CBSE to Introduce Global Curriculum from 2026-27, Expanding International Offerings

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February 24, 2025

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a global curriculum from the 2026-27 academic session, allowing not only its foreign-affiliated schools but also international schools and CBSE-affiliated institutions in India to adopt it. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP), aiming to provide a globally competitive and flexible learning experience.

A high-level meeting has been called this week to finalize the framework before rolling out a draft for public feedback. The move follows a directive from the Union Education Minister, who recently chaired a meeting instructing CBSE to prepare a detailed action plan for implementation.

This is CBSE’s second foray into international education, following the CBSE-i curriculum, which was launched in 2010 but discontinued in 2017 due to operational challenges. The new curriculum is expected to compete with established global boards like Cambridge International (CI) and International Baccalaureate (IB) while integrating key elements of NCERT’s national curriculum to maintain a balance between Indian educational priorities and global learning standards.

Also Read :- Gujarat Budget 2025-26 Prioritizes Education with Rs 59,999 Crore Allocation

Currently, CBSE does not offer an international curriculum, with most global schools opting for CI, IB, or CISCE affiliations. With this move, CBSE aims to expand its educational footprint, providing schools with a globally aligned yet adaptable syllabus. The final pedagogical structure and framework are expected to be formalized in the coming months, marking CBSE’s re-entry into the international education sector with an official rollout in April 2026.

Gujarat Budget 2025-26 Prioritizes Education with Rs 59,999 Crore Allocation

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February 21, 2025

The Gujarat government has earmarked Rs 59,999 crore for the education sector in the state budget for the financial year 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Kanu Desai on Thursday. Despite the significant allocation, the budget does not introduce any new schemes for education but continues funding for existing initiatives.

The total budget for the state stands at Rs 3.7 lakh crore, with a focus on education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development. Among the key education schemes receiving continued financial support are the Namo Lakshmi Yojana, Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, Mukhya Mantri Yuva Swavalamban Yojana, and various merit-based scholarships.

Declining Enrollment and Institutional Shifts

The Social Economic Review 2024-25, released alongside the budget, highlights a decline in the number of primary schools in Gujarat over the past five years. The number of primary schools has decreased from 45,315 in 2019-20 to 44,288 in 2023-24, with a notable reduction in schools operated by local bodies. Correspondingly, student enrollment has dropped from 86.14 lakh to 78.47 lakh over the same period.

In contrast, the number of technical institutions has grown from 236 in 2020-21 to 271 in 2024-25. However, the total number of sanctioned seats in these institutions has declined from 1.85 lakh to 1.22 lakh, indicating shifting dynamics in higher and technical education demand. Similarly, while the number of diploma institutions has increased, student enrollment has dropped from 1.87 lakh to 1.17 lakh between 2020-21 and 2024-25.

Investments in Higher and Technical Education

A major announcement in the budget is the establishment of the Gujarat Institute of Technology (GIT), modelled after the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The government has allocated Rs 100 crore for the institute, which aims to develop expertise in emerging fields such as green energy, semiconductors, fintech, and aerospace.

Additionally, a Demonstrative Artificial Intelligence Lab will be set up at LD College of Engineering in Ahmedabad, along with AI labs at six other government technical institutions to enhance research and innovation capabilities.

Streamlining Admissions and Enhancing Access

The Gujarat Common Admission Service (GCAS), launched in 2024, has been highlighted as a key achievement in the budget. The portal aims to streamline the admission process for government universities, making registration and course selection more accessible to students across disciplines.

The government’s education focus aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, aiming to modernise Gujarat’s learning infrastructure and prepare students for future job markets.

Broader Budgetary Focus

Beyond education, the state budget allocates substantial resources to infrastructure, healthcare, and economic growth. Investments include Rs 5,000 crore for road expansion, Rs 4,000 crore for smart city initiatives, and Rs 3,500 crore for urban housing projects. The healthcare sector has received Rs 40,000 crore, with an emphasis on AI-based diagnostics in government hospitals and expanded coverage under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.

Women’s empowerment remains a priority, with Rs 15,000 crore directed towards financial independence, education, and safety initiatives for women. Similarly, Rs 10,000 crore has been allocated to skill development and startup incentives, particularly in IT, AI, and renewable energy sectors, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.

The agriculture sector has been allotted Rs 25,000 crore to support irrigation, smart farming, and crop insurance. Additionally, Gujarat has committed Rs 12,000 crore to renewable energy projects, focusing on solar, wind, and hydrogen power, further strengthening the state’s position as a leader in sustainable energy.

Also Read: Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025 Allocates 13 Percent for Education

Symbolism in Budget Presentation

In a departure from the traditional budget presentation style, Finance Minister Desai carried the budget document in a red-coloured ‘pothi’ (ledger book) adorned with Warli paintings and Ahir embroidery, showcasing Gujarat’s rich tribal and folk artistry. The Ashoka Stambh was also prominently featured, reflecting national pride and governance.

Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025 Allocates 13 Percent for Education

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February 20, 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, presented the Budget for the financial year 2025-26 on Thursday. Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna outlined an expenditure plan of Rs 8.08 lakh crore, with a strong emphasis on education, infrastructure development, and job creation. The budget aims to fulfil electoral promises while catering to various societal segments, including students, women, farmers, and the underprivileged.

A significant highlight of the budget is the allocation of 13% of the total expenditure to the education sector. This commitment underscores the state’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure, expanding higher education, and fostering skill development among youth.

To promote higher education among girls, the government has introduced the Rani Laxmibai Scooty Yojana, under which eligible female students will receive scooters. A budgetary provision of Rs 400 crore has been earmarked for this initiative, aiming to improve accessibility to education for young women across the state.

A cornerstone of the education budget is the creation of 92,000 new jobs, encompassing positions for teachers, administrative staff, and professionals in public sector undertakings (PSUs). The government is also investing in skill development programs to enhance employability among the youth in both urban and rural areas.

Recognising the importance of vocational training, the budget provides for the establishment of seven new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and five new polytechnic colleges. Additionally, the Vishwakarma Skill Institute will expand its operations to train students in emerging sectors such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. A Center for Advanced Skill Development will also be established to prepare students for high-demand industries.

The state government has allocated Rs 30,000 crore for educational infrastructure enhancement. This funding will be utilised for the construction of new classrooms, digital laboratories, and sports facilities. Furthermore, 5,000 schools will receive digital classrooms, and new sports complexes will be