. The University, through quality teaching, individual attention, and a varied course delivery system, assists students in the timely achievement of their professional and career goals. In addition, Athens State University offers programs of continuing education and community services that provide a variety of cultural and professional opportunities.

Goals

To provide educational opportunity to postsecondary students through carefully planned programs of study that impart a body of knowledge, stimulate critical thinking, develop communication and technological skills, foster ethical behavior, and encourage life-long learning in a diverse and changing world. To serve the student effectively and efficiently by providing flexible scheduling, varied modes of delivery and cooperative arrangements with other institutions. To recruit, retain, and promote professional development of qualified faculty and staff. To provide and maintain appropriate learning resources which are supportive of student learning, quality teaching, scholarly research, diversity, and technological proficiency. To develop and maintain periodic internal evaluation to ensure that all programs are operating within a manner consistent with the mission statement of the University. To provide opportunities for students to expand their intellectual, social, and cultural horizons. To provide and maintain student services which furnish necessary information, financial assistance, guidance counseling to assist progress toward personal, academic, and career goals. To promote and maintain effective student recruitment and retention. To promote the use of appropriate University and community resources to facilitate educational and training programs for the diversified needs of business, industry, education, and government in addition to providing cultural and intellectual enrichment. To acquire and administer efficiently and effectively all fiscal resources. To provide, develop, and maintain a physical plant appropriate for the support of the University programs. To effectively communicate the University's vision and goals as a baccalaureate degree granting institution to internal and external constituencies.

History & Tradition Alabama State University

Alabama State University’s 142-year history is a legacy of perseverance, progress and promise. The ASU movement began with the impetus to establish a school for black Alabamians. The Civil War resulted in not only the end of slavery, but also in the opportunity for blacks to have the right to education. With the Northern victory, black Southerners, with the assistance of Northern white missionaries and the leaders of African-American churches, set out to establish educational institutions for the freedmen. ASU was born in that movement.

ASU is the global entity it is today because of the fortitude of nine freed slaves from Marion, Ala., who sought to build a school for African-Americans previously denied the right to an education. The foresight of these men, now remembered as the “Marion Nine,” created what is now known as Alabama State University.

The Marion Nine included Joey P. Pinch, Thomas Speed, Nicholas Dale, James Childs, Thomas Lee, John Freeman, Nathan Levert, David Harris and Alexander H. Curtis. These co-founders and original trustees, with assistance from Marion community members, raised $500 for land, and on July 18, 1887, filed incorporation papers to establish the Lincoln Normal School at Marion.

The Lincoln School opened its doors on November 13, 1867, with 113 students. In 1873, this predecessor of Alabama State University became the nation’s first state-sponsored liberal arts institution for the higher education of blacks, beginning ASU’s rich history as a “Teacher’s College.”

Cornell University

Even though it doesn't have a separate undergraduate school of business like most of the schools on this list do, Cornell University frequently places high on rankings of undergraduate business programs. Both the School of Hotel Management and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations offer excellent undergradute degree programs. Prospective students need to designate which school they are applying to on their applications. The School of Industrial and Labor Relations is a state-funded unit at Cornell and consequently has lower tuition. Hotel Management, however, is generally thought to be the best program of its type in the country.

Cornell is part of the Ivy League, and it frequently ranks among the top universities in the country.

Becker College of USA

Becker College
61 Sever Street
Worcester, MA 01609

Official telephone: (508) 791-9241
Toll-free telephone: (877) 5-BECKER
Fax number: (508) 831-7505

 QUICK FACTS
Year established:     1784
Type of school:     college, private (nonprofit)
Programs:     4-year undergraduate
Religious affiliation:     no
Campus enrollment:     1,789 students
Coeducational information:     coeducational institution, founded as coeducational institution
Location description:     in or near a small/medium city (pop. 75,000-300,000)
Application fee:     $25

CONTACT INFORMATION
Street address:     Becker College
61 Sever Street
Worcester, MA 01609
Mailing address:     Becker College
61 Sever Street
Worcester, MA 01609
Main telephone numbers:     508 791-9241
877 5-BECKER (toll free)
508 831-7505 (fax)

College Index of United States of America

The North East

Becker College
CPLC Education Center
Cornell University - School of Industrial and Labor Relations
Delaware Valley College
EmbassyCES - English Language Training
Manhattan Language - Intensive English in New York City
St. John’s University - New York
Johnson & Wales University
Kaplan University
Potomac College
University of Rhode Island
Quinnipiac University - Graduate Programs
SIPA - School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University
Sotheby's Institute of Art
Southern New Hampshire University
The State University of New York Institute of Technology (SUNYIT)


