Striving for a First Class Restaurant Experience

No matter what type of business you have it is imperative to command a well educated staff who understands the importance of service excellence with every last interaction with the customer. Service excellence as it relates to the restaurant industry is a requirement since there are so many areas in which perfection is an expectation of the experience.These areas include but are not limited to customer service, education and appearance of your staff; as a subset this must include a certain level of enthusiasms, and always meeting and exceeding customer expectations. This is not limited to face to face interactions but it also includes the appearance of the establishment, the quality of the food, and the hygiene used to prepare the selections. It doesn’t matter how flashy your ads are, or how attractive your staff appears if the customer leaves feeling unfulfilled at the end of the experience.â€Å"†¦there are some basic truths about service. First, it’s always def ined from a customer’s perspective, never from ours.† (http://waiterbell.wordpress.com/2006/05/17/article-service-the-real-product-of-your-restaurant-you-know-it-so-do-your-customers/) This statement couldn’t drive home the point any more clearly. That is why it is so essential to train all staff employees in a consistent and engaging manor, while giving them some ownership of the corporate mission, and philosophy. It has become to regular of a process in this day and age of fast food giants, to want the customer in and out of the establishment as soon as possible with no regard to there lasting impression of the service.To mention a few chains, that I personally find less than delectable, such as the infamous McDonald’s who has allowed the quality of their food slip along with the comprehension of their employees. So much for service with a smile, most times you will find a miserable individual behind the counter with a distinct lack of enthusiasm waiting for their shift to be over.On the other end of the spectrum you find establishments such as The Cheese Cake Factory where service excellence is reflected through there training allowances. â€Å"†¦The firm spends an average of $2,000 on training per hourly worker each year. Everyone within the organization benefits from training and development initiatives.† They have truly set up policies to live by, which gages their turn over rate as a return on there investment. They are about fifteen percent below industry standards which currently hovers around 106% turnover.The key to having motivated employees and helping them to understand that they are part of something bigger comes first with the managers recruited. â€Å"†¦Most managers think that employees are motivated solely by money. But research shows that intangible items — such as appreciation for doing a good job, open communication and involvement in decision-making — often play a more crucial ro le in employee motivation.  These non monetary recognitions help to promote confidence, and ownership in the company as it relates to on going service expectations. In order for people to improve or get better at there jobs they must have regular feedback as to a â€Å"job well done† or needed improvement in certain areas. From a managers perspective it comes down to the definition of clinical insanity â€Å"doing the same thing and expecting different results.† A good manager knows how to motivate their employees, and will recognize opportunities to get different personality types to open up, and perform at their best.Involvement in decision making policies is another way to motivate employees, giving them an active role in when changing corporate infrastructure, makes them feel as if their opinion matters. Not only will most people with ambition jump at the change to take on additional responsibility but it will also create a forum to recognize other management abi lities already with in the organization.This forum will also allow for individuals to communicate openly with regards to there feelings about management, and where improvements could be made to the entire system. It easy for the â€Å"higher ups† to get disconnected with the flow of day to day operations, and for them to loose contact with there ever changing customer, with ever changing needs. Keeping an active pulse on these issues will allow for efficient adjustments to these changes, and a distinct competitive advantage.When talking about learning curves and on going education it is important to work with every individual inside of the organization, from the cooks to the managers. The frequency of the training sessions is a delicate line that must be addressed carefully. It is important to take the staffs availability, relevant changes to corporate processes, along with varying levels of learning abilities into consideration when outlining the training schedule.These fact ors are important because you do not want to spend to much time training those who already understand, while neglecting those that may require more a more detailed explanation. â€Å"Waiters, waitresses, chefs, and fast-food workers demonstrating potential for handling increased responsibility sometimes advance to assistant manager or management trainee jobs. Executive chefs need extensive experience working as chefs, and general managers need experience as assistant managers.†This is especially true for established businesses that need to keep the same quality expected from the presentation, to the ingredients. It is very easy to look towards cutting corners, and saving pennies when sales decrease, or when operating cost rise. This is more of a question when, and having strategies in force to circumvent these changes allow for longevity, and continued success.For this success to continue the training systems, and corporate philosophy must have exceeding expectations build in to the employees requirements.â€Å"THE contented woman, savoring Marko’s warm bread, stopped in mid-bite, looked puzzled, turned to her tablemates and asked ‘Why didn't I ever know this restaurant was here?’†Awe invoking service is a difficult task to attain especially when the customers perception of these services is becoming more and more expected. If this same awe invoking service is seen on a regular basis, then steps must be taken to bring the â€Å"awe factor† up a degree as time passes. If a customer is used to outstanding service and that one time receives a less than stellar dining experience the repercussions could be staggering. Bad news travels ten times faster and farther than good news, and that hard earned reputations could go right out the door with that one instance.In closing knowing all the techniques to provide a professional level of service in the industry is not enough to keep the business running. It also requires a clear u nderstanding of the foundations of good service and developing the staff and management to best to fit in the restaurant, and the customer. The key is to maintaining the most professional service of any kind and learning the consequences of not having the power of good service.

Explore the theme of rebellion in the first 3 acts of ‘The Tempest’ Essay

Rebellion is definitely an important theme throughout the play. Every character has committed an act of rebellion at some point in The Tempest. The subject of rebellion was very important to the audience at the time because of the risk of rebellion at the time against James I, who was the monarch. There is a lot of rebelling against masters, as shown by both Ariel and Caliban. In act 1 scene 2, Ariel asks Prospero for his freedom from the magician’s service, but is declined, and Prospero reminds him of what he freed Ariel from (â€Å"I must once in a month recount what thou hast been, which thou forget’st.† I.ii.262-264). Prospero tells that the reason Sycorax imprisoned Ariel, was because the spirit refused to carry out her orders, rebelling against her authority. Caliban, on the other hand, displays his rebellious stripes by agreeing to serve Trinculo and Stephano instead of Prospero (â€Å"A plague upon the tyrant that I serve! I’ll bear him no more sticks, but follow thee, thou wondrous man.† II.2.162-164). Sebastian and Antonio are first rebellious in Act I scene 2, when they refused to obey the Boatswains orders (â€Å"Hang cur, hang, you whoreson insolent noise-maker! We are less afraid to be drowned than thou art.† I.i.43-44). But in Act II scene 1, the two characters rebel against their king, Alonso, by planning to kill him (â€Å"Draw thy sword. One stroke shall free thee from the tribute which thou payest, and I the king shall love thee† II.i.292-294). But rebellion is not only present in these completely power-driven characters, but also in those characters who are powered by love, such as Miranda and Ferdinand. Ferdinand, a prince, rebels against social order and agrees to serve Prospero in order to see Miranda (â€Å"To whom I am subdued, are but light to me, might I but through my prison once a day behold this maid† I.2.489-491). Not being raised in Milan in the modern society, Miranda is not aware of the social protocol at the time when it comes to love, by asking Ferdinand to marry her (â€Å"My husband then?† III.i.89). At the beginning of the scene, Miranda sees Ferdinand against Prospero’s wishes, (â€Å"He’s safe for these three hours† III.i.21). Even before the first events of the play took place, there was a history of rebellion between Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan and his brother, Antonio, the man who usurped him. Before being betrayed by his brother, Prospero was a negligent Duke, spending all his spare time in his study practising magic, and rebelling against the rules of society (â€Å"And rapt in secret studies† I.ii.77). Antonio, on the other hand, rebelled against the wishes of his brother by taking advantage of the power Prospero had bestowed upon him, and usurped him of his dukedom (â€Å"in my false brother awakened an evil nature; and my trust like a good parent, did beget of him† I.ii.92-94 & â€Å"he needs be Absolute Milan† I.ii.109-110). Gonzalo is the only character who can be debated in the discussion of rebellion. He does indeed show some rebellious streaks, though they a very subtle. For instance, in the first scene of play, Gonzalo vey politely disobeys the Boatswain’s command (â€Å"Good, yet remember whom thou hast aboard† I.i.19). Then in his â€Å"Utopia† speech in Act 2 scene 1, Gonzalo describes a seemingly perfect world where â€Å"all men idle† and there is no â€Å"name of magistrate† (II.i.147-156). This is more rebellious to the Jacobean audience watching the play than it is towards the other characters in the play, because Gonzalo is describing a world without any higher social order that doesn’t sound apocalyptic. It was especially risky because the play was performed in front of the king, James I, who, at the time, was suffering some political trouble. Even though each character is rebelling seemingly on their own, Prospero is really managing the rebellion. In Act 2 scene 1, Prospero uses his servant, Ariel, to purposely create particular conditions which favour this rebellious behaviour in order to prompt an act of sedition from Sebastian and Antonio. The King and the lords are purposely put to sleep by Ariel in order to offer Sebastian and Antonio an excellent opportunity to do the foul deed. But just as he creates, so Prospero prevents, and sabotages Sebastian and Antonio’s assassination plot by waking the King. In conclusion, the theme of rebellion is an important part of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, because it helps shape the play in terms of power and manipulation.

Legalizing Assisted Suicide For Terminally Ill Patients

The highest value of a democratic society is human rights, which means first of all that a human being is the one who is in charge of his or her own life. The premise presupposes that a person has the right to take a decision about what to do with his or her life on the most global level – whether to go on living or stop living.That is why the state, which aim is to provide the execution of citizens rights, should pay careful attention to such a burning issue as helping terminally ill patients to die. The solution to the problem is legalizing euthanasia as a way of defending human rights alongside taking into consideration the possible moral challenges.Indeed, moral concerns have been the main factors which prevented the quick spread of euthanasia which could otherwise happen. It is first of all religious communities which oppress the adoption of the law, and the more religiously conservative the country is the stronger is the oppression to assisted suicide. Even if one doesnà ¢â‚¬â„¢t know which countries already have the relevant laws we can easily guess what they are by knowing their excessive tolerance to controversial issues like legalizing marijuana or gay marriages.Among them are first of all Scandinavian countries and Holland, some of them having adopted the law others at the brink of adoption. It was in 1994 when Oregon approved Ballot Measure, which would have legalized physician-assisted suicide under limited condition but the vote met the oppression of Federal Government.So, the United States seem to belong to the countries with the strongest moral and religious orthodoxy alongside with deeply Catholic countries as opposed to the tolerant Protestant European societies mentioned above. However, the statistics show it is not completely true. In 1999 Gallup organization held a national survey asking Americans the following question: â€Å"If you personally had a disease that could not be cured and were living in severe pain, would you consider c ommitting suicide or not?†.Forty percent answered â€Å"yes†, fifty one – â€Å"no† and nine were not sure. So, on the face of it, the community divided in halves, roughly speaking. But a there is crucially important detail which shouldn’t be missed: the respondents who took part are naturally not terminally ill and they don’t suffer severe pain. This fact distorts the real statistics which might arise in case they were suffering terrible tortures.But the controversy is not only about the rights of the patients but also about doctors who help their patients to die. The much-talked-of case of Dr.Kevorkian is the evidence of how ambiguous the interpretation of this or that action can be. â€Å"He has been hailed as the champion of the right-to-die movement and denounced as a ghoulish cheerleader for suicide† (Lesenberry, 1994) Jack Kevorkian, who helped twenty people to die on their request, was given a name Dr Death. The case demonstrat ed the controversy, the current system of law has – there is no legal differentiation between killing out of hate and killing out of mercy.There is a moral difference, however. And if we try to trace how the legal system has been historically formed, it becomes clear that it grew out of moral system of values, it was its reflection. Society has always been trying to match moral and law, and there have always been discrepancy between them which needed to be bridged. The historical process hasn’t stopped, and the gap needs to be overcome.But looking at the problem closer makes it evident that it is not so much a matter of the motivation of killing because it is not so much the formal â€Å"killer† we are talking about. The focus is actually on the person who chooses death; a doctor is just an instrument for performing his or her will. Everyone should realize that making euthanasia a legal option is not defending suicide but defending choice.Depriving people of the right to choose is a heavy violation of their human rights. The task of the state is to find a way how to protect the rights of one side without violating the rights of the other one. But the point is the right of all people are least protected when there is no legal definition of the issue at all.One of the arguments against euthanasia is the claimed immorality of making the relatives of the terminally ill patients decide if to keep them living, especially in case the are not able to decide themselves, like those in coma. Indeed, the issue is very sensitive, which the survey confirmed.The respondents were asked the question: â€Å"If a member of your family were terminally ill and wanted to die, would you be willing to help them?† Forty percent said yes, forty-six no, and fourteen percent were not sure. Indeed, this is a moral challenge for the relatives of the person but again it is a matter of having choice.Of course, it is easier for the relatives to have no choice in su ch cases because indeed, it must be the hardest choice a person can face in his or her life. On the other hand, it is questionable what is more immoral – to challenge the relatives with the decision or to let them shift responsibility by making the state decide instead of them.

