86% of 14-18-year-olds enrolled in schools: ASER 2023

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January 17, 2024

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) survey report has been released today. As per the report, overall 86.8 per cent of 14-18-year-olds are enrolled in educational institutions.

The report also noted that while there are gender gaps in enrollment, they are not as prominent by age. For youth aged 14 and 18, the percentage of not enrolled youth is 3.9% and 32.6%, respectively. The report from the previous year indicated that the percentage of children enrolled in the 6–14 age group had increased from 96.6% in 2010 to 96.7% in 2014, 97.2% in 2018, and 98.4% in 2022.

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is a national household survey that offers an overview of the state of children’s education in rural India. The “basic” ASER survey was first administered in 2005. It was carried out yearly until 2014, after that it was moved to an alternate-year cycle in 2016. The “basic” ASER gathers data on preschool and school enrollment for kids between the ages of three and sixteen. It also conducts one-on-one assessments with kids between the ages of five and sixteen to determine their basic math and reading skills.

Interestingly, in Class 11 or higher, more than half of the students are enrolled in the Arts/Humanities stream (55.7 per cent), followed by STEM (31.7 per cent) and Commerce (9.4 per cent). Females are less likely to be enrolled in the STEM stream (28.1 per cent) than males (36.3 per cent).

AI – A key driver in shaping the future of assessments

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January 16, 2024

ETS firmly believe that AI is a tool that supports humans. Our ongoing research and development are focused on the ethical use of AI in education. We see AI as a key driver in shaping the future of assessments, making them more personalized, responsive, and capable of providing deeper insights shared Michelle Froah, Global Chief Marketing Officer, ETS (TOEFL & GRE) in an exclusive interview with Garima Pant of Elets News Network. Edited excerpts:

There have been changes to GRE and TOEFL, what was the reasons for making changes to these tests?

Listening and understanding consumer needs are fundamental to our approach. We recognize that exams and assessments can often cause anxiety. To address this, we’ve concentrated on enhancing the examination experience. We’ve introduced shorter exams that maintain the quality and validity backed by our research. Additionally, we’re providing faster results, allowing students to quickly gauge their proficiency. We also announced the launch of insight reports recently. These reports will help TOEFL & GRE test takers to understand their performance and identify areas for improvement and development.

How is AI solving for assessments? Share a few examples of how ETS has applied AI.

At ETS, we firmly believe that AI is a tool that supports humans. Our ongoing research and development are focused on the ethical use of AI in education. We see AI as a key driver in shaping the future of assessments, making them more personalized, responsive, and capable of providing deeper insights. This allows learners to take control of their educational goals.

A recent example of our AI application is the TOEFL Go app, launched in July as part of our TOEFL enhancements. This free app offers learners AI-powered targeted feedback and coaching. It not only scores sections but also provides tips for the speaking and writing parts, along with high-level responses, enabling quick and effective feedback for improvement. AI enhances our overall efficiency and also speeds up the scoring process and delivers concrete insights, allowing learners to recognize their strengths and identify areas for improvement more effectively.

How is technology being used to strengthen test security measures and protest test integrity.

Security is of utmost importance at ETS. We recognize our responsibility to ensure accessibility, validity, and quality of scores for honest test- takers to accurately demonstrate their abilities. Annually, we invest tens of millions of dollars in our security infrastructure. We have also appointed a Chief Security Officer whose team is committed to maintaining the highest standards and consistency in processes and technologies, setting benchmarks in the industry.

For all our tests, including the TOEFL home edition and those conducted in test centers, we employ advanced security technologies capable of identifying suspicious activities. These technologies include facial recognition, keystroke analysis, and tools designed to detect plagiarism. Such measures bolster our efforts to support the human aspect of our processes, ensuring comprehensive, end-to-end security.

ETS offers tests at both test centres and home editions. Are these tests consistent across?

Yes, they certainly are. Both the Home edition and test center versions maintain the same level of validity and reliability. We believe it’s crucial that the test experience remains consistent, regardless of location. Our learners and the institutions that trust us expect this level of consistency.

Upholding this trust is a key part of our mission and something we are committed to maintaining at ETS.

Recently ETS launched TOEFL Go App to enable young test takers to prepare on the move. How has the response been and how is ETS using digital material to prep Indian students.

The offering, though is relatively new but is an exciting and significant addition to our educational resources for learners. The reception in India has been extremely positive, mirroring the global response. Indian learners, in particular, are among the top two user groups utilising this prep service. We conducted a study to gather feedback, and the findings are encouraging. Both Indian learners and those from other markets have expressed that this tool has enhanced their learning experience, particularly in preparing for the TOEFL exam. It has not only aided them in improving their English language skills but also in reducing their nervousness about the test, boosting their confidence significantly.