The South



The English Language Institute at The University of Alabama
Baylor University
Beauty Schools of America
Beacon College - Florida
The Belk College of Business - UNC Charlotte
The University of Central Florida
Digital Media Arts College (DMAC)
Georgia College and State University
Intensive American English Institute - House of Tutors
Johnson & Wales University
Kaplan University
Lamar University
Limestone College Extended Campus
Ouachita Baptist University (OBU)
Sam Houston State University
University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina Upstate
Western Carolina University - Intensive English Program


The Mid West


Albion College
Alma College
Barry University
Benedictine University
Central Methodist University
Central Michigan University
The College Community of St. Norbert
Columbia College Chicago - Arts, Media and Communications
DePaul, Chicago, English Language Academy
DePaul University
Dominican University - Brennan School of Business
Eastern Illinois University
Elmhurst College
Ferris State University
University of Illinois at Chicago - Tutorium in Intensive English
Illinois State University
Johnson & Wales University
Kaplan University
Lake Land College - Illinois
Livingstone College - Holistic Learning Center
Loyola University Chicago
Moraine Valley Community College
Northern Illinois University - NIU
Oakton Community College
Rockford College
Southern Illinois University Carbondale - The Center for English as a Second Language
Washington University in St. Louis - Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Westminster College - Fulton Missouri
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College - Golf Course Management
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Wright State University


The West


Advanced Colleges of America
California English Homestay - English language homestay programs
California State University, Sacramento State - English Language Institute
California State University, San Bernardino, MBA Program
California State University, Sacramento - College of Continuing Education
Cascadia Community College
Chabot College - California
Chabot College and Las Positas College - California
City College of San Francisco
Columbia College Hollywood - School of Film, Televison and Liberal Arts
Johnson & Wales University
Kaplan University
Pasadena City College
Peninsula College
Las Positas College - California
Video Symphony - TV and Film School
Whittier College

Community Colleges Offer Exciting Life Beyond the Classroom

At a community college, can you “get a life?” You bet. Many community college students are surprised to discover that campus life is rich and busy, even on “commuter” campuses that don’t have residential halls. Rarely does a day go by at most community colleges without a performance, lecture or athletic competition. Activities range from the offbeat to the highbrow, and for many students, the social and extra-curricular aspect of their college experience is as important as their academic program.

Volunteering in the community is a popular activity at two-year colleges. At San Antonio College, a two-year public college in Texas, a group called "Into the Streets" sponsors various community projects. Recently, they gathered over a weekend with the Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program to “Give Texas Trash the Boot,” cleaning debris from beaches and coastal waters.
Students at SUNY Rockland Community College in New York State spent part of their spring break organizing a food drive and delivering food baskets to needy families.

Student government provides an important opportunity for leadership. These groups typically oversee budgets of as much as US$1 million comprised of student fees, making important decisions about allocations. Student leaders serve as liaisons to campus administration and hone their leadership skills at town meetings, student senate retreats and college board meetings.
Athletics are an integral part of community college life. Teams compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association and other regional groups in sports for men and women. Men’s teams usually include soccer, basketball, tennis, baseball, golf and bowling; women’s teams are fielded in softball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and bowling.

Most colleges have modern weight and fitness centers, swimming pools and other athletic facilities where students can stay physically fit and have fun.
Young Mbagaya, a SUNY Rockland student from Kenya, discovered that soccer was not only a way to exercise his body, but also to connect with a diverse group of teammates and to discover his own leadership potential. “The great thing about becoming co-captain of the soccer team is that being in the role of a leader motivates you to be a better person, to be somebody who can inspire other people.” In fact, Young went on to become president of the Student Government Association. “Once you unite the group of people, you achieve more; the fruits are even better.”

Students looking for a creative outlet can join performing arts groups or student publications. The Campus Players at SUNY Rockland present several shows each year, including a yearly outdoor summer Shakespeare festival.
Off-campus adventures are a popular feature of student life. This fall, a group of students from Broward Community College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, went on a leadership retreat to Lake Placid, Florida, where they participated in a group activities designed to foster teamwork and the leadership abilities. One activity even involved breaking a wooden board in half by hand or foot.
Many community college students travel to various locations in the US on house-building trips with Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit housing ministry. Students join people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need.

