Tekvocation - Blog #SuccessTekvocation - Blog #Successhttps://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/tag/successTue, 07 Apr 2026 11:28:49 +0530http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Crest 2025: A Journey of Steady Growth]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/crest-2025-a-journey-of-steady-growthOn June 30, Tekvocation held Crest 2025, the valedictory event of the Internship Program. The event brought together interns, mentors, the Tekvocation ]]>

On June 30, Tekvocation held Crest 2025, the valedictory event of the Internship Program. The event brought together interns, mentors, the Tekvocation team, and leadership to mark the completion of nine months of focused learning. The name Crest was chosen to represent a peak reached through consistent effort and daily involvement.

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The day began with small gestures that made the interns feel remembered. Photos from their first day, handwritten notes, and sweet treats welcomed them. A sapling planting followed, where interns and guests planted together, a quiet gesture symbolizing shared growth.

Ms. Diana Hombal opened the event by sharing reflections on the internship. She spoke about how the program took shape through trial, feedback, and openness. She highlighted that growth is rarely linear and that progress comes from showing up with focus and staying open to learning and change.

A video created by Manoj N played next. It featured moments from the inaugural event, onboarding, client meetings, team sessions, and shared memories. It brought quiet smiles and a sense of pride, showing how far each intern had come.

Mr. Tony G Thomas, Founder of Tekvocation and Co-founder of Zoho, addressed the interns and spoke about the rise of artificial intelligence and the importance of thoughtful decision-making. He encouraged the interns to stay curious, explore tools used by leading companies, and align learning with real-world practices. He shared that marketing plays a key role in helping technology reach the right audience and emphasized that when used well, technology builds rather than disrupts.

Mr. Francis Joy shared practical thoughts on the importance of well-being and maintaining balance while building a career. He also spoke about adaptability and how it supports clarity and steady growth. Mr. Jagadish from Edcite Mysuru shared three pointers for professional life: stay flexible, develop a growth mindset, and approach tasks and challenges with ownership.

Ms. Diana then shared a few transformational stories that reflected the quieter but meaningful shifts in the interns' journeys. Kavya had strengthened her career by being open to feedback, while Bhoomika gained confidence through consistent speaking practice. Manoj N S returned from a visit to the Zoho campus with a deeper understanding of work culture and expectations. Smruthi Ranjan enhanced his language skills and clear in his presentations over time. Mohammed Ahamed became more observant by learning to read non-verbal cues and expressions, and Niharika developed a more thoughtful and aware approach to responding in conversations. These stories showed how steady practice and reflection led to tangible growth in each individual.

All fifteen interns who completed the program were awarded certificates. Special recognitions were presented:
  • Best Intern Award – Arun Kumar R, for consistent effort and team contribution
  • Professional Excellence Award – Veda Karthik T and Disha Crasta, for exceptional professionalism
  • Impact in Action Award – Manoj Kumar N S, for strong support and coordination
  • Best Trainer Award – Prabhu Shankar M, for his kind and thoughtful guidance
Mr. Prabhu Shankar gave the vote of thanks and acknowledged everyone who contributed to making the internship meaningful.

The Imprint session followed, where each intern shared reflections on what shaped their growth. The session brought warmth and sincerity to the room. Later, the celebration continued with performances:
A musical and dance performance by the Edcite Mysuru team
A graceful dance by Tekvocation staff
A group dance by the intern girls
A fun skit by the intern boys, capturing humorous moments from their journey
The day ended with a group photo that captured effort, connection, and quiet pride. A quote from Tony picked from Tekvocation newsletter that stayed with everyone:
“Success is not about being right all the time, but being ready to change when you’re not.”
Crest 2025 was not just a closing ceremony, it was a reminder that real growth comes from steady effort and the willingness to adapt.
]]>Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:17:16 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Lessons from Experience]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-lessons-from-experienceWelcome back to Wisdom from the Frontlines, where we explore the journeys of professionals who have made a lasting impact in their fields. Through the ]]>

Welcome back to Wisdom from the Frontlines, where we explore the journeys of professionals who have made a lasting impact in their fields. Through their experiences, challenges, and reflections, we bring you perspectives that can help navigate your own career path.
This edition features Mahesh Bala, a technology leader with over two decades of experience in AI, robotics, business strategy, and mentorship. From his early days at ISRO to leading AI-driven programs at Zoho Research Labs, Mahesh has played a key role in driving innovation while guiding the next generation of professionals.
In this Q&A, he shares his thoughts on leadership, the future of AI, the balance between technology and business, and what it takes to build a strong career. His experiences offer practical takeaways for entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and anyone looking to grow in an evolving industry.
Read on for a conversation style answers filled with real-world lessons and thought-provoking perspectives.

