Workshop on Enabling Multi-disciplinary and Broader Radio Applications for Community Empowerment (EMBRACE)

Epowerment (EMBRACE) Students from the 6th semester, Dept. of Aeronautical Engineering, participated in EMBRACE, a one-day workshop held at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal on 27-05-2024. The EMBRACE workshop started with a lamp-lighting ceremony. Distinguished speakers from MARC (Mangalore Amateur Radio Club) were introduced, setting the stage for an insightful day ahead. Mr. K Ramachandra Bhat (VU2RCT), Chairman and Managing Director of Oshima Systems Private Limited, shared an in-depth overview of radio communication, its working principles, classifications, and significance. He also highlighted the establishment of a 27-meter radio signal tower designed by a professor from the Civil Engineering Department at NITK Surathkal. Mrs. Chitralekha R Bhat (VU2CLB), Director at Oshima Systems and a homemaker, inspired the audience by sharing her journey and passion for HAM radio, emphasizing the balance between personal interests and professional commitments. Dr. Sukanya Rao (VU2RDJ) attracted the audience with her adventurous experiences in HAM radio, including a record-setting event of 4000 calls during a three-day island expedition. She also conducted a live demonstration of a handy radio communication with another HAM at NITK. Ms. Hanna Fathima (VU2HFW), the youngest woman HAM in the MARC team, shared inspiring stories of pioneering women in HAM radio, including significant contributions during the World War periods. She demonstrated a live radio call with a person in Mangalore. Participants were taken to the SEARCH site, which featured three modified containers: 1. Search Communication Hub: Equipped with systems to monitor air and marine traffic. 2. DryDock: Stored essential equipment like boats for emergency use. 3. Recharge Hub: Provided necessities for human survival. The site also showcased three main tower setups and six antenna sets, illustrating the comprehensive emergency response capabilities.