Not required Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Not required - Essay Example This cohesion between airline companies results to better perform in relation to customer service as well as the air transport. Although the extent of cohesion varies across alliances, it has been observed that they are more profitable to small airline entities. This essay will look at the three major airline airlines that are recognized on the international platform including Oneworld, Star Alliance and SkyTeam. Additionally, the essay looks into Alaska airline that is a key flyer in the US and other international destinations. Finally, the paper looks into the advantages and disadvantages of global airlines. This is the first airline global alliance that is discussed in the paper. First, it is the smallest alliance that currently has thirteen members; however, this number is expected to rise in the coming years. The alliance was established in 1999 by the airline companies that were competing with Sky Team (Weber and Sparks, 2004). Examples of these members include: Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines, American Airlines and British Airways. The alliance has 981 destinations and it operates in 151 countries. The yearly capacity is 475 passengers; it has a fleet of 3,283 aircrafts and 14,244 departures on a daily. The top five members elect airlines that have the highest number of flights include TAM, British Airways, Iberaia, US Airways and American Airlines (The Points Guy, 2014). It can be argued the alliance is undeniably the best in redeeming domestic and global cabin topnotch awards. Six carriers have well-established global first rate cabins including Cathay Pacific, British Airways, American, Cathay Pacific, Malysian Airline, Qantas and JAL. This is the second global alliance in the airline industry. Based on the recent statistics, the alliance has nineteen members. This alliance was formed in 2000. It operates in 178 nations across the globe and has 1024

Risk analysis (Brazil) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Risk analysis (Brazil) - Research Paper Example The official currency is the Real that divides into 100 Centavos. Moreover, the country pursues industrial and agricultural growth and development of its interior. This entails exploiting the extensive natural resources in the country and utilizing the large labor pool. Today, Brazil enjoys the top position as the leading economic power and a regional leader in South America. In addition, the country led in the economic recovery efforts in the region. However, a wide gap in income distribution and crimes remain greatest problems in Brazil. The Wall Street Journal reported on Brazil’s economic growth on for the second quarter of the year 2012. According to the article, Brazil’s Listless Growth Continues, there is a continued slump in the country’s economy despite efforts by the government to salvage it. Government statistics show that there was slowed growth in the second quarter registered at 1.6%, much lower than the projected value. Brazilian government impleme nted tax cuts, record interest rate cuts and campaigned to weaken its currency in order to ignite more economic activities. However, these efforts did not increase the pace and the economy was still sluggish (Fick, Magalhaes and Lyons). The report further indicates that the country registered the fastest growth rate in the world during the global financial crisis in the recent years. As a result, numerous investors considered investing in Brazil due to the development leap. It also geared the hosting of two main global events namely the soccer World Cup in 2014 and 2016 Olympic Games. However, the optimism on the economy is slowly turning into apprehension. As a result, the current climate for multinational investment is marred with uneasiness. The investors appear unsure of the governments’ measures to stimulate the recovery of the domestic markets. Moreover, Brazil’s economy has downshifted to slower growth with the debt crisis and unpredictable recovery efforts. The government predicted an economic growth of 4.5% that gave the investors’ confidence in the markets. This was due to the increase in spending on key infrastructure projects such as ports and river dams. However, the target growth was never achieved; instead, the country recorded a growth of half the forecast rate (Fick, Magalhaes and Lyons). In a bid to stimulate further recovery and growth, the government through the central bank of Brazil has lowered the interest rates by 5% to 7.5%. In addition, there are other announced programs meant to build projects to improve transport and communication to boost growth. Officials in the country blame the world’s slow economic growth for the country’s performance. Furthermore, the administration cites the investor attitude towards emerging market countries as a cause for slowed growth in their economy. However, several present and projected macroeconomic variables affect the recovery and growth of Brazil’s economy (Fick, Magalhaes and Lyons). The country improved its macroeconomic stability through the creation of foreign reserves, and the reduction of debt profile through a shift in debt burden towards the denominated and domestically held instruments. After the 2008 recession period, Brazil was the first emerging market to recover. The GDP growth reached 7.5% in the year 2010. This was registered as the highest growth rate for the past 25 years of the economy. However, the increase in inflation led to a slowed growth in 2011

American Government Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

American Government - Essay Example An objective that was clearly lived up to as far as the cultural will of the people is concerned; in the way America has more races of people that reside in the country than any other nation in the world. It is through the constitution that every culture and religion on earth has found a place in America and then had the ability to flourish; with individuals from various backgrounds and religions and cultures finding a place for themselves in the American way of life and hence the formulation of an American identity. Today however we look at the numerous ways in which the American Government falls short as far as reflecting the will of the American people globally and socially is concerned. If we look closely in the past decade there has been wide spread public cynicism as far as established political institutions and the government is concerned. With the most frequently occurring theme in the American political system being pointed out by critics being the obvious dismay of the Amer ican citizen as far as the government’s inability to perform is concerned. ... One might wonder what causes all this discontent as far as the social needs of the people are concerned. A key push that has driven the public to formulate the negative opinion as far as their effectiveness to represent the people is concerned is that of the new health care bill which excludes certain state members from paying the same taxes as the other states. If equality is a social obligation which the government stands to promote the health care bill clearly does not authenticate that line of thought (Mcdonald, 1999). Unemployment, according to the Fortune is right now the No.1 issue in America, with the unavailability of jobs being a key concern along with employer’s inability to find workers they want. Even then the government fails to address this issue when presenting their jobs agenda to the nation. This was seen as a key missing element in the American Jobs Act. A shocking perspective of this situation roots from three key reasons due to which the Defense Department has found about 75% of American citizens between the ages of 17 and 24 who are not qualified even to serve in armed forces being; inadequate education, criminality and physical unfitness. Three shocking aspects that further signify the failure of the American government to come up with effective education reforms, social controls and providing adequate health facilities. A society in which the basic needs of each individual are not lived up to leads to social deterioration and unrest of the community as a whole. The Pentagon highlights the fact that there are 26 million young adults who are incompetent, unhealthy and undereducated individuals to be able to live up to professional and technologically advanced requirements (Colvin, 2011). How then can the government live up to its ‘We

Pyschotropic medications used in schizoprenia patients Term Paper

Pyschotropic medications used in schizoprenia patients - Term Paper Example Many with schizophrenia are believed not to be able to live a normal productive life. Many with schizophrenia are unemployed because of the negative stereotypes that come along with the illness, and lack of support inside the work place. Many who are employed are often employed in low paying jobs. Many people who have symptoms of it suffering a will develop severe depression. The depression comes from the isolation someone with schizophrenia has to face. When someone is first diagnosed with schizophrenia, and is put on medication the person will begin to feel normal once again. When the person feels normal, the person might stop taking the medication. This is a problem that many people who have schizophrenia, and many of the caregivers of people with schizophrenia have to face every day. Opening Schizophrenia is a mental illness affecting more people every year. The use of anti psychotics also called psycho tropic medications are used to treat someone with the illness. The illness us ually develops in the late teens, and early twenties for young men, and as late as the thirties for women. Because there are so many forms of the disease there is no one treatment that works best in the treatment of schizophrenia. When someone is first diagnosed with schizophrenia, the person will exhibit symptoms like delusions. The delusions are very real to somebody with schizophrenia. ... The patient would stop taking the medication, because the patient does not think the patient is sick. Body There are many types of psycho tropic drugs used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia. Some of these drugs are no longer in use. There have been many drugs introduced since the 1980s. When someone is exhibiting symptoms of schizophrenia, the doctors will first attempts to control the schizophrenia by using only one type of anti psychotic medication. In the 1950s there were only four â€Å"typical† medications used to treat the effect’s schizophrenia. A medication that is considered â€Å"typical† would be Thorozine, Haldol, Perphenazine, Fluphenazine. These medications were very useful for somebody who had schizophrenia. Oftentimes many patients who took this medication were able to live normal, and productive life as members of society. Many people in society will shut out someone who has schizophrenia. The reason many people shut out people who have schi zophrenia is from an overwhelming fear that people with schizophrenia are very dangerous people. With the help of the medication there are many people living with schizophrenia, who work regular jobs, and live a normal life as a member of society. When someone begins treatment for schizophrenia, the doctor will determine what type of symptom the person with schizophrenia is having. There are two types of classifications for medication to treat someone living with schizophrenia. There are the above listed â€Å"typical† medications that someone can be treated with. This was the only type of medication available to treat schizophrenia, up until the mid-1980s. There was no treatment for schizophrenia in a till the mid-1950s. In the mid-1950s the â€Å"typical†

Commercial Log Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Commercial Log - Assignment Example Each commercial has a specific targeted market. The market that is being targeted can be of any class, race, age or gender. Many of the commercials are showing a product or advertising a special. Commercials are a very good way to advertise since thousands of people view them. The commercial developers need to make sure the commercial is appealing to the targeted market so that it gathers the viewer’s interest. Commercials use a variety of different themes that try to spark the interest of the targeted market. Many of the commercials viewed attempted to use humor to gather the viewer’s attention. Most of the commercials used a bad humor that was not very funny at all. The humor made the product unappealing and was not a good way to reach out to the targeted market. Commercial developers that use humor need to make sure that the humor is appealing to a wide variety of audiences. Many businesses use commercials to advertise a new product. New products need to be advertised a certain way. When showing a new product it is important that the short length of the commercial descriptively shows what the new product is and what it can do. If the product is brand new, it is important that the developers show how the product is used and a solution that the product solves. Targeted audiences are the most important part of commercials. When commercials are being created they are usually not created for a general audience. The commercials are created to target a certain group. Some target people that are overweight, sick, enjoy food, or are looking for a good deal. The developers need to target a specific group in order for the commercial to have a better purpose and attract the most attention. After reviewing the commercials it was easy to see how the targeted audiences can be easily persuaded. This is especially so with food advertisements. For example, the Hamburger Helper commercial targeted working families

Political Action Awareness Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Political Action Awareness - Research Paper Example tempts, the basic philosophy of health has not changed, and these measures have been viewed as an inside erosion of the core principles of caring that attracted many professionals to health care initially. Given the values of policy-makers and senior managers of the quasi-market, health care workers found that their practices were molded into a culture that presented them with legislative and ethical challenges. Ethical issues such as promotion of narrow policies, inadequate qualified staff to provide health care and the obligation to follow poorly outlined strategies (Finkelman & Kenner, 2013, 245). Therefore, it is the health professionals’ responses to these issues that will set the scene and write the script for better services in the health care sector of the economy. Despite the presence of collaboration in the various health disciplines, and the shift of balance of power from a medical supremacy to a mutual viewpoint, none of the professionals involved in health care have ownership in the care service they offer. Public health services are owned by funding from the government, and thus professionals involved in the service have no effective voice. Political and professional courage is a necessity amongst managers and nursing leaders so as to steer nursing towards eradicating people’s dualism to individual against collective health and improve social health services. Activist nurses, with an informed vision, can play a significant role in improving the level of discourse in the society. Managers or leading nurses need to outline the conditions for work so that nurses have the responsibility and rights to act as political individuals in national and local arenas. Nurses ought to have a system that moves from being away from people’s daily experience to one that offers resources to policy-makers and the community. For excellent policy making to occur, leading nurses as interpreters and advocates of science must feel sanctioned to support their health

