Basic Troubleshooting Tips after Installing a New Hard Drive

1. Basic Troubleshooting Tips after Installing a New Hard Drive
   Based on Seagate IDE hard drives.
   
   If you have installed your drive and it does not function properly, perform the following basic checks:
   
   Warning: Always turn off the computer before changing jumpers or unplugging cables and cards. Wear a ground strap or use other antistatic precautions while working on your computer or handling your drive.
   
   
   • Verify compatibility. Verify that the host adapter and drive are appropriately matched to each other and to your computer. Refer to the relevant documentation for details.
   • Check all cards. Verify that all cards are seated in their slots on the motherboard and secured with mounting screws.
   • Check all connectors and cables. Make sure all ribbon and power cables are securely connected. Ribbon cables are easily damaged, especially at the connector. Try a new cable that you know is good. Make sure no connector pins are bent. Verify that pin 1 on the interface cable is aligned with pin 1 on the drive and host adapter (see Figure 2 on page 6).
   • Verify jumper settings. Review the instructions in this guide and in your host adapter installation guide. Make sure all appropriate jumpers are installed or removed as necessary.
   • Check your power-supply specifications. Each time you add a new device to your computer, make sure your cornputer's internal power supply can support the total power demand. If necessary, consult your dealer for a new power supply.
   • Verify the drive-type settings in the system setup program. The drive-type settings in the system BIOS must not exceed the physical specifications of your drive. Also, the settings must not exceed the limitations set by the operating system and BIOS.
   • Check for viruses. Before you use someone else's diskette in your system for the first time, scan the diskette for viruses.
   
   
2. After you install your new drive, your computer will not boot, and no error message appears on the screen.
   
   Check your computer manual or BIOS manufacturer to determine whether your BIOS supports drives that have more than 4,092 cylinders. If your system has this limitation, use the following procedure to configure your computer:
   
   
   1. Turn off your computer, open the case, and remove your new drive.
      
      CAUTION: To avoid electrostatic discharge damage to your computer or hard drive, make sure you are well grounded before touching the drive, cable, connector or jumpers.
      
   2. Move the jumper on the alternate-capacity jumper, as shown in Figure 6. This causes the drive to appear to your BIOS as having a 2.1-Gbyte capacity (4,092 cylinders, 16 heads, 63 sectors per track). You may need third-party partitioning software, such as Disk Manager, to achieve full capacity of the drive.
   3. Remount your drive in the computer and replace the computer cover.
   4. Insert a bootable system diskette into drive A and turn on the computer. It should boot from drive A and automatically detect the new drive as a 2.1 -Gbyte drive.
   5. Insert your DiscWizard diskette into drive A and type A:XDM. Then press ENTER. This runs the Disk Manager program.
   6. Follow the Disk Manager instructions to install the dynamic drive overlay and to partition and format your new drive to its full capacity.
   7. After Disk Manager is done, reboot your system. You should see the Disk Manager banner and be able to access the full capacity of your new drive.
   
   
3. The screen remains blank when you power up the system.
   If the steps listed above do not remedy this problem, try the following:
   • Make sure the monitor is plugged in and turned on.
   • Check all cards.
   • Make sure the video card is seated in its slot and secured with mounting screws.
   • Turn off the computer and remove the drive host adapter. If the screen turns on after you reboot, the host adapter may be incompatible or defective. If so, see your dealer.
   
   
4. The system does not recognize the drive.
   • Check all cables.
   • Make sure the power supply is adequate for system needs.
   • Reboot the computer and listen to make sure the drive motor starts up. If the drive is very quiet, it may be difficult to hear its discs reach operating speed. If the drive motor does not start up, recheck all drive cables.
   • Verify that for each drive, a drive-type is listed in the system setup program.
   • Try rebooting your computer by pressing the CTRL, ALT and DELETE keys simultaneously. If the drive is recognized after you reboot the system, the computer BIOS test may be completing before the drive is ready.
     One solution is to slow the processor speed during startup. If your computer has a turbo switch, set it to slow speed before turning the computer on. If there is no turbo switch, you may be able to use keyboard commands; see your computer manual for details. After the computer is up and running, return the processor to the fast speed.
     Another solution is to warm-boot your computer after every power-on.
   • Check for I/O address conflicts. To isolate the conflict, verify that the drive and host adapter are compatible with your computer. Turn off the computer and remove all the peripheral adapter cards except for the video card and host adapter. If the computer recognizes the drive when you reboot the computer, turn off the computer. Reinstall the other peripheral cards, one at a time, until the conflict reoccurs. After you have isolated the source of the address conflict, you can resolve the conflict by changing the 1/0 address of the peripheral that appears to cause the conflict.
   • If Disk Manager has installed the DDO on your hard drive and you have booted directly from a diskette, the information in the boot record for the drive may not have been loaded. Make sure there is no diskette in drive A and reboot. If you want to boot from the diskette, follow the "Booting with a Diskette" instructions under "Advanced Disk Manager Options" on page 20.
   
   
5. The dealer partitioned and formatted the drive for you in the store, but the drive does not respond when you install it.
   • Reboot the computer and make sure the drive spins up.
   • Check all cables.
   • Make sure the power supply is adequate for system needs.
   • Make sure the DOS or Windows version the dealer used to partition and format the drive is the same version you have installed in your computer. If it isn't, see your dealer.
   • Verify the drive-type values in the system setup program. You must install the drive using the same drive-type values your dealer used to partition the drive.
   • Check for 1/0 address conflicts between peripheral cards.
   • Check for viruses.
   