One Indian student described the experience as ‘fun and interesting,’ noting how they could track and enhance their scores through the feedback provided. Such feedback underscores the importance of integrating enjoyment into learning and demonstrating proficiency, which is central to our goals. Overall, we’re very pleased with the positive outcomes so far.

IIT-Delhi’s NSS launches in-house mobile app

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January 16, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology’s National Service Scheme (NSS) has launched an in-house mobile app – ‘NSS IIT Delhi’. This app is designed to revolutionise youth engagement and social impact.

The app will help the IIT Delhi students who like to be NSS volunteers to identify the nearest project sites, track their volunteering hours, and connect with fellow volunteers.

With the IIT Delhi NSS App, India’s youth are mobilizing with a single tap of a finger, demonstrating the ability of technology to magnify social good. It’s a tale of passion, purpose, and the transforming power of young minds coming together for a better tomorrow in addition to code and algorithms.

Additionally, the team has improved the tracking of blood donation requests and scribe requests. As a result, students can now view posted requests directly and use the integrated map within the app to view the location and route.

Thousands of people registered for the app within days of its release, and it currently has a 5-star and 4.9-star rating in the App Store and Google Play, respectively. The app’s lead developer, a student programmer named Abhishek, says, “We wanted something simple, accessible, and engaging.” “Something that would speak to our generation and make doing good deeds like volunteering seem natural.”

“The app has made volunteering so much more accessible,” says Sudhanshu, a young student who was astounded by how user-friendly it was. “I can look into projects that are going on around me, and getting involved and changing things is simple. It’s amazing that I can now view my completed hours in real-time.”

AICTE collaborates with C-DAC to introduce Master Training Program in HPC

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January 12, 2024

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) joins hands with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) to introduce a Master Training Program in the field of High-Performance Computing (HPC).

The training programme is open for applications and interested candidates can apply online at https://forms.gle/D3hWCczQeWeYjYpv9.

Faculty members from AICTE approved Institutions are eligible to apply for this training program.

There are several advantages of enrolling in the Master Trainer Programme, such as gaining extensive knowledge of HPC, developing skills in delivering large-scale HPC training, and creating new job options in the training and development industry. Topics include Linux, shell scripting, computer architecture, HPC clusters, and HPC fundamentals are covered in the programme.

There are 100 seats available for the HPC Master Training Programme, which will give participants two weeks of offline training in addition to one week of online instruction. The program’s registration deadline is January 20, 2024. The online training will begin from 29 January 2024 followed by offline instruction starting from 5th February 2024 and 12th February 2024 at two distinct centres of C-DAC in Pune and Bengaluru respectively.

The National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), an innovative government project in India focused on increasing HPC capacity and competence, is the umbrella organisation for the programme. This programme will generate Master trainers who can instruct and train other faculty members around the nation, as well as provide the faculty members with advanced knowledge, abilities, and expertise in HPC.

M Jagadesh Kumar launches IGNOU’s four-year undergraduate programme

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January 11, 2024

Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, University Grants Commission has launched the four-year undergraduate programme of the Indira Gandhi National University (IGNOU). Jagadesh Kumar who was the chief guest at the National Seminar on the G20 Presidency and India’s Global Leadership Role unveiled the programme at the summit.

In accordance with the National Education Policy, the IGNOU introduced the four-year program (NEP). The recently established four-year undergraduate degree program will have a flexible structure and provide students with multiple entry and exit options, as stated in the NEP 2020.

During the programme’s launch, the UGC Chairperson emphasized its importance and said it was a significant reform to the higher education system in India. The Indira Gandhi National University (IGNOU) is offering a comprehensive program that will be delivered through online and distance learning. It will cover a four-year curriculum in various disciplines.

The programme is also accessible through the Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM) portal. Along with this programme, a large number of IGNOU programmes would also be accessible through the SWAYAM portal.

IGNOU’s four-year undergraduate programme offers a wide range of options for students, whether they choose to pursue these courses as part of a regular program or choose to pursue a simultaneous UG degree in a different discipline.

Prioritising Multifacet Skill Development for Students in the New Education Policy

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January 11, 2024

It is evident that the Indian education ecosystem is highly regarded and distinct, with international interest in adopting its principles and practices, shared Shri Govind Jaiswal, Joint Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India in an exclusive interview with Sheeba Chauhan of Elets News Network. Edited excerpts:

Since your recent appointment to the Department of Higher Education, could you share any specific plans or initiatives that you or your department are considering or planning to implement in the near future within the industry?