The Fencing Problem Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

The Fencing Problem - Essay Example Let us consider the square of sides 'a.' The Perimeter of square = Summation of all sides = a + a + a + a = 4 * a The Perimeter is given as 1000m 1000 = 4 * a a = 250m = each side of the square Area of square: A = a2 A = 2502 A = 62500m2 Hence if the shape the of the plot is square then the area that can be covered with the fencing of 1000m is 62500m2 Rectangle: Let the two sides of the rectangle be 'a' and 'b' Case I: Let side b = 2 * a i.e. the sides are in the ratio of 2:1 The Perimeter of rectangle = sum of all sides = 2 * (a + b) Here b = 2a P = 2 * (a + 2a) 1000 = 2 * (3 * a) a = 166.6m and b = 2 * 166.6 = 333.2m Area of rectangle A = a * b A = 166.6 * 333.2 A = 55511m2 Hence if the shape the of the plot is rectangular with sides in the ratio of 2:1 then the area that can be covered with the fencing of 1000m is 55511m2. Case II : Let the sides be in the ratio of 3:2 i.e. b = 1.5 * a P = 2 * (a + b) 1000 = 2 * ( a + 1.5 * a) 1000 = 5 * a a = 200m b = 1.5 * a = 300m Area of rectangle A = a * b A = 200 * 300 A = 60000m2 Hence if the shape the of the plot is rectangular with sides in the ratio of 3:2 then the area that can be covered with the fencing of 1000m is 60000m2. Equilateral Triangle: The equilateral triangle has three sides of the equal lengths. Here the three sides of triangle (a) will have length as: Total length of fencing/ 3 a = 1000/3 a = 333.3m The area of equilateral triangle is given by: A = * Base * Height A = * a * H The height of equilateral triangle is given by: sin60 = H/ side of triangle (a) H = sin60 * 333.3 (Angle 60o is the internal angle of the equilateral triangle) H = 289m A = * 333.3 * 289 A = 48098m2 Hence if the shape the of the...In this essay we shall first study the circle considering the perimeter as the circumference and from that finding the radius of the circle which than gives the area of the circle which can be covered with 1000m of the fence. Then we shall consider the square shape, for which first we shall find the sides of the square and then the area of the square. Thereafter we shall consider rectangle; in this we shall consider the sides of ratios 2:1 and 3:2, with the procedure same as that of the square. Then further we shall consider the triangle; first equilateral triangle is considered. For this the sides and the height of the triangle are found out and from that we get the area of the triangle. Then we have considered other two triangles; isosceles triangle and right angled triangle with the similar calculations. Thereafter various polygons are considered. Beginning with the pentagon its sides and the height are found and from that the area of the pentagon is found out. Similar approach is followed for the hexagon and the octagon. In the essay detailed calculations are shown for the various areas. The shape, which gives the maximum area, is also found and then the recommendations accordingly have been made. The calculations carried out are simple mathematical calculations. Pentagon is a type of the polygon with five sides. The sum of total angles inside the polygon is 3600.

The Essence of Love Essay Example for Free

The Essence of Love Essay The essence of love is an eternally controversial topic, the opinions of which vary from person to person. Some dont have sufficient faith in pure-love, on the contrary, others are firmly convinced that love is unconditional. From my perspective, love is as immaculate as snow that people yearn for, however to some extent, the material factor is supposed to be emphasized beyond reproach. What should be reached an absolute consensus is that genuine love cant depend on how much money he or she possesses, as the reason why you love him or her is relevant to nothing but the feeling when you get together. Your life can be perfect if you grow old with whom you love. When love comes to you, you can fly like an angel, living where full of brilliantly-colored and fragrant flowers. Nevertheless, coming back to earth, if you dont have money, how can your life be sustained? No one can deny that there is a common phenomenon in terms of love that many people divorce or lovers break up just due to economic reasons, like a tragedy. In the course of going in for eternal love, you may be in a dilemma that how to figure out the tricky and perplexing question which is more significant, the true love or the money? However, as a matter of fact, money is the base of our life, as correspond to love. What if you marry a person who is not your cup of tea?

Research Utilization Project - Fecal Transplantation Essay Example for Free

Research Utilization Project Fecal Transplantation Essay Clostridium difficile (C-difficile) is a common bacterium that is a frequent cause of infection in the colon and effects numerous patients. Clostridium difficile increases the hospital costs associated with inpatient care, including identification of the organism as well as treatment. The most common cause of C-difficile infection is the elimination of normal intestinal flora caused by antibiotic use. Standard treatment of C-difficile infection includes the use of oral (Flagyl) and intravenous (Vancomycin) antibiotic therapy. The use of fecal transplantation to treat C-difficile infection is increasing in popularity. Research regarding fecal transplantation dates back to 1958; however, the efficacy of fecal transplant for the treatment of C-difficile are rapidly emerging with noted benefits for patients. The mere thought of presenting fecal transplantation for the treatment of a C-difficile infection is often dismissed because of limited available evidence and the concerns about using someone else’s stool to treat the infection. The necessity to educate patients with C-difficile is an additional challenge. Potential donors and recipients need to be assured of minimal risks associated with the screening and transplantation process. The ability to educate society on the results of evidence-based practice regarding the treatment of C-difficile with fecal transplantation should minimize concerns and enhance patient outcomes. The creation of a patient education programs is increasingly beneficial when multiple health care professionals and interdisciplinary teams are involved. Thus, a project objective in implementing an educational patient program for fecal transplantation is the creation of an informative brochure for potential use in the Endoscopy Department at Sharp Memorial Hospital by December 2014. The treatment regimen for initial and chronic C-difficile with fecal transplantation is inexpensive and noted as extremely effective. The articles reviewed consistently reveal efficacy rates greater than 85%. Fecal transplantation for the treatment of C-difficile continues to illicit multiple verbal and non-verbal responses and is not considered a standard of care for patients, families, communities, and hospital staff. The implementation of an informative educational brochure will minimize fears, hesitations, and reluctance for the treatment of C-difficile with fecal transplantation. The central theme of transplanting feces from a selected healthy donor to the recipient with C-difficile is often met with resistance. The fecal transplantation brochure will encompass aspects of fecal transplantation with the expectation of educating patients, families, and communities. Additionally, the brochure would enhance awareness of hospital staff providing an opportunity to educate units or departments. The application of Kurt Lewin’s change model for the implementation of an educational brochure for fecal transplantation will be employed. The current treatment modalities for C-difficile and the methods of transmission are increasingly becoming expensive for health care organizations. The financial goals of the organization are to decrease the rates of C-difficile and possibly entertain the concept of fecal transplantation. A dichotomous survey will be used to measure awareness and use of fecal transplantation for the treatment of C-difficile. The interdisciplinary team employed to create the brochure would prove beneficial in developing standardized procedures in performing fecal transplantations. The Southern California Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates is an excellent venue for potentially validating and communicating the results. The two possible grant funding sources for the fecal transplantation brochure is the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and the American Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA). The creation and implementation of an educational brochure for patients considered for fecal transplantation would enhance community education and minimize fears in treating C-difficile with fecal transplantation. Keywords: fecal transplantation, clostridium difficile, fecal micobiota transplantation Problem Identification The traditional treatments for patients diagnosed with infections of the colon are antibiotics. However, many antibiotics kill the normal healthy bacteria of the colon. This results in an overwhelming increase in the risk for developing a C-difficile infection. Medicine. Net (2012) stated, â€Å"Patients taking antibiotics are at risk of becoming infected with C. difficile as antibiotics can disrupt the normal bacteria of the bowel, allowing C. ifficile to become established in the colon† (para. 1). The potential for implementing the use of fecal transplantations for the treatment of C-difficile among the general population is questionable. The mere thought of presenting fecal transplantation for the treatment of a C-difficile infection is often dismissed because of limited available evidence and the concerns about using someone else’s stool to treat the infect ion. Rohlke and Stollman (2012) stated, â€Å"Cure rates of 90% are being consistently reported from multiple enters. Transplantation [fecal] can be provided through a variety of methodologies, either to the lower proximal, lower distal, or upper gastrointestinal tract† (p. 403). An additional consideration is the perception of fecal transplantation within the community. The necessity to educate patients with C-difficile is an additional challenge. Potential donors and recipients need to be assured of minimal risks associated with the screening and transplantation process. Current research supports and discusses a comprehensive approach to identification and screening for potential fecal donors, donor preparation, and transplantation procedures. The procedure for donor selection and screening is comprehensive to prevent the transmission of infection. According to Hamilton, Weingarden, Sadowsky, and Khoruts (2012), â€Å"The [donor] history includes assessment of infectious risk, including identification of known risk factors for HIV and Hepatitis, current communicable diseases, and recent travel to areas of the world with a higher prevalence of diarrheal illnesses† (p. 3). In educating patients, families, and the community at large, the rigor associated with the screening process must be emphasized to reduce fear. The project objective in implementing an educational patient program for fecal transplantation is the creation of an informative brochure for potential use in the Endoscopy Department at Sharp Memorial Hospital by December 2014. The brochure will be created using a collaborative approach by employing endoscopic nursing champions. The goal is for the brochure to be patient specific and encompass appropriate information to decrease fears and answer questions associated with fecal transplantation. Additionally, the development of a patient posttest associated with the brochure will be created to evaluate the effectiveness of content delivery and adjusted accordingly to meet patient needs and desired outcomes. The proposed solution will minimize the ambiguity and fears associated with fecal transplantation for the treatment of C-difficile. Solution Description The proposed solution for teaching potential recipients and donors about fecal transplantation for the treatment of C-difficile is to diminish infection rates. By creating and implementing a comprehensive nursing educational approach patients and donors can be well informed on this innovative treatment modality. â€Å"In many areas of clinical decision making, research has demonstrated that â€Å"tried and true† practices taught in basic nursing education are not always best† (Polit Beck, 2012, p. 25). The ability to educate society on the results of evidence-based practice regarding the treatment of C-difficile with fecal transplantation should minimize concerns and enhance patient outcomes. The creation of a patient education program is increasingly beneficial when multiple health care professionals and interdisciplinary teams are involved. The importance of evidence-based practice is to ensure the evidence about fecal transplants has been collected, evaluated, and implemented to establish the best practice and approach. The main premise for patient safety is to ensure donors have been thoroughly screened to minimize the potential for the transmission of other diseases with feces. According to Rohlke and Stollman (2012) on donor selection, â€Å"There have not yet been any adverse events reported that can be conclusively or directly attributed to [fecal microbiota transplantation] FMT, and proper donor screening is essential to avoid transmitting communicable diseases from donor to recipient† (p. 406). Individuals with recurrent C-difficile infections are moderately self-educated regarding treatment modalities and are receptive to the idea of fecal transplantation. The emphasis on educating patients, families, and communities regarding fecal transplantation as the initial treatment regimen is the focus. Hospital and individual associated costs in administering antibiotic therapy for the treatment of C-difficile could be drastically reduced by using fecal transplantation as the initial therapy. Brandt (2012) stated in reply, â€Å"Do patients typically accept fecal transplantation as a treatment option? Yes †¦patients typically respond with interest, and they are generally positive about trying it and they do not typically react with disgust† (para. ). The current research base associated with fecal transplantation demonstrates high cure rates while minimizing the reoccurrence of C-difficile. Rohlke and Stollman (2012) stated, â€Å"Cure rates of 90% are being consistently reported from multiple centers† (p. 403). The review of current literature demonstrates that patient education for fecal transplantation is performed by a gastroenterologist and not the gastrointestinal (GI) nurse. Patient education provided to patients from physicians typically entails a one-way communication style. In this scenario, the gastroenterologist sends the information to the patient, and there is little discussion with the receiver. Thus, patients commonly seek out more information from the registered nurse. The ability to educate patients regarding fecal transplantation using the proposed brochure would facilitate a commonality and minimize fears. The feasibility of implementing the brochure into endoscopic departments would be perplexing and centered on nursing knowledge of fecal transplantation. Brodine and Kellogg (2013) stated, â€Å"All patients infected or colonized with C. ifficile must be educated about this bacterium, proper disease management, and transmission prevention. The nurse should use patient-centered communication—free of jargon and appropriate to the patient’s health-literacy level† (para. 13). The health care organization must employ educational programs specific to the needs of the patients and desired outcomes. â€Å"The Joint Commission recommends using the â€Å"teach-back† and â€Å"show-back† methods to educate patients; that is, ask the patient to â€Å"teach back† the information provided or demonstrate understanding by â€Å"showing† a skill†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Brodline Kellogg, 2013, para. 3). The organizational culture at Sharp Memorial Hospital for nursing is centered on the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program ®. The nursing strategic plan is developed by nursing leaders with input from nursing staff based on the hospital strategic plan. Additionally, nurse leaders emphasize that innovation is a core value and part of the nursing process. Nurse leaders encourage innovation through training, resources, and role modeling (Beyond Excellence, 2013). The roposed solution of implementing patient education for fecal transplantation is supported by Sharp Memorial Hospital because it involves introducing new knowledge regarding innovative, evidence-based treatment modalities. Research Report Clostridium difficile infection remains a constant struggle for hospitals. The standard treatment regimen of antibiotics commonly results in relapses. Research on fecal transplantation is continuing to emerge as a promising alternative approach in treating chronic C-difficile infections. Numerous studies demonstrate positive outcomes with the administration of fecal transplant in the treatment of C-difficile (Rohlke Stollman, 2012). Fecal transplantation has shown through research studies to be a useful treatment for C-difficile infection via the restoration of intestinal normal flora (Brandt, 2012). The most common sign reported by patients diagnosed with C-difficile is chronic diarrhea. Johnson (2012) stated, â€Å"The administration of antibiotics can alter the balance of normal colonic flora to permit the overgrowth of pathogenic C. ifficile strains that produce toxins which cause diarrhea and associated symptoms† (para. 5). In an article published in the Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, the authors reported 17 of 22 fecal transplantations for the treatment of C-difficile were effective (Landy, Al-Hassi, MLaughlin, Walker, Nicholls, Clark, Hart, 2011). The substantiated results of the review article highlighted major differences in patients, donors, screening, methods of administration, and the definition of treatment responses (Landy et al. , 2011). The multiple factors highlighted in this review of treating C-difficile with fecal transplantation review across the spectrum using a standard approach is essential to supporting increased use of this treatment modality. Landy et al. (2011) stated, â€Å"Standardized controlled studies are necessary to ascertain the most effective treatment regimen as well as the most acceptable method of treatment† (p. 414). Grehen, Borody, Leis, Campbell, Mitchell, and Wettstein (2010) published a study, â€Å"to demonstrate the benefits of fecal biotherapy and the role of new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of gastrointestinal conditions† (p. 51). The study included 10 patients treated with fecal transplantation and monitored the progress of bacterial population of the colon pre and post transplantation for a 24 week period. Grehen et al. (2010) found the following: At intervals of 4, 8, and 24 weeks after the procedure, the bacterial populations in the patients’ fecal samples consisted predominantly of bacteria derived from the health donor samples. Comparisons of similarity at 4, 8, and 24 week samples to the donor-infused sample were made and each recipient’s baseline sample was statistically significant with Friedmen test. p. 551) Rohlke and Stollman (2012) noted that C-difficile rates continue to rise with greater intensity and severity. The treatment of C-difficile with fecal transplantation is an emerging and accepted intervention in patients with recurrent C-difficile. Rohlke and Stollman (2012) stated, â€Å"Cure rates of 90% are being consistently reported from multiple centers. Transplantation can be provided through a variety of methodologies, either to the lower proximal, lower distal, or upper gastrointestinal tract† (p. 403). The review by Rohlke and Stollman (2012) analyzed reports validating the factors of â€Å"donor selection, appropriate patient criteria, and the preparations and mechanisms of fecal microbiota transplant delivery available to clinicians and patients† (p. 403). The internal validity of the research articles reviewed demonstrates moderate samples were randomly selected. The current literature validated the need for more randomized controlled studies to determine established guidelines for the implementation of fecal transplantation. Additionally, the treatment regimen for initial and chronic C-difficile with fecal transplantation is inexpensive and noted as extremely effective. The independent variable of the effectiveness of fecal transplantation for the treatment of C-difficile remained a consistent theme. The articles reviewed consistently reveal efficacy rates greater than 85%. The external validity of the study articles revealed fecal transplantation processes are varied in the process of which patients are treated, the donor selection criteria, donor screening protocols, and the methods of delivery. The outcomes of the results reported are moderately consistent; however, the ability to generalize a standardized treatment pathway is ambiguous and larger multi-organizational and multi-disciplinary studies are essential. Rex (2012) found the following: Several studies of fecal transplantation have demonstrated high cure rates. The latest and largest to date is a retrospective case series involving 70 patients in Finland (mean age, 73; 86% outpatients). Overall, 94% of these patients had symptom resolution during the first 12 weeks after transplantation, including 32 of the 36 infected with the O27 strain of C. ifficile and all 34 of those infected with other strains. No immediate complications occurred. (para. 1) Fecal transplantation in the treatment for C-difficile has proven to be highly successful in a limited number of studies. In determining if fecal transplantation should be the standard of treatment for C-difficile infection, larger controlled studies are required. Additionally, a standard process related to donor screening, implantation techniques, transplant follow-up, and regularly documenting patient outcomes are essential in establishing standardized fecal transplantation protocols.

