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NMDC partners with IIT Kanpur to boost cybersecurity and accelerate digital innovation

NMDC

NMDC has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. The partnership aims to enhance cybersecurity preparedness and scale the use of advanced digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) across NMDC’s operations.

The MoU was formally exchanged between Satyendra Rai, Executive Director (Digital Transformation) at NMDC, and Professor Ashoke De, Dean, R&D, IIT Kanpur. The signing ceremony was graced by IIT Kanpur Director Professor Manindra Agrawal, senior NMDC leaders, and representatives from the institute.

Under this collaboration, NMDC and IIT Kanpur will jointly pursue initiatives in cybersecurity assessments, policy development, compliance frameworks, AI-ML innovation, incident response strategies, and workforce capacity building. The two institutions will also work together on research projects, pilot implementations, training programmes, and co-creation of proof-of-concept solutions.

Also Read: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal urges Amity graduates to build Viksit Bharat 2047

Commenting on the alliance, NMDC CMD Amitava Mukherjee said, “This partnership brings IIT Kanpur’s cutting-edge research expertise into NMDC’s expanding digital ecosystem. It will strengthen our cybersecurity posture, enhance data-driven decision-making, and support our journey towards becoming a technologically robust and future-ready mining organisation.”

The MoU reinforces NMDC’s vision of evolving into a digitally empowered, innovation-driven mining major.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal urges Amity graduates to build Viksit Bharat 2047

Viksit Bharat 2047

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, addressed the convocation ceremony of Amity University in Noida today, describing the role of universities as vital institutions that shape future leaders by nurturing talent and enabling young minds to realise their full potential. Congratulating nearly 29,000 graduating students from both online and on-campus programmes, he emphasised that their achievements were the true highlight of the day.

Applauding Amity University’s inclusive and merit-driven environment, the Minister praised its need-blind scholarship system and the diverse opportunities offered to students. He expressed pride that half the student body comprises young women and commended the institution’s strong innovation culture, reflected in over 450 student-held patents. He also acknowledged the contribution of 50 Ramalingam Swami Fellows who have returned to India to teach and advance national progress.

Speaking on Mahaparinirvan Diwas, Shri Goyal invoked Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s enduring message of equality and social justice. He reiterated that education is central to uplifting underserved communities and urged graduates to remain mindful of their social and national responsibilities.

Positioning the graduating batch as key contributors to India’s aspiration of becoming a developed nation by 2047, he said the next 25 years would define the nation’s future. He encouraged students to innovate fearlessly, excel in their chosen fields, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth trajectory.

Highlighting the Prime Minister’s call from the Red Fort urging one lakh youth to consider public life and politics as a career, Shri Goyal stressed the need for ethical, committed individuals in governance. He suggested that universities could introduce internships with elected representatives to help students understand public service and governance at close quarters.

Drawing a parallel with the computer term “garbage in, garbage out,” he emphasised the need for more capable and well-intentioned young leaders in Indian politics. He expressed confidence that if India’s youth step forward with commitment and integrity, the country’s progress will accelerate beyond expectations.

Reflecting on the Prime Minister’s five guiding principles articulated during the 75th Independence Day address, he underscored their relevance in steering India from a $4 trillion economy towards the vision of a $35 trillion economy by 2047. 

Also Read: UGC calls on Universities to boost women’s empowerment initiatives aligned with NEP 2020 vision

The Minister encouraged students to embrace Indian culture proudly, suggesting that institutions could even consider traditional attire for future convocations. He reminded graduates that education is not just for personal advancement but also a commitment to family, community and nation.

Shri Piyush Goyal also recognised the immense efforts of teachers and parents in shaping the graduating class. He encouraged students to stay connected to their alma mater and express gratitude to their mentors.

As the young graduates step into the next phase of their lives, he acknowledged that challenges will come their way but expressed confidence that the values and education received at Amity University have prepared them well. He urged them to contribute wholeheartedly to nation-building and play an active role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.

UGC calls on Universities to boost women’s empowerment initiatives aligned with NEP 2020 vision

University Grants Commission

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released an official directive dated December 5, 2025, encouraging higher education institutions across the country to actively conduct programmes, workshops, and seminars focused on enhancing women’s participation and empowerment. This move reinforces the transformative agenda of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which champions accessible, inclusive, and learner-centric education.

