First Professionals & Innovations

VOTE WITH YOUR FEET!

firstpro — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 06:40:02 +0000

Why do You Need Social Audit and Accounting?

In this world of increased competition for money and support, organisations increasingly have to prove their value. They also want to improve as effective organisations. Social accounting and audit leads to considerable learning and improvement within the organisation towards development.

Social accounting and audit is a framework to help organisations clarify values and objectives, engage with its stakeholders and to capture its social, environmental and economic impacts, in a bid to improve performance and strengthen accountability. In more recent years the practice of social accounting and audit has begun to expand significantly in the community sector.

There is growing interest in social accounting and audit from social economy and voluntary organisations and from Funders that invest in and support them. All are looking for ways of proving their value, improving their effectiveness, and understanding their worth to society.

What will Social Audit and Accounting do to your Orgnisation?

Social Accounting and Audit can revolutionise the way you work and manage your organisation!

Social Accounting and Audit is a process to create a flexible framework which enables your organisation…

…to account fully for its social, environmental and economic impact
…to report on its performance and
…to provide the information essential for planning future action and improving performance.

Through this process you will understand the impact your organisation has on the surrounding community and on the beneficiaries. At the same time you will be able to build in accountability by engaging with your organisation’s key stakeholders / funders.
The main benefits to your organisation are you will be able to prove the value of your organisation and improve its performance!
It empowers you more to prove your credibility before your funders.

It is common practice for organisations to prepare Report of their Audited Social Accounts for two main purposes:

a) to inform stakeholders of the key findings and

b) as a publicity document to inform a wider public of the organisation’s work.

Why do Social Audit for your Organisation?

As a social or community enterprise you might use social accounting and audit for the following reasons;

To ‘prove’ the benefits to people, the community and/or the environment and at the same time ‘improve’ its performance as an organisation.
To report accurately and honestly on all the achievements of the organisation.
To allow stakeholders to affect the behaviour and influence the policy of the organisation.
To demonstrate to funders what the organisation has achieved other than just having survived as an enterprise.
To give information alongside the financial accounts which tells the world that the organisation is different from other enterprises.
To help the organisation more effectively monitor and steer itself to perform better.
To acquire a sharper understanding of the organisation’s core values and objectives.
To stimulate a more open and honest, internal and external appraisal.

What will we do to you?

Once we have carried out a Social Audit Exercise for your Organisation, we give you free membership in our TANSAN (Tamil Nadu Social Audit Network of Community Organisation). The membership in TANSAN will facilitate your Organisation more closely towards your local stake holders as well as national and international funders.

The other benefits are:

holding regular meetings for those people and organisations actively involved in social accounting and audit
facilitating and implementing appropriate links with internal and external sources of development
developing a system for continuing organisational development

Fee for Social Audit Exercise for your Organisation is Rs. 3,000

Annual Fee is Rs. 1,000

Small Money! Big Impact on Your Organisation to prove your Value!!

ADVANCEMENT SOCIAL RESEARCH ORGANISATION

3/617, Kumarapalayam Main Road

Pallipalayam, Erode

Tamilnadu, South india

Pin: 638 008

Phone: (0) 4288 426449

Mob’l: (0) 92455 76175

Email: milleniumabc@sify.com

——————–

Cure to HIV/AIDS?

firstpro — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 10:58:30 +0000

Discovery from a laboratory study has shown that the risk of HIV infection can be determined by what blood type a person has. The presence of a carbohydrate-based blood group called Pk gives a significantly greater protection against HIV infection. The different levels of Pk each person has may explain variations in susceptibility to HIV infection within populations. Whilst there are differences only one in a million people are thought to possess high enough levels of Pk to be resistant to HIV infection.

One of the researchers, Martin L. Olssen expressed hopes of this new finding leading to an AIDS cure. However, as AVERT’s Director, Annabel Kanabus, points out;

“Promising as these preliminary results may be, a cure would be many years away as a new therapy requires significant development and testing. What is as important is for there to be a focus on actual prevention of exposure to HIV in the first place. Treatment is good but prevention is better.“

Big Bang Today

firstpro — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:20:27 +0000

Beginning of Bing Bang Today

European scientists are taking the initial steps in what has been described as the most ambitious scientific experiment the world has ever seen.

At a purpose-built underground centre near Geneva, the scientists are carrying out limited tests on a multi-million euro machine called the Large Hadron Collider.

The ultimate aim is to recreate conditions that existed immediately after the Big Bang.

The team hopes to pinpoint dark matter, the name given to unseen particles thought to exist all around us and throughout space.

The experiment, which began at 8am this morning Irish time, involves smashing protons – one of the building blocks of matter – into each other at velocities only a fraction less than the speed of light.

In the flashes from the collisions, scientists expect to reproduce conditions that existed during the first billionth of a second after the Big Bang at the birth of the universe.