Role Of Exim Bank Growth Of Foreign Trade Economics Essay

Role Of Exim Bank Growth Of Foreign Trade Economics Essay Introduction of Industry As we know that the ministry of commerce and Industry is the most important organ concerned with the promotion and regulation of foreign trade in India. The Ministry has an elaborate organizational set up to look after the various aspects of trade. Its two important offices concerned with trade are the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS). DGFT is responsible for implementing the Foreign Trade Policy/Exim Policy with the main objective of promoting Indian exports. It also issues licenses to exporters and monitors their corresponding obligations through a network of regional offices. DGCIS is entrusted with the work of collecting, compiling and publishing/ disseminating trade statistics and various types of commercial information required by the policy makers, researchers, importers, exporters, traders as well as overseas buyers. Directorate of Industries Commerce is charged with the responsibilities of facilitating industrial growth in the country by providing funding for Infrastructure in the form of industrial estates, incentives for capital Investment and other subsidies. It provides the entrepreneur, power, land and water, besides sanction of fiscal incentives. Foreign trade has played a crucial role in Indias economy growth. The composition and direction of Indias foreign trade has undergone substantial changes, particularly, after the liberalization process which began in the early 1990s. Our major exports now includes manufacturing goods such as Engineering Goods, Petroleum Products, Chemicals Related Products, Gems Jewellery, Textiles, Electronic Goods, etc. which constitute over 80 per cent of our export basket. On the other hand, major import items constitute capital goods and intermediates which not only support the manufacturing sector but also supply raw-materials for the export oriented units. Over the years, Indias trade with countries of Asia ASEAN and Africa has gone up substantially. Apart from that, India is now a major player in global trading system and all the major sectors of Indian economy are linked to world outside either directly or indirectly through international trade. Introduction of Topic Exim Bank (India) Exim Bank (full name: The Export-Import Bank of India) is an Indian government-owned financial institution for the public sector created by an Act of the Parliament of India: the Export-Import Bank of India Act 1981. Exim Bank is managed by a Board of Directors, which has representatives from the Government, Reserve Bank of India, Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India (ECGC), a financial institution, public sector banks, and the business community. The Banks functions are segmented into several operating groups including: Corporate Banking Group which handles a variety of financing programmes for Export Oriented Units (eous), Importers, and overseas investment by Indian companies. Project Finance / Trade Finance Group handles the entire range of export credit services such as suppliers credit, pre-shipment credit, buyers credit, finance for export of projects consultancy services, guarantees, forfeiting, etc. Lines of Credit Group Lines of Credit (LOC) is a financing mechanism and export transactions in the agricultural sector for financing. Small and Medium Enterprises Group to the specific financing requirements of export oriented smes. The group handles credit proposals from smes under various lending programmes of the Bank. Export Services Group offers variety of advisory and value-added information services aimed at investment promotion Fee based Export Marketing Services Bank offers assistance to Corporate Affairs. Service Category Government to Business (G2B) Service Title Export Import Data Bank Service State/Ministry Ministry of Commerce and Industry Service Description One will get the Trade statistics both import and export details Service Language English Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Anand Sharma It is set up by an act of parliament in September 1981 Wholly owned by government of india Commenced operations in march 1982 Apex financial institution Objectives: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ for providing financial assistance to exporters and importers, and for functioning as the principal financial institution for coordinating the working of institutions engaged in financing export and import of goods and services with a view to promoting the countrys international tradeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ shall act on business principles with due regard to public interest Exim Policy Facilities The existing export promotion schemes such as Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme, Duty Exemption and Remission Scheme, Scheme for Gems and Jewellery Exports, EHTP and SEZ Schemes have been further strengthened and simplified. The various relaxations provided under the above Schemes are given below Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCG) Duty Exemption and Remission Scheme Gems and Jewellery Exports Special Economic Zones Electronic Hardware Technology Parks Other Facilities Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Projects Strategic Package for Status Holders Neutralizing high fuel costs Diversification of markets North Eastern States, Sikkim and Jammu Kashmir Re-location of industries Reduction in transaction time cost BANKS FUNCTIONS The Banks functions are segmented into several operating groups including: Corporate Banking Group which handles a variety of financing programmes for Export Oriented Units (EOUs), Importers, and overseas investment by Indian companies. Project Finance / Trade Finance Group handles the entire range of export credit services such as suppliers credit, pre-shipment credit, buyers credit, finance for export of projects consultancy services, guarantees, forfaiting etc. Lines of Credit Group Lines of Credit (LOC) is a financing mechanism that provides a safe mode of non-recourse financing option to Indian exporters, especially to SMEs, and serves as an effective market entry tool. Agriculture Business Group, to spearhead the initiative to promote and support Agri-exports. The Group handles projects and export transactions in the agricultural sector for financing. Small and Medium Enterprises Group to the specific financing requirements of export oriented SMEs. The group handles credit proposals from SMEs under various lending programmes of the Bank. Export Services Group offers variety of advisory and value-added information services aimed at investment promotion Fee based Export Marketing Services Bank offers assistance to Indian companies, to enable them establish their products in overseas markets. Besides these, the Support Services groups, which include: Research Planning, Corporate Finance, Loan Recovery, Internal Audit, Management Information Services, Information Technology, Legal, Human Resources Management and Corporate affairs. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Generally research is considered as an endeavor to arrive at the answer to intellectual and practical problem through the application of scientific method to the acknowledge universe. It is movement from known to unknown. My research based on the secondary resources. The data taken from the different websites (Indian govt.,Exim bank policy, Foreign trade). Review of Literature Indias export performance /April-august, 2004-05/ Nimmala Amharic- In this article that writer have a research on the topic of Indias export performance. And he found in his research that Indians foreign trade are increasing year by year in both respect of export and import. But total trade deficit is a big problem of Indian economy. And he also find in their research that some of the sector has grew in terms of export such as Automobiles, Gems Jewellery, and Textiles. OBJECTIVES To know the Role of EXIM Bank in the growth of Foreign Trade. To know the various services provided by the EXIM banks which support in foreign trade Data And Facts Total Trade of Exports and Imports over the Years in Crore Rupees Year Exports Imports Total Trade Trade Deficit 1990-91 32558 43193 75751 -10635 1991-92 44042 47851 91893 -3809 1992-93 53688 63375 117063 -9687 1993-94 69751 73101 142852 -3350 1994-95 82674 89971 172645 -7297 1995-96 106353 122678 229031 -16325 1996-97 118817 138920 257737 -20103 1997-98 130101 154176 284277 -24075 1998-99 139753 178332 318085 -38579 1999-2000 159561 215236 374797 -55675 2000-01 209018 230873 434444 -27302 2001-02 255137 245200 454218 -36182 2002-03 293367 297206 552343 -42069 2003-04 375340 359108 652475 -65741 2004-05 375340 501065 876405 -125725 2005-06 456483 635013 1091496 -178530 2006-07 571779 840506 1412286 -268727 2007-08 655864 1012312 1668176 -356448 2008-09(P) 766935 1385503 2072338 -538568 External Trade with Other Countries during 2007-08 and 2008-09 Region Exports (April-Feb) Imports (April-Feb) 2007-08 2008-09(P) 2007-08(P) 2008-09(P) 1. Europe 1,33,151 1,65,925 1,75,335 2,23,813 1.1 EU countries 27 1,23,219 1,55,266 1,27,315 1,61,593 1.2 Other WE countries 9,553 10,123 47,881 62,115 1.3 East Europe 379 536 138 106 2. Africa 38,062 44,922 51,519 60,151 2.1 Southern Africa 13,058 12,393 17,868 29,377 2.2 West Africa 12,851 13,204 35,614 48,514 2.3 Central Africa 934 1,372 189 632 2.4 East Africa 15,126 18,687 1,158 1,158 3. America 98,900 1,14,966 79,780 1,21,381 3.1 North America 79,880 89,476 56,281 80,825 3.2 Latin America 10,019 45,490 23,498 40,556 4. Asia and Asean 2,96,287 3,57,982 5,43,551 7,39,622 4.1 East Asia 5,070 6,719 30,783 40,230 4.2 ASEAN 56,663 75,357 82,289 1,06,418 4.3 WANA 1,08,920 1,44,039 2,58,645 3,56,716 4.4 NE Asia 92,974 96,846 1,64,030 2,28,746 4.5 South Asia 32,659 35,020 7,805 7,513 5. CIS Baltics 6,101 7,623 14,238 28,793 5.1 cars Countries 826 1,047 419 1,157 5.2 Other CIS Countries 5,275 6,577 13,818 27,636 6. Unspecified Region 1,482 4,346 2,666 4,710 Total 5,77,889 6,96,498 8,70,399 11,98,360 EXPORT CREDITS EXIM LINES OF CREDIT (LOC) The main role of Exim bank in foreign trade is to give credit facilities. Exim Bank extends Lines of Credit (LOC) to overseas financial institutions, regional development banks, sovereign governments and other entities overseas, to enable buyers in those countries, to import goods and services from India on deferred credit terms. The Indian exporters can obtain payment of eligible value from Exim Bank, without recourse to them, against negotiation of shipping documents. LOC is a financing mechanism that provides a safe mode of non-recourse financing option to Indian exporters, especially to SMEs, and serves as an effective market entry tool. Exim Bank extends LOC, on its own, as well as, at the behest of Government of India. Exim Bank offers the following Export Credit facilities, which can be availed of by Indian companies, commercial banks and overseas entities: For Indian Companies executing contracts overseas for commercial Banks Other Facilities for Indian Companies For Overseas Entities For Indian Companies executing contracts overseas Pre-shipment credit Exim Banks Pre-shipment Credit facility, in Indian Rupees and foreign currency, provides access to finance at the manufacturing stage enabling exporters to purchase raw materials and other inputs. Suppliers Credit This facility enables Indian exporters to extend term credit to importers (overseas) of eligible goods at the post-shipment stage. For Project Exporters Indian project exporters incur Rupee expenditure while executing overseas project export contracts i.e. Costs of mobilization/acquisition of materials, personnel and equipment etc. Exim Banks facility helps them meet these expenses. For Exporters of Consultancy and Technological Services Exim Bank offers a special credit facility to Indian exporters of consultancy and technology services, so that they can, in turn, extend term credit to overseas importers Guarantee Facilities Indian companies can avail of these to furnish requisite guarantees to facilitate execution of export contracts and import transactions. How does it work? Exim Bank signs LOC Agreement with overseas Borrower Institution (Borrower) and announces the availability of LOC for utilization, when the Agreement becomes effective. Exporter checks with Exim Bank, available amount under the LOC and quantum of service fee payable to Exim Bank, if any, and negotiates contract with Importer. Importer approaches the Borrower for approval of the contract. Borrower appraises the proposal. If satisfied, approves the contract and refers to Exim Bank for concurrence for inclusion of contract for being financed under the LOC. Exim Bank accords approval to the contract, if in conformity with the terms of LOC. Exim Bank conveys contract approval to the exporter and the Borrower. The Importer arranges remittance of advance payment to the Exporter and also opening of a Letter of Credit, which states that the contract is covered under Exim Banks LOC to the Borrower and reimbursement will be by Exim Bank for the Eligible Value of Credit, upon compliance with stipulated conditions therein. Exporter executes the contract/ships the goods/provides services. Exim Bank/commercial bank in India, designated as the Negotiating Bank negotiates shipping documents and pays the exporter. Exim Bank reimburses the Negotiating Bank, on receipt of valid claim and service fee, as applicable, by debit to the LOC account of the Borrower. Borrower repays Exim Bank on due dates. Exim Bank signs agreement with Borrower and announces when effective. Exporter checks procedures and service fee payable, if any, with Exim Bank and negotiates contract with Importer. Importer