1. How did your experience at ISRO shape your approach to technology and innovation later in your career?

- I have seen how deep technologies are explored and built with an attitude of selflessness. Senior scientists working hard and taking complete ownership of their work amazed me. I was working in the staging separation division, which was responsible for separating a satellite in orbit from a launch vehicle. Even the senior most scientists were well aware about the torque values of even screws to be tightened. 

2. What was the biggest turning point in your career, and how did it influence your professional growth ?

- Loosing a job in 2009 was the biggest turning point in my career. I started my own company. 

3. With your experience in AI and robotics, what ethical considerations do you believe should be prioritized in technological advancements?

- Depending blindly on AI tools and techniques like Chat GPT etc. will not help anyone to improve their career. We must have fundamental knowledge and we should be able to know how smartly we are able to use AI techniques. 

4. How do you foresee the future of indigenous technologies in India competing on a global scale?

- We need more and more ‘deep technical’ indigenous technologies coming up from India. We should not settle with light weight solutions which have short term business advantageous. 

5. What are the core focus areas of Zoho's R&D Centre at Kottarakara? How does it align? with Zoho’s broader vision? How do you foster innovation in a setting that is away from major tech ecosystems?

- Our Founder's vision of R&D and RD (research and development and rural development) emphasize core deep technologies built from rural India. We are in humble effort of empowering the local Indian talent to do hardcore research 

6. What kind of research and innovation projects are currently being undertaken at the center?

- AI and Robotics in general. LLMs also.

7. What inspired you to transition into academia and mentorship alongside your corporate career?

- Giving back something back to society 

8. If you had to summarize your life philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

- Never waste time, and do the work for self satisfaction. The rest is taken care of by itself. 

9. Who has been your biggest inspiration in your professional journey?

- Rahul Dravid and Virat Kholi
]]>Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:47:57 +0530<![CDATA[100 Days of Footprint]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/100-days-of-footprintTekvocation interns proudly celebrated their 100-day milestone on 25/02/2025, marking a significant achievement in their journey of learning and growt ]]>

Tekvocation interns proudly celebrated their 100-day milestone on 25/02/2025, marking a significant achievement in their journey of learning and growth. The event, initiated by the interns, highlighted their collective experiences over the past three months, reinforcing Tekvocation's commitment to nurturing future professionals.

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The celebration commenced with a warm and heartfelt introduction by Manoj and Chandrashekar, setting the stage for an evening of reflection and joy. A special address by Diana Ma'am added a profound sense of accomplishment, reminding everyone that every small effort contributes to long-term success and personal development.

The event featured a lively dance performance by the girls, followed by a skit performed by the boys, offering a lighthearted yet meaningful take on teamwork and creativity. A key highlight was the experience-sharing session, where interns came together to express their personal journeys and the emotions tied to completing 100 days at Tekvocation.The event concluded on a note of renewed determination, inspiring interns to embrace future challenges with confidence and a growth mindset.
]]>Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:17:07 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: A Journey of Purpose Driven Life]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-a-journey-of-purpose-driven-lifeWhat makes a great mentor? Is it knowledge, experience, or the ability to inspire? At Tekvocation’s Wisdom from the Frontlines column, we believe it’s ]]>

What makes a great mentor? Is it knowledge, experience, or the ability to inspire? At Tekvocation’s Wisdom from the Frontlines column, we believe it’s a blend of all three—a guiding light that shapes the journeys of others. This special column began as a way to highlight the insights of our Founder, Tony G Thomas, and has since evolved into a platform that celebrates the voices of professionals who lead, mentor, and make a lasting impact. 