(RTE News, September 10th, 2008)

Big Bang - Smashing Protons

Kosi Flood: Indian- Nepali Govls. Blamed

firstpro — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 11:04:16 +0000

Minister for Land Reforms and Management Matrika Prasad Yadav has said that the collapse of the Saptakoshi River embankment was a problem created by the then Nepalese and Indian governments.

Speaking at a programme organised in Lahan by the Revolutionary Journalists Association (RJA), Minister Yadav said the present problem of Koshi was because of the anti-people act of the government.

There is no problem of relief to the Koshi victims, but there is a problem in distribution, he said, adding non-victims have also been receiving the relief assistance.

Minister Yadav said the government would bring revolutionary land reform, adding the people should not fear this but that it will orient towards livelihood for the landless by giving them land.

Regarding armed groups in Terai, he said the government would not suppress those with political purpose, but those engaged in criminal activities against the wishes of the people will finish by themselves.

On the chakkajam by the MJF, regarding the land of Birendra Saha said to be seised by the Maoists, he said the Forum which is a partner in government should not stop transport in favour of a cheat and land mafia, and that the people would do them justice.

He said the government would charge taxes on those who sell land in the villages and build big houses in cities.

The programme was presided over by FNJ Siraha President Jibachh Yadav.

Capturing Food

Villagers run after the Indian Air Force helicopter dropping food packets at a flood-affected village near Chattapur, 400 kilometers (250 miles) northeast of Patna, India, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2008. Government engineers have begun digging a new channel to correct the course of a river that burst its banks, causing devastating flooding and displacing more than 1.2 millions of people across a wide swath of northern India, officials said Saturday. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

FIRSTPRO Beckons Non-profits

firstpro — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 18:39:00 +0000

Dear Sir / Madam,

In the context of globalization, development services have emerged as a second line management stream, involving all modern management strategies and tactics in the development sector as a ‘development business. To address the unique needs of this ‘development business’ expertise and experience available in different sides needs to be shared with groups for effective organisational management and evolve a robust innovation culture among various actors in the development sector. The FirstPro services have been devised to organize and increase access to resources for social change among such actors,NGOs/NPOs/Grassroots.

To fit in this context, we work through the simple apparatus of ‘sharing-learning-solving’ with regular follow-ups made available to every needy organisational participants. We have pooled in the expertise and experience available in a wide context through its shared commitment and will bring to you a comprehensive set of services tailored to your needs and goals.

We offer our services under the following heads:

1.We consult with NGOs/NPOs/Grassroots about interest areas and strategies for effective grant receiving and grant writing and reporting.
2.Identify, analyse and conduct outreach to potential beneficiaries.
3.Facilitate more in-depth and focused analysis of issues and strategies.
4.Provide individualized and strategic programme design.
5.Forward applicant’s proposals / materials to funders.

We support you to:

1.Develop, plan, size, composition of your unit
2.Conduct supporters’ search
3.Facilitate meetings and discussions
4.Maintain unit documents and records
5.Coordinate preparation and production of materials for outreach
6.Advise on administrative structure and long term planning

We can help you achieve an efficient, streamlined project management system to

1.Coordinate staffs intake process
2.Administer grants and facilitate post-grant reporting
3.Manage ongoing communication with funders and supporters

We can provide you our financial and administrative services to grassroot to

1.Establish and maintain books
2.Manage outside audit review
3.Manage income and disbursement including checking accounts
4.Arrange for regular reports

For new development entrepreneurs:

At the initial stage of developing your organization, we can give our expertise and experience to work with you at any stage of your projects from conception to implementation for the following:

1.Facilitate discussions about starting a development unit
2.Define your vision and mission
3.Develop your project strategies and funding approach
4.Make grant recommendations and prepare dockets
5.Monitor and efficate programme and grant process.

When and Where?

To avail our services for a period of six months, every NGO / NPO / Grassroot need to pay Rs. 18,000/- , which include our travel and accomodation during the visit. The fee can be paid by way of a Bank DD in the name of M.Kannan or by cash on acceptance of MoU.

Contact:

Avanasi, Coimbatore Dist

Tamilnadu – 641654

Email:ifirstpro@ymail.com

Emerging Asian Regionalism

firstpro — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 05:31:31 +0000

It is imperative to look in to future development under the banner of Asian regionalism. The financial crisis of 1998 has made it mandatory to think about Asian regionalism as the land mark to station our thoughts about Asian countries’ future development.

The synopsis of the study is available at http://www.aric.adb.org/emergingasianregionalism/

The recent study by ADB shows

the nature of Asia’s emerging regionalism;

the opportunities and challenges it poses.Led by a team of Asian Development Bank staff, scholars, and advisers to regional policy makers, the study highlights what is at stake and lays out the ground for further discussion on how to move forward.