The proximity of many community colleges to major cultural centers provides a major advantage for students interested in the arts. The Art Club at SUNY Rockland visits major museums and galleries in nearby Manhattan, and recently went to Storm King Art Center to view outdoor installations of monumental sculpture by Alexander Calder and other great artists in the magnificent setting of the in the Hudson River Highlands.

Sometimes students just need to unwind, and community colleges provide opportunities for that too. On San Antonio College, students “let it all hang out” at the bi-monthly Karaoke Madness! At Stress-Out Day, held near the end of each semester, students expend their energy and get a good laugh when amusement-park like attractions such as sumo wrestling, rock climbing, bouncy boxing, gladiator joust, and human bowling come to campus.

Community colleges offer clubs catering to every conceivable interest and ethnicity. At City College of San Francisco in California, for example, the list of clubs includes: African Americans Changing Times; Asian Music Club; German Club; Chinese Cultural Club; Cantonese Youth Fellowship; Club Indian; Club Italiano; Forensic Science Club; Japanese Cultural Club; Myanmar Club; Swing City Dancers; Garden Club; Vietnamese Club and Women United.
At SUNY Rockland, over 30 clubs include Amnesty International, Biology Club, Chess Club, Christian Fellowship, Debate Team, Engineering Club, Haitian Club, Hillel, Student Nurses, Youth for Opera and more.

Cultural celebrations on campus provide a glimpse into another ethnicity. Many community colleges celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Intercultural Festival, Holocaust Remembrance Week, Women’s History Month, and African American History Month, for example. At these commemorations, students can view the re-creation of an African slave ship, join discussions about the media view of Hispanics, listen to first-hand testimony of Holocaust survivors, play chess against a Grandmaster and more.

Meeting people of different backgrounds proves to be an enlightening experience for most community college students. “I used to have a specific group of friends of a specific ethnic background, but since I came here, my group of friends has diversified, thanks to the great diversity in this college,” said Arius.

Jana Janko, a SUNY Rockland graduate now enrolled at St. George’s Medical School, encourages students to get involved in life beyond the classroom. “The experience you get from college is what you put into it. Yes, you can be that commuter that comes to school, goes to class and then runs off campus as quickly as possible. Or you can be that student that puts the word ‘community’ into community college, and you can really get the most out of your experience.”

Canada Diverse, Vibrant & Dynamic

Canada's universities share a key strength: their high quality. Canadian universities have a long record of providing an accessible university education to students from across Canada and around the world. Reflecting the rich history many cultures and traditions, Canadian universities offer a mix of opportunities in a variety of educational settings.The 89 Universities that are members of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada are located across the country, with institutions in every Canadian province. Taken together, they offer a wide range of courses.

In addition to universities, Canada's postsecondary system includes 175 community colleges, which respond to the training needs of business, industry and the public service, as well as the educational needs of vocationally oriented secondary school graduates. These colleges, also known as institutes of technology, university colleges or CEGEPS, historically offered diplomas and certificates rather than degrees. Today, some offer degrees themselves, and a number offer university transfer programs or provide programs jointly with neighboring universities.

A Range of Choices

Canadian universities provide a full spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with faculty undertaking research of national and international importance.

Universities in Canada range from large urban, multi-campus and research-intensive universities, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs, to small liberal arts colleges with a focus on undergraduate education. Others provide specialized professional programs in fields such as business, engineering, art and design or agriculture.

You will find that Canada is nothing if not diverse! University colleges represent a new model for postsecondary education, combining practical vocational programs with more theoretical offerings. Since Canada is a bilingual country, our universities demonstrate this by offering instruction in English, French, or even both!
is a world leader. In fact, most universities in Canada offer a wide selection of courses through distance education, with formats ranging from traditional print or audiotape correspondence courses, to teleconference or computer conferences. Support systems for students who study at a distance are common, including counseling and study skills seminars, tutorial assistance by phone, fax or computer, and direct online links to campus libraries.

A Reputation for Excellence

Canadian universities have earned an international reputation for excellence. Their faculty have recognized research and teaching strengths in areas such as computer sciences, business (including MBA programs), health sciences, law, ocean studies, natural resources and agriculture.