In this edition, we are honored to feature Madhavi KR, a seasoned educator and trainer whose career is deeply rooted in the art of mentorship. Madhavi was an integral part of Tekvocation’s founding team, playing a crucial role in shaping the curriculum for many of our language programs. Inspired by generations of teachers in her family, she embraced education not just as a profession but as a purpose. From honing business communication skills to fostering mindfulness in the workplace, her expertise spans multiple domains, each reflecting her commitment to guiding individuals toward success. 
In her reflections, Madhavi shares the joys of mentoring, the ever-relevant significance of English proficiency in the AI era, and the transformative power of mindfulness in professional growth. Join us as we explore Madhavi’s journey—a story of empathy and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge.

1. What inspired you to choose education and training as your career path?

 From a young age, I watched my parents and grandparents effortlessly wear the hats of teacher, mentor, and guide. Their wisdom and influence shaped my world, and as I grew older, I began to connect the dots. I realized that I too wanted to embrace these roles—where passion and profession seamlessly intertwined. It became clear that guiding others, much like those who shaped me, was not just a calling, but a purpose I longed to pursue.

 2. What are the most rewarding aspects of mentoring students and professionals in their career journeys?

When I see my students/professionals succeed and feel happy with their learning, I feel incredibly proud. It’s even more rewarding when they share that my teaching and guidance have made a real difference in their journey. Knowing that I’ve helped them grow and succeed motivates me to keep refining my approach and supporting them in new ways. It’s that sense of fulfilment that makes everything I do worth it.

3. In an era where AI can easily detect and correct grammatical errors, does English still hold its importance, and how essential is proficiency in the language?

Despite AI tools correcting grammar, English proficiency remains crucial for effective communication, critical thinking, and career advancement. AI can’t fully capture tone, nuance, or context, which are essential in professional or creative writing. Mastery of English enables clearer, more persuasive expression, whether in business proposals, academic work, or networking.

Use AI as a tool to catch surface errors, but continue developing your language skills through reading, writing, and conversation for deeper understanding and success.

However, when it comes to immediate response and “no gadget show” certainly your understanding and learning matters.

4. What’s a recent training session or course you conducted that you’re particularly proud of?

As I deal with different genres, I have multiple sessions to mention here.

- Business Communication Training
Enhancing communication skills for new hires and experienced employees, focusing on workplace dynamics and effective interactions.

- Employability Skills Development
Equipping final-year students with resume building, interview skills, and career readiness tools.

Mindfulness & Wellness for Corporate Employees and Edu sector Employees
Promoting stress management, meditation, and healthy living to improve employee well-being and productivity.

- SEO & Digital Marketing for Tekvocation
Training professionals in SEO and digital marketing strategies to boost online visibility and business growth.

5. How has mindfulness and energy healing influenced your professional life?

Mindfulness and energy healing have enhanced my focus, emotional resilience, and creativity, allowing me to approach challenges with clarity, empathy, and a balanced perspective in my professional life. Both have helped me to keep us healthy both physically and mentally.

6. If you could describe your teaching style in three words, what would they be?

Empathetic, thoughtful and engaging.

7. What’s one skill you think every professional should master?

I’d say effective communication is key for every professional. It’s vital for collaborating, building relationships, and conveying ideas clearly, whether in writing or face-to-face.

8. If you weren’t in education and training, what do you think you’d be doing?

If I weren’t in education and training, I think I’d probably be an artist and a farmer There’s something about the creative process that really speaks to me, whether it’s through visual arts, writing, or music and certainly nature/farming would be my inspirer.
]]>Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:05:43 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines - JavaScript in 2024: Trends and Insights as per Charles Antony]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-javascript-in-2024-trends-and-insights-as-per-charles-antony As JavaScript continues to power modern web development, staying ahead of its trends is crucial for tech professionals. From its pivotal role in ]]>

 As JavaScript continues to power modern web development, staying ahead of its trends is crucial for tech professionals. From its pivotal role in frontend technologies to its growing impact on interactive application design, JavaScript remains a cornerstone of innovation. In this Q&A, we explore expert perspectives on the future of JavaScript, practical tips for teaching it to beginners, strategies to tackle common challenges, and how AI is reshaping development. Dive in to discover valuable insights and inspiration for thriving in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

  • Can you share some of the most significant trends in JavaScript development that professionals should pay attention to in 2024?
    Most professionals are aware by now that there is an increasing utilization of JavaScript in modern application development. Many would certainly agree with me that most frontend technologies are built on, built around, and rely heavily on JavaScript. Therefore, knowledge of JavaScript is a must for core technical resources, especially for those who wish to build their careers in modern frontend technologies.

