Lifestyle
Gallery Cosmos to host young artist Jamil Khan’s solo art exhibition on Saturday
The solo art exhibition of Singapore-based Bangladeshi young artist Jamil Khan titled ‘Inspiration’ is all set to be inaugurated on Saturday, November 11, at the Garden Gallery, Baridhara, in the capital.
The exhibition, thoughtfully titled ‘Inspiration’, mirrors the human journey - a mirror to melancholy, a sanctuary for introspection and a portal to self-discovery. In his latest works, Jamil infuses each artwork with his disposition, their titles echoing the emotions and ambience they encapsulate.
Embarking on exploring the intricate interplay between cause and effect, his fresh body of works delves into the nuanced fabric of everyday life - which will be showcased in this exclusive exhibition.
Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways
Nestled serenely within the expanse of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has lured travelers with its opulent allure. The pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts have made it an icon in high-end travel. Yet, for those with a more budget-conscious spirit, some exotic tourist destinations in the heart of Asia can offer almost similar experiences. Let’s take a look into some of the most popular budget-friendly Asian alternatives to the Maldives.
10 Best Budget-Friendly Alternatives to the Maldives in Asia
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
This tropical paradise, along with its mesmerizing blend of stone and sand beaches, is located in the Andaman Sea. Among this island group comprising six distinct islands, Phi Phi Don is renowned for its Monkey Beach and Maya Bay.
In the case of spending the night, Tropical Garden Bungalows come with a jungle vibe with modern amenities.
The airfare to Phitsanulok, the nearest airport to this place, from Bangladesh starts at USD 230 (BDT 25,264.65 at an exchange rate of USD 1 = BDT 109.85) per person.
Meals cost approximately THB 417 or BDT 1,289.45 (THB 1 = BDT 3.09) per day, while local transportation is estimated at THB 253 or BDT 782.33 daily.
The average cost for a couple's hotel stay in Koh Phi Phi is THB 2,956 (BDT 9,140.58).
Read more: Beach Bucket List: 9 Magnificent Sea Shores in South Asia
Koh Lipe, Thailand
This hidden gem, located in the Andaman Sea, offers hiking opportunities to take in the island's natural beauty from elevated vantage points. The island provides a variety of amenities, from bars and open-air restaurants to cafes and massage shacks.
A Heritage Traveller's quest: Eliza Binte Elahi’s journey of rediscovering Leelabati Nag
Among all the rebellious social reformers of Bengal in the British-ruled Indian subcontinent before 1947, the year when the subcontinent finally tasted freedom - there was a woman who actively participated in major sociopolitical movements and even trained other women to revolt against the oppressors.
Her name was Leelabati Nag, also known as Leela Nag and Leela Roy after her marriage to her spouse Anil Chandra Roy; but she is mostly remembered for another monumental achievement - being the first-ever female student at Dhaka University who snatched her right to study there, when it was not keen to promote or nurture the culture of coeducation, as far back as 1921 - when the institution was founded.
Even though this was a remarkable achievement which cemented her name and legacy in history, very few actually know about her other identities - a radical leftist politician, an ardent educationist, a publisher - and a social reformer.
“Not only our new generation but also people from the earlier generations and even many knowledgeable and resourceful people are unaware of Leela Nag - since we lack the practice to learn about personalities like her. Most people know very little about Leela Nag, except that she was the first female student at Dhaka University. She was actively involved in several significant radical movements and many political and social initiatives, but very few have adequate knowledge on this,” says Eliza Binte Elahi, a renowned heritage traveller and documentary filmmaker.
With the mission to enlighten the enthusiasts about this legendary revolutionary woman, Eliza made “Leelabati Nag: The Rebel” - a documentary film, researched, scripted and produced by Eliza Binte Elahi from “Quest: A Heritage Journey of Bangladesh” and directed by ARM Nasir.
In a candid conversation with UNB before the screening of this significant documentary, Eliza said, “When I realized that the next generation, as well as previous/current generations, needed to be informed about Leela Nag, I began studying her. However, very few individuals can elaborately talk about her because in reality, most of those who saw her or observed her actions in person, are not alive.”