In addition to their teaching, universities play a vital role in their local communities, offering concerts and plays, day care centres, sports and fitness facilities, lectures, museums, on-campus radio stations and art galleries open to all. Research is central to the mission of Canadian universities. In fact, 25% of Canada's at Canadian universities are frequently involved in research projects, often during their early undergraduate years. Professors see research as an integral component to their classroom teaching. Canadian university research has yielded a wealth of innovations as important as insulin, Pablum, the artificial pacemaker, improved strains of wheat, and the identification of the genetic causes of diseases such as cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease. Today, Canadian researchers are world leaders in areas such as helping people cope with pain and stress, improving human memory, pulp and paper chemistry, dealing with the impact of technology in the workplace, and finding new treatments for cancer, osteoporosis and arthritis.

The System in Profile

Universities in Canada operate under provincial government charters. There is no formal system of university-wide institutional accreditation. Instead, membership of AUCC, in conjunction with the university's provincial government charter, is seen as serving in lieu of institutional accreditation, both in Canada and abroad. In addition, graduate programs and professional schools such as law, nursing, medicine and engineering have rigorous discipline-specific accreditation procedures. Computer science is also developing its own accreditation system.

There are currently 500,000 full-time undergraduates at Canadian universities, 200,000 part-time undergraduates, 75,000 full-time and 40,000 part-time graduate students. Student profiles have changed dramatically over the past decade, with more older students, more women and a greater multicultural mix. The social sciences remain by far the largest field of study in Canada, followed by education and the humanities. Biochemistry and computer science have been among the fastest growing disciplines at the bachelor's level in the last five years, closely followed by nursing, sociology and psychology. A wide range of student services is offered by most universities, including special tutoring in writing and math skills, help in finding off-campus housing, academic, career or personal counseling, and health services.

Many universities provide support to students with special needs, including single parents, women, those with physical, sensory or learning disabilities, aboriginal students, part-time students, gays and lesbians, mature students, and students of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.Special programs are also often available to help first-year students improve their chances for success at university. Some offer for-credit courses aimed at integrating students to university life and studies. Many universities provide such assistance on an on-going basis throughout the academic year, with workshops in areas such as essay and exam writing, study and research skills.

A Lasting Reward

A university education translates into new skills, better job prospects and higher salaries. University graduates also have a better chance at promotion throughout their career, better health and benefit packages, as well as better pension plans. Clearly, the rewards of a university education last a lifetime.

Student's headscarf sparks debate over Kosovo identity

           
            DROBESH: Sitting at home when she ought to be at school, Arjeta Halimi cuts an unlikely figure at the heart of a debate over identity, religion and education in Muslim-majority Kosovo.

             Aged 17, the student from Drobesh in eastern Kosovo has not been allowed to attend school in nearby Vitina since January last year because she refuses to take off her headscarf.

            While societies in western Europe grapple with the question of whether to allow Muslim women to wear the burka or niqab, which cover the face, in this Balkans nation the issue has boiled down to a simple headscarf.
         Halimi wears a scarf that covers her hair and shoulders, framing her face.
         It appears to be her personal choice, as none of her four younger sisters wear one.
         “I was told by security guards that I could not enter the school premises with my headscarf,” she told AFP in an interview in the living room where shyly but politely she answers journalists' questions.
        “They said they were instructed by the school principal. I refused to take it off and have not been able to return to the school since.”
           Halimi has a court ruling in her favour, but the school is still refusing Halimi access. They argue they are respecting the constitution, which clearly separates religion and state.
         “It's a secular state, with secular schools. We follow the constitution,” Vitina's education director Fehri Qerimi said.
           Kosovo is westernized and despite its overwhelming Muslim majority, Islamic headscarves are still the exception.
           While there is no specific legislation banning headscarves in school, many feel the practice would breach the constitution, which describes Kosovo as a secular state “neutral in matters of religious beliefs.”
          Others argue that under freedom of worship, Halimi has the constitutional right to wear a garment she feels is an expression of her religious identity.
          “It is a severe abuse of (her) human rights,” said Fehim Abazi, grand imam of the Muslim community in Vitina.
            'IT IS PART OF MY IDENTITY'
            Although other female students in the past have been barred from school for refusing to remove their headscarf, this is the first case since Kosovo broke from Serbia in February 2008.
            Since the declaration of independence Kosovo has striven for international acceptance. The former Serbian province is currently recognised by 68 nations, including the United States and most European Union member states.