  • How do you approach teaching JavaScript to individuals with minimal programming experience?
    Always start with something familiar to them. Everyone has some experience with the web. Initially, I introduce the basics of HTML and CSS, as they can relate to their experience with web usage, particularly with web forms. Then, I pose questions like, "What element is missing?" Most people quickly realize that interactivity is missing. I start with basic built-in methods like prompt and alert. Gradually, they understand the need for validation, and I teach them that. Once they get a feel for JavaScript, the learning process becomes smoother.

  • What are the most common challenges developers face when working with JavaScript, and how can they overcome them?
    Debugging is a common bottleneck developers face. Unlike some other programming languages, JavaScript lacks a quick debugging mechanism—or perhaps I’m unaware of one. That said, modern browsers have amazing developer tools that can greatly assist in debugging.

  • In your experience, how has AI impacted the way we develop and interact with software applications? What do you think the future holds for AI in software development and education?
    I feel AI is undoubtedly a boon for education. We’ll all have to wait and experience its full potential ourselves.

  • With cybersecurity becoming increasingly important, how can developers ensure their JavaScript applications are secure?
    Cybersecurity is critical, as we’re all aware. JavaScript can be used to identify client-side vulnerabilities and to implement client-side authentication and authorization, which enhances overall security.

  • What are some hobbies or interests outside of work that help you unwind and maintain perspective?
    I’m naturally curious about technologies and trends—I enjoy learning about them for the sake of knowing. Reading is a hobby I cherish most, and today, we have various media to facilitate that.

  • Looking back, what’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from teaching and consulting in the tech industry?
    The need to stay updated with technological advancements is crucial, especially in IT. It’s even more important if you’re teaching technology.

]]>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 15:40:30 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Sridevi Prasanna’s Trailblazing Journey from Healthcare to Transforming Lives in Education]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-sridevi-prasanna-s-trailblazing-journey-from-healthcare-to-transforming-lThis special column of Wisdom from the Frontlines began as a humble initiative to feature thoughts from our Founder, Tony G Thomas. Over time, it has ]]>

This special column of Wisdom from the Frontlines began as a humble initiative to feature thoughts from our Founder, Tony G Thomas. Over time, it has blossomed into a platform that celebrates the voices of professionals who inspire, lead, and leave a mark in their respective fields. Today our column welcomes diverse contributors to share their unique journeys, challenges, and learnings.Wisdom from the Frontlines began as a humble initiative to feature thoughts from our Founder, Tony G Thomas. Over time, it has blossomed into a platform that celebrates the voices of professionals who inspire, lead, and leave a mark in their respective fields. Today our column welcomes diverse contributors to share their unique journeys, challenges, and learnings.

In this edition, we are delighted to present the story of Mrs. Sridevi Prasanna, a dedicated professional with 22 years of experience spanning healthcare and education. Sridevi's career began in the fast-paced corporate world, where she spent a decade over honing her skills and overcoming it's various challenges. She later transitioned into education, driven by a passion for connecting with people and making a meaningful impact. Her journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the courage to embrace change.

Through her reflections, Sridevi sheds light on the importance of communication skills for young professionals, the challenges of a career pivot, and the significance of balancing work with personal well-being. 

1. Your career spans both healthcare - medical transcription and education. What inspired you to transition from healthcare to education, and what were the challenges you faced during this shift?

Switching from healthcare to education felt like trading a high-speed ambulance for a comfortable school bus. The most glaring challenge? The paycheck! Let’s just say my wallet went on a diet—it’s not easy moving from corporate perks to the less glamorous life of education.

But the journey itself was smoother than expected, thanks to my love for connecting with people and some handy interpersonal skills. My time as a corporate trainer was a secret weapon, giving me the tools to tackle student grievances with the same finesse I used for handling stubborn team members in the corporate world.

What really inspired the switch? Family. Juggling healthcare’s rotating and night shifts was like trying to keep up with a toddler on a sugar high—exhausting and unsustainable. Education offered me the work-life balance I needed to focus on family, while still letting me do what I love: making a difference in people’s lives. Plus, who wouldn’t want to trade scrubs for a whiteboard marker?

2. For young engineers entering the workforce, how important is mastering effective communication, both verbal and written? Could you share strategies to improve these skills?

