📡 5-Day HAM Exam Prep Workshop by GIAR – A Resounding Success!

From June 2nd to 6th, 2025, the Gujarat Institute of Amateur Radio (GIAR) conducted an intensive 5-day ONLINE HAM Radio Examination Preparation Workshop designed to support aspiring amateur radio operators in clearing their upcoming ASOC exams. The sessions were attended by 25 highly enthusiastic students, all of whom showed deep interest and active participation throughout the program.

🎯 A Curriculum Designed for Exam Success

Each day focused on structured learning tailored specifically for the ASOC syllabus:

  • Session 1: Licensing, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, and Call Signs
    • Covered application via Saral Sanchar, licence types (VU2/VU3), and call sign structure.
  • Session 2: Radio Theory & Electronics Basics
    • Conductors, resistors, colour codes, HF/VHF/UHF frequencies, modulation, wave propagation, VSWR, and skip distance.
  • Session 3: Regulations, Q-Codes & Operating Etiquette
    • Abbreviations, distress calls (Mayday/SOS), call procedure (CQ/DE), and logging practices.
  • Session 4: Morse Code and Station Terminology
    • Morse learning techniques, code structure, radio slang, superheterodyne receivers, and station documentation.
  • Session 5: Antennas, Repeaters, Digital Modes, and RF Safety
    • Covered advanced topics like solar cycle effects, antenna types (Dipole, Yagi, Loop), repeater operations, grounding, power supply safety, digital modes (FT8, SSTV), and emergency communication protocols.

👨‍🏫 Expert Speakers Who Made It Memorable

GIAR is grateful for the invaluable guidance shared by experienced operators and mentors, including:

  • Dr. Jagdish Pandya (VU2JGI) – Dr. Pandya is a Co-founder of GIAR, retired senior government officer who has held several key positions including Director of GSDMA and Additional Collector. Academically, he holds a PhD in Computer Science and an MSc in Physics. He is also the author of a book on HAM radio. He is respected nation-wide as a true elmer and a foundational pillar of GIAR.
  • Pravin Valera (VU2CPV) – Mr. Pravin Valera is the Co-founder of GIAR, a retired police officer, and currently serves as the Director of Youth Activities at Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya. With significant experience in the field of amateur radio, he has passionately trained thousands of youth and radio enthusiasts over the years. His energy and mentorship have been a pillar of GIAR’s mission. Pravin is driven by the mission to create and support as many new HAMs as possible.
  • Ruchir Purohit (VU3NZT) – Tech-savvy and passionate HAM radio operator, educator and enthusiast who led a session with clarity and energy. He is a media professional, graphic designer, and working actively in both digital and outdoor media. His sessions combine creativity, clarity, and practical insight; reflecting his multifaceted background and love for communication. He also mediated the sessions.

👏 Encouraging Visits by Esteemed Guests

Throughout the 5 days, several well-known figures from the amateur radio community visited and motivated the students:

  • Viththalbhai (VU3VDC)
  • Members of OSCAR India Club (VU2OIA) Nil VU2OII, Sayani VU3OIS
  • Dhirenbhai (VU3HXS)
  • Kaushal Jani (VU2EHI)
  • Kanubhai Patel (VU3KMI)
  • Amitsinh (VU3FFU)
  • Hirensinh (VU3FFV)

Their presence was a great morale booster, and their stories and tips offered real-world inspiration to the learners.

🙌 Student Feedback

Participants expressed high appreciation for the depth, clarity, and practicality of the sessions. Many shared that the workshop not only boosted their exam readiness but also ignited a genuine interest in continuing their HAM journey beyond certification.

📅 Looking Ahead

With the ASOC exams just around the corner, this program was perfectly timed to reinforce key concepts and exam patterns. We are confident that our students are now better equipped — both technically and mentally — to clear the exams and join the vibrant world of amateur radio operators.

GIAR remains committed to empowering the next generation of HAMs across Gujarat and beyond.

Until next time — 73s and good luck to all exam takers!