And Halimi's case echoes others in EU nations.
            In Spain, a girl was banned from a Madrid school for refusing to take off her scarf, while in France and Belgium, legislation is being introduced banning the burka, the full Islamic veil.
            The difference is that in those countries Muslims are a minority: in Kosovo, more than 90 percent of the population of two million are Muslim.
            It was Halimi's father who took her case to court with the help of a human rights group, CLARD: the Center for Legal Aid and Regional Development.
            After the November 2009 hearings, “the court recognized Arjeta's right to attend classes despite wearing the headscarf,” Myrvete Bytyci of CLARD said.
             In its ruling, the court referred to children's rights to education and to freedom of religion.
             Despite that, the school is still refusing to take Halimi back, saying they are waiting for direct orders from the authorities. CLARD says the authorities and education ministry are dragging their feet.
             The school rebuffs the criticism, insisting Halimi can pursue schooling if she wants.
           “We haven't refused her right to education as she is allowed to take exams.

We consider her as our child and do not want to expel her from the education

process,” Qerimi told AFP.
                Meanwhile, Halimi remains stuck at home. She spends most of her time doing household chores, attending religious classes at the local mosque and studying Islam's holy book, the Koran.
                She has bought schoolbooks and is planning to take her final exams even if she is not allowed to attend classes.

               “I do not want to take off the headscarf,” she insisted. “It is part of my identity.” -AFP

Violence on campus

By now Pakistanis are accustomed to ‘non-state actors’ — nebulous creatures that are blamed for the nation’s ills and help the government defer the burden of accountability. In a nod to these elements, we learnt this month that the violence and intolerance that permeate this country’s campuses are the work of ‘non-student elements’.

This coinage comes from the Punjab University (PU), which re-opened recently as a 19-day faculty boycott came to an end. The faculty was protesting the beating — many describe it as attempted murder — of a professor. As is well known by now, Prof Iftikhar Baloch, the principal of the College of Earth and Environmental Sciences and chairman of the committee on discipline, was severely beaten by dozens of members of the Islami Jamiat Taleba (IJT), the student wing of the Jamaat-i-Islami. The IJT activists were responding to the expulsion for ‘rowdy behaviour’ of five of their crew a day earlier by the committee.

Prof Baloch’s horrifying encounter with a student mob landed him in hospital, and sparked outrage among faculty and students who declared that the IJT had held the PU campus hostage for far too long. As the faculty boycotted classes, there were calls to purge PU of the IJT.

Some of the four main accused in the attack on Prof Baloch were arrested (after Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif personally intervened). When the university re-opened, the vice chancellor used a conciliatory tone — he emphasised that the administration was not prejudiced against any particular student group, and rather than continue to point fingers at the IJT, blamed the recent unrest on ‘non-student elements’.

But on online forums, many in the PU community are asking why the university’s administration has not taken stern action against the IJT. There is a prevailing sense that a ‘golden opportunity’ has been missed to rein in this intolerant, militia-like group.

Thanks to coverage in TheNewYorkTimes, the issue attained global proportions. That esteemed paper read the showdown between Prof Baloch and the IJT as a microcosm of Pakistan, where “an intolerant, aggressive minority terrorises a more open-minded, peaceful majority”. In pointing out that the PU incident reflected the broader Pakistani reality, the paper was spot on. But by reading recent violence through the lens of extremism, the paper limited the scope of its own interpretation.

No doubt, the IJT is a rightwing group with extremist views on music and mingling of the sexes. But the April 1 violence was not ideologically motivated — it was a reaction to the disciplinary committee’s decision to expel IJT members. As such, the incident was not a case of extremism vs liberalism; rather, it was a case of thuggery vs democracy, of rule by the fist vs rule by the law.

Members of the IJT did not beat up Prof Baloch because they have a skewed interpretation of Islam. They beat him up because they believe brute force is the only effective tool in a broken system. In other words, the IJT attack was yet another manifestation of the widely held belief that violence is the best form of coercion.

In light of this, the university administration’s response — to boost campus security — seems inadequate. A new chief security officer along with 30 trained guards has been appointed and provided with equipment such as surveillance cameras and walkie-talkies. A 150-strong contingent of police has raided PU hostels in search of IJT members. By focusing on security, the PU administration is stooping to the level of the IJT. Rather than fight fire with fire, Pakistan’s leading intellectuals should be grappling with difficult questions about how to return values to our educational system. How do you encourage youngsters to find negotiated solutions to a conflict? Can teaching methods that encourage critical thinking help students better judge the actions of their peers? The university should be asking itself why a dreaded student group has been able to supplant the administration in its leadership role.