   
6. The system hangs in FDISK or fails to create or save the partition record.
   • Check all cables.
   • Your setup system diskette may be corrupted. Try using a backup diskette.
   • Make the partitions smaller.
   • Change the interrupt jumper setting on the host adapter.
   • Some BIOS have a Track 0 protection feature that protects Track 0 from viruses. This may cause FDISK to hang the system. You must disable this feature in the system setup program before you can use FDISK. See your computer reference guide for assistance. Be sure to re-enable this important feature when FDISK is done.
   
   
7. The system error message, "Drive not Ready," appears.
   • Check all cable connections. Make sure pin 1 of the drive is connected to pin 1 of the hard-disc controller or host adapter.
   • Make sure the power supply is adequate for system needs.
   • Reboot the computer and make sure the drive spins up.
   
   
8. The FDISK error message, "No Fixed Disk Present," appears.
   • Make sure the power supply is adequate for system needs.
   • Verify the drive-type values in the system setup program.
   • Check for 1/0 address conflicts.
   
   
9. The drive does not format to full capacity.
   • Verify the drive-type values in the system setup program. One of the following problems may have occurred:
   • The values may be set with an incorrect translation characteristic.
   • You may have entered a parameter value that exceeds the physical capacity of the drive.
   • You entered a translation characteristic that does not take full advantage of the drive's capacity.
   • The drive's physical specifications exceed the translation limits imposed by the BIOS.
     
     CAUTION: If you change the drive-type values in the system setup program, you must partition and format the drive again. This erases data on the drive.
     
   • If you have partitioned the drive into individual logical drives, you may need to make the partitions smaller to access the full drive capacity.
   • If your computer supports LBA mode, you may need to enable LBA mode in the system setup program to access the full capacity of the drive. Refer to your computer's reference guide to find out how to enable LBA.
   • Your computer may not support drives that have more than 4,092 cylinders. Follow the instructions on page 25 for After you install your new drive, your computer will not boot, and no error message appears on the screen.
   
   
10. The DOS message "Disk Boot Failure," "Non-System Disk" or "No ROM Basic - SYSTEM HALTED" appears.
    • Reinstall the DOS system files using the DOS SYS utility.
    • Check all cables.
    • Use FDISK to verify that the primary partition is active.
    • Check for viruses.
    
    
11. The system error message, "HDD controller failure" appears.
    • Confirm the jumper settings on the drive.
    • Verify the drive-type settings in the system setup program.

If a problem persists, please search for a solution or post a question in our tech support forum in our Help Desk.

60% pass English, Maths •As WAEC releases 2011 GCE results

MOST candidates who wrote the November/Dec-ember 2011 West African Senior School Certificate Examination will be celebrating
this Christmas in a cheerful mood, as 60 per cent of them passed with credit in English Language and Mathematics.
The Head of National Office (HNO) for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Dr Iyi Uwadiae, said this at a news conference to announce the results on Wednesday.
According to him, a total of 404,863 candidates, consisting of 225,023 males and 179, 840 females wrote the examination out of which 394,337 of them, representing 97.4 per cent, had their results fully processed, while 10,526 candidates, representing 2.6 per cent, had a few subjects still being processed due to various errors and omissions.
He said that 226,658 candidates, representing 60.86 per cent, obtained credit and above in Mathematics while 226, 188, representing 59.82 per cent, obtained credit and above in English Language.
Uwadiae also said that 147,012 candidates, representing 37.92 per cent, obtained credit and above in six subjects; 199,214 candidates, representing 51.39 per cent, obtained credit and above in five subjects; 246,312, representing 63.54 per cent, obtained credit and above in four subjects.
According to the HNO, 287,918 candidates, representing 74.27 per cent, obtained credit and above in three subjects while a total of 324,393 candidates, representing 83.68 per cent, obtained credit and above in two subjects.
The results also showed that a total of 49 blind candidates wrote the examination with 17 of them, representing 34.69 per cent, obtaining credit and above in five subjects.
Commenting on the errors observed in the examination, Uwadiae said most of them were committed during the online registration for the test while some were committed during the actual conduct of the examination.
He said that the council would work assiduously in order to resolve the errors, so that the results of the affected candidates could be processed and released as soon as possible.
He, however, said the results of 39,066 candidates, representing 9.65 per cent of the total number of candidates, were being withheld for various reports of alleged involvement in examination malpractice.

How do I fix the Windows blue screen errors?

Question

How do I fix the Windows blue screen errors?

Answer

Before fixing a Microsoft Microsoft Windows blue screen or blue screen of death error (BSoD) you must first identify what error it is. Since there are different blue screen errors.

Note: If you're getting a blue screen and then your computer immediately reboots without being able to read the text in the blue screen, follow the steps below. If you're unable to get into Windows to perform the steps below, boot the computer into Safe Mode.

1. From the desktop right-click on My Computer.
2. Click the Properties option.
3. In the System Properties window click the Advanced tab.
4. In Advanced click the Settings button under Startup and Recovery.
5. In the Startup and Recovery window uncheck the Automatically restart check box.
6. Click Ok.

Blue screen errors

Windows NT, 2000, XP, Vista, and later versions of Windows will have a blue screen error that's similar to the example shown below. Thankfully these error messages often contain more detailed information, and will contain information that can be more easily searched for and found. If you're not getting a blue screen error that looks like the below skip to the next Fatal exception section.

1. Identify the blue screen by locating a line containing all capital letters with underscores instead of spaces, such as the above example: BAD_POOL_HEADER. Write this information down. If you do not see anything written in all caps with underscores like this, skip this step.
2. Get either the STOP: error message at the top of the error, or in the "Technical Information:" portion of the error. For example, in the above error it's STOP: 0x00000019 ... write the first potion of this error message down.
3. Finally, if technical information is shown write down the file and the address.

Once you have the above information you can start troubleshooting the issue. Below are common blue screen errors and links to pages that contain the troubleshooting steps fore ach of these errors. If your error is not listed in the below section search for the error you wrote down.