The key message of the study is that, in an increasingly globalized world, Asian regionalism entails a partnership for regionally and globally shared prosperity.

Questions the Study Helps to Answer

To what extent are Asian economies integrated in trade, investment and finance?

What are the priorities for regional cooperation in these areas?

How strong are macroeconomic links within Asia and with other regions?

Can regionalism help reduce inequalities?

Does Asia need stronger regional institutions?

Is Europe an example to follow?

Is Asia ready to play a leading role in global economic decision making?

Jobs in Green Market

firstpro — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 05:16:43 +0000

Global warming doesn’t discriminate between the factory and the boardroom. Neither does the new green economy.”Green collar” jobs are springing up in every industry and at every level of the workforce.

Making a difference has become a smart career move. Economists are predicting an overall growth in green jobs across the economy. As Eileen Clausen, president of the Pew Center on Global Climate Change puts it:”No sector of the economy will be untouched.” Trading in your blue or white collar for a green one is a matter of evaluating how you can apply your skills to solving the greatest problem of our time: conserving natural resources. Here are five ideas:

Eco-Fashion Designer

Eco-fashion designers not only make clothes that look good, they make clothes that are good for the environment and for the people who produce them. Green fashion design means using organic fibers grown without pesticides such as cotton, wool, hemp, and even soybean. Designers use chemical-free fabrics and emphasize recycled materials. Clothing is built to last more than one season, and garments are manufactured under fair trade agreements. This means laborers earn a fair wage and work in decent conditions.

Much of the energy behind the green fashion design movement is coming from fashion design schools. Students are staging eco-friendly fashion shows, featuring exciting designs like candy wrapper handbags and truck-tire sandals. Many fashion schools have added courses in sustainable design; in 2008, the first Sustainable Design School will open in London. Fashion trends may come and go, but green is here to stay.

Median salary for a Fashion Designer: $55,840

Organic Chef

You don’t have to cook only greens to be a green chef. The culinary world has led the eco-movement with an emphasis on locally grown, organic, and hormone-free ingredients. Chef Dan Barber explains:”Truly great cooking is based on the correspondence of good farming to a healthy environment and good nutrition? The future belongs to the gourmet.”

Your future as a green gourmet may begin in cooking school. As sustainable food becomes the norm on the five-star table, culinary schools are offering training in responsible cookery. The country’s top culinary institute maintains a full herb garden on premises, buys produce from local farmers, and offers courses in sustainable food and agriculture. Chefs learn how to plan menus with an eye to season and locale, as well as how to decipher organic labels and build relationships with local organic farmers.

Median salary for a Restaurant Chef: $34,370

Sustainability Manager

Companies from Wal-Mart to Target are recognizing the need to incorporate sustainability into their long-range game plan. Enter the sustainability manager.”There are many jobs today focused at managing the business-environmental interface,” says Dan Esty, Director of the Center for Business and Environment at Yale University. Environmental or sustainability managers help corporations”build environmental strategy into their policy”–forging alliances with nonprofits, refining their company’s marketing message, and implementing changes in the supply chain.

Business professionals can upgrade their green credentials with an Environmental MBA. The green MBA program focuses on”understanding the environment in a business context–as a core business strategy,” says Esty. Coursework combines core competencies such as accounting and finance with courses on the social and ecological impact of business decisions.

Median salary for a Supply Chain Manager: $90,218

Ecotourism Developer

In the hospitality world,”green” means ecotourism. Ecotourism is responsible travel that conserves the environment and sustains the wellbeing of local communities. Ecotourism professionals develop tours to help travelers gain an appreciation of the environment and local cultures.

Hospitality programs prepare graduates for careers in sustainable tourism, with courses in natural resources, environmental history, and community development. Practical training covers trip planning, wilderness safety, outdoor education, and financial and business management.

Median salary for a Travel Agent: $29,160; Tour Guides earn $10-$20 per hour.

Environmental Educator

Education is the key to change. Environmental educators play a fundamental role in shaping a new generation of responsible global citizens. K-12 schools rely on environmental educators to teach students about ecology, environmental science, and conservation issues. Children may learn about recycling, sustainable farming practices, or renewable energy sources. Museums, park and recreation programs, nature centers, and other nonprofits also hire interpretive guides to lead school tours and develop educational programs.

An environmental education degree can prepare you for a career teaching youth or developing environmentally-focused programs. Available at the bachelor’s or master’s degree level, this program focuses on designing lessons and curricula that foster conservation habits and an understanding of environmental issues.

Median Salary for Elementary School Educator: $47,330

When it comes to solving our environmental crisis, everyone has a role to play. Whether you’re headed for a career in IT, accounting, teaching, or art, you’ll find some of the most rewarding–and promising–opportunities in the green sector.