NEP 2020, regarded as one of India’s most comprehensive educational reforms, highlights the need for holistic and multidisciplinary learning. A crucial pillar of this policy is its emphasis on gender inclusion, acknowledging that empowering women in academic spaces is essential for social progress and national development.

Women’s representation in higher education significantly influences growth across academia, research, leadership, and entrepreneurial sectors. As India accelerates toward a knowledge-driven future, expanding opportunities for women to learn, innovate, and lead becomes increasingly vital.

The UGC’s communication urges institutions to cultivate supportive environments where women – students, educators, and staff, can pursue their personal and professional goals confidently. Recommended activities include:

  • Gender sensitization sessions
  • Leadership and capacity-building programmes
  • Legal rights and awareness workshops
  • Seminars on workplace equality
  • Entrepreneurship training
  • Digital and financial literacy initiatives

These efforts aim to not only inform but empower, promoting mentorship, dialogue, and collective action on issues that influence women’s experiences within academic settings from safety and wellbeing to career growth and leadership representation.

Also Read: Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026: PM Modi’s Iconic Student Interaction Returns for its 9th Edition

The circular also encourages universities to partner with prominent national bodies such as:

  • The National Commission for Women
  • The Parliamentary Committee on Empowerment of Women
  • Former senior civil servants
  • Influential women leaders across sectors

Such collaborations bring invaluable insights, diverse perspectives, and inspiring stories that can motivate students and faculty to champion gender equality more actively.

By spearheading these empowerment initiatives, the UGC aims to build campuses that are dynamic, safe, and encouraging spaces where women can pursue leadership roles, engage in innovation, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. These programmes help institutions address systemic barriers, promote equal opportunities, and amplify women’s voices in academia.

The UGC’s call to action underscores the powerful role of educational institutions in shaping a society that nurtures and uplifts women. With consistent effort and well-designed programmes, India’s higher education system can lead the way in building a more equitable and inclusive future.

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026: PM Modi’s Iconic Student Interaction Returns for its 9th Edition

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s much-awaited annual interaction, Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC), is set to return with its 9th edition in January 2026. This one-of-a-kind programme brings together students, parents, and teachers from India and across the globe to have a candid conversation with the Prime Minister on handling exams with confidence and embracing assessments as a joyful Utsav of learning.

To select participants for the 2026 edition, an MCQ-based online competition is live on the MyGov portal from 1 December 2025 to 11 January 2026. Students from Classes 6–12, along with teachers and parents, can register and attempt the activity. Every participant who completes the task will receive a digital certificate from MyGov.

The 8th edition, aired on 10 February 2025, showcased a fresh and engaging format at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi. Thirty-six students representing every State and UT—including those from Government schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, Eklavya Model Residential Schools, CBSE institutions, and Navodaya Vidyalayas—participated in the interaction. Alumni of the PRERANA programme, along with winners of Kala Utsav and Veer Gatha, also joined the event.

Also Read : Karnataka approves ₹18 crore to kick off ₹3,200 crore upgrade of 800 govt. schools

PPC 2025 additionally introduced seven theme-based episodes, covering Sports & Discipline, Mental Well-being, Nutrition, Finance & Technology, Creativity, and Positivity, featuring insights from leading personalities.

PPC 2025 secured a significant achievement by entering the Guinness World Records, with participation from:

  • Students across 245+ countries
  • Teachers from 153 countries
  • Parents from 149 countries

The programme has experienced exponential growth—from 22,000 participants in 2018 to 3.56 crore registrations in 2025, along with 1.55 crore participants in nationwide Jan Andolan activities, taking total engagement to nearly 5 crore people.

Karnataka approves ₹18 crore to kick off ₹3,200 crore upgrade of 800 govt. schools

Karnataka

The government of Karnataka has sanctioned ₹18 crore to commission an agency for drafting Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) to upgrade 800 state-run schools under the Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) initiative.