BAD_POOL_HEADER
DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE
INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE
IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
NTFS_FILE_SYSTEM
PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA
STATUS_IMAGE_CHECKSUM_MISMATCH
THREAD_STUCK_IN_DEVICE_DRIVER
UNEXPECTED_KERNEL_MODE_TRAP
UNKNOWN_HARD_ERROR

Fatal exceptions

Many of the blue screen error messages you'll encounter with earlier versions of Windows will be fatal exception error messages or Fatal 0E messages. If your blue screen message starts out with A fatal exception 0E ... or An exception ... you're encountering this error. For these blue screen errors follow the fatal exception error troubleshooting steps.

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My Windows computer boots up slow.

Question

My Windows computer boots up slow.

Answer

A slow Microsoft Windows boot up can be caused by a wide variety of issues. Below are various suggestions and tips that can help improve the overall speed of your computers startup.

In addition to the below steps, if you use your computer frequently you may also consider either not turning off the computer or having your computer go into a hibernation mode when pressing the power button.

Disable startup programs

Programs that are loading up as the computer starts up to remain active in memory, are often one of the main causes of a slow boot in Windows. Disabling programs you don't often use from automatically starting up each time the computer boots can increase the boot time.

A program that makes managing your Windows startup programs easily is Mike Lin's Startup Control Panel. Using this program, you can disable any program in any of the locations programs use to start themselves automatically.

• How to remove TSRs and startup programs.

Scandisk / Defrag

Running Microsoft ScanDisk and Defrag or similar disk utilities on the computer can help verify the hard disk drive has no errors, as well as make sure the data on the hard disk drive is organized in the most efficient method. We suggest running both of these utilities at least once every few months.

Hard disk drive space

If your computer does not have at least 250MB of free available hard disk drive space this can cause an overall slowdown with your computer as well as decrease the boot time. Make sure your computer hard disk drive has 250MB or more of available disk space.

• Determining available hard drive space.

Add memory

Adding additional memory (RAM) to the computer will help increase the overall speed of the computer and in some cases can also increase the load times of your computer. Today, we suggest all computers be running a minimum of 1GB of memory in their computer. If your computer is running less than this it may be time to upgrade.

Update drivers and Windows

Corrupt, incorrect, or out-of-date drivers can cause a number of different issues. Make sure your computer has the latest drivers as well as any available Microsoft Windows updates.

Registry cleaner

Although we don't often recommend registry cleaners in some rare situations running cleaners can help improve the overall performance of Windows including the Windows startup. If you've run through all of the above recommendations you may want to clean your system registry.

• Do I need a Windows registry cleaner?

Format and reinstall

If after following all the above steps your computer still seems to be slow you may want to erase everything from the computer and re-install Windows. This will clean your computer and make it like new.

Best Stretches for Arthritis Morning Stiffness

For many people with arthritis, morning is the most difficult part of the day. Waking up with stiff joints or joint pain is a common complaint. Although it may seem like the hardest time of day to get moving, doing a few stretches in the morning can give you a more limber start to your day.
It only takes a few minutes to stretch and warm up your muscles and joints. But for the best results, the key is to do arthritis stretches every day. Taking a warm shower before or after stretching can also help you feel more flexible and limber.
WebMD asked experts Matt Hyland, PT, PhD, MPA, CSCS, president of the New York Physical Therapy Association, and Sharon Kolasinski, MD, associate professor of clinical medicine, University of Pennsylvania for stretching tips for people with arthritis. See their tips in the three sections below.

Stretches for Arthritis in the Back, Hips, and Knees

These three basic stretches will help loosen your back, hip, and knee joints. You can do all three of these stretches right in bed. Or, if you prefer, you can do them on the floor. These stretches should be gentle enough for everyone -- including people who have had knee or hip surgery. But if you have any questions, ask your doctor.
Hamstring stretch: Lie on your back with your left knee bent and your left foot flat on the bed. Bend your right leg and place your hands behind your right thigh. Lift your right leg into the air and straighten it as much as you can, using your hands to gently pull your leg toward your chest. Hold for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. You should feel the stretch in your lower back and the back of your leg. Repeat this stretch on the left leg and then repeat 2 to 3 times on both sides.
Single knee to chest stretch: Lie on your back and bend both knees. Your feet should be flat on the bed. Take hold of your right knee with both hands and gently pull the knee toward your chest. You should feel a stretch in the back of your leg and lower back. Hold for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. Repeat this same stretch with the left knee and then repeat 2 to 3 times on both sides.
Piriformis stretch: Lie on your back with both knees bent and your feet flat on the bed. Cross your right ankle on top of your left knee. Wrap your hands behind your left knee and gently pull your knee toward your chest. You should feel a stretch in the back of your right leg. Hold this stretch for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. Change sides and repeat this stretch with your left leg crossed on top of your right knee. Repeat 2 or 3 times on both sides.

Stretches for Arthritis in the Arms, Shoulders, and Neck

These three basic stretches are a good way to loosen the joints of your upper body. You can do the first stretch in bed, but you’ll need to do the last two stretches while you’re standing.
Serratus punch: Lie flat on your back with your head on a pillow. Bend your knees if this feels better for your back. Raise both arms in the air, toward the ceiling with your palms facing each other. Keeping your head on the pillow and your arms straight, raise your shoulder blades off of the bed, as if you’re trying to touch the ceiling. Hold this stretch for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. Repeat 2 to 3 times.
Corner stretch: This stretch can be done either in a corner or in an open doorway. Stand about 2 feet away from the corner or doorway. Place your hands at shoulder height on either side of the wall or doorway. Bending your elbows, lean your body weight into the corner or open doorway. You should feel this stretch across the front of your shoulders and chest. Hold this stretch for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. Repeat 2 to 3 times.
Posterior shoulder and back stretch: Stand straight with both arms at your sides. Gently bring your right arm across your chest, keeping it straight. Take hold of your right elbow with your left hand and gently stretch your right arm across your body. You should feel this stretch in the upper arm and shoulder. Hold this stretch for about 30 seconds and then slowly release. Repeat with the left arm and then repeat 2 to 3 times on both sides.