YAGAS THE YOUNG HELP – Young Adults’ Guidance and Advisory Service.

firstpro — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 12:21:33 +0000

The First Professionals & Innovations announces YAGAS The Young Help – Young Adults’ Guidance and Advisory Service.

The objective of YAGAS (Young Adults’ Guidance and Advisory Service) is to extend the necessary guidance and services to youths and adults in the forms of information, communication and personal helps by mentor methods and give a space for expressing themselves.

The service is operable by email mode for the members of iFirstPro. Their queries will be answered personally by email and the answers will be shared in this website. If the senders of the queries wish their name and email addresses will be forbidden to see by others.

The FirstPros can send in their queries relating to their interaction with elders, seniors, employers, family members, teachers, their role in their study / work place, inter-spouse affairs, human rights enquiries, friendship matters, economic planning enquiries, their terms in social groups, ambitions, education and careers.

You may recognize that YAGAS is not one among usual counseling features of leading journals which are concerned mostly with mechanical way education and career upliftment. YAGAS instead deals youth hood from the very point of moulding the youngsters as leaders in their own right.

Hence we believe you would appreciate YAGAS and become FirstPros to use this unique service.

The YAGAS Features:

Counseling
Experience sharing
Caste history
Q & As
Testimonies

Yours
Nilavarasu Kannan

TRAINING FOR DEVELOPMENT PRACTIONERS IN

firstpro — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:13:41 +0000

(Post Graduate Certificate in Technology Communication and Post Graduate Diploma in Technology Communication for development practioners)

Why is this training?

Effecitve technology communication skills of the community personnel will make great impact in the social services offered by institutions engaged in development of communities. Community personnel’s ability to use various technologies to communicate meticulously, timely and
content wise qualitatively is a great challenge in the field work, project area and with the target population. Vast areas of professional skills of technologies with the young social activists
are to be improved for making quality outputs in the development effort from NGOs. Keeping this view in mind, First Professionals & Innovations launches a Post Graduate Certificate in Technology Communication and a Post Graduate Diploma in Technology Communication
for development practioners for community personnel from development organisations.

Who is this training for?

Community workers, young social activists, NGO staffs below 30 years of age with atleast a graduate degree are eligible to attend the program on line and its contact programmes, internship and project works.

What is this training about?

Communication Process
Communication Technologies
Communication Management
Communication and Leadership
Communication Aids
Low Cost Village Based Communication

The structured modules of both Certificate and Diploma Programmes will be intimated to the enrolled candidates.

How will the training be imparted?

Through Online mode. By using creative methods in the contact programmes.

When?

The training will commence in the first week of October, 2006. The Certificate Programme will last for three months rigorous study online and the Diploma Programme will be of six months duration. The date, time and venue of the contact programme will be intimated to
the participants later.

Contact Programme:

The Certificate Course has a 7 days Contact Programme and the Diploma Course has a 14 days Contact Programme at the end of the course.

Project Work:

Each participant of the training course is required to submit a Project Work on specific topic at the end of the Course.

Internship:

The Diploma Course participants will be offered internship opportunity in the sixth month of the Programe with leading development organizations. The internship will be for a period of two weeks to one month on the basis of the project work the candidate wishes to organize.

Course Fees:

The course fee for the Certificate Programme is Rs. 1,000 and for the Diploma Programme Rs. 2,000. The fee includes cost of registration, administration and study material. However the expenses for the contact programme, project work and internship expenses will be borne
by the candidates.

Registration procdure:

Only 30 participants in each course (certificate and diploma) will be selected to participate in this training programme. Selection of candidates will strictly be done screening of the ‘Aptitude Form’ which is attached herewith and also on ‘first come, first serve’ basis and on payment of the respective course fees by way of a crossed DD in favour of ‘VAZHI CITIZENS’ INITIATIVE FOR DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTION’ on or before 15th September 2006 to:

For more information contact: Mail Here

National Agricultural Innovation Project launched

firstpro — Tue, 06 May 2008 08:11:22 +0000

India’s agricultural sector is composed of a large number of small individual entrepreneurs. Farmers are becoming increasingly dependent on other entrepreneurs for services, inputs, implements, marketing and processing.

The capacity of these large numbers of entities to adjust to the rapid changes in the institutional, economic and political environments, and inter-collaborations is highly crucial for the success of agricultural development. Capacity building and strengthening of partnerships will be major elements in all the Components of the NAIP.

Capacity building applies to individual farmers, farmers’ groups/ organizations, and agrarian institutions and businesses, which support them. Partnerships refer to collaborations among public sector institutions, farmers’ organizations, self-help groups, NGOs and the private sector.

The recently concluded National Agricultural Technology Project (NATP) led by the ICAR, was aimed to implement the shared understanding of the Government of India and the World Bank on technology-led-pro-poor growth, and it facilitated the public sector reform process for accelerating the flow of agricultural technologies.

For more details go to: Dare.Nic.In