We have initiated several programs, such as offering software courses to students who register, aligning with the New Education Policy’s emphasis on multiple skill development. Additionally, we recently launched a portal that provides curated resources for students preparing for competitive exams. Importantly, all these resources are provided free of charge, with the aim of eliminating barriers and facilitating opportunities for every ambitious student. Our approach involves collaboration with the industry, as we believe they play a crucial role in training individuals according to industry needs, possibly even more than the government. This alignment ensures that individuals are prepared to meet industry requirements effectively.

In the context of our current exploration of AI’s role in the education ecosystem, what, in your opinion, do you believe will be the next significant development or trend in education in the years ahead?

The next step involves aligning our workforce with the knowledge required for AI integration and AI-based learning systems. How can we effectively connect individuals, particularly in countries with limited access to formal education, with the knowledge they need? This entails identifying available resources, pinpointing knowledge gaps, and offering support. The key challenge lies in curating and facilitating access to this knowledge, and that’s where I believe the greatest potential lies.

Is there active execution and planning in place for fostering significant collaboration between industry and academia in the realm of education, recognizing the potential benefits for both students and educators?

We have already initiated collaboration with prominent companies in the software sector, actively working on creating an official technical curriculum. These companies are deeply engaged in shaping the emerging courses in India, and they actively participate in feedback committees. Particularly in the semiconductor industry, they provide valuable insights regarding installation, maintenance, and resource utilization requirements. This collaborative effort ensures that we are addressing industry needs effectively. Furthermore, these companies are taking a proactive lead in reaching out for collaboration, which is an encouraging and positive development. We are very optimistic about the progress we are making.

Are there any plans to introduce additional curricula or courses in the near future, apart from the emerging fields like semiconductor research, as several institutions are currently incorporating them into their programs?

As the curriculum evolves to encompass emerging areas, institutes are increasingly seeking specialized knowledge and domain-specific skills to fuel their growth. This aligns with the national policy of integrating education with practical skills, which is a priority for both the education ministry and industry sectors. In the field of emerging technologies like semiconductor development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), we are actively addressing this need for specialized skill sets and knowledge.

Could you share your viewpoint regarding Indian Institutes, such as IIT Delhi, expanding their presence by establishing campuses outside of India, like the one in Abu Dhabi?

I believe that there is a global demand for India’s educational expertise, with many countries expressing interest in establishing Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) campuses within their borders. This demand stems from the reputation of Indian education being worldrenowned, and nations across the globe recognize India as an expert in the field. It is evident that the Indian education ecosystem is highly regarded and distinct, with international interest in adopting its principles and practices.

UGC releases notification to bring BBA, BMS, and BCA under AICTE regulations

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January 10, 2024

UGC has released an official notification to bring undergraduate courses in Management and Computer Applications under the AICTE regulations.

“Technical Education and its related aspects are controlled and governed by the All India Council for Technical Education Act, 1987”, informed UGC to all the vice-chancellors of State Public Universities and Principal of Colleges.

Earlier, AICTE was managing only postgraduate programs in management (MBA) and computer applications (MCA). However, in order to maintain consistent quality and academic standards across Management and Computer Applications programs, AICTE has decided to regulate institutions offering BBA, BMS, and BCA courses starting in the next academic session.

According to UGC’s notice, this will follow the same format as postgraduate courses and programs (MCA and MBA).

The Margadarshan Scheme for institutions, PARAKH—Performance Analysis and Review for Holistic Development—and model curriculum are among the benefits that approved institutions enjoy, according to information provided by AICTE. Other benefits include faculty development programs, student scholarship programs, and free access to E-books in Indian languages through the e-Kumbh portal.

Navigating the Professional Landscape: The Importance of Early Internships and Placements in University Education

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January 9, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the integration of timely placements and early internships emerges as an imperative for students aspiring to achieve holistic career readiness. These experiences transcend the conventional boundaries of academic pursuits, serving as transformative conduits that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications. This article elucidates the advantages of embracing early internships, exploring their impact on skill development, networking acumen, career trajectory, and overall professional development.

Strengthen the Bridge between Academic Skills and Practical Proficiency

Early internships, as conduits for real-world immersion, epitomize the practical approach required for modern university education. Beyond theoretical foundations laid in lecture halls, students are allowed to grapple with authentic challenges, spurring their analytical inquisitiveness and fostering innovative thinking. This hands-on exposure contributes to enhanced problem-solving skills and critical thinking, setting the stage for a more robust professional foundation.

