The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is looking forward to presenting seminars and a special one-time course of its Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) diploma course at the South India Jewellery Show 2009 (SIJS), scheduled to be held in Bangalore between 23–27 March 2009. %% Explaining the intent of the A.J.P course Nirupa Bhatt, managing director, GIA India/Mideast Region, said “GIA’s A.J.P. course is an intensive five-day programme with simple and short modules. Its purpose is to build product knowledge, while increasing business acumen with proven retail sales techniques. This internationally recognised diploma programme equips graduates with the knowledge and proven methods to create win-win situations for both the sales personnel and customers. Business owners, retail professionals, and consumers will all greatly benefit from this course.” %% GIA has planned hosting the A.J.P. course from March 23–27 at the Hotel Grand Ashoka and the interested candidates can get in touch with the GIA, India or the Art of Jewellery in Bangalore. %% Bhatt added, “GIA India’s accredited Graduate Gemologist and Graduate Diamonds diploma programs are recognized internationally as hallmark professional credentials. Until now, students wanting such an education from GIA had to travel to the United States. Now, GIA India will deliver the same quality education here.” GIA has formed a key objective this year to increase the accessibility of its educational courses for the gem and jewellery manufacturing and retailing centers in the country such as Jaipur, Bangalore and Kolkata.