Of the 800 schools, 474 will be revamped with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), 200 will get funding through the Kalyana Karnataka Region Development Board (KKRDB), and 100 will be upgraded using funds from the Karnataka Mining Environment Restoration Corporation (KMERC). 

Also Read: Telangana Education Policy nears completion with strong focus on EdTech & Digital Transformation

The overhaul, estimated at ₹3,200 crore, aims to transform government schools into modern institutions offering pre-primary to pre-university education under one roof. Each upgraded school will cater to up to 1,200 students and will feature enhanced infrastructure, including smart classrooms, labs, libraries, playgrounds, sanitation facilities, computer and STEAM resources, and improved teacher training. 

This move reflects the state’s push to strengthen public school infrastructure, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas, to reduce dropouts and improve learning outcomes under a unified, modern educational setup.

 

Why Dubai is Becoming the Global Hub for Higher Education Leaders

Higher Education Leaders in Dubai

Have you noticed how, in almost every conversation about the future of higher education, one destination keeps quietly emerging at the center? It’s not because someone is advertising it, it’s because experts, policymakers, and academic innovators are actually moving their meetings, partnerships, and even campuses there. So what’s really happening? Why are university leaders across continents now looking toward the UAE for their next big leap?

This is the same question that has inspired global educators to gather at the 35th Elets World Education Summit Dubai 2026, happening on 4–5 February, where higher education leadership, strategy, and innovation will be in full focus. But before that moment arrives, there’s a deeper story worth exploring.

The UAE isn’t just geographically central—it has become a hub of academic circulation. More than over 40 international branch campuses now operate in the region, making it one of the world’s densest cross-border higher education ecosystems. For leaders navigating internationalisation, student mobility, and global collaborations, this ecosystem creates opportunities that simply don’t exist elsewhere.

While many countries struggle with bureaucratic layers and slow reforms, the UAE has taken the opposite route: adaptive policy frameworks, rapid approvals for new programs, and national-level roadmaps prioritizing skills, research, and innovation. This agility matters today more than ever, especially when universities are preparing graduates for AI-led economies and rapidly changing workforce needs.

From AI-enabled campuses to national goals for research and innovation, the UAE has positioned itself as a testbed for the future of higher education. Leaders are not coming here just to expand; they’re coming to experiment, prototype, and reimagine.

And these conversations will take center stage at the World Education Summit Dubai 2026, where university presidents, provosts, and CXOs will decode how AI, analytics, and global collaboration are reshaping leadership responsibilities.

Also Read: Can AI Make Every Classroom Smarter and Personalised in UAE Schools

The UAE’s emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the digital economy aligns seamlessly with what universities are now expected to deliver graduates who are prepared not just for jobs but for global competition. In this environment, industry connections, internship opportunities, and research clusters are thriving.

If you are trying to understand what next-generation higher education leadership looks like the UAE is not just another destination on the map. It is where the future is visibly taking shape.

And that journey will culminate at the 35th Elets World Education Summit Dubai 2026 on 4–5 February, where the world’s leading higher education minds gather to shape cross-border education pathways, research collaborations, and leadership frameworks for the next decade.

Can AI Make Every Classroom Smarter and Personalised in UAE Schools

35th Elets World Education Summit Dubai 2026

Have you ever wondered why some students thrive in the classroom while others struggle to keep up, even with the same teacher and curriculum? Imagine if every lesson could adapt to the unique pace, strengths, and learning style of each student. Sounds like science fiction? Well, in 2026, AI is making this possible, and schools across the UAE are starting to catch up. But the big question remains, can AI truly transform classrooms, or is it just another buzzword in EdTech discussions?

Education leaders will explore these very questions at the 35th Elets World Education Summit Dubai on 4–5 February 2026, where global experts and school leaders gather to discuss the future of learning.

The Promise of AI in K-12 Education
AI in schools isn’t just about flashy technology. It’s about personalized learning at scale, tools that can track student progress, suggest tailored exercises, and even predict where a child might struggle next. Schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are piloting platforms that adapt lessons in real-time, helping teachers identify gaps before they widen. According to a 2025 UAE Ministry of Education report, over 40% of K-12 schools have started experimenting with AI-driven learning tools and early results show improvements in engagement and comprehension.