Indeed, none of the university’s actions imply that it expects, even requires, the IJT to change its modus operandi. Bold actions are needed to emphasise that brute force is unacceptable on campus. As a start, the administration can relocate the music department — which has been operating in the basement of the Alhamra Arts Council since the IJT deemed it ‘un-Islamic’ — back on campus. The administration can also allow canteens to stay open during prayer time and set their own prices (the IJT insists that businesses close for prayers and runs ‘price-control committees’). It is only by confronting the group that the administration can teach its members to respond in a measured way.

The PU administration also needs to regain the trust of the student body. To achieve this, it must conduct a transparent inquiry into the alleged politicisation of certain faculty members. Moreover, the university can retroactively take action against the IJT in previous incidents of violence. Most importantly, the administration should ensure that those charged with beating Prof Baloch are served speedy justice.

Above all, the PU should revive a healthy culture of student politics on campus. Although the government lifted a long-standing ban in March 2008, no student union elections have been conducted. History has already shown that democracy is the best antidote to the IJT’s shenanigans — the group, which was known to terrorise progressive students in the 1970s, was trounced in student elections, most notably in 1978, 1983 and 1989. The more violent the group became with Gen Zia’s backing, the more effectively other students came together to sideline it using the power of their vote. Allowing student politics to flourish will ensure that the progressive forces win.

Study abroad--Europe

As diverse as they are plentiful, the countries of Europe have a great deal to offer you in terms of both international education and all other aspects of life. Europe is certainly a continent which must be considered carefully when you are thinking of internationalising your education and studying abroad.

Obviously we are not able to cover every country in Europe and what they have to offer in depth, but the following should give you a brief taste of why Europe is such as exciting, colourful and diverse place to study.

Ireland
Ireland is an increasingly popular destination for students from all over the world. The friendliness and hospitality for which Irish people are renowned, contribute to the ease with which overseas students adapt to the way of life and in particular, France
The largest country in Europe, France has a diverse landscape from the huge coastline of beaches and cliffs and the Alps and the Pyrenees, to the lush Loire valley, the fertile vineyards and cosmopolitan cities. France is all about luxury and excess. Eating and drinking well is considered very important and Paris has always been a Mecca for fashion and style.Iceland
Iceland's landscape is very rocky with few trees and is most well known for it's hot sulphur springs, famous for their healing power against ailments such as rheumatism. Although Reykjavik is home to the largest disco in Europe, and the fishing industry is also huge, popstar Bjork is probably the biggest thing to have come out of Iceland since the Vikings.

Norway
This Scandinavian country stretches up as far as the Arctic and, with a population of around four million, is still relatively unspoilt. The landscape is fairly free from agricultural development and the mountains and parks make Norway a very scenic place. As with all the Scandinavian countries, Norway is a very clean country with a reputation for safety.

Sweden
One of the most wealthy countries in the world, Sweden's cost of living is quickly improving with their entrance into the European Union. The capital city Stockholm is the largest city and, built on 14 islands, is known as the 'Venice of the North'. The water is unbelievably clean and you can even swim in the waterways in the middle of the city. Other Swedish specialities include the Nobel prize, Abba, Volvo and, of course, Swedish meatballs.

Finland
Finland is a large country dominated by lakes and forests which are managed very thoroughly by the Finnish people, who are renowned for being very nature-orientated. The most famous inhabitant is of course Santa Claus, said to live in the far north of Finland in Lapland. With its Nordic cultures and traditions, Finland is quite clearly a Scandinavian country, reflected not least in its high cost of living, clean environment and fine architecture.Denmark
A far smaller country, Denmark is only around 40,000 sq. km, including its adjoining islands. The capital city, Copenhagen is very beautiful and despite being home to nearly one million people, remains picturesque thanks to the many pedestrian areas. Here there are cobbled streets, shops and restaurants, street musicians and vendors. Well known for their friendliness and hospitality, the most famous Dane is the storyteller Hans Christian Andersen.

Belgium
One of the smallest countries in Europe with the second highest population density in the world, Belgium, and in particular Brussels, is now mainly known as the home of the European Commission, although the chocolate is still incredibly popular! Influenced by both the Dutch and the French, Brussels is officially dual in language and has very high standards in terms of food, housing, environment and culture.The Netherlands
Famous for being very flat, The Netherlands easily makes up for this lack of variation in the diversity of its cities, such as Amsterdam. Here the fascinating architecture is complemented by the many canals that also form part of the very efficient public transport, with trams and water taxis available wherever you go. Amsterdam is also known for the friendliness of its inhabitants and its laid back attitude to life.