Stretches for Arthritis in the Hands

If your hands are affected by arthritis, these simple and easy stretches can help loosen up your joints and help increase mobility.
Towel squeeze: This stretch can be done with a small hand towel that is rolled up or a large sponge. Take the towel or sponge in one hand and squeeze. Hold for 5 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10 to 15 times with both hands.
Finger extension: Take a rubber band and wrap it around all five fingers just below your fingertips. Gently spread your fingers apart as far as you can. Hold this stretch for about 5 seconds then release. Repeat 10 times with each hand.
Remember that though you should feel a slight pulling sensation or discomfort while stretching, the stretch should never hurt. If you feel any pain while stretching, talk with your doctor.

FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA PLC 2011 GRADUATE RECRUITMENT PROGRAMME

FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA PLC 2011 GRADUATE RECRUITMENT PROGRAMME

Welcome to the dedicated electronic application portal for the First Bank of Nigeria Plc 2011 Graduate Recruitment Programme.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SHORTLISTING CANDIDATES

• Not more than 27 years old by February 2012
• Must have completed NYSC with a valid certificate
• Minimum of BSC with "Second Class Lower" or HND with "Upper Credit"
• Year of graduation not earlier than 2007

Additional requirments;

• Analytical in reasoning
• Passionate & result driven
• Excellent communication skills
• Proficient in the use of MS Excel, Word and Power Point at the least

Application Process
The recruitment process starts when you have submitted your application online and the confirmation page appears on your screen indicating ”application successfully submitted”.

Communication Process
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via SMS and e-mail.There are instances when e-mail messages go into spam/junk folder; you are therefore encouraged to check these folders as well as your inbox when you receive an SMS in respect of your application.

For enquiries, please email fbngrp@wfmcentre.com or call our help desk between 8:30am – 12:00 noon and 2:00pm - 4:30pm on Monday – Friday ONLY on 08129207978, or 08100444591. (No SMS Please)
Response to all enquiries in respect of the application process will close 24hrs after the deadline for the submission of application i.e. 30/12/2011 Click Here to Apply

Vacancy:ACCOUNTANT CONSERVERIA

ACCOUNTANT CONSERVERIA

JOB SUMMARY

HND/BSc in Accounting. Must be a member of ICAN with 3 - 5 years experience

JOB DESCRIPTION

Conserveria Africana Limited is a leading company producing Gino and Pomo brand tomato paste. We need the following positions for our manufacturing operation.
Job Title: ACCOUNTANT
Responsibilities
Will be responsible for company account and other matters relating to his/her duty.

Qualification
HND/BSc in Accounting.
Must be a member of ICAN with 3 - 5 years experience

Renumeration: Attractive
Method of Application
Candidate having relevant experience/qualification should send CV to the following email addresses
david.adeyeye@yahoo.com, david.adeyeye@calnig.com not later than December 30, 2011
Shortlisted candidates will be called for interview

want to start the recharge voucher printing business on a small scale

This short note is for those who really want to start the recharge voucher printing business on a small scale or for those who just want to give it a try. You must have access to a computer before you can use this software, not compulsory that it is connected to internet. You can always sort the processes that involve internet at cyber cafes or anywhere you can get access to internet.

(The Picture above is one of the screenshots of the software)

Before engaging in this business, your computer and printer must be in good condition.

 Note that it is very risky operating with a cafe.

Remove any virus from your computer by installing up-to-date antivirus; defragment your hard drive to increase speed, not compulsory though. You need business capital. You must have an active e-mail account.

These tips would help. Get your computer system and printer ready. Log on to the internet to open an email address if you are not having one before. Decide who suits you as your dealer. Log on to dealer’s website and complete a registration form. You need to provide an ID and password to easily access the software on your personal computer.

After registration with your principal dealer, a confirmation message will be sent to your email address. Check your e-mail and open your inbox for a confirmation message sent to you by your main dealer. This would serve as evidence that your details have been saved on the company’s data-base.

You may also visit your principal dealer at their office to get registered and start buying their PINS. This registration is free EXCEPT for some dealers that will ask you to pay for their software. Do not worry as there are is a FREE one out there,JUST KEEP READING.

Access your dealer’s website again so as to download the trading software onto your computer system. After downloading, install the software directly onto your desktop. This would be used from time-to time to print and manage your bulk PINS.

The next step is for you to get the recharge pins you will print with the software. You will get the PINS from your dealer. Call your dealers’ agent to confirm if they have on ground what you intend to buy before going ahead to make payment into their account, you can also ask them about the current prices they sell various recharge denominations of all the different networks. Thereafter, you can make payments to the company's account. After payment, send a text message to the dealer's agent to notify them about your payment details. Also with a text message, you can send a break down of your order to the agent E.g. “Send to me 200 units of N100 MTN, 500 units GLO and 200 units CELTEL N100. I have paid into your account”.

Copy these PINS from your mail and save it in a notepad or microsoft word document on your desktop. You can also save it in a flash drive, if you want to take the PINS to another computer not connected to the internet.The software has special features, one of which will ask you where you save the PINS and it will upload the PINS automatically. You will print and manage your encrypted PINS from this software after. Connect your printer to the computer and print in batches. You may inscribe your business name on the voucher if you wish. The software is so easy to use. The software has a USER'S GUIDE which can guide you through anything you want to do with the software. Already, you are on your way to making good profits from the venture.....