Mastering communication is superpower. Use it well, and you will deliver results along with building trust, foster relationships, and position yourself as a reliable professional in any setting. For young engineers, it’s the secret sauce that turns technical brilliance into tangible results, fostering teamwork, clarity, and a strong professional image.

Why It’s Crucial?

Imagine trying to explain a groundbreaking idea to your manager but leaving them as confused as a cat watching a magic trick. That’s what happens without effective communication. Good communication ensures your ideas are understood and valued, paving the way for collaboration and innovation.

Strategies to Level Up Your Communication

Timely Responses: Think of emails like hot pizzas—best delivered promptly! Quick replies not only show you’re on top of things but also help prioritize tasks effectively.

Keep Stakeholders Informed: Whether it’s your manager or your team, keeping them in the loop about task progress is like giving live match updates—it keeps everyone engaged and prepared.

Clarity and Precision: No one has time to read a novel in an email or decode a riddle in a meeting. Be crisp, clear, and to the point.

Active Listening: Remember, communication isn’t just about speaking; it’s about understanding too. Pay close attention during meetings—it’s where the magic of alignment happens.

Simple tools

Practice Makes Perfect: Join Toastmasters, take up writing challenges, or simply record yourself explaining concepts. You’ll be amazed at how much you can improve!

Learn the Art of Storytelling: Even the most technical updates can shine with a pinch of storytelling. Think of it as adding spices to an otherwise bland dish—it keeps your audience hooked.

3. How has your family supported you through your career journey, and what role does their support play in your success? OR How do you find time for self-care, and what activities or practices do you turn to when you need to recharge?

Whenever I faced a tough spot, my family's belief in me helped me push forward, whether it was taking the leap into a new job or just dealing with a bad day.

As for self-care, I know that balancing work and personal life is key to staying sane. I make time for activities that help me recharge—like meditation, which keeps me calm even when work feels like a pressure cooker. I also make sure to take breaks, whether it’s sipping chai with friends or going on spontaneous trips to escape the hustle.

And, of course, fitness is my weapon. Regular workouts at the gym keep me energized and focused, proving that a healthy body really does lead to a healthy mind (and a better workday).

]]>Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:16:40 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines : Jagadish's reflection on Edcite's transformative role in Education]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-jagadish-s-reflection-on-edcite-s-transformative-role-in-educationIn this special column of the Tek-newsletter, we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals who have made significant contributions in their res ]]>
In this special column of the Tek-newsletter, we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. What began as an initiative to feature an article from our Founder, Tony G Thomas, has inspired us to broaden this platform, inviting other professionals to share their unique insights, challenges, and motivations.
In this edition, we are pleased to feature Jagadish, the Managing Director of Edcite Bangalore. His insights into the evolution of Edcite and its commitment to educational assessments offer valuable perspectives on the changing landscape of education technology.

1. How has Edcite evolved over the years to address the changing needs of educational assessments in the US?

Edcite began its journey a decade ago, initially launching a free version and later introduced premium features. Over the years, Edcite has experienced significant growth and successfully met the needs of many teachers and students across the country. We have continually added and improved features to assist students in preparing for state tests. And we have also introduced a range of new reporting tools that make performance analysis easier for teachers across various metrics.

2. How do you ensure the security and privacy of student data, especially with growing concerns around cybersecurity?

At Edcite, we prioritize student data privacy. With recent state regulations, we are actively preparing to meet the requirements. We only collect the minimal student information necessary and do not share any Personal Identifiable Information (PII) with third parties. Additionally, we are planning to implement new measures, such as deleting and anonymizing student data after a certain period.

3. How does your team handle software updates and ensure the platform stays robust during peak usage, such as exam periods?

Updating the product requires careful consideration. During peak usage times, we aim to keep software updates minimal. We avoid significant updates during critical periods, such as student assessment times, focusing only on essential updates that won’t impact students or teachers. Additionally, we ensure the product remains operational by closely monitoring the servers.

4. How do you coordinate between different teams—such as IT, product development, and customer support—to ensure smooth platform operations?

We have various technical and non-technical teams collaborating to ensure smooth operations. Multiple meetings are scheduled at different levels to help team members understand each other’s work and exchange ideas. Additionally, we use various chat groups for communication within and across the teams. We also use different platforms to interact with our US team, who engage with customers to understand their requirements and respond accordingly.