consults Borrower and signs contract with exporter. Borrower approves contract. Exim Bank approves contract and advises Borrower and also exporter and his negotiating bank, in India. Importer establishes L/C in favor of Exporter. Exporter ships goods. Exim Bank/commercial bank negotiates shipping documents and pays exporter. EXIM Bank reimburses commercial bank on receipt of claim and debits LOC account of the Borrower. Borrower repays EXIM Bank on due dates. Lending Programme for Export Oriented Units To create and enhance export capabilities of Indian companies.it provide them Term loans in Indian rupees/ foreign currency, Deferred Payment Guarantee for import of capital goods. And in place of that they charged minimum Banks lending rate and 1% of loan amount payable upfront as service charged they provide this facility to following eligible company: Units set up/proposed to be set up in Export Processing Zones Units under the 100% Export Oriented Units Scheme Units importing capital goods under Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme Units undertaking expansion /modernization /up gradation /diversification programs of existing export oriented units with export orientation of minimum 10% or sales of Rs.5 crores per annum whichever is lower Lending Programme for Overseas Joint Ventures/Wholly Owned Subsidiaries by Indian Companies- To finance by way of equity loan to Indian companies for setting up of overseas joint ventures/ wholly owned subsidiaries Eligible Companies Any Indian promoter making equity investment in an existing company or a new project overseas with the requisite approval for such investment from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)/Government of India as also from the government and other concerned authorities in the host country The total value of the investment by the Indian company does not exceed US $ 15 million in respect of Indian investment in SAARC countries and Myanmar total value of investment does not exceed US $ 30 million; and in respect of Indian Rupee investment in Nepal and Bhutan, total value of investment does not exceed Rs.120 crores The amount of investment is up to 25% of annual average export earnings of the company in the preceding three years The amount of investment is repatriated in fully by way of dividends, royalty, technical service fees, etc. Within a period of five years. Refinance to Commercial Banks Exim Bank provides 100% refinance to commercial banks in respect of rupee term loans extended by them to Indian Promoter Company for equity contribution in overseas JV/WOS. As per prevailing RBI guidelines, commercial banks can consider loan for equity investment only under Exim Banks Refinance scheme. Equity Investment in Indian Ventures Abroad To catalyze overseas investment by Indian companies to enhance visibility of Indian overseas ventures. Quantum of Exim Banks equity participation Upton 25% of equity capital of the jvs involving Indian foreign companies Upton 50% of equity capital in case of wholly owned subsidiaries of Indian companies Subject to a ceiling of US $ 5 MN per proposal and remove subject to RBI Investment Criteria While considering equity investment with Indian companies business in India, weightage will be giving to the following: Background and track record of Indian and foreign promoters Synergy of overseas operations with business in India Financial viability and technical feasibility Return on Exims investment Benefits to India in terms of trade enhancement, technology transfer, and foreign exchange earnings etc. Spin off benefits such as brand marketing and penetration of new markets will also be considered Asian Countries Investment Partners Programme (ACIP) To promote joint ventures in India between Indian companies companies from Asian countries through four facilities that address different stages of the project cycle. ACIP seeks to catalyze investment flows into India by creation of Joint Ventures in India between Indian companies and companies from East Asian countries. ACIP is proposed to be a funding instrument providing finance at various stages of a Joint Venture project cycle viz. Sector study, project identification, feasibility study, prototype development, setting up project and technical, managerial assistance. Export Marketing Finance Programme To create and enhance export capabilities and international competitiveness of Indian companies. Under the lending programme for Export Marketing Finance, the Bank addresses the term finance requirements for a structural and strategic export marketing and development effort of Indian companies Eligible Companies Company who have a strategic international marketing plan. Company should have established presence in the domestic market Company should have satisfactory financials. Interest Rates Rupee Term Loans Linked to Exim Banks Minimum Lending Rate Foreign Currency Term Loans At floating or fixed interest rates Additionally interest tax is applicable will be payable Service Fee 1% of loan amount sanctioned, payable upfront non-refundable Export Product Development Programme To support systematic export product development plans with focus on industrialized markets Eligible Companies Established exporting enterprises with product development programme dedicated to export The company must also have an established track record and satisfactory financials Programme for Financing Export Vendor Development (EVD) Objective To finance export strategic vendor development plans for export companies with a view to enhancing exports through creation, strengthening of backward linkages with vendors. Eligible Companies Export companies and Trading Houses Manufacturer-exporters with satisfactory track record and financials ,li> Companies with strategic plan for vendor development for exports are eligible to seek finance under this programme Companies purchasing from vendors finished, semi-finished or intermediate products with the exporter adding value to the product in the form of further processing or marketing them Interest Rate Interest Rate linked to Banks Minimum Lending Rate Soft loan at 7.5% p.a. (subject to change) subject to maximum of Rs.50 lakhs Repayment Period Upton 7 years Programme for Export Facilitation Exim Bank offers term finance and non-funded facilities to Indian corporates to create infrastructure facilities to facilitate Indias international trade thereby enhance their export capability. Foreign Currency Pre-Shipment Credit (FCPC) Under this programme, short-term foreign currency finance is available to eligible exporters for financing inputs for export production such as raw materials, components and consumables. The finance is repayable in foreign currency from proceeds of the relative exports. FCPC programme represents another funding source to the exporter for expanding export volumes, particularly of manufactured and value added goods. It eliminates two-way exchange conversion costs and exchange risk, thus enhancing export competitiveness. FCPC can be a cost effective funding source as compared to rupee export credit as well as overseas suppliers credit depending on market conditions for loans under FCPC. As far as commercial banks are concerned, loans availed of from Exim Bank are exempt from Cash Reserve Ratio, Statutory Liquidity Ratio and Incremental Credit-Deposit Ratio requirements. Eligible Borrowers Exporting companies Commercial Banks for on lending to exporting customers Working Capital Term Loan Programme for Export Oriented Units (WCTL) WCTL programme seeks to create, enhance export capabilities of Indian companies. Under the Programme, the Bank addresses the working capital (loan component) requirements of export oriented units. Eligible Companies Units set up/proposed to be set up in Export Processing Zones Units under the 100% Export Oriented Units Scheme Units importing capital goods under Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme Units undertaking expansion /modernization /up gradation/diversification programs of existing export oriented units with export orientation of 10% of sales or export sales of Rs.5 crores per annum whichever is lower. Bulk Import Finance Programme (BIF) In this service they provide short term working capital finance to manufacturing companies to excess consumable inputs. Under the programme, BIF is offered for import of eligible items with a minimum order size of Rs.1 crores .And they provided the Short term loans in Indian Rupees and/or Foreign currency. Programme for Financing Research Development To provide integrated financing for Research Development activities by export oriented companies Exim Banks finance available to Financially sound companies with a minimum export orientation of 20% of their net sales for the following eligible activities and eligible expenditure. Eligible RD Activities Eligible RD Expenditure Development and commercialization of new product / process / application. Significant improvements in existing product / process / application/ design. Development of technology or design to satisfy domestic or international environment, technical requirements/ standards, specifications. Setting up, expansion of pilot plants. FINANCE FOR EXPORT ORIENTED UNITS Term Finance Project Finance Equipment Finance Import of Technology Related Services Domestic Acquisitions of businesses/companies/brands Export Product Development/ Research Development General Corporate Finance Working Capital Finance (For Exporting Companies) Funded Working Capital Term Loans [ Long Term Working Capital [up to 5 years] Export Bills Discounting Export Packing Credit Cash Flow financing Non-Funded Letter of Credit Limits Guarantee Limits Export Finance Pre-shipment Credit Post Shipment Credit Buyers Credit Suppliers Credit [including deferred payment credit] Bills Discounting Export Receivables Financing Warehousing Finance Export Lines of Credit (Non-recourse finance) Data analysis As we know that Indias total external trade (exports plus imports including re-exports) in the year 1990-91 stood at Rs. 91,893 crore. Since then, this has witnessed continuous increase with occasional downturns. During 2008-09 the value of Indias external trade reached Rs. 20, 72,438 crore. A statement indicating Indias total export, import, total value of foreign trade and balance of trade from the year 1991-92 to 2008-09, in rupee terms, is given in table above. Indias exports during 2008-09 reached a level of Rs. 7, 66,935 crore registering a growth of 16.9 per cent. In US $ terms, exports reached a level of US$168.7 billion, registering a growth of 3.5 per cent as compared to a growth of 29.1 per cent during the previous year. The growth of exports during the year has exhibited a significant slow-down from September 2008 onwards. While, during the first half of the year 2008-09, April-September, exports increased by 31.3 per cent with almost all the major commodity groups, except increased by 31.3 per cent with almost all the major commodity groups, except marine products, handicrafts and carpets, recording significant growth. In the second half of the year 2008-09, October-March, exports recorded a decline of (-) 19.2 per cent with almost all the commodity groups recording significant negative growth. During 2008-09 imports increased to Rs. 13,05,503 from the level of Rs. 10,12,312 crore in 2007-08 registering growth of 29.0 per cent in rupee terms. In US $ terms, imports reached a level of US $ 287.8 billion in 2008-09 registering a growth of 14.4 per cent. Oil imports were valued at US $ 93.2 billion, which was higher by 16.9 per cent over the previous year. Non-Oil imports increased to US $ 194.6 billion, which was higher by 13.2 per cent. Items which registered significant growth are Pearl, Precious Semi-Precious Stones, Crude Manufactured Fertilizer, Coal, Inorganic Chemicals, Project Goods, etc. Import of Gold and Transport Equipment registered significant decline. The Trade deficit during 2008-09 increased to Rs. (-) 538568 crore as against Rs. (-) 356449 crore during 2007-08. In US $ terms, trade deficit increased to US 119.1 billion from a level of US 88.5 billion during 2007-08. India has trading relations with all the major trading blocks and geographical regions of the world. Region and sub region-wide spread of Indias during 2007-08 and 2008-09 as per data available up to 2008-09 (April-February) is given in table 7.2. During the period 2008-09 (April-February), the share of Asia and ASEAN region comprising South Asia, East Asia, and Mid-Eastern and Gulf countries accounted for 51.4 per cent of Indias total exports. The share of Europe and America in Indias exports stood at 23.8 per cent and 16.5 per cent respectively of which EU countries (27) comprises 22.3 per cent. During the period, USA (12.0 per cent), has been the most important country of export destination following by United Arab Emirates (10.8 per cent), China (5.1 per cent), Singapore (4.7 per cent), Netherlands (3.7 per cent), Hong Kong (3.7 per cent), U.K. (3.6 per cent), Germany (3.4 per cent), Saudi Arabia (3.0 per cent), Belgium (2.6 per cent) and Italy (2.2 per cent). Asia and ASEAN accounted for 61.7 per cent of Indias total imports during the period followed by Europe (18.7 per cent) and America (10.1 per cent). Among individual countries the share of China stood highest at (10.7 per cent) followed by Saudi Arabia (7.1 per cent), UAE (6.4 per cent) and USA (6.0 per cent), Iran (4.3 percent), Switzerland (4.2 per cent), Germany (3.6 per cent), Kuwait (3.4 per cent), Nigeria (3.2 per cent), and Iraq (2.8 per cent) Conclusion As we describe above the various functions and role of the Exim Bank. Than we can say that it handles a variety of financing programs for Export Oriented Units (EOUs), Importers, and overseas investment