To get the FREE software, SEND A TEXT Message with your email address, phone number and state to 08062611277

Once I receive your text, I will reply you within 24 hours of getting your text message.

NOTE: YOU CAN USE ANY PRINTER FOR THE PRINTING OF THE VOUCHERS, BE IT WHITE/BLACK OR COLOURED.

One thing I use to advise is the fact that, always try as much as possible to analyze different dealers before really venturing into the business. As a result of this, to make things easier for those that are ready to go into the business without wasting time searching here and there for info, I have compiled an easy to understand package of RECHARGE CARD DEALERS you can patronize, even if you do not have computer and printer.

 

(This is how the software and its userguide will be attached to the email you will receive from me) 

For info on the TOP DEALERS IN NIGERIA from which you can buy recharge pins for as low as N93, with their respective contact addresses, phone numbers, web addresses, emails GO TO

You might want to check out:

Scholarship Help/How to get a Scholarship

Scholarship Help

Hello. We think we know you. You are a good student, maybe even a great or fabulous student. You are looking forward to going to college. Or, more likely, you are in your senior year and getting organized for the full-court press of getting into the college of your choice and getting the scholarship you need to be sure you and your family can afford this next step of your education.
It's pretty exciting and more than a little nerve-racking. You're already dealing with the pressures of your high school career, and they are significant, we know. The process of getting ready, getting into, and paying for college is a very big, extra project in your already crowded life.
You may be reading this Web site because you've already concluded that you will apply for a scholarship. Or the question of whether to apply for scholarships may not have an obvious answer for you yet. Either way, it's sensible to read our Web site and get the facts about college scholarships as well as the best advice we can offer about how to succeed in winning scholarships.
We will spend time on this Web site explaining how college funding works, the types of college scholarships available, how to find a scholarship, and how to apply for one. That's pretty standard issue for a Web site about scholarships, although we think (if you'll pardon us saying so) that we've done an excellent job of being comprehensive and readable. Here's what's different.

How To Win Scholarships

We know that the path to success in earning scholarships has approximately three parts. (This process is hardly so simplistic that anyone should presume to do more than approximate the components.)

• You must to be able to organize and prioritize

You must be able to write about a variety of topics, that may or may not be exciting to you, in a fluid and thoughtful way, demonstrating that you are a scholar or would like to be a scholar.

• You must be able to write about a variety of topics that may or may not be exciting to you in a fluid and thoughtful way, demonstrating that you are a scholar or would like to be a scholar.

This may be the most difficult part about becoming a successful scholarship winner. However, we know that with some help, you can do it.

• You must understand yourself well enough to create a compelling portrait of who you are. You must understand your audience well enough to be able to position your skills and strengths as deserving of their support.

Knowing yourself takes more work than writing down a list of extracurricular activities. We will help you learn how to find the "method behind the madness" of your life and present it in a winning way. Why? Because scholarship committees award funding to candidates they can understand and relate to and who distinguish themselves from other candidates by their ability to communicate their special-ness.
Should you apply for scholarships? We think so. Why? Beyond the obvious fact that every extra dollar can help you and your family, the scholarship process is also a way to develop the winning skills that will serve you well in whatever you do in your life. The ability to organize, prioritize, write well, match message to audience and most of all, know yourself, are gifts you should give yourself as soon as possible. Use this website and the scholarship process to get yourself ready for the rest of your life.
By the way, if you happen to be a parent reading this website, please encourage your son or daughter to look for scholarships, following our approach. Just think how much smoother their path will be if they hone these skills now, before they leave your nest. If you're reading this website we know we don't really need to say this but we'll do it anyway. They'll need your help and support.
College scholarships are the ideal form of student aid, as they're basically gifts that never have to be repaid. On the other hand, student loans must be repaid, but they're made at very low interest rates, and you're usually you're not required to begin repayment until six months after you graduate. Some student loans require you to prove financial need, but some of them don't. Many students turn to student loans as a method to pay for college. Basically, if you cannot get access to the free money you have to borrow it in the form of a student loan.

Types of Scholarships Available

Scholarships originate from a variety of sources. This section will help you understand who awards scholarships and why they support college education through this specialized funding.

College Scholarships Come In Many Forms

College-Specific Awards

Colleges often have scholarship money available that is used to develop the financial package offered to an applicant who has been granted admission. These types of scholarships are available under a variety of terms that may include maintaining a certain GPA or pursuing a specific major.

Athletic Scholarships

Many athletes dream of going to college on an athletic scholarship. It's possible to achieve that dream, but these types of scholarships are highly competitive and the application process is a world unto itself. Awards are made through colleges, and applying for an athletic scholarship is akin to marketing yourself for a starring movie role. If you are interested in winning an athletic scholarship, go immediately to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Web site and begin reading as fast as you can.
According to the NCAA, athletic scholarships for undergraduate student-athletes at Division I and Division II schools are partially funded through the NCAA membership revenue distribution. These scholarships are awarded directly by each academic institution and not the NCAA. About $1 billion in athletic scholarships are awarded each year. Over 126,000 student-athletes receive either a partial or full athletic scholarship. Division III schools offer only academic scholarships. They do not offer athletic scholarships.
Second, contact the financial aid office of the school you hope to attend. They should have lots of information about available awards.
Third, find and read detailed information about the process of winning athletic scholarships. You might start with the site, www.collegesportsscholarships.com, created by an athlete and his dad to help other athletes understand the scholarship process. It's all free and is a good starting point. Also, the Fund My Future site, www.fundmyfuture.info, provides a lot of good, free information.

Academic Awards

These merit-based scholarships are awarded by your college for academic achievement. Inquire about these awards at your school's financial aid office, though you may not even have to apply for an academic award; they are often wrapped into the financial aid package offered by the college, based on your college application.