Germany
Germany occupies a central position, nearly landlocked in the heart of the European mainland, bordered by nine other countries and the North and Baltic Seas. Very varied in landscape, Germany shares the northern Alps with Austria and Switzerland. Go shopping in the cobble-stoned streets of Munich, visit the castle at Heidleberg, stroll through the Black Forest, eat sausages and sauerkraut everywhere!

Czech Republic and Slovakia
Prague is the main attraction in the Czech Republic, a beautiful city currently attracting more and more interest as a tourist destination. This was once the home of Mozart and Kafka and has the added bonus of being very cheap.

Poland
With a population of nearly 40 million, Poland is strongly influenced by its links to the East, as it borders Russia, Lithuania, the Ukraine and Belorussia. There are still many areas of natural beauty despite the high population, including vast areas of wilderness, lakes and forests.Hungary
This small country, also in the heart of Europe, has a very peaceful air with the River Danube, Europe's longest river, winding its way through the country. A very welcoming country, it is also highly populated with an economy that is growing stronger all the time with prices on a similar scale to more western countries.

Switzerland
Think Switzerland and you immediately see quality and prosperity. Locating a central position, Switzerland has more mountains than anywhere else in Europe and naturally the skiing is very good. Famous worldwide for its clean air and natural beauty, Switzerland is picture postcard pretty with wooden chalets, a lot of snow and very high standards of living. Swiss banks are well known as are Swiss clocks and watches and, of course, chocolate.Austria
Another landlocked country, Austria borders seven other countries and its Alpine countryside has been well documented in famous scenes from the Sound of Music! Further east and the landscape is different with the River Danube running through lowlands and vineyards. The people are friendly and the lakes, forests and mountains make outdoor activities very attractive, especially skiing. Famous cities include Vienna and Salzburg, elegant in style and character and home to excellent pastry shops.

Spain
The second largest country in Europe, Spain has the second largest amount of mountains. Although tourism and agriculture have meant a lot of development for Spain, there are still many areas of unspoilt country. Spanish culture includes the Gaudi architecture of Barcelona, traditional bull fights, Tapas bars serving Sangria and Rioja to drink and Paella to eat, a full calendar of fiestas around the country, both religious and historical, and to top it all off, the traditional Flamenco dancing.Italy Sorrento Lingue - Learn Italian in Sorrento!
Italy is a cultural collage of things to see, eat, drink and do including: Italian Vogue, the Milan fashion show, leather shoes and Moschino; pasta, pizza and a variety of fine wines; football is huge and the skiing is good; places of interest include the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Vatican the Sistine Chapel.

Former Yugoslavia
Almost twice the size of Greece, the former Yugoslavia has impressive mountain ranges, joining with the Alps, a section of the Danube and a coastline with the potential to make a popular tourist destination.

Bulgaria
Bulgaria has recently developed into a very popular skiing destination and is also becoming very well known for its red wine. Located in the southeast of Europe, Bulgaria's capital Sofia has a rustic charm and there are many beautiful monasteries to visit and a high standard of music to appreciate.

Malta
Malta lies south of Italy, a Catholic country, it has many churches and its mild climate in winter make it a popular destination for winter holidays. Malta is a jewel at the heart of the Mediterranean with beautiful sea all around, awesome nightlife all year round, and very rich in Archaeology.

Greece
Greece is made up of hundreds of islands that stretch across the Aegean towards the Turkish coast. Although the landscape can seem very bare, the huge number of archaeological sites from prehistoric times to medieval Byzantine, make up for the lack of greenery. Athens was of course the birthplace of the Olympics and Greek mythology is known worldwide. Greece can get incredibly hot in the summer and it is therefore a Mecca for tourists happy to 'hop' from one island to the next.

Turkey
In Turkey, Europe meets Asia in the city of Istanbul divided only by the Bosphorous. Istanbul is famous for its many mosques - the Blue Mosque and the Ayia Sofia among others - and the rising minarets can be seen dotted over the entire city. There are also many ancient sites in dating back to early Christian times such as Ephesus and the home of the Virgin Mary. Turkey brings all the mystery of the East to the Western world with exotic music, fantastic carpets, Turkish baths and a beautiful climate.