Birth of Equality and the Death of Chivalry Essay -- Feminism Feminist

The Birth of Equality and the Death of Chivalry "...And now it's time for girls on trampolines!"   Adam Corolla of The Man Show shouts at the end of the insipid program supposedly providing men with "manly" entertainment;   "We give men what they want to see."   This show involves beer guzzling at its best, childish antics involving midgets and the degradation of women in many forms.   It seems as though chivalry may truly have died.   In the woman's on-going quest for equality, the respect and reverence they were once treated with has changed.    Technically chivalry is defined as the moral code of knights in medieval times i.e.: dignity, courtesy, bravery, generosity, and gallantry.   This was the manner of respect in which women were to be treated, and a knight was to uphold the code always.   One can imagine courtly ladies strolling through the court in fine gowns, and having a chivalrous knight lay his cloak over a muddy patch so the ladies shan't muss their shoes. These days should some kind man stand for an extra second at a door to keep it open for an approaching woman, she may be amazed at this display of courtesy.      Hand on door, or cloak in mud, this is and was respectively, the mark of a refined man.   "The self-conscious command of fine manners, whether the proper way of hunting, dressing, addressing a superior, or wooing a lady, became a key mark of an aristocrat"(20).   In literature, "Despite the limitations of their actual power, women were the focus, often the worshiped focus, of much of the best imaginative literature of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries..."(18). Though chivalry is connected with the medieval times, Edmund Spencer wrote of a chivalrous knight in The Red Crosse Knight of The Faerie Queene... ...ved out of fantasyland and into reality.   For some this was too far into reality, Swift goes so far as to describe the lady's chamber pot, "...he lifts the lid: there need no more, he smelt it all the time before" (  Ã‚   ).   A man of virtue would not dare to embarrass a woman by revealing her dressing room secrets. With the respect women were just starting to gain as thinkers, the respect of ideal sweet perfection dwindled.   No longer was she a mystery to be worshipped.   Slowly as men realized that women are capable thinkers, the need to react to her in a manner different from men became less necessary.   If women are so equal they can defend their own virtue.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   By our times most men have figured out women can reason just as well as men, and women hold office in nearly every position that men do.   Supposedly we are the equals, which has led to the death of chivalry.

The Catcher in the Rye Holden Gets Influenced :: Essays Papers

The Catcher in the Rye Holden Gets Influenced Everyone gets influenced by someone, even heroes do. The Catcher in the Rye, a novel written by J. D. Salinger, talks about Holden Caulfield, a 16 year old boy that is trying to live through his problems. Holden tries to learn from his experiences as well as from the ones of others. He goes through many hard times, but he always takes them as a chance to imagine how it could have ended if he had done something about them or what cold had happened if he was not so â€Å"yellow†. Many people influence him; especially Jane Gallagher, Phoebe, and Allie. Jane Gallagher has a lot of influence on Holden. For example he states, â€Å"†¦You never even worried, with Jane, whether your hand was sweaty or not. All you knew was, you were happy. You really were.† In this scene, Holden shows how Holden feels when he gets around Jane. Holden says that he feels good and happy when around Jane. Another scene where Jane demonstrates her influence over Holden, is when he states, â€Å"†¦Then I’d crawl back to my room and call up Jane and have her come over and bandage up my guts. I pictured her holding a cigarette for me to smoke while I was†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Here, Holden imagines Jane coming over to help him, which reveals that Holden feels secure and protected by her. It also shows how Holden feels about Jane, the girl of his dreams, who he feels in love with. Jane clearly has much influence over Holden. Holden’s little brother, Allie, also influences a lot on him. For example, Holden states, â€Å"†¦You’d have liked him. He was two years younger than I was, but he was about fifty times as intelligent†¦He was also the nicest member of the family in lots of ways. He never got mad at anybody†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Holden always thinks of his brother Allie as a good and intelligent boy. When Holden thinks about Allie, Holden shows his love for him and how much he likes him. Another important scene is when Holden says, â€Å"†¦I kept walking and walking up Fifth Avenue†¦Then all of a sudden, something very spooky started happening. Every time I came to the end of a block and stepped off the goddam curb, I had this feeling that I’d never get to the other side of the street.

Cons Of Cloning :: essays research papers

Many people say that everyone in the world has a twin. Today, science and technology has the ability to make this myth reality through the process of cloning. I am strongly against cloning for many reasons. People should not utilize cloning because it would destroy individuality and uniqueness, cause overpopulation, animal cruelty, it is against morals and ethics, and it violates many religious beliefs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In order to strongly argue against cloning, there must be an understanding of its process and what exactly it is. Simply stated, a clone is a duplicate just like a photocopy. A good example of such â€Å"copies† that occur are identical twins, which are duplicates of each other. â€Å"The first step of DNA cloning is to isolate a complete gene and is to chromosomal sequences and then to gradually begin flaking the chromosomal sequences of a single DAN molecule. Then the DNA clone can be electronically labeled and used as a probe to isolate the chromosomal sequences from a collection of different types of genes, which should contain cloned sequences that would represent the whole gene. This action will produce new sets of cloned cells identical to the mother cell. The new set of cells are isolated and likewise the simplified process is repeated all over again until the cells form a complete organ. In order to produce a complete organism the DNA must be alte red in a variety of way to come out with the finished product to be the complete organism.† In simple terms, a cell is taken from a donor woman. Then an unfertilized egg is taken from a second woman. The DNA from the cell is removed and transferred to the egg. The egg is then implanted into a surrogate mother. The resulting baby is genetically identical to the original donor.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Human cloning destroys individuality and uniqueness. â€Å"What makes people unique is the fact that we have different genes and cloning would lose these important parts of our bodies makeup.† There would be less of a variety of people and everyone would be the same. This would not only be the good qualities, but also the bad that would pass on. Since clones and the original donor will look alike and have the same DNA, it would be nearly impossible to tell the difference. Overtime, they would lose their individuality and uniqueness. For example, say a crime was committed.

A Study on the Benefits and Drawbacks of Affirmative Action

This paper will study and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of affirmative action hiring practices on municipal police and fire departments in the United States.To start, we shall first define affirmative action.   Affirmative action refers to policies intended to promote access to education or employment aimed at a historically socio-politically non-dominant group, typically, minorities or women.Motivation for affirmative action policies is to redress the effects of past discrimination and to encourage public institutions such as universities, hospitals and police forces to be more representative of the population.   This is commonly achieved through targeted recruitment programmes, by preferential treatment given to applicants from socio-politically disadvantaged groups and in some cases through the use of quotas.Opponents of affirmative action policies argue that it is based on collectivism and merely another form of discrimination because it can result in qualified app licants being denied entry to higher education or employment because they belong to a particular social group, usually the historically socio-politically dominant group; typically majority races and men. (Wikipedia Encyclopedia, 2007)Affirmative Action is also defined as the positive steps taken to increase the representation of women and minorities in areas of employment, education, and business from which they have been historically excluded. When those steps involve preferential selection—selection on the basis of race, gender, or ethnicity—affirmative action generates intense controversy. (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2007)Simply put, affirmative action means taking positive steps to recruit, employ, train, and promote workers who traditionally have been discriminated against in the job market. (Pellissippi State Technical Community College, 2007)In the United States, affirmative action is a policy or a program of increasing the representation of certain de signated groups allegedly seeking to redress discrimination or bias through active measures, as in education and employment. It is usually achieved through the use of discrimination and preferential treatment for those groups. Proponents of affirmative action generally advocate it either as a means to address past or present discrimination or to enhance racial, ethnic, gender, or other diversity.However, opponents of affirmative action contend that affirmative action programs are discriminatory in that they promote under-qualified individuals over higher qualified individuals based on race and ethnicity.  Ã‚   Affirmative action in the United States mostly applies at transition points—times when individuals are changing their employment, housing or enrollment.Those most affected thus include working age adults who hope to improve their lot through a change in obtaining housing, employment or the pursuit of educational opportunity.   This arrangement has the greatest impac t on young people, while maintaining the status and position of established members of society. (Diversification of U.S. Medical Schools via Affirmative Action Implementation, 2003)The roots of affirmative action can be traced back to the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act where legislation redefined public and private behavior. The act states that to discriminate in private is legal, but anything regarding business or public discrimination is illegal.   There are two instances when opposing affirmative action might seem the wrong thing to do.Affirmative action has been the subject of numerous court cases, and has been contested on constitutional grounds.   But despite this, we still have many advantages to list.   To further understand the topic on affirmative action hiring practices in municipal offices and fire departments, we shall list and discuss also the advantages or benefits of affirmative action hiring practices in the United States, those advantages that will only apply on hiring in municipal offices and fire departments. A Study on the Benefits and Drawbacks of Affirmative Action This paper will study and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of affirmative action hiring practices on municipal police and fire departments in the United States.To start, we shall first define affirmative action.   Affirmative action refers to policies intended to promote access to education or employment aimed at a historically socio-politically non-dominant group, typically, minorities or women.Motivation for affirmative action policies is to redress the effects of past discrimination and to encourage public institutions such as universities, hospitals and police forces to be more representative of the population.This is commonly achieved through targeted recruitment programmes, by preferential treatment given to applicants from socio-politically disadvantaged groups and in some cases through the use of quotas.Opponents of affirmative action policies argue that it is based on collectivism and merely another form of discrimination because it can result in qualified applican ts being denied entry to higher education or employment because they belong to a particular social group, usually the historically socio-politically dominant group; typically majority races and men. (Wikipedia Encyclopedia, 2007)Affirmative Action is also defined as the positive steps taken to increase the representation of women and minorities in areas of employment, education, and business from which they have been historically excluded.When those steps involve preferential selection—selection on the basis of race, gender, or ethnicity—affirmative action generates intense controversy. (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2007)Simply put, affirmative action means taking positive steps to recruit, employ, train, and promote workers who traditionally have been discriminated against in the job market. (Pellissippi State Technical Community College, 2007)In the United States, affirmative action is a policy or a program of increasing the representation of certain designat ed groups allegedly seeking to redress discrimination or bias through active measures, as in education and employment.It is usually achieved through the use of discrimination and preferential treatment for those groups. Proponents of affirmative action generally advocate it either as a means to address past or present discrimination or to enhance racial, ethnic, gender, or other diversity.However, opponents of affirmative action contend that affirmative action programs are discriminatory in that they promote under-qualified individuals over higher qualified individuals based on race and ethnicity.  Ã‚   Affirmative action in the United States mostly applies at transition points—times when individuals are changing their employment, housing or enrollment.Those most affected thus include working age adults who hope to improve their lot through a change in obtaining housing, employment or the pursuit of educational opportunity.This arrangement has the greatest impact on young p eople, while maintaining the status and position of established members of society.(Diversification of U.S. Medical Schools via Affirmative Action Implementation, 2003) BibliographyAn Affirmative Action Status Report: Evidence and Options. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://www.puaf.umd.edu/IPPP/1QQ.HTM]Affirmative Action is Reverse Discrimination. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://atheism.about.com/library/FAQs/phil/blphil_eth_aa_reverse.htm]Affirmative Action – Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/affirmative-action/]Affirmative Action – Wikipedia Enyclopedia. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affirmative_action#Arguments_In_Favor_of_Affirmative_Action]How Affirmative Action Effects Us All. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://www.studyworld.com/newsite/ReportEssay/SocialIssues/Racial%5CHow_Affirmative_Action_Effects_Us_All-321553.htm]Myth: Affirmative Action is reverse discrimination. Fact: Affirmative Action is compensatory justice. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://www.huppi.com/kangaroo/L-reversediscrimination.htm]Shaheen Lakhan – Diversification of U.S. Medical Schools via Affirmative Action Implementation. BMC Medical Education. 2003.The Major Affirmative Action Cases: A Digest of the Record. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://www.acenet.edu/bookstore/descriptions/making_the_case/legal/digest.cfm]What is Affirmative Action? – Pellissippi State Technical Community College. Retrieved 08 August 2007, from [http://www.pstcc.edu/organizations/affirmao/what_is_aa.htm]