Departmental Awards

Specific departments may have scholarships available to attract or retain students in the department's field of study. If you know what your major will be, contact that department to inquire about scholarships.

Private Organizations

There are thousands of private organizations that offer scholarship awards, ranging from $50 to $20,000 and more. Within the "private" category, there are many types of organizations to consider.

Corporations

Corporations offer scholarships to attract and retain employees, support the communities where the business is located, and encourage entrants into the business's field of work. These are often the scholarships that go unawarded for lack of applicants.
Search for corporation scholarships by checking with your parents' employers for possible programs, researching businesses in your region, and searching your newspaper's archives for award announcements. You may have a much greater chance of receiving a private corporation award because geographic, employment, and other restrictions narrow the number of candidates.

Religious Organizations

Religious organizations often award scholarships to help their members afford the cost of college. If you and your family are affiliated with a specific religious group, check with your local group about the availability of scholarships, as these types of scholarships are sometimes easier to qualify for than other kinds.

Unions

Unions are a major source of scholarship funds. The AFL-CIO Web site is good place to start searching for union-sponsored scholarships.

High School or School District

Your high school may offer scholarships to graduating students. Your high school guidance counselor can provide information about availability.

Chamber of Commerce

Chambers often have scholarship programs, and they can be great sources of information about which businesses in your community offer scholarships.

Other Private Organizations

The ubiquitous category "other" is really the mother lode of scholarship opportunities. There are thousands of scholarships available, given by organizations that wish to further their mission by supporting the education of students. This category of scholarships is the reason for using a Web search engine to identify suitable opportunities in this vast universe of money offers.

The Military

The military is a well-known source of college scholarships. The Air Force ROTC program can pay up to full college tuition, plus a stipend for books. Military scholarships are awarded in return for a tour of duty with the branch of the military supporting your education. Be sure you're prepared to fulfill the terms of your scholarship agreement. If the prospect of military service fits with your goals, a military scholarship may be an excellent way for you to underwrite your college education. Use the military link at www.students.gov to locate the sites that you should search for military scholarships, including special scholarships for veterans.

State and Federal Sources of Financial Aid Funds

The federal government provides $41.3 billion in grant aid to post-secondary education students annually. The aid comes in several forms: Need-based federal aid:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants
• Federal Work Study
• Perkins Loans

Financing options:

• Federal PLUS Loans (also known as Direct Plus Loans)
• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans (also known as Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans)
• Other parent loans
• Alternative student loans

To receive a grant from the federal program, your college must qualify to administer these grants. Check with your school's financial aid department to be sure your school is a qualified participant. The Internet site where you can fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), www.fafsa.ed.gov, provides great information about federal grant programs.
Another excellent site is www.students.gov. Click on their scholarships link, and you will find a glittering array of scholarship possibilities from many different federal agencies.
Check with your state's higher education authority to see what kind of assistance is available. Many states provide excellent scholarships and grants and often have special categories of award for women going back to school, minorities, and people with disabilities. Be sure to follow all application procedures and deadlines. Many colleges will not make up for state grants lost to students though late applications. Additionally, many states and private colleges administer need-based institutional funds that help round out financial aid awards.

Information Overload

The categories described on this page represent thousands of scholarships and billions of dollars in financial aid. Your job is to make your way through the maze of information and options, and in doing so, create a scholarship application plan that gives you the highest probability of success with the best scholarship matches available.

