A group of shorthand students from different parts of the state cherished moments of pride and joy in the city, on Saturday, as they received prizes for their excellence in the shorthand speed competitions.
As many as 17 youngsters who are into commercial practice courses, secured ranks in various segments of the Annual Shorthand Speed Competitions organised  by Shorthand Writers Association of Karnataka(SWAK).
Tanushree, studying Commercial Practice in NRAM Polytechnic College of  Nitte, Udupi district, is confident that shorthand skills still have scope in the job market. “Despite displacement of type-writers, shorthand has relevance in the secretarial practice. They are even more valued in foreign countries,” she said. She secured the highest marks (97 out of 100 marks) in 90 words per minute speed category of English shorthand.
Lakshman, studying in GRICP, Bangalore, was all smiles as  he won the first rank in 200 letters per minute category of Kannada shorthand.
Rajender Dhaka, a student of BIT Yelahanka said  shorthand has good scope and it is a subject demanding thorough study and regular practice.
He won the second prize in 60 words per minute category of English shorthand.