Hospitality and Tourism Management Essay

The K-12 program covers kindergarten and 12 years of basic education ( six years of primary education , four years of junior high school to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop lifelong learners, and prepare graduates for tertiary education , middle-level skills development, employment ,and entrepreneurship. the enhanced basic education act of 2013 , or republic act no. 105333, was signed on may 15, 2013. K-12 is a helpful tool that can strengthen early childhood education, make the curriculum relevant to learners , ensuring integrated and seamless learning ,building proficiency through language , gearing up for future and most of all nurturing the holistically develop Filipino. Every graduate will be equipped with information, media and technology skills, learning and innovation skills, effective communication skills and life career skills. Program implementation in public schools is being done in phases starting SY 2012-2013. Grade 1 entrants in SY2012-2013 are first batch to fully undergo the program, and current 1st year Junior High School Students (or Grade 7) are the first to undergo the enhanced secondary education program. To facilitate the transition from the existing 10-year basic education to 12 years, DepEd is also implementing the SHS AND SHS modeling. .Each student in Senior High School can choose among three tracks: Academic; Technical-Vocational-Livelihood; and Sports and Arts. The Academic track includes three strands: Business, Accountancy, Management (BAM); Humanities, Education, Social Sciences (HESS); and Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM). Students undergo immersion, which may include earn-while-you-learn opportunities, to provide them relevant exposure and actual experience in their chosen track. The enhanced curriculum for grade 1 and grade 7 ( 1st Year Junior High School ) was rolled out SY 2012-2013 , and will be progressively introduced in other grade levels in succeeding school years. Grade 11 will be introduced in SY 2016-2017 AND GRADE 12 IN SY 2017-2018. The first batch of high school students to go through K to 12 will graduate in march 2018. DepEd has entered into an agreement with business organizations, local and foreign chambers of commerce, and industries to ensure that graduates of K to 12 will be considered for employment. There will be a matching of competency requirements and standards so that 12-year basic education graduates will have the necessary skills needed to join the workforce and to match the College Readiness Standards for further education and future employment. Entrepreneurship will also be fostered in the enhanced curriculum; ensuring graduates can venture into other opportunities beyond employment. After finishing Grade 10, a student can obtain Certificates of Competency (COC) or a National Certificate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certificate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in fields like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. Target Market 12-13 years old who supposed to graduate grade 6 this year but will be introduced to k-12 program. Grade 5 and 6 students Youth that belongs in the poor families with potential to be out of the school youth after their high school years. Schools Professors – lecturer SY 2011-12 SY 2012-13 SY 2013-14 SY 2014-15 SY 2015-16 SY 2016-17 SY 2017-18 GR 12 2 YEARS SENIOR GR 11 HIGH SCHOOL HS IV (15 yo) GR 10 4 YEARS JUNIOR HS IV (14 yo) GR 9 HIGH SCHOOL HS IV (13 yo) OLD CURRICULUM GR 8 HS IV (12 yo) NEW CURRICULUM GR 7 GR 6 (11 yo) GR 6 6 YEARS GR 5 (10 yo) GR 5 ELEMENTARY GR 4 (9 yo) GR 4 GR 3 (8 yo) GR 3 GR 2 (7 yo) OLD CURRICULUM GR 2 GR 1 (6 yo) NEW CURICULUM GR 1 KINDER (5 yo) KINDER Analysis of Case During the period of governance of Spain and the United States, education in the Philippines changed radically, mostly modeled on the system of education in the United States of the time. After gaining independence in 1946, the systems were no longer automatically applied in the Philippines, which have since moved in various directions of its own. Filipino children may enter preschool at the ages of three to four, starting from nursery, and kindergarten. At the ages of six to seven, children enter elementary school for six or seven (on selected schools) years. This is followed by the high school, for four years. Students may then sit for the College Entrance Examinations (CEE), after which they may enter tertiary schools for two to five years. The Philippine educational system pursues the achievement of excellent undergraduates in the elementary and secondary level. Implementation of UbD is one of the proposals that undertook in the country recently. At present, the Department of Education pronounces the addition of two more years in the basic education of students, which according to them will benefit not only the Filipino youth but all the Filipinos in the Philippines. This proposal is part of P-noy’s Educational Reform Program. The administration asserts that with the implementation of such program, the problem of unemployment in the country will be resolved. In as much as employment in the Philippines is concerned, the K12 education also responds to the fact that most countries in the world already have the same plan in their educational institutions. With this, the standards of these countries go a notch higher than what the country has, thus, creating an expansion in the global competency. What can be really said about this plan. The K-12 Basic Education Program aims to provide every Filipino child with the education s/he needs to compete in a global context. In May, President Benigno Aquino of the Philippines signed into law a basic education curriculum that will see a mandatory kindergarten year and two additional senior high school years added to what was a 10-year education curriculum to make basic education 12 years. The programmed has been adopted not only in schools in the Philippines, but also in Filipino schools abroad that follow the department’s curriculum. Gulf news reports: The goal of the new curriculum is to give Filipino students enough time to master skills and concepts so that they are ready for tertiary education when the time comes. Kindergarten was previously optional, and advocates of the K-12 programme argue that students who went to kindergarten are better prepared for primary education than those who did not. In addition, the K-12 programmed â€Å"provides for the use of the ‘mother tongue‘ language as the medium of instruction for students in the basic and lower years to facilitate and expedite learning. † This fabulous interactive map of all public schools in the country could be a useful tool in planning a recruitment strategy. It contains data on the school’s budget, enrolment statistics, education indicators, number of teaching personnel, furniture, textbooks, classrooms, plus the water and power supply of some 45,000 schools nationwide. 10 Point Education Agenda The move to the K-12 policy comes as part of the 10 Point Education Agenda which was set out by the current government administration. The K-12 Basic Education Program, universal kindergarten and instruction in mother-tongue languages are but three of the ten points Aquino’s administration want to implement in order to improve the overall quality of education in Filipino schools. The other seven points include: Establish the Madaris Education as a sub-system in the current education system; Make every child a reader by Grade 1; Improve science and mathematics; Expand government assistance to private education; Better textbooks; Build more schools in cooperation with local government units (LGUs); Re-introduce technical and vocational education in public high schools. Australia extends a helping hand Australia has long been a friend to the Philippines – donating time, funding and other resources, as well as working with the nation to develop and ensure quality. Last month, the country grantedPHP 8. 4 billion (nearly US $193 million) â€Å"to address basic education issues and support the implementation of the K-12 programme. † They have also funded a project to â€Å"enhance the skills of school officials in managing school processes and turn schools into learner-centred institutions that continually improve and build on its best practices. † In return, Australia is surely hoping Filipino schools and students will select Oz as their destination of choice for partnerships and study. As ICEF Monitor reported in February, the Philippines is one of the top ten student markets for Australian schools, colleges and universities. Building classrooms and adding teachers As mentioned, one of the ten points on the Education Agenda aims to address severe overcrowding in Philippine schools and the shortage of classrooms. In October of last year, the Department of Education signed an agreement â€Å"with two winning consortia which will undertake the construction of close to 10,000 classrooms. † The department’s Public Private Partnership for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP) will give schools the physical space they need and â€Å"provides the private sector the business opportunity to invest in the design, construction and maintenance of classrooms. † Philippine Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro has said he hopes that by doing so, the classrooms would stand as a testament to Filipino capability and efficiency. Progress is well underway; construction of more than 9,000 classrooms began in March of this year. An increase in student enrolment which caused the shortage of teachers was due to an increase in kindergarten students – a result of the new K-12 curriculum, as well as students who were formerly enrolled in private school transferring to public school because of tuition fee hikes. Student enrolment in 2012/3 stood at 20. 67 million: 1. 77 million kindergarten students, 13. 26 million elementary students, and 5. 64 million high school students. Increased focus on vocational education A final point on the 10 Point Education Agenda calls for a re-introduction of vocational and technical education in high schools, which has been designed to give Filipino students practical skills to gain employment after graduation – a key component in tackling the high youth unemployment rate in the Philippines. Some advocates are calling for the adoption of the German model of apprenticeship. The Manilla Bulletin reported: It is hoped that adopting the German model would help address the skills mismatch between Filipino graduates and the jobs available. Ramon del Rosario, chairman of the PBEd, has said now is the time to implement the apprenticeship system, because of the start of the K-12 curriculum: â€Å"It is a good time because of the development of the senior high school curriculum and that will have a track towards technical vocational education. † In May, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced it had completed the K-12 technical vocational curriculum, and everything was in place for the start of the new school year. TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva said, â€Å"Technical vocational education and training (TVET) will play a central role in the new education model that prepares students for tertiary education, middle-skills development, employment and entrepreneurship. † Courses include automotive servicing, horticulture, welding, consumer electronics, dressmaking/tailoring, carpentry, food processing and beauty care. The Philippines as a study destination Like many of its neighboring countries, the Philippines has its eye on becoming a study destination of choice for students from the Asia-Pacific region. In January of this year, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration reported that of the 203,753 foreigners in the country, 47,478 are studying in schools and universities across the country (which is 14% higher than the 41,443 foreigners who applied in 2011). The bulk of those (31,000) are under the age of 18 and studying at an elementary or high school or on a short-term (less than 1 year) course. The Bureau’s Commissioner Ricardo David Jr said: â€Å"Our country is fast emerging as a new educational hub in the Asia-Pacific region. More and more foreigners are coming here to study and it demonstrates recognition of the improved quality of our educational system. † He attributed the influx of foreign students to the quality of teaching and the use of English as the medium of instruction. Some of those students chose the Philippines to study English, and the government is hoping to boost ESL student numbers by making it easier for them to stay and learn. Last year, ICEF Monitor reported that for international students studying English in Australia, the Philippines had entered the competition as a destination option for the first time in 2011. Backing that up, an article in The PIE News quotes Ruth Tizon, Programmed Director of the Philippines ESL Tour Program, as saying, One thing is clear: the Philippines is looking ahead. With a growing population and a budding economy, demand for quality education is high. Many Filipino parents welcome the basic education reforms and are looking forward to more opportunities for their children in vocational and higher education. KEY ISSUE / GOALS The fact that the Philippines is the last country in the region to adopt a K-12basic educations system because it is not all about the trending basis but checking in accordance to the â€Å"reality†. During the assessment done by the prestigious organization Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), they conclude that the problem about the present curriculum in squeezing 12 years of basic education into just 10 is that students are overloaded with subjects which resulted to poor quality of basic education as reflected in the low achievement scores of Filipino students. International tests results like 2003 TIMSS rank the Philippines 34th out of 38 countries in HS II Math and 43rd out of 46countries in HS II Science; for grade 4, the Philippines ranked 23rd out of 25 participating countries in both Math and Science. In 2008, even with only the science high schools participating in the Advanced Mathematics category, the Philippines were ranked lowest. This quality of education is reflected in the inadequate preparation of high school graduates for the world of work or entrepreneurship or higher education . It is not the question of teaching force because internationally we can say that the country is equipped of well trained educators capable enough for the learning needed by the students in our country. In fact, teachers in our country are highly demanded and most preferred to be hired and work in other country. But it is the matter of the educational system that we have which is designed to teach a 12-year curriculum, yet it is delivered in just 10 years. Though some criticizing it as a way only to realigned as to what is the trending educational system to must have, then why not follow it if it will sustain the development of the educational system of our country and there is nothing wrong with it. As to the question of the consequences that will be brought by the policy, surely there will be many of those and it’s a part of the changes. Better because the government exists to uplift the standard of education in the country and not just sitting down to their respective offices and waiting what will happen to the future of the students experiencing the current system. The policy exist with provisions of program to be administered forthe sustainability of it, thus to relate it with economic hindrances it should be another story that is worth to be reflected and should not serve as a hindrance for the development of one system in our country (education). To reach the development wherein the citizens are wanting, admitting the fact that it couldn’t be happening simultaneously is the first step. Goals of k-12 Individualized learning customized to each child’s needs. Award winning curriculum that engages young mind from k to 