ASUU Demands N160 Billion From Government as Allowances

As Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) were trying to iron out issues yesterday at a meeting convened by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, revelations that the union was demanding N106 billion from government as end allowances came out at the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The House of Representatives Chairman, Committee on Education Farouk Lawal and his members were on an oversight function to the NUC but the discussion soon moved from the university system to the current problem on the minds of many – the ASUU strike.
Executive Secretary of NUC, Professor Julius Okojie said ASUU was demanding N106 billion as end allowances which cover assessments by professors for projects of PHD students and professorship. This amount is nearly 10 times what universities get as capital grant yearly, which is about N11 billion.
Professor Okojie said government was made to believe that the governing councils of universities who had hired the academic staff would foot the bill but rather government was been made to pay.
His words: “The issue of end allowances government said the councils are employers of the university staff, you can’t go and budget for end allowances, it is job that is done that you pay for. Government said let us even see what it amounts to. It took them two years to bring the data. When it finally came, only 11 universities submitted and only four of them were useful and they are asking for N106 billion when capital grant for federal universities in a year is N11 billion. The issue of consolidated salary was to reduce the issue of many allowances and we are going back to the same old process.
“As a professor, I have gone to many universities to assess final year students’ projects for PHD and people on professorship. I have never collected money; they are now prescribing what should be paid for assessing professorship. The understanding then was that council should be able to address those issues but we now know that councils which are supposed to be employers of the universities do not have that authority the way they are going because they hire and fire. They can even dismiss the vice-chancellor but when it comes to issue of paying end allowances they go to government.”
He argued that contrary to accusations by ASUU that government had reneged on the 2009 agreement, it had met some of their demands to an extent.
“To a large extent, government has met most of the requirements. They said let us just sign, if there are matters arising we would just sit down with the implementation committee and get it resolved. Nobody is saying that now. They keep saying that government has reneged. As soon as the agreement was signed government, paid all the arrears then initiated the issue of the 70 years retirement age. The issue of improved funding has gone on, through the intervention agencies, even government subventions have also improved.
“We implemented salaries up to 52 and half per cent; yearly subvention from government has improved, ETF has been injecting a lot of money in respect of book fund, research fund and zonal laboratories. Two of the first generation universities have received over N3 billion each to upgrade their facilities and infrastructure. This is more than 10 times what they have been receiving in the last 10 years.”
But Lawal who was part of the last agreement signed two months ago by ASUU and the Federal Government said government went to sleep after that and did not do much to avert the current strike. He explained how the National Assembly was trying to meet the legislative demands of the union especially the 70 years retirement age for professors.
“In the sixth assembly, we introduced a bill that was meant to address that issue. It was passed; unfortunately when it got to the president for assent it was discovered that the bill did not reflect what ASUU wanted and so two months ago, when government and ASUU signed an agreement to try to see that most of the issues were implemented before an indefinite strike action was embarked on by ASUU, we took it upon ourselves believing that the legislative requirement would also address some of the demands, we pressed on the executive to submit an executive bill. When we realized it was not forthcoming, the committee sponsored private member bills – one is an amendment to the universities miscellaneous act that would upgrade the retirement age and the other is a bill that would ensure that for academic staff of tertiary institutions it is raised to 65 years. We have taken first and second reading, we would work on it latest by next week and that bill would be passed by the House of Representatives and I believe once that is done the Senate would concur with us,” he said.
He also agreed that the university system was in dire need of improved funding but that even that was been addressed by government.
Farouk said: “On the issue of funding, even though we could not address a significant improvement in the funding, I know we were able to amend ETF Act to now change it to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund so that more funds would go into funding our tertiary institutions and universities. When there was the warning strike two months ago, there was a meeting with the executive, particularly the Minister of Labour, Minister of Education and leadership of ASUU, and we were in attendance as observers and an agreement was signed by two sides hoping that within two months a lot of the remaining issues would be addressed. It is in that respect that government did not do much. The momentum by the executive was lost.”
He, however, cautioned that such funding must be put to proper use.
“I agree with ASUU, we need to fund the universities better. But while we are doing that we also need better transparency and accountability in the management of the funds and we also need greater efficiency. They need an efficient system of implementing the budget. We need to improve on the prioritizing of the funds that go to the universities because sometimes they use the funds for something that is not a key aspect of what a university is supposed to stand for,” he further said.
The committee chairman expressed disapproval that NUC was yet to present before the National Assembly a proposal for the amendment of its act so it can be empowered to criminalize establishment of illegal degree awarding institutions.
He said: “Like I always say, the danger of these institutions is that when they award these certificates, it erodes the integrity of the actual certificates of those who are termed legal institutions. They are a serious menace and sabotage on educational standards. We need to criminalise the existence of these institutions; we need to capitalize punishment because this is creating more havoc than financial crimes.”
Professor Okojie, however explained that a proposal for amendment had been approved by the Federal Executive Council and would soon be sent to the National Assembly.

Assu Strike Update

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), on Sunday, warned the Federal Government that its violation of the 2009 agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) was an invitation to chaos.
In a statement signed by the NLC Head of Information and Public Relations, Comrade Chris Uyot, the congress said lamented the violation of collective agreements mutually entered into with unions by the government, regretting that this was becoming a vogue in the country.
Also refering to the non-implementation of the National Minimum Wage by the various levels of government, the NLC said the government was inviting basket of strikes and chaos.
It said: “We note with trepidation that violation of collective agreements mutually entered into between employers of labour and unions, with government leading the culprits, is becoming a vogue in our industrial relation system.
“The agreement on the minimum wage and its non-implementation by some state governments, and even the Federal Government, is a case in point. Any employer or government that so violates collective agreements with impunity is only inviting baskets of strikes and social chaos, and if that be the wish of the ruling class, the labour movement is ready for it.”
The congress said the rot and decay in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions demanded a declaration of a state of emergency in the educational sector and it declared support for ASUU on its decision to fight for the good of the education system.
“Thus, we support the perseverance, consistency and patriotism displayed by ASUU and call on students, workers and all Nigerians who mean well for this nation to stand by the union in this defining moment of the struggle for improved standard of   education and sustainable human capital in our country,” the statement read.
The NLC, therefore, urged the Federal Government to respect the agreement it mutually entered into with ASUU, and desist from plunging the educational system crises, with likely reverberating industrial consequences in other sectors.

The sun nigeria Is recruiting

WEB ADMINISTRATOR SUN

JOB SUMMARY

Possess B.Sc/HND in Computer Science or any discipline in Social Sciences.

JOB DESCRIPTION

As part of strategic plan for growth, The Sun Publishing Limited seeks applications for the following job vacancies:

JOB TITLE: WEB ADMINISTRATOR
JOB LOCATION: Lagos

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE
Have 3-5 years post-qualification experience
Possess B.Sc/HND in Computer Science or any discipline in Social Sciences.
Be between 30-35
Be Strongly interested in the news
Have Excellent writing skills
Be Comfortable with Advanced HTML and CSS
Possess Ability to work in a team
Have Knowledge of Photoshop
Have FTP and uploading Experience
Possess Working knowledge of Content Management Systems
Possess Cpanel Experience.

HOW TO APPLY
Applications with detailed CV stating names, age, contact address, permanent home address, phone numbers, names and addresses of three referees should be forwarded not later than December 16, 2011 to

Principal Human Resource Manager
The Sun Publishing Limited
2, Coscharis Street, Kirikiri Industrial Estate
Apapa, Lagos.

Soft copies of CV could also be forwarded to vacancies@sunnewsonline.com

Vacancy: Maintenance Engineer

Maintenance Engineer

JOB SUMMARY

As Olive Group’s Operation & Maintenance division continues to grow we are currently seeking a Level 1 Field Maintenance Engineer for mobile security surveillance systems.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Description

Vacancy Overview

As Olive Group’s Operation & Maintenance division continues to grow we are currently seeking a Level 1 Field Maintenance Engineer for mobile security surveillance systems.

Purpose of Role

Under general leadership of the Director of Maintenance & Operations, you will perform Preventive & Corrective maintenance activity on installed mobile security inspection and surveillance systems situated in the Abuja area of Nigeria.