Competence Development: A Symphony of Professional Skills

In the realm of professional development, the early internship paradigm assumes a role akin to that of a skilled symphony conductor. It provides students with a dynamic platform to cultivate a multifaceted skill set transcending the confines of conventional academia. Working in a professional environment helps students develop and enhance a wide range of skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and technical skills specific to their field. These skills are crucial for success in any professional setting.

Mentorship Dynamics: A Fruitful Outcome of Purposeful Networking

One of the fruits of purposeful networking is the establishment of mentor-mentee relationships. Experienced professionals often take on mentoring roles, providing guidance and insights that can significantly impact a student’s career trajectory. The mentorship dynamics fostered during early internships create a symbiotic relationship where knowledge and experience are shared.

Unlocking Job Prospects: The Ripple Effect of Networking

Thoughtful networking not only opens doors to mentorship but also unlocks potential job prospects. Building a network within the industry enhances a student’s visibility and increases the likelihood of being considered for future job opportunities. The connections forged during early internships serve as a testament to a student’s proactive approach to professional growth.

Career Clarity and Industry Knowledge:

Early placements provide students with insights into different roles within their field, helping them make more informed decisions about their career paths. Experiencing different aspects of a profession can guide students in choosing the specialization that aligns with their interests and strengths. Through early placements, students gain firsthand knowledge of industry practices, trends, and challenges. This exposure helps them stay updated on the latest developments in their field and prepares them for the expectations and demands of the industry.

Employability: The transformation from Interns to In-Demand Professionals

Timely placements and early internships represent pathways to enhance employability. Corporations view internship programs as mechanisms for talent identification, often transitioning successful interns into full-time roles. This transformation from intern to in-demand professional underscores the significance of early internships in sculpting graduates who seamlessly integrate into the professional fabric.

Industry Insights: A Comprehensive Understanding

Early placements provide university graduates with a firsthand look into industry dynamics, trends, and challenges. This exposure goes beyond what is taught in classrooms, offering graduates a comprehensive understanding of their chosen field. Networking allows them to glean insights from seasoned professionals, contributing to their knowledge base and making them more well-rounded in their respective industries.

Navigating Workplace Dynamics

Internships offer more than just technical skills; they expose students to professional norms, workplace etiquette, and industry-specific best practices. This early exposure ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate the intricacies of the professional world, fostering a sense of professionalism crucial for sustained career success.

Confidence Building: Beyond Projects to Possibilities

Beyond tangible skills and networking benefits, internships serve as confidence catalysts. Accomplishing real-world projects instills a sense of achievement and self-assurance in students, building the confidence needed to tackle future challenges with resilience and creativity.

In conclusion, early internships are integral to a comprehensive university education. These experiences provide students with practical insights, enhance their skills, and help them build a foundation for a successful career. The University of Stirling makes conscious as well as concentrated efforts in increasing the employability of students by arranging, industrial visits and industry talks, (HR, Marketing, IT Forums) in which distinguished C-Suite employees of esteemed companies are invited. Opportunities are given to students to directly interact with various elite industry representatives of various companies and understand about the current job requirements. Annual employability skills drives, and career fairs are conducted to equip students with the required skills and get timely placed in the companies of their aspirations. As students actively engage in these opportunities, they not only shape their academic journey but also position themselves as capable and confident professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields. Early internships act as a compass, guiding students toward a future where they are not just graduates but empowered professionals poised for success.

Views Expressed By: Dr Abhinanda Barman, Director – University Communications and Strategic Alliances, University of Stirling, RAK Campus

Earning a PMP – A stepping stone to career success in Project Management

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January 9, 2024

In the dynamic landscape of project management, obtaining a Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification is a badge of honour; it opens doors to a multitude of benefits. According to PMI’s recent Talent Gap report – the demand for skilled project managers is set to surge, with an estimated 2.3 million positions needing to be filled annually by 2030. Getting PMP certified puts you right in the middle of this demand as an independently certified skilled professional who can command a premium due to their skills and competencies in a discipline brimming with potential.

To remain competitive in this evolving ecosystem, companies are focusing on the need for adept problem solvers and relationship builders who can not only drive change but also align projects to realize the business vision of the organization. This demand for project leaders, especially those equipped with power skills, becomes a beacon of opportunity especially in times of turbulence. This is because navigating change and dealing with ambiguous situations demands not only the best technical skills but critical power skills to ensure that, right from the get-go, the brief is understood correctly, and constant course correction is undertaken in line with resources and constraints.