Cyprus
Rumoured to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, Cyprus is the third biggest Mediterranean island and its beautiful sandy beaches still attract thousands of tourists despite the division of the island between Greece and Turkey through the capital city of Nicosia.

Study abroad--The United Kingdom

Britain's universities and colleges have long been a magnet for overseas students. From the top researchuniversities, to colleges which pioneer the latest developments in vocational study, the United Kingdom educates under-graduates and post-graduates to world class standards.

International students coming to Britain experience a lively, demanding, world-beating education in an exciting and stimulating environment, which benefits both their careers and their personal development. They in turn contribute to the richness and diversity of intellectual and cultural life in our universities and colleges.

Guaranteed Quality
Britain's world-wide reputation for quality in education and training is well-deserved and hard-earned. UK quality standards are backed up by a rigorous and independent assessment system, so that students can be certain their vocational, undergraduate, or postgraduate qualification is officially approved and enjoys wide international recognition.

A Range of Education and Training Possibilities
One of the strengths of the British education system is its flexibility. To provide for the many different needs of a complex modern society, British education offers a range of possible routes. Here are just three:

* Students wanting a predominantly academic education may choose to follow an undergraduate degree course with the possibility of going on to postgraduate studies or research. The standard entrance qualification for university is normally three A-levels or the equivalent, such as advanced GNVQs. As an alternative to A-levels, some colleges offer access, foundation or bridging courses, which involve a range of subjects within a broad specialism, sometimes with the guarantee of a university place on completion. An English language element is often included.
* Students wanting a more vocational education can combine their training with job-related skills development.
* Combining vocational education with academic study, and gain skills in broad occupational areas, together with an academic content that is accepted as entry to a degree course.

Whatever their career or learning objectives may be, overseas students are highly likely to find something on offer within the British education system which meets their needs.
Independent but Personalised Approach
Having selected an appropriate course, students will be encouraged to read widely, to question and analyse what they read, to discuss their ideas and opinions in seminars and tutorials and to bring originality to their work. Throughout their studies, the emphasis is on creative and independent thought. This helps students to develop the intellectual and problem-solving skills needed to compete in the global job market.

The idea of studying in a foreign country, far from family and friends, can be a little daunting to some young people. There is no need to worry. Study groups are small, and students have regular contact with tutors who not only teach, but provide guidance and support. The result is an unrivalled reputation for low drop-out rates and high pass rates among international students.

Network of Support Makes Life Easier for International Students
The procedures for choosing courses and applying to institutions are designed to be as simple and helpful as possible. The British Council offers a free, impartial and comprehensive service to all those interested in studying and training in the United Kingdom, through its network of offices around the world. For undergraduate courses, UCAS operates world-wide, assisting students with their applications to take a degree in the UK, providing detailed information and advice on courses, the application process, and how to make an effective application.

International students will be made to feel welcome, and will get support and advice to help them benefit fully from their study experience.

Universities and colleges in Britain have staff that specialise in working with international students, and all British universities have a wide range of facilities on campus. Many guarantee international students university accommodation for the first year, with accommodation offices to help in subsequent years. There are well-stocked libraries with quiet places to study, sports facilities and cafes, as well as plenty of entertainment organised by students for students. There are clubs and societies that cater for all interests, including a wealth of international associations to join.

Why Choose the UK for Your Studies?
Academic considerations aside, the UK itself is a dynamic, cosmopolitan place where people from all over the world gather, not only students and visitors, but also people who have made Britain their home.

The countryside is beautiful with many opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Britain's culture, including its world-renowned theatre and great museums and galleries, its architecture and rich history, make it a fascinating and diverse place to live and study. The UK is also the gateway to continental Europe. By taking advantage of the substantial travel discounts available, students can easily and inexpensively experience other European countries, their business methods, cultures and lifestyles.

Cost-effective Courses
Education and training in Britain can be very cost-effective for students from overseas. Many courses in Britain are shorter and more intensive than those offered by other countries, with most undergraduate courses in Britain taking only three years to complete, as opposed to the usual four, while Diploma and taught Masters degrees normally take one year. Examination fees are included in the course fees, and health care is free for students whose courses last for more than six months.

Scholarships
Every year hundreds of international students rely on Scholarships awarded by the British Government to help them study in the UK. Whilst competition is fierce for certain scholarships, as long as students are eligible - subject to the set criteria -