Alliance University & IISc Bengaluru to Host National Workshop on Hydrogen Fuel Technologies

Event to highlight India’s clean energy transition and future of hydrogen innovation

BENGALURU / September 18, 2025: Alliance University, Bengaluru, in association with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and under the aegis of The Combustion Institute – Indian Section (CIIS), will host a two-day National Workshop and Panel Discussion on Hydrogen Fuel Technologies and Future Trends on September 19–20, 2025.

The forum will convene academics, researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and students to discuss the role of hydrogen in India’s clean energy roadmap. Key sessions will focus on hydrogen use in internal combustion engines, gas turbines, aerospace propulsion, and energy systems, alongside deliberations on safety protocols and the role of AI/ML in hydrogen design.

Distinguished Line-Up

The inaugural session will feature:

Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO, as Chief Guest

Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi, DG, CSIR & Secretary, DSIR, as Guest of Honour

Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Chairman, CIIS & Member, NITI Aayog, delivering the keynote on “India’s Hydrogen Policy and Future Trends”

Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro Chancellor, Alliance University, delivering the welcome address


India’s Hydrogen Mission

Over 100 delegates from IIT Bombay, CSIR, NAL, and other leading institutions are expected to attend. Discussions will revolve around India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, sector-specific adoption, and strategies to make green hydrogen cost-competitive with conventional fuels.

At a press briefing, Mr. Pradip Kumar Pandey, Secretary, CIIS, noted, “Green hydrogen currently costs nearly twice as much as grey or brown hydrogen. Globally, the aim is to reduce costs from $10 per kilogram to $1, which requires strong collaboration across research, policy, and industry.”



He added that Alliance University is piloting hydrogen-based village projects, with support from government and industry, to showcase scalable models.

Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro Chancellor, Alliance University, underscored the need for technology-driven progress, “Policy is steadily evolving, but technology remains the biggest challenge. Bridging the gap between research and real-world application is critical for India to lead the clean energy transition.”



Dr. Priestly B. Shan, Vice Chancellor, Alliance University, emphasized hydrogen’s employment potential, “The National Green Hydrogen Mission projects nearly six lakh new jobs by 2030. Hydrogen hubs integrating skill development can make employment a central part of this ecosystem.”



Towards a Sustainable Energy Future

The workshop is set to be one of India’s most comprehensive platforms on hydrogen innovation, fostering dialogue and collaboration between academia, government, and industry. By spotlighting advances in hydrogen fuel technologies and emerging trends, it aims to strengthen India’s position as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.

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Dr. Manu Prakash Speaks on ‘Frugal Science’ at Murty Trust Annual Lecture in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, September 2025: The Murty Trust annual public lecture, held on September 6 at Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall and hosted by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), featured a keynote address by Dr. Manu Prakash, Associate Professor of Bioengineering at Stanford University.

Widely known for his concept of frugal science, Dr. Prakash has developed low-cost scientific tools such as the Foldscope, a paper-based microscope, and the Paperfuge, a hand-powered centrifuge. These innovations are now being used in schools, community health centres and research projects across the globe, making scientific exploration more accessible.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Sudha Murty, Chairperson of the Murty Trust, said the initiative was aimed at taking science beyond laboratories. “Science is truth, and truth should be accessible to everyone. Dr. Prakash demonstrates how simple materials can be transformed into tools that change the way people view science,” she said.

Delivering his lecture titled “From Paper Microscopes to Global Change: Story of Frugal Science”, Dr. Prakash underlined how curiosity-driven inquiry could lead to affordable solutions for real-world problems. Drawing from expeditions in the Arctic and fieldwork in African communities, he showed how innovation thrives even outside advanced laboratories.

“It was an honor to be invited to Bangalore. Despite the rain, people travelled for hours to attend — a reflection of the city’s strong scientific spirit,” he said.

The event drew over 350 participants, including students, teachers and researchers. A question-and-answer session followed the talk.

Prof. L. S. Shashidhara, Director of NCBS, said such innovations inspire students to ask new questions. “The simplicity and affordability of tools like Foldscope can ignite scientific curiosity in an entire generation,” he noted.

The Murty Trust’s lecture series aims to connect world-renowned scientists with the public, encouraging greater understanding and appreciation of science.

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From Theory to Practice: Students Gain Firsthand Insights into Real-World HR Challenges

St. Joseph’s University Hosts In-Depth Workshop on Bridging HR Theory with Practical Application

BENGALURU, August 2, 2025:
The MSW-HR Forum of the School of Social Work at St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru, organized a thought-provoking and insightful workshop titled “Bridging Theory to Practice: HR Foundations & Human Touch” on August 2, 2025. Held at the university’s PG AV Room, the session aimed to enhance students’ understanding of human resource practices by connecting classroom concepts with real-world challenges in the field.

The resource person for the event was Mr. Manjunatha D.N., HR Business Partner for South India (Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu) at DB Schenker. With over a decade of experience in strategic HR management, Mr. Manjunatha brought a wealth of industry knowledge and practical insights to the session, enriching the academic experience for postgraduate students pursuing a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in Human Resource Management.

The program began with Ms. Samyuktha from the First Year MSW cohort serving as the master of ceremonies. The session opened with a prayer led by Ms. Rita, followed by a warm and engaging welcome address delivered by Ms. Taniya. Mr. Manjunatha was felicitated by Fr. Francis Pinto SJ and Dr. Premajyothi D, faculty coordinators of the HR Forum, who presented him with a shawl and a plant as a gesture of appreciation.