12 with a rich combination of online interactive and offline hands-on learning High school full-and-part time options to help students find their own path A new kind of powerful, personalized connection with teacher Preferred alternative with rationale in this study I find out that k to 12 will have a big effect in our country and even in our industry. It is a good program that can provide many outcomes and may help our country men to arise. But I also notice that some of whom I asked if k to 12 will be the answer for the people to be more comprehensive and productive in man powering many had answer maybe and no . then I got this thought that It can help but people in our country don’t want to open their minds in this changes. People in our country nowadays is always looking forward to fast solutions and money at this state it is because of the arising poverty and the low demand for man power and they are afraid that if they will not chase the time there will be no jobs available for them. They are afraid that k to 12 will affect every industry in hiring people so as our industry because if we can see jobs in the hospitality industry is widely offered than that of the other careers . so I came up with the rationale that we are good enough in the old curriculum. Why did I say this but I did not yet see the effect of it in the students it is because we are also pushing students to work early , why we will do that if we really want to push them to work early is to decreased the level of education just like the old one. Many parent will be sacrificing much about it, I guess the answer of today’s crisis is to help those student to bring their selves up in the maximum time possible. So that they can be as professionals in their early age . There is an urgent need to enhance the quality of basic education in our country as seen in the education outcomes of Filipino students and the comparative disadvantage of the Philippines with regard to other countries. The following data would support this explanation: At present, the Philippines is the only country in Asia and among the three remaining countries in the world that uses a 10-year basic education cycle. According to a presentation made by the South East Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO-INNOTECH) on Additional Years in Philippine Basic Education (2010), the comparative data on duration of Basic and Pre-University Education in Asia shows that the Philippines allots 10 years not just for the basic education cycle but also for the pre-university education while all the other countries have either 11 or 12 years in their basic education cycle. Achievement scores highlight our students’ poor performance in national examinations. The National Achievement Test (NAT) results for grade 6 in SY 2009-2010 showed only a 69. 21% passing rate while the NAT results for high school is at a low 46. 38%. Moreover, international tests results in 2003 Trends in International Mathematics and Science study (TIMSS) show that the Philippines ranked 34th out of 38 countries in HS Math and 43rd out of 46 countries in HS II Science. Moreover, the Philippines ranked the lowest in 2008 even with only the science high schools joining the Advanced Mathematics category. Assumptions The K to 12 Program covers Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education (six years of primary education, four years of Junior High School, and two years of Senior High School [SHS]) to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop lifelong learners, and prepare graduates for tertiary education, middle-level skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship. -DEPED K 12 can contribute to: Strengthening early childhood education Making curriculum relevant to learners Ensuring integrated and seamless learning Building proficiency through language Nurturing the holistically Filipino Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education is offered for free in public schools. There are additional indirect costs, but government agencies are collaborating to provide programs that will enable everyone access to quality education, especially to those with lesser means. Proposals such as the expansion of the Education Service Contracting (ESC) scheme under the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) and other cost-sharing arrangements are being developed by DepEd. K to 12 graduates should have higher earning potential as they will be more competent and skilled. As a result of the K to 12 Program, particularly the more specialized education in Senior High School, CHED is exploring the possibility of decreasing the number of years of which will enable them to have more employment opportunities. Certain degree programs in college. K to 12 graduates can obtain national certification from TESDA, After finishing Grade 10, a student can obtain Certificates of Competency (COC) or a National Certificate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certificate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in fields like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. After going through Kindergarten, the enhanced Elementary and Junior High curriculum, and a specialized Senior High program, every K to 12 graduates will be ready to go into different paths – may it be further education, employment, or entrepreneurship. Every graduate will be equipped with: Information, media and technology skills, Learning and innovation skills, Effective communication skills, and Life and career skills. MANILA, Philippines – Last May 15, President Benigno Aquino III signed the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 into law. Philippines is the last country in Asia to approved k 12. The implementation of the Universal Kindergarten began in SY 2011–2012. The enhanced curriculum for Grade 1 and Grade 7 (1st Year Junior High School) was rolled out in SY 2012–2013, and will be progressively introduced in the other grade levels in succeeding school years. Grade 11 will be introduced in SY 2016–2017 and Grade 12 in SY 2017–2018. The ? rst batch of high school students to go through K to 12 will graduate in March 2018. K to 12 graduates will be ready to be employed in various industries. Education Secretary Armin Luistro earlier said that â€Å"the K to 12 program would like to ensure that even if they don’t choose to go to college, they finish studying what is basic. † As per Republic Act no. 10157 or the Kindergarten Education Act, Kindergarten has become part of the education system and a pre-requisite for admission to Grade 1. Public schools will continue to admit children who have not taken Kindergarten into Grade 1 until SY 2013-2014. Senior high school students can choose from 3 tracks: Academic, Sports and Arts, and Technical-Vocational-Livelihood. After Grade 10, a student can obtain Certi? cates of Competency (COC) or a National Certi? cate Level I (NC I). After finishing a Technical Vocational-Livelihood in Grade 12, a student may obtain a National Certi? cate Level II (NC II), provided he/she passes the competency-based assessment of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). NC I and NC II improves employability of graduates in ? elds like Agriculture, Electronics, and Trade. In Kinder, mother tongue, shall be used as the medium of instruction. In Grades 1-3, the mother tongue will be used in teaching all subjects, except in teaching Filipino and English subjects. Starting Grade 4, Filipino and English will become the languages for instruction. Starting SY 2016-2017, DepEd shall engage in partnerships with colleges, universities, and Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVI) to use their existing facilities and teaching staff to ensure that reduction in enrollment in these colleges and universities will be offset during the transition period. Private schools are to adhere to the minimum standards of the K to 12 curriculum. They should also follow the K to 12 progression, even if they choose not to offer grades 11-12 (e. g. private junior high schools can remain as such but their students will have to transfer for senior high school). Recommendations In the light findings of the study and the conclusion drawn, the following recommendations are given: K to 12 will be more embraced by the parents of the students if the government will make new ways of helping the parents of the student to make their children’s finish the k to 12 program Most of the student who will undergo k-12 program belongs to a family that has a minimum wage income. And majority of the respondents are 11-12 years old. Based on my study , we can say that k to 12 program will affect the student learning’s and will add training for them to used if they will wanted to work as early in their age. It can be said for the findings that k to 12 will help the youth to be young professionals in the hospitality industry were in job opportunities are more open to them because of the training that they will take in this program. On the findings there for include that the k to 12 has many effects on the students that will undergo the program and they will have capabilities of having work in the hospitality industry but in the study it shows that it also decreased their parents capabilities to support their studies. Decision criteria Future education status Family salary income how do you asses k to 12 program as a student to take the k to 12 program: Quality of the education Effects on the student learning Its effect on the parents capabilities on supporting their Childs education How will it affect the numbers of the students who will continue their studies to attain their degree in college? What is the perception of the students regards to: the k to 12 program the new ways of learning readiness for them to work in a establishment If the TESDA training accreditation will make them more professionals especially on the hospitality industry. Subject – this research concerns with the analysis of the case of k to 12 program in the Philippines that had been implied last 2012 and if can create new hospitality professionals. Respondents – the respondents of the study are the students of San Antonio National high school that has already taking the new curriculum k to 12. Instrumentation – the author used the following instrument to gather important data . Questionnaires are carefully prepared to answer the specific problems of the study. Observation – as means of gathering information for the research may define as perceiving data through the senses. Observation is most widely used in studying behavior. This will be used to determine the actual reaction of the students while the Questionnaire given to them. Setting – the author will focus their studies on the point of view of students in San Antonio national high school in san Antonio village Makati city. Justification Student that will take k to 12 program can acquired the following: †¢ Acquire mastery of basic competencies. †¢ Be more emotionally mature. †¢ Be socially aware , pro-active, involve in public and civic affairs. †¢ Be adequately prepared for the word of work or Entrepreneurship or higher education. †¢ Be legally employable with potential for better earnings. †¢ Be globally competitive. †¢ Every graduate of the Enhanced K to 12 Basic Education program is an empowered individual who has learned, through a program that is rooted on sound educational principles and geared towards excellence, the foundations for learning throughout life, the competence to engage in work and be productive, the ability to coexist in fruitful harmony with local and global communities, the capability to engage in autonomous critical thinking, and the capacity to transform others and oneself. Agriculture and Fisheries, Sports, Business and Entrepreneurship Why add two more years? Decongest and enhance the basic education curriculum. Better quality education for all. Philippines is the only remaining country in Asia with a 10-year basic education program. K to12 is not new. The proposal to expand the basic education dates back to 1925. Studies in the Philippines have shown that an additional year of schooling increases earnings by 7. 5%.. Studies validate that improvements in the quality of education will increase GDP growth by 2% to 2. 2% Minus 2 instead of plus 2 for those families who cannot afford a college education but still wish to have their children find a good paying job. Right now, parents spend for at least 4 years of college to have unemployable child. In our model, parents will not pay for 2 years of basic Education that will give them an employable child. In effect, we are saving parents 2 years of expenses. The plan is not â€Å"Plus 2 years before graduation† but â€Å"Minus 2 years before work Inspire a shift in attitude that completion of high school education is more than just preparation for college but can be sufficient for a gainful employment or career. What will the society gain from K to 12? K to 12 will facilitate an accelerated economic growth. K to 12 will facilitate mutual recognition of Filipino graduates and professionals in other countries. A better educated society provides a sound foundation for long-term socio-economic development. Several studies have shown that the improvements in the quality of education will increase GDP growth by as much as 2%. Studies in the UK, India and US show that additional years of schooling also have positive overall impact on society. What Benefits will Individuals and Families get? An enhanced curriculum will decongest academic workload. Graduates will possess competencies and skills relevant to the job market. Graduates will be prepared for higher education. Graduates will be able to earn higher wages and/or better prepared to start their own business. Graduates could now be recognized abroad. MANILA, Philippines—Adding two years to the present 10-year basic education cycle is â€Å"an absolutely essential reform† to put the country’s public education system at par with the rest of the world, an international education expert said on Wednesday. Sheldon Shaeffer, director at the Bureau of Education of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Asia Pacific, said the K+12 program (Kindergarten plus 12 years) was a necessary reform â€Å"to make the system comparable to and competitive with other countries. † Speaking at a lecture on school leadership at the Department of Education (DepEd), Shaeffer said a 12-year education cycle would be â€Å"more useful to the personal needs and employment opportunities† of its graduates. â€Å"I actually don’t see how people can disagree with it,† said Shaeffer before an audience of top Philippine education officials and representatives from various schools. The flagship education program of the Aquino administration, the K+12 basic education reform plan aims to improve the quality of Filipino high school graduates by adding two years of senior high school to the current 10-year education curriculum. The two additional years in senior high school are envisioned to serve as a specialization period for high school students, whether in vocational skills, music, the arts or sports. This would give high school graduates the option to pursue jobs with a basic education diploma or proceed to college. The program aims to make Philippine education at par with the rest of the world, with 12 years of basic schooling already a global standard. According to the DepEd, only the Philippines, Angola and Djibouti have a 10-year basis schooling cycle. Officials said the two-year shortcoming had proven problematic in the accreditation of Philippine graduates when applying for postgraduate courses and employment overseas. Recently, Laos added a year to its 11-year-program, Shaeffer noted. Education Secretary Armin Luistro acknowledged that the transition to a 12-year system would be difficult but noted that the Philippines was â€Å"already delayed† in coming up to the global standard. â€Å"What we’re looking at now is how to implement it. In [implementing] any change, there will be difficulty and this is what we really have to work on toge