5. What are some of the most recent features added to Edcite’s platform, and how have they enhanced the user experience for both teachers and students?

Edcite continually improves its product to stay aligned with the latest trends. Our recent major update introduced a new teacher-facing interface, enhancing the look and feel while ensuring compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This update has made the user interface much simpler and more interactive, leading to positive feedback from our users. We also plan to update the student interface in the near future.

6. What’s the process behind developing and testing new features to ensure they meet the needs of educators and align with the platform’s overall goals?

Edcite has weekly release cycles dedicated to bug fixing and enhancing existing features. Each week, developers list their changes for testing, and the testing team evaluates them, reporting any additional issues back to the developers. This process continues until all the issues are resolved and fixes are ready for the end users on release day. Additionally, we prioritize testing the key features of the entire product before the release to ensure that nothing is broken that could impact the user experience.

7. What are some of your hobbies or activities that help you unwind and stay creative outside of work?

Listening to music and practicing yoga regularly help me relax and energize me. Although I’m not a great cook, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, especially when it comes to desserts. I also love traveling and exploring different parts of the country.

]]>Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:58:50 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Shaping the Future - Dr. Manasa on Excellence in Education]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlinesWelcome to "Wisdom from the Frontlines," a special column in the Tek-newsletter where we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals wh ]]>
Welcome to "Wisdom from the Frontlines," a special column in the Tek-newsletter where we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields
What began as an initiative to feature an article from our Founder, Tony G Thomas, soon sparked the idea to broaden this platform, inviting other inspiring professionals to share their unique insights, challenges, and motivations.

In this edition, we are glad to feature Dr. Manasa, a former banker who transitioned into academia and now heads Vishwakavi Kuvempu First Grade College, one of Mysore’s most esteemed institutions. Established in 1997 by Karnataka Rathna Dr. D. Javare Gowda (Dejagow), a disciple of Vishwakavi Kuvempu, the college has been a pillar of education and culture for over 50 years. Since 2022, Tekvocation has proudly collaborated with the college, offering training to over 450-500 students. Join us as Dr. Manasa shares her remarkable journey and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Career and Transition:

1) What inspired you to move from the corporate world to the education sector?
- Exposure to new knowledge and Education can open horizons to new ideas,    experiences, and understanding and also Education can boost your confidence and give you a sense of achievement. 

2) How has your corporate experience shaped your approach to administration and leadership in education?
- Corporate experience has helped me in planning, Resource allocation, policy implementation and leadership skills. 

Changes in the Educational Sector:

3) How have you seen the education sector evolve in recent years?

- In recent educational system, there is a lot of emphasis on employing technology. Schools and colleges are encouraging students to become familiar with the technology.

4) What changes do you think are still needed in the educational system to better prepare students for the future?
- The curriculum design has to change. More of practical based of learning to be implemented

5) How Do you integrate new educational trends and technologies into your institution?
- Transformation can be made through Digital learning, preparing  students with life skills, Power point presentations, online grading system, helping students with different learning styles

Leadership and Challenges:

6) As a woman in a leadership role, what unique challenges have you encountered, and how have you addressed them?
- Unconscious bias, Gender bias, family responsibility many more, but was able to overcome all these problems through a proper work life balance and positive attitude towards the work I do.

Work-Life Balance:

7) Managing an educational institution can be demanding. How do you maintain a work-life balance?

- Prioritizing things in life, time management, set boundaries, focus on health.

Student Community:

8) How do you ensure that students are not just academically prepared but also equipped with life skills to face challenges in life ?

- Setting realistic goals , prioritising tasks, daily routine these strategies enable students to address their personal challenges.

Personal Insights:

9) What hobbies or activities do you pursue outside of work to relax and recharge?

- Listing to music, practice breathing exercise, read books

]]>Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:00:44 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Leading with Code - Sowmya Panjaje's Story (Director, Edcite Bengaluru)]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-leading-with-code-sowmya-panjaje-s-story-director-edcite-bengaluruWelcome to "Wisdom from the Frontlines," a special column in the Tek-newsletter where we feature the authentic voices and stories of inspiri ]]>
Welcome to "Wisdom from the Frontlines," a special column in the Tek-newsletter where we feature the authentic voices and stories of inspiring individuals from all walks of life. Each edition, we share the personal experiences of people who are deeply involved in their fields, highlighting their insights, motivations, and the challenges they've overcome on their journeys.
What started as a way for Founder Tony G Thomas to share his ideas has become a space for experienced professionals to share their knowledge. We ask them about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and why they do what they do.
Our goal is to inspire readers by sharing the human side of success. Join us as we explore the unique perspectives and inspiring paths of those making a difference. In this edition we have Sowmya Panjaje from Edcite sharing her journey with us.