The workshop covered a comprehensive range of topics central to HR practice, including recruitment and selection, training and development, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and statutory compliance mechanisms such as ESI, PF, and other salary components. Mr. Manjunatha also highlighted the relevance of various labour laws and HR-related Acts, while addressing practical HR concerns like handling employee grievances and navigating modern workplace dynamics.

With a strong emphasis on soft skills, the session shed light on the critical importance of communication, empathy, and adaptability in the evolving HR landscape. Students were encouraged to ask questions, share views, and participate actively, resulting in a vibrant, interactive session that far exceeded expectations.

Initially scheduled to conclude by noon, the workshop extended until 1:30 p.m., driven by the high level of student enthusiasm and engagement. Attendees from both First and Second Year MSW programs eagerly participated in discussions, seeking clarity on various HR processes and practices. Feedback shared by students Don Boss, Meenakshi, and Shristi reflected a deep appreciation for the practical relevance, clarity, and depth of the session.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Terence from the Second Year MSW class, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the students and faculty.

The event saw the gracious presence of several esteemed faculty members, including Dr. Shari Tess Mathew, PG Coordinator, and the HR Forum’s faculty mentors Dr. Premajyothi D and Fr. Francis Pinto SJ. Dr. Allan Godfrey, Acting Dean of the School of Social Work, Ms. Viola, Head of the Department, and other faculty members were also present and commended for their efforts in supporting and organizing the enriching academic experience.

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GITAM Bengaluru Hosts Graduation Ceremony, Showcases Industry-Driven, Purpose-Centric Education

Bengaluru, July 27, 2025 – GITAM (Deemed to be University) held its annual Graduation Ceremony at the Bengaluru campus, conferring degrees on 1,310 students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The event highlighted the university’s growing emphasis on applied learning, ethical leadership, and industry relevance.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Seema Chopra, Executive Director and Senior Technical Fellow in Artificial Intelligence at Boeing, emphasized the transformative role of intelligent systems in shaping future careers. She encouraged students to adopt a mindset of continuous learning, strategic problem-solving, and social responsibility.

“Love your work. Stay curious. Focus on what you don’t know and learn continuously. Solve meaningful problems, and recognition will follow. Don’t overlook the value of your peer network—and always prioritize your family,” said Dr. Chopra.



Prof. KNS Acharya, Pro Vice-Chancellor of GITAM Bengaluru, welcomed graduates and guests, stating,“We are redefining education as a platform for purpose, relevance, and critical inquiry. Our programs are designed in collaboration with industry to ensure students graduate with skills that matter. This ceremony signifies not just academic achievement, but a lifelong commitment to responsible knowledge application.”



Ceremony Highlights:

Total Degrees Awarded: 1,310 (1,239 Undergraduate, 54 Postgraduate, 17 Doctoral)

President’s Gold Medals: Awarded to 18 top-performing students

Best Researcher Award: Conferred on Dr. J.P. Senthil Kumar, Associate Professor, GITAM School of Business, for his contributions to accounting, finance, and applied business research


GITAM Bengaluru has established itself as a centre for applied education, with curricula co-created alongside industry leaders to meet the evolving demands of the job market. Research at the university spans diverse fields including food science, core engineering, biotechnology, and data science, with a focus on practical outcomes and societal benefit.

Infrastructure and Research Developments:

Recent upgrades include smart classrooms, enhanced student housing, and modern sports amenities. The university also boasts advanced labs such as the Central Instrument Facility, Technology Exploration and Product Engineering Lab (TEPE), Makerspace, and the MURTI Lab for translational research. Additionally, Serena Technologies’ AI & Robotics R&D Centre is operational, with drone technology and networking labs nearing completion.

With its focus on industry-aligned learning, research-driven innovation, and infrastructure expansion, GITAM Bengaluru continues to position itself as a model institution in India’s higher education landscape.

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BBMP-Sponsored Student from Bengaluru Secures AIR 89 in UPSC CAPF Exam

BENGALURU, JUNE 18:
Santhosha H. M., a student of the Universal School of Administration in Bengaluru, has secured All India Rank 89 in the UPSC Central Armed Police Forces (Assistant Commandants) Examination 2024, the results of which were announced on June 13.

Hailing from an economically modest background, Santhosha was sponsored by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) under its welfare scheme for underprivileged students. His success has become a powerful example of how institutional support and dedicated mentorship can transform lives.

Santhosha is enrolled in the Integrated IAS, IPS & KAS Three-Year Degree Program at the Universal School of Administration. He had earlier topped Bangalore University’s B.A. stream in 2022, demonstrating consistent academic excellence.

This milestone also coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Universal Coaching Centre, part of the Universal Group of Institutions, which has helped over 8,036 aspirants secure positions in various government services over the years.

Speaking on the occasion, R. Upendra Shetty, Chairman of the Universal Group of Institutions, said:
“Santhosha’s journey is a testament to the power of opportunity and guidance. As we mark 25 years of dedicated service, our mission to empower students from underserved communities continues with renewed vigor.”

Santhosha’s achievement is being hailed as a beacon of hope for civil service aspirants across the state.

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