Real-World Examples from the UAE
Take a classroom in Dubai where an AI platform monitors student interactions during math lessons. The system identifies students who need extra practice and automatically adjusts exercises for them. Meanwhile, teachers get instant analytics, saving hours of grading and allowing them to focus on coaching and mentoring. Leading schools like GEMS Education are integrating AI into both core subjects and skill-based learning, setting new benchmarks for UAE classrooms. These innovations will be highlighted and discussed further at the Elets World Education Summit Dubai 2026.

Also Read: Redefining Learning: How Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence are Transforming Education

Challenges and Considerations
Of course, AI isn’t a magic wand. Leaders face challenges, teacher training, data privacy concerns, and integration with existing curricula are top hurdles. Some schools worry that over-reliance on technology might affect student creativity and critical thinking. But when done thoughtfully, AI complements human teaching rather than replacing it.

By 2030, UAE schools could see fully adaptive classrooms, where every child learns at their own pace, teachers are supported by intelligent insights, and administrators can make data-driven decisions with ease. Education summits in Dubai, including the Elets World Education Summit on 4–5 February 2026, are already showcasing these innovations, highlighting UAE as a global EdTech leader.

The real question for school leaders isn’t whether AI works, it’s whether they are ready to lead their schools into this AI-powered future. Are your classrooms ready to get smarter? And will you join peers and experts at the 35th Elets World Education Summit Dubai 2026 on 4–5 February to discover how AI is transforming learning?

Dr. S. V. Kota Reddy takes charge as Vice Chancellor of Amity University Hyderabad

Dr. S. V. Kota Reddy

Amity University Hyderabad has welcomed renowned academic leader Dr. Seelam Venkata Kota Reddy as its new Vice Chancellor, marking a significant addition to the institution’s leadership team. Dr. S. V. Kota Reddy assumed office on 26th November 2025, bringing with him more than three decades of expertise in teaching, research and higher education administration.

Dr. Reddy announced the development on LinkedIn, expressing his enthusiasm to begin a new chapter at Amity University Hyderabad after an impactful five-year tenure as Vice Chancellor of VIT-AP University. His leadership at VIT-AP was widely recognised for driving notable achievements in academics, research and institutional growth.

A respected academician with 36 years of professional experience, Dr. Reddy has previously served in several prestigious roles, including Academic President at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Dubai Campus. During his stint in the UAE, MAHE Dubai earned a 5-Star rating in the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) framework, emerging as one of the highest-rated universities in Dubai.

Dr. Reddy holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Bombay and is known for his strong belief in commitment, teamwork and timely execution. His career has been distinguished by pioneering contributions to international academic collaborations, student exchange programs and multidisciplinary excellence.

A prolific researcher and innovator, Dr. Reddy has filed seven patents, one US, two international and four Indian — in collaboration with IIT Bombay, and has authored numerous papers in Scopus and Web of Science-indexed journals. His R&D outputs have earned several accolades, including:

  • Meritorious Award at KAIF 2007 for Plastic Solar Water Heater
    National Award for Excellence in HVAC&R for two consecutive years (2008 & 2009)
  • Outstanding Contribution to Education Award, Middle East Education Leadership Awards (2016 & 2017)
  • Indywood Educational Excellence Award, UAE (2016 & 2017)
  • MaGEX Award for Best Academic Administration (2015–16)
  • Elite Academician Award by IEEE (2022)
  • Education Leadership Award at the 11th & 12th World Education Congress (2022 & 2023)
  • Excellent Vice Chancellor of Leading University in India by CSR (2025)

With his appointment, Amity University Hyderabad is expected to strengthen its academic footprint, enhance research culture and accelerate international collaborations.

Also Read: Telangana Education Policy nears completion with strong focus on EdTech & Digital Transformation

Education leaders across the country have welcomed the announcement, expressing confidence that Dr. Reddy’s vision and experience will significantly contribute to Amity’s mission of shaping future-ready global professionals.

Telangana Education Policy nears completion with strong focus on EdTech & Digital Transformation

Telangana Education Policy

The final draft of the Telangana Education Policy (TEP) is in its last stage and is likely to be presented to the state government in the first week of December. The expert committee and multiple sub-committees are currently giving final shape to the document.