A. Software Development Career

1. What has been the biggest change you’ve witnessed in the world of software development for educational assessment products?

10 years ago, I remember the excitement around the potential of cloud-based software for the educational market; in terms of what could be accomplished by teachers going online and students taking charge of their own learning.

Khan Academy was popular at the time, along with the famous MOOCs Coursera and EdX. This was a shift from the established Learning Management Systems - Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle etc., in that there was no setup involved, no administrator needed, and one had to just sign on and get started.

For the K-12 market specifically, the conversations were around keeping students engaged while working online. That, and gamification were the highlights of several new platforms that sprung up (Kahoot, ClassDojo etc). It was also the time when HTML5 became the standard for the world wide web, and older technologies like Java Applets and Adobe Flash began to be phased out. 

2. The education sector faces unique challenges in user adoption of new technology.

How have you approached designing and implementing software that is user-friendly for both educators and students?

This is a good point - teachers would like to focus on teaching and do not want to spend significant time learning how to use a product. Students are less particular, but they too need to be able to focus on class or school work rather than on the technology used.

The best approach would be to keep things as simple as possible. Put yourself in the shoes of the user. One helpful thing about designing software for education is that every one of us has been a student; so it should be easier to think of what a student or teacher would be looking for in a given application, and the common bottlenecks they would encounter.

I would suggest resisting the temptation to add more and more features and functionality to a single program or page. Let the code or UI do just a few things - but what it does and doesn’t do, should be clearly articulated, both to the user and to the team.

3. Data security and student privacy are paramount in educational technology. How has your development process evolved to ensure the highest standards of data protection?

In recent years, there are increasing regulations surrounding the protection of student data that software vendors are required to comply with. Framing a comprehensive company policy is the first of several ongoing steps. We have also started with implementing some preliminary measures like regulating access to the data, avoiding downloading of student information, and data deletion and anonymization when data is not required to be identifiable.

4. The rise of AI raises questions about the future of jobs in software development. In your experience, what skills or areas of expertise will be most crucial for software engineers to thrive in a world increasingly influenced by AI?

I’m afraid I don’t have much experience working with AI, but what I’ve read about it and heard from others using it is this: to be able to extract working solutions from AI, one has to break the problem into very specific instructions and go through a few iterations of tweaking the prompts before getting a reasonable result. It’s interesting to note that you need to first be able to think of what your code should do, before you can expect the AI tool to figure it out for you.

Another useful bit of information is that coding-specific LLMs are supposedly easier to work with than general purpose ones like ChatGPT.

B. Work Life Balance

5. Balancing a demanding career in IT with personal life can be challenging. What strategies have you found helpful in achieving work-life balance?

This is something that needs to be consciously worked on! The nature of software work is such that one can’t always predict how long it will take to get something done. With hybrid work, it is difficult to set strict boundaries between work and personal time. A few strategies that I would vouch for are

a) Build a daily personal routine and stick to it. This makes you more efficient at doing certain repetitive tasks everyday and you free up your time to do the more demanding ones.

b) If possible, plan your most important work around the time of the day when you’re most alert.This doesn’t have to be a long stretch, even an hour or two of uninterrupted time is good enough to dedicate to focused work.

c) Switch off from work at the end of the day and give yourself some time to rest or to relax, before segueing into personal tasks. Don’t overschedule your day; be realistic about what you can take on.

C. Personal 

6. Outside of your professional life, what are some hobbies or interests that you are passionate about?

I do like to read, though it’s been difficult for me to read as frequently as I would like to. If nothing, I at least try to read the day’s newspapers! I also have an interest in music, and had enrolled in weekend lessons a few years ago.