When the UNB correspondent asked about her motifs for this particular social reformer, Eliza said: “First of all, she was a revolutionary woman, a pioneer leader of the anti-British movement. She was a follower of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, hence she became a great part of the anti-British movements in Bengal.”
“Almost everyone knows about Pritilata Waddedar - the revolutionary - but only a handful know that Pritilata was a student of Leela Nag. She guided everything and provided training to Pritilata and otherwomen, and she was able to do so because she had been battling against the anti-British movement from long ago.”
“Additionally,” Eliza continued, “Leela Nag was also a pioneer figure in social movements - particularly women's awakening during her time. We know that the pioneer Begum Rokeya worked on women's education, but Leela Nag was also an active educationist; who initiated twelve schools for women of her time, and she guided them to become self-reliant.”
Talking about how Leela Nag was socially engaged, Eliza mentioned that under Leela’s editorship, a magazine titled 'Jayashree' was launched in 1931, with its initial headquarters in Dhaka, presently in Kolkata.
“In addition, Leela Nag founded the first women's community in this subcontinent, the ‘Deepali Sangha.’ The present Bangladesh Mahila Parishad which was founded by late eminent poet Sufia Kamal, is considered to be the subsequent offshoot of this particular community. When discussing women's groups, leadership, and awakening in this subcontinent, Deepali Sangha must be credited as the driving force.”
That being said, the name of this revolutionary woman is only being remembered these days for debuting co-education at Dhaka University, and that triggered Eliza to move forward with this exclusive project - of course, with a lot of hurdles.
“I began my research about this documentary in late 2022 and collected as much information as possible from all existing resources in both Bangladesh and Kolkata. The problem is that it was way too hard to find relevant people who could share some memories about her; the other problem was that almost every property that she founded (schools, and even her own ancestral house) - are in different hands nowadays.”
However, the quest of Eliza did not stop there as she went to Kolkata and was able to interview Bijay Nag, Leela Nag’s son - now 89 years old. “We also talked to her other relatives and associates in Kolkata, and tried to accumulate as much information as possible because this is a documentary, it should contain these valuable insights,” Eliza told UNB.
One of the disciples of Leela Nag is the eminent researcher, essayist, cultural personality and Liberation War Museum trustee Mofidul Hoque. Not only did he appear in this documentary and share his knowledge regarding the social reformist, but the museum also actively supported Eliza throughout this documentary with post-production facilities.
10 Bangladeshi Winter Street Foods: Taste Meets Tradition
Winters in Bangladesh bring a unique and delightful experience for food enthusiasts. The cool, crisp air sets the stage for a diverse array of delectable street foods exclusively available during this season. Blending the flavours of tradition and innovation, various winter-special street foods appear on the bustling streets of Dhaka to the serene corners of small towns. Let’s explore 10 winter street foods that tantalise the taste buds of Bangladeshis.
10 Delicious Winter Street Foods in Bangladesh
Chitoi Pitha (Bengali Rice Cake)
Chitoi Pitha, also known as Bengali Rice Cake, is a traditional delicacy of rural Bangladesh. Made from rice flour, it boasts a subtle and aromatic flavour. The history of chitoi pitha is quite old. This dish traces its origins back to ancient Bengal, with documented mentions dating back to the 6th century BC.
These spongy cakes are often enjoyed with spicy chutney and bhorta. Chitoi Pitha captures the essence of Bangladeshi tradition in every bite and represents the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Read more: 5 Tasty Savoury Winter Pitha Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
Bhutta (Corn on the Cob)
Spicy Corn or bhutta is a cherished street food in Bangladesh. This delectable treat involves grilling or roasting corn on the cob and then seasoning it with a blend of spices and tangy condiments.
Bhutta's popularity in the Indian subcontinent dates back to the British colonial period when the British introduced new corn varieties and encouraged its cultivation as a food crop. This delicious snack quickly gained popularity and remains a cherished part of street food culture in India, Bangladesh, and elsewhere in South Asia. It is known for its smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavours.