As per the committee members, the TEP is designed to become a future-focused blueprint that enhances learning outcomes, reduces educational inequality, encourages lifelong learning, drives collaboration and ensures systematic execution — all benchmarked with the National Education Policy (NEP).

The policy goes a step further by including critical gaps not covered in NEP-2020, with the objective of creating a world-class, inclusive and sustainable education ecosystem, positioning Telangana as a leader in Indian education by 2047.

Formed in August under the vision of Telangana Rising 2047, the TEP committee is supported by 11 specialised sub-committees, each tasked with analysing a specific domain — including infrastructure readiness, joyful learning environments, curriculum reform and pedagogical innovation — to develop a holistic, technology-driven education model.

In addition to broader structural reforms, the final draft proposes significant measures such as introducing legislation to regulate private school fees and strengthening English-medium education in government schools. The overall policy aligns with the state’s economic aspiration of a $3 trillion economy by 2035.

Despite ongoing investments, Telangana continues to grapple with issues like uneven digital access, inadequate integration of technology in pedagogy and weak data governance — all of which restrict EdTech from delivering reliable improvements in equity, employability and learning outcomes.

Digital Education Blueprint to Be Rolled Out by December

TGCHE Chairman and TEP committee member Balakista Reddy highlighted a four-pillar digital transformation framework within the policy:

  1. Telangana Digital Shala — transforming schools through integrated digital learning
  2. Universal Access and Digital Literacy for students across all socio-economic backgrounds
  3. Teachers as Digital Innovators through training and micro-certifications
  4. Data-Driven Governance & Personalised Support for students

The draft divides execution into three rollout phases:

  • Phase I (0–18 months): Launch of EdTech Roadmap 2035, Digital Learning Hubs and teacher micro-certifications
  • Phase II (1–3 years): Establishment of SEDEX, implementation of the Data Governance Policy, Digital Learner Record Wallets and AI dashboards
  • Phase III (3–7 years): Formation of the Digital Education Mission Delivery Unit, EMIS upgrades, PPP models and outcome-linked financing

“We are collating final inputs and will submit the policy as a working document to the government in early December,” Reddy confirmed.

Further highlighting structural reforms, Vishweshwar Rao, member of the Telangana Education Commission, noted that a Private School Fee Regulation Bill has also been drafted, with schools classified across segments including budget schools. Additional recommendations include strengthening communication skills and integrating intermediate education within the school education framework. He said the policy is built to ensure holistic educational outcomes for every learner in the state.

UP aims 100% digital literacy for differently abled women by 2026

UP Govt.

The Government of Uttar Pradesh has launched an initiative to ensure that every differently abled woman in the state becomes digitally literate by 2026. The goal is not only to make them technologically skilled but also to build long-term self-reliance and establish Uttar Pradesh as a truly disability-friendly state.

The commitment toward empowerment began in 2017, when Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath increased job reservation for persons with disabilities from 3% to 4%, unlocking employment opportunities for more than three lakh candidates across government departments.

At present, 1,403 dedicated special schools are functioning across the state, with half of the enrolled students being girls. These institutions are equipping students with digital competencies, from basic computer literacy to mobile applications and online learning. One special school in Chitrakoot has become a model of success where differently abled girls are actively pursuing IT courses using e-learning platforms.

Infrastructure accessibility has also seen a major upgrade. Under the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, 271 out of 278 government buildings have already been fitted with wheelchair ramps, barrier-free entry points and voice-assisted systems, enhancing mobility for persons with disabilities.

Digital inclusion is also a priority. The state’s IT department has revamped 44 government websites to comply with WCAG-2.1 accessibility standards, enabling visually impaired citizens to easily navigate information and government services. The disabled pension portal has been upgraded with voice-command support, allowing rural disabled women to access pension benefits without assistance.

Also Read: Shoolini University’s SCDOE hosts its first convocation

Further, more than 200 women are currently undergoing training in e-commerce and freelance work at a digital centre in Lucknow, helping them move toward digital employment and entrepreneurship.

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