The PMI Pulse of the Profession® 2023 report underlines that communication is the linchpin, identified by 68% of respondents as the most critical power skill, closely followed by problem-solving (65%), collaborative leadership (62%), and strategic thinking (58%).

Mastering these behaviours, coupled with core technical skills, is one of the many benefits of getting PMP certified. Whether it’s infrastructure – digital, social, or physical – or the IT industry, project management is the key to achieving organizational goals and realizing project benefits.

Here are six reasons why aspiring and seasoned project professionals should get ahead by getting PMP certified:

1. Elevated Earning Potential

The numbers speak volumes – PMP-certified professionals earn, on average, 33% higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts across 21 surveyed countries. According to the thirteenth edition of Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey, this certification sets you on a trajectory to financial success, making it a wise investment in your career.

2. Global Standard of Excellence

Regardless of your geographical location – whether you’re in the Americas, Europe, Asia, or Africa – the PMP certification is a universally recognized standard for project management professionals. It’s not just a certification; it’s a global validation of your expertise in leading and directing projects, making you stand out in high-demand roles.

3. In-Demand Certification Across Industries

The PMP certification is not industry-specific; it’s universally sought after. Organizations globally actively seek PMP-certified individuals and, in some cases, make it a prerequisite for certain roles. This versatility means that you become an asset in any industry, anywhere in the world, and with any project management methodology.

4. Career Flexibility and Marketability

In an era of economic uncertainties, the PMP certification provides more than just a career boost – it offers career resilience. Recognized as the gold standard in project management certifications, PMP equips you with a diverse skill set that includes agile and hybrid approaches, Scrum, and wicked problem-solving. It’s not just about managing projects; it’s about mastering power skills like collaborative leadership, empathy, and communication, making you a well-rounded professional.

5. Variety of Certification Options

PMI doesn’t just stop at PMP – it offers a variety of certifications tailored to different career stages and goals. In addition to the world-renowned PMP certification, PMI provides a suite of options covering diverse methodologies like agile and hybrid approaches. These certifications not only align with industry trends but also ensure professionals stay at the forefront of their careers. So right from the start of your journey with the foundational Certified Associate of Project Management (CAPM)® or advancing with specialized certifications like the Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)®, PMI offers a comprehensive range to meet your specific needs and career aspirations.

For example, CAPM is a great preparation ground for a professional to pursue a PMP.

6. Recognized Proficiency in Leading Projects

The PMP certification isn’t just about theoretical knowledge; it’s about applying that knowledge to real-world project management experiences. From motivating people and teams to using predictive, agile, and hybrid approaches, PMP validates your ability to lead projects in any industry. This recognition makes you a valuable asset, contributing significantly to the success of your projects and your organization. By connecting you with an accomplished community of achievers, you keep up your learning journey of best practices via multiple interaction opportunities that a PMI member enjoys exclusively.

Conclusion: Your Path to Success Begins with PMP Certification

In conclusion, embarking on the journey to PMP certification is not just a career move; it’s a strategic decision to elevate your professional standing, increase your marketability, and unlock a world of opportunities. As a PMP-certified professional, you position yourself as a leader in project management, ready to navigate the complexities of the global job market with confidence and competence. Invest in your future success – get PMP certified today and join the growing tribe of certified project professionals who are powering the progress of humanity one project at a time.

For more information visit: https://www.pmi.org.in/

Ministry of Education launches ‘Prerana’ programme to enhance leadership skills

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January 5, 2024

The Department of School Education & Literacy under the Ministry of Education, has launched ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning programme’. The purpose of this special programme is to provide students in grades IX through XII with a meaningful, inspiring, and unique experience while also empowering them with leadership skills.

According to the officials, Prerana is committed to fusing the values of value-based education, the cornerstone of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, with the principles of the Indian educational system.

Prerana is a week-long residential program for students in classes IX through XII who are chosen. Using cutting-edge technology, this program combines innovation and tradition to provide students with an immersive and motivating learning experience. Every week, a group of twenty chosen students from across the nation will attend the program: ten boys and ten girls.

Students who want to be a part of the ambitious and aspirational Prerana programme can register through the portal by filling out the necessary information. The candidates who have registered will go through a selection process that follows the guidelines on the portal.

In order to assess candidates for well-rounded personalities eager to shape the future of our country, applicants may also participate in the selection process held at the school or block level on the day designated as “Prerana Utsav.” This process involves a variety of activities based on the Prerana ethos.

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