Khejurer Rosh (Date Palm Juice)
Khejurer rosh, or date juice, is a beloved beverage in Bangladesh. It is made from the sweet nectar of date palm trees, providing a naturally refreshing taste.
Fresh date juice is collected by shaving some sections of a date palm tree, and collecting the juice in a clay pot overnight.
Read more: 5 Tasty Sushi Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
Date palm juice was introduced to the Indian subcontinent by the Arabs in the Middle Ages and swiftly gained popularity.
Even today, it remains a sought-after winter drink. This drink is deeply rooted in tradition and continues to be a favourite. It offers a sweet respite to all who savour its cooling embrace.
Bhapa Pitha (Steamed Rice Cake)
Steamed rice cake is locally known as Bhapa Pitha. While the history of Bhapa Pitha lacks extensive documentation, it has roots in the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent. References to this rice cake are traced back to the early 19th century through Bengali cookbooks.
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This classic Bengali delicacy is made from rice flour, molasses, shredded coconut, and water. This popular snack or dessert is savoured in both the rural and urban areas of Bangladesh during the winter months. Bhapa Pitha is one of the most common winter street foods available during evening to night hours.
Pakora (Fritters)
Pakora, also known as fritters, is a beloved snack enjoyed widely in various cuisines. This crispy treat hails from ancient India, with early variations mentioned in Sanskrit and Tamil Sangam literature, although the exact recipes remain elusive.
Today, pakora has transcended borders and become a popular snack and appetiser, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It can be crafted from an array of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and seafood. It offers a versatile and tantalising addition to culinary traditions across the region.
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‘Dream of Human Nature’: Brihatta Art Foundation hosts interactive solo exhibition of Koen Vanmechelen
At the Brihatta Art Foundation in the capital’s Hazaribagh, an exclusive solo exhibition of Belgian artist Koen Vanmechelen titled "Dream of Human Nature" began on Saturday.
The interactive exhibition, organised and hosted by Brihatta Art Foundation and curated by renowned Bangladeshi artist and art educator Bishwajit Goswami, is a convergence of art, science and community that invites visitors to actively discover nature as a library of knowledge.
With this exhibition, the visiting Belgian artist Vanmechelen unveils the essence of his ongoing Cosmopolitan Chicken Project (CCP). The project is an ongoing trans-disciplinary art project starting in the late 1990s which aims to create a hybrid of “all races of chicken in the world.”
This exclusive exhibition is an invitation to learn more from nature regarding the existence of human beings and how people can dream and create a more sustainable future.
Brihatta Art Foundation, a research-based young artist-run platform based in Dhaka with a strong focus on community development and collaboration, invited Koen Vanmechelen for this fall exhibition. Vanmechelen has been working for over 20 years at the intersection of art, community, and science.
Red: ‘Songs of Soul': 3rd solo exhibition of Zahangir Alom begins at Alliance Française
His passion is based on the belief in art as a driver of mutual understanding and as a guide in the search for answers to the significant challenges of the 21st century, the relationship between nature and culture, and, in particular, the development of sustainable communities.
"I embrace my role as an artist in shaping a harmonious world,” Vanmechelen stated regarding the exhibition. “The exhibition's intricate tapestry celebrates humanity's diversity, inspiring us to cherish our dreams with a mindful perspective of our nature.”
“In this convergence of art, science, and community, I find hope for a future built on unity and understanding. And I hope visitors will experience the same," he said.
Vanmechelen is thrilled to exhibit in Bangladesh for the first time, saying, "It is a fascinating place of ancient civilisations and enormous biocultural hybridity. Through genetics and collaborative art, the exhibition reflects our interconnectedness and calls for sustainable coexistence.”
Read: Rezaul Hoque's solo exhibition ‘Living on the Edge’ begins
‘Songs of Soul': 3rd solo exhibition of Zahangir Alom begins at Alliance Française
The third solo art exhibition of Zahangir Alom titled ‘Songs of Soul’ began at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD).