7. Looking back on your career, what accomplishment are you most proud of, and why?

When I reflect on the projects I have completed, what strikes me is that almost all of them had one thing in common: they had data in some kind of unstructured form (by design or by chance) and my main goal was to devise some pattern or rule that would suit the data, and then build a program that would parse and use that data. One example was to merge two item types into a single item type that could perform the functions of both. It was not always straightforward, and there were many occasions when I felt I had come a long way but completion would be very hard, if not impossible. However, deciding to persevere has always worked. What I eventually achieved was not perfect; but it was the best that I could do at the time. Let perfect not be the enemy of good, is an approach that I have grown to appreciate most of all, over the years!

]]>Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:26:28 +0530<![CDATA[A Conversation with Mr. Francis Joy: Guiding the Next Generation of IT Professionals]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/a-conversation-with-mr.-francis-joy-guiding-the-next-generation-of-it-professionalsAn exclusive interview with Mr. Francis, a distinguished professional with extensive cross-industry experience. Mr. Francis shares insights on navigat ]]>

An exclusive interview with Mr. Francis, a distinguished professional with extensive cross-industry experience. Mr. Francis shares insights on navigating economic and technological shifts, essential career principles, and valuable advice for young professionals.

(i) Across the industries you've worked in, what are some core principles or skills that have remained constant throughout your career?

The basic principles that have remained constant throughout my career are reading, writing, and quantitative skills. These fundamental skills are essential and beneficial across various industries.

(ii)  What are some of the biggest economic and technological disruptions you've witnessed in your career?

My career began in 1978, a time when mainframes were giving way to microcomputers. I started at HCL, where we were among the first to introduce microprocessor-based computers to Indian businesses. In the mid-90s, PCs started becoming popular, with companies like Microsoft gaining prominence. Around the same time, the movement of software work to Bangalore began, with companies like Motorola and Infosys setting up operations. Interestingly, I worked on AI and neural networks in the late 80s and early 90s, which seemed to fizzle out but have now come back strongly. For me, it's a bit of déjà vu seeing the same concepts gain traction again.

(iii) What are some of the most valuable life lessons you've learned throughout your career?

Having worked in many different companies, I've learned that people are fundamentally different, and it's crucial to be flexible in dealing with them. Early in my career, I worked on a project with Japanese colleagues and thought all Japanese people were exceptionally good. Later, I realized that it wasn't so with others, and it's not right to generalize. Flexibility is the most valuable life lesson I've learned.

(iv) Looking back, what skills or experiences from your early career proved most valuable in your later endeavors?

The quality of education I received has been incredibly valuable. I attended IIT, where both the faculty and the students were exceptional. This rigorous academic environment helped me build a strong foundation that has benefited me throughout my career.

(v) If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering a career in the tech industry, what would it be?

It's useful to study materials by industry leaders and not just rely on courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy. For example, if you're learning Node.js, look into the work of Ryan Dahl, its author. For JavaScript, study the contributions of Brendan Eich and Douglas Crockford. Crockford, who is also the creator of JSON, has a highly recommended 1.5-hour YouTube video. Understanding the history and culture behind these technologies provides valuable context and depth.

(vi) What foundational skills or knowledge do you believe are essential for success in today's job market?

Francis: Foundational skills such as mentioned above - reading, writing, and quantitative skills are essential. Also a deep subject knowledge of a given technology while gaining an understanding of the history behind those specific technologies you are working with can offer a richer perspective.

(vii) Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to learn more human languages. While I have experience with over 30 programming languages, I only speak one spoken language. Knowing multiple spoken languages would have enriched my experiences and interactions with people.

(viii) Can you recommend any books or resources that have influenced your professional life?

For those in the tech industry, I recommend books by Douglas Crockford, Brendan Eich, and Ryan Dahl. For the new generation that is addicted to the social media, "In-distractable" by Nir Eyal is an excellent book on maintaining focus in a world full of distractions. While Nir Eyal's book - "Hooked," provides insights on how to develop products that keep users engaged, and he also gave a notable Google Talk on this topic. In his next book, ironically he speaks on how to not get distracted. 

Francis concluded with:

It's essential to maintain focus whether you're in a meeting or working on a task. Many today are constantly distracted over various notifications and are visibly distracted. While distractions are everywhere, especially with the prevalence of social media, staying focused is crucial for success.
(Excerpts of the Interview conducted by Ms. Diana Hombal, duly recorded by Mr. Prabhu Shankar  from June 7, 2024)
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