Your main responsibilities will be:

Provide support to customers on maintenance activity for mobile x-ray security systems

Perform Level 1 preventative and corrective maintenance and operations activity; following Olive’s Standard Operating Procedures, meeting the levels of service, response times and follow service management procedures

Ensure all activity is within Olive’s agreed Service Levels

Set-up and follow specialised tests and diagnostic programs to isolate malfunctions, ensuring defective components are replaced as required

Able to diagnose, repair and restore systems to full working operations

Flexible approach to working hours, out of hours call out may be required

Attend customer & suppliers operational performance reviews

Provide a single point of contact to customer for escalations

Manage, track and resolve warranty issues including logistics related to equipment returns to manufacturers or vendors

Issue corrective maintenance status and preventative maintenance scheduling

Carry out scheduled preventive plans to manufactures recommendations.

To be successful in this role you will need:

Graduate of Technical School and/or Military Training in Electronics Engineering technology

One (1) to two (2) years experience in field service environment with a strong desire to learn x-ray

Must have knowledge of electronic and mechanical assemblies, as well as wiring diagrams and schematics

Knowledge of complex mechanical systems, familiarity with test equipment (DVM and oscilloscope), experience with High Voltage and X-ray producing equipment

Customer interface and communication skills, both verbal and written are required.

Proficiency in Microsoft Applications: MS-DOS, Win 95, Win NT and MS Office

Willingness to work non-standard hours, including weekends and holidays

Must be team player with ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment with minimal oversight

Must be available to travel on short notice, non-standard hours, travel on weekends, and assist other field sites as required

Hold a full Driving License with own transport advantageous.

To Apply: Please visit www.olivegroup.com/careers

Job Vacancy: SENIOR CREATIVE VISUALIZER

SENIOR CREATIVE VISUALIZER

JOB SUMMARY

Tertiary Education. 40 years and below. Requisited skills in graphic designs

JOB DESCRIPTION

Swiss Pharm Nigeria Ltd Is one of the leaders in the Pharmaceutical Industry. Due to expansion of operations, vacancies exist. We require dynamic and focused young men or women who wish to make a career in an expanding and forward-looking organization.

Job Title: SENIOR CREATIVE VISUALIZER
Requirements
Tertiary Education
40 years and below
Requisited skills in graphic designs

Method of Application
Applications with copies of detailed C.Vs and credentials, residential contact addresses (Not P. O. Box) and phone numbers, should reach us not later than 20th December 2011

The Human Resources/PR Manager,
Swiss Pharma Nigeria Ltd,
5, Dopemu Road, Agege, P. O. Box 463,
Ikeja, Lagos State.

OR Apply below or send Electronic CV should be sent to apply@swiphanigeria.com not later than December 20, 2011

2011/2012 Imo state University Supplimentary List

This is to inform the general public and especially Aspirant of Imo State University that the 2011/2012 Pre-degree admission list for the Imo State University has been released.
The Admission List is available on the Institution Official Portal and it is freely accessible to all Applicants.
The Admission is in "pdf document" and contains only about 41 names into various departments.
To check your Admission Status on The Imo State University- IMSU predegree list, please goto the official portal here- IMSU Pre-degree List
or you can download the PDF Document directly here
Imsu Pre-degree List PDF Document

Congratulation to all students who made this Academic Year Pre-Degree Program.

2012 Jamb Form Is Out!(no.4 Imo State On Jamb Site As Authorized Agent)

This is to inform the entire candidates who have it in mind to apply for 2012 Jamb that the FORM is out and the registration is in progress. Registration this time requires a biometric data capture(Thumb Print) which is some how different from last year own.

You need a well experienced personnel to handle your registration for you this time to safe you from making registration errors and lost your payment.However, we are here to support you because we have been in registration business for years and you can check our name as authorized centre from Jamb site directly on http://www.jamb.org.ng/Unifiedtme . click on view registration centres,under Imo State.(No.4)

For your purchase and registration, contact  :
Eke Israel Tochukwu (Operator)
Hotlines: 2348062611277,2348096988162
Email:youngcaesarz@yahoo.com


The 2012 JAMB Utme registration scratch cards can be obtained at the following approved points nationwide at the cost of the registration scratch card is N4,600 (Four Thousand Six hundred Naira Only).
Looking at this year”s jamb registration procedure, we can conclude that Jamb maintained the pattern used in the 2011 registration , with the introduction of the biometric registration which involves finger print scanning of the candidate for the examination. New candidates for this year are expected to have a finger print scan (your left and right thumbs) before they can complete their registration or open an account.
For hitch free registration, you should download a copy of the 2012 Jamb UTME online registration template (Online Replica), which you should go home to fill before coming online to input the data you filled. All information on this template must be available before attempting to go online to register so that you don”t have to stop the registration because of a missing information. This same template can also be used by Computer and Business Centers to get the details of candidates they intend to register.
Ensure that you have an electronic copy of your Most Recent Passport Photograph (not older than 3 months) before you start your registration. Candidates are advised to test the validity of their passport photographs before proceeding to fill. Resize and Convert your Picture into JPEG Format and a required size of 15 Kilo Bytes.
If you are doing your registration from a professional Computer or Business Center, all the above procedures, including the Finger Print Registration should be easy.
Candidates are to supply valid e-mail addresses during registration to receive their registration details via e-mails upon Submission of forms. This should be printed and attached to the earlier printed slip. All candidates should come with their recent passport photographs to the Examination Halls.
Candidates who wrote the 2011 UTME but did not get admission can make this year”s registration by sullying the details of their last year”s application like passports, finger prints, addresses, etc. Instruction for this is in the 2012 registration portal.

We also, register candidates for ongoing  2012 May/June WAEC/NECO internal Examination.

Best of luck!