Zahangir worked as a "resident artist" of Oriental Painting Studio for a long time and developed his own style of watercolour wash technique.
Ebru art exhibition hosted by Turkish Embassy held in Dhaka
The maturity of his colour mixing is the unique quality of his painting. Some of his works are semi-abstract, and the mature arrangement of colours in the painting can be seen in conjunction with the maturity of his senses.
The melody of the music, the rhythm of the poem, and the dance of the female body are alluded to in his paintings. Sometimes "Gaudiya Nritya", sometimes "Desh", sometimes "Bageshree", sometimes "Khamaj" or ‘Malkauns" raga; sometimes the play of clouds; sometimes the afternoon of late-autumn; sometimes magical twilight; sometimes the beauty of Bengal; sometimes "Leelakirtan"; sometimes the subject-narrative of mythological anecdotes play in his paintings.
Rezaul Hoque's solo exhibition ‘Living on the Edge’ begins
He paints many images of flowers that are different from real flowers. Here, the colour comes with the charming message of form. The itinerant artist’s work celebrates visible nature, but his view of nature is not a close-up view.
He made a series of paintings based on the motifs of Bengal’s "Sarachitra", mixed with the new language of Bengali folk paintings. The inner flowers, female figures, trees, and foliage are arranged in an imagined alchemy, and although the painting is a traditional wash method, it is full of three-dimensional mixed-colour play.
Group exhibition of late great Kalidas and his brothers begins on artist's 4th death anniversary
This exhibition includes works in the watercolour wash technique. The shape of the figure is similar to a heap of clouds in the movement of colours, and while there is no attempt at clarification, the figures (mostly female figures) appear as real flesh figures. This skill has been acquired through his long practice and watching the work of oriental artists in the studio.
In most of his works, he has used red, blue, yellow, orange, and black colours with the same brightness. There remains the expanse of standing trees, the glimmer of light through the gaps in the trees, and the evocative silhouettes of childhood memories in his paintings. Almost every work has a touch of blue. The monsoon, rain-drenched nature, the smell of the earth, and the colour of the air are saturated in the melody of nature’s music.
Anis A Khan, Member, board of governors at the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art; Prof Mohammad Eunus, chairman of Art Bangla Foundation; Zareen Mahmud Hosein, director of Shasha Denims Limited and Prof Dr Malay Bala of Department of Oriental Art, Faculty of Fine Art at Dhaka University attended the event as special guests.
The exhibition will be open to all until Saturday, November 11, from Monday to Saturday, 3 to 9 pm.
Winter Hair Fall Issues: Causes, and Solutions
As winter draws near, many individuals suffer the seasonal woe of increased hair loss. During the cold weather days, proper hair care is essential to maintain healthy and luscious hair. Let’s explore the reasons and remedies of winter hair loss.
Common Hair Fall Issues in Winter Season
Excessive Hair Shedding
During winter, many people notice an increase in hair shedding. It is normal to lose some hair daily, but excessive shedding can be a concern.
Dry and Itchy Scalp
The dry winter air can lead to scalp dryness and itching. This discomfort can also exacerbate hair fall issues.
Read more: Hair Fall after Pregnancy: Causes and Solutions
Brittle Hair
The lack of moisture in the air can make hair more brittle and prone to breakage, leading to further hair fall.
The lack of moisture in the winter air can render hair more fragile and susceptible to breakage. And, it ultimately results in increased hair fall and diminished hair health.
Causes of Losing Excessive Hair during the Cold Months
Cold, and Dry Air
The cold winter air, devoid of moisture, actively parches hair, leaving it dry and highly susceptible to damage. Without adequate humidity, hair's natural moisture balance is disrupted. This makes hair prone to breakage and other winter-induced issues like hair fall.
Read more: Monsoon Hair Fall Prevention: How to Care for Hair during Rainy Season
Steamy Showers
Steamy showers, although comforting in winter, can contribute to hair fall. The excessive heat and steam strip the hair of essential oils and leave it dry and fragile. This, combined with the dry air can exacerbate the problem and make hair more prone to shedding.
Heat Styling
Heat styling is a common culprit behind winter hair fall. Excessive curling irons use, straighteners, and hair dryers rob the hair of moisture. Such practices make the hair brittle, more likely to break and leads to increased hair shedding.
Nutritional Deficiencies
During winter, nutritional deficiencies can pose a significant threat to hair health. Colder weather often leads to dietary shifts and potentially deprives your body of vital vitamins and minerals crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Such deficiencies weaken hair, making it more susceptible to falling out.
Read more: Which is the Best Country for Hair Transplant?
Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Stress and alterations in winter routines play an active role in hair fall problems. Seasonal changes, coupled with holiday stress, disrupt the body's equilibrium and affect hair growth cycles. This is how increased stress levels can exacerbate hair loss.
Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from
If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, you are in for a treat. This vibrant country offers not only stunning natural beauty but also a unique shopping experience. Malaysia is renowned for its diverse shopping opportunities, from bustling street markets to high-end shopping malls. This article will explore the best souvenirs, home decoration items, and other special treasures to buy in Malaysia.
Best Souvenirs to Buy in Malaysia
When you visit Malaysia, the desire to collect souvenirs that encapsulate the essence of this beautiful nation is nearly irresistible. Malaysia offers an array of choices for those seeking mementoes, each reflecting the rich culture and heritage of the country.
One such option is the exquisite Malaysian batik, a true work of art. These hand-dyed fabrics are adorned with intricate designs and a vivid spectrum of colours. This extends beyond clothing to include accessories and wall hangings available in the vibrant markets and boutiques across Malaysia. These intricate patterns and bold hues make batik an ideal keepsake.
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Traditional Malaysian clothing is another fantastic choice. Women can opt for the elegant 'baju kurung' and 'baju kebaya'. Meanwhile, men have the option of the 'baju melayu,' a timeless symbol of style and cultural significance. These outfits pay homage to the rich heritage of Malaysia.
Handmade crafts are the way to go for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Malaysian artisans’ skills are reflected in the exquisite wooden carvings, rattan baskets, and traditional pottery. These items are not merely souvenirs; they also serve as splendid choices for adorning your home. Their intricate details and cultural significance make them outstanding decorative pieces.
Lastly, Malaysia's reputation as a haven for food enthusiasts makes it an excellent destination for culinary souvenirs. Among the popular choices is Durian Candy, offering a unique experience of the iconic but divisive durian fruit.
Another is Dodol, a beloved sweet treat throughout Southeast Asia, and White Coffee is a unique Malaysian brew known for its creamy, smooth taste. These souvenirs are more than mere items; they are fragments of Malaysian history and culture, destined to be cherished for years to come.
Read more: Can You Travel Abroad Without Buying US Dollars?
Home Decoration Things to Buy in Malaysia
Malaysia presents a diverse selection of distinctive items when it comes to enhancing the aesthetics of your home. Malaysian pewter stands out as a prized choice. It offers intricately designed vases, candle holders, and figurines that exude elegance and charm, making them ideal additions to any home décor.
Traditional Malaysian carpets, particularly those originating from Kelantan, are a splendid choice. These are perfect for those keen on incorporating a vibrant Malaysian flair. The carpets are renowned for their complex patterns and vivid hues. They serve as a perfect accent to infuse the living space with a touch of Malaysian culture.
If you are on the lookout for furniture, you may choose Malay rattan pieces. Rattan chairs, tables, and storage units showcase exquisite craftsmanship and also reflect an eco-conscious choice.
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Other Special Things to Buy in Malaysia
Beyond souvenirs and home decorations, Malaysia opens the door to a treasure trove of distinctive items that hold their own unique allure. Among them, fine jewellery commands attention. Gold and silver pieces are adorned with beautiful designs inspired by the rich tapestry of Malaysian culture.
For collectors and history enthusiasts, traditional Malay weapons such as the 'keris' and 'parang' offer an intriguing choice. These weapons bear a rich cultural legacy. It makes them fascinating collectables and also powerful symbols of Malaysia's history.
Food enthusiasts can not overlook Malaysia's status as a culinary paradise with exotic spices and herbs. Lemongrass, turmeric, curry leaves, and more await to elevate your culinary adventures at home.
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Whether you seek a meaningful gift, historical artefacts, or culinary inspiration, Malaysia's diverse offerings extend far beyond then expected. They are perfect to enrich both your home and your life.
Igniting the Fashion Revolution In Bangladesh, Arka Fashion Week begins
Arka Fashion Week, the groundbreaking event with a mission to democratise fashion, kicked off its inaugural edition on Thursday at the Aloki Convention Center, Tejgaon in the capital.
An exclusive initiative of Arka Studio, the Arka Fashion Week comes with a commitment to provide equitable opportunities to all kinds of designers and brands in Bangladesh.
The inaugural day of the three-day fashion week witnessed a bustling Marketplace and was alive with a dazzling array of fashion and cultural celebrations, and marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the country’s fashion industry.
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Over 50 entrepreneurs and brands are participating in this three-day event which works with fashion, fashion accessories, and fashion-related products, made in Bangladesh. Alongside the marketplace, there are several other engaging spaces for the attendees including an exhibition curated by Shehzad Chowdhury and Adrita Mahin Khan on the theme "Analogue to Digital," an interactive space titled ‘Design Lab’ where one can buy a product and create their designs, live concerts with renowned bands and food zone.
As part of the opening day extravaganzas, a pageant competition titled “Miss and Mister Celebrity Bangladesh 2024”, was held at the event. The pageant is a platform to empower individuals and enhance their talents through the grooming of a pageantry journey on a local and international level.
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In Bangladesh, the Azra Mahmood Talent Camp (AMTC) is the license holder for the pageant. AMTC also represents India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. This has been an all-inclusive camp dedicated towards a focused endeavour of transforming models and aspiring models into their world-class counterparts by incorporating years of industry experience and knowledge, transforming the dreams of all men and women into groomed, artistic versions of themselves.
A total of 16 participants, 8 male and 8 female contestants participated this year, and the winners of the titles of Miss and Mister Celebrity Bangladesh 2024 were Sajria Tabassum Proma and Rajiul Islam Shadhin, respectively. They will further go on to represent Bangladesh in Miss and Mister Celebrity International 2024 in Vietnam.
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Distance Learning: Top Universities Offering Online Courses for International Students
As the world grappled with the reality of the pandemic, most of the academic activities across the world moved to online platforms. Educational institutions utilized technological tools to provide classes and even hold exams. And with that, the concept of distance learning resurged in the limelight. Many renowned universities offered distance learning even before the pandemic. With time, it is becoming a popular and convenient way of attaining a higher degree. This article looks at some of the best international universities providing distance learning opportunities.
What is Distance Learning?
The concept of distance learning is nothing new. The earliest example of distance learning dates back to the 1840s. Back then, Sir Issac Pitman taught shorthand to his students via postal mail. However, today’s concept of distance learning largely differs from that of the 1800s.
Distance learning today essentially mimics an actual classroom with teachers and students. Universities across the globe partner with platforms like Coursera, and edX to provide certification courses to aspiring students. Some universities offer these courses on their own platform. Recently, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are also made available through distance learning opportunities.
Read more: Best Countries for Bachelor's Degree in 2023
8 Best Universities in the World with Distance Learning Opportunities
This list includes universities offering certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It's important to note that distance learning bachelor’s programs are less common than master’s or certificate courses.
University College London
University College London or UCL was founded in 1826. It was established after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. In addition to their London campus, the university has campuses in Qatar and Australia.
UCL has 11 academic wings ranging from arts and humanities to medical sciences. It ranks 12th in US News’ list of Best Global Universities. The university offers 403 undergraduate degrees. Additionally, it offers 621 master’s degrees, and 271 online courses/degrees. The online courses are a mix of certificate as well as postgraduate degrees in all of their available academic wings.
Read more: Cheapest countries for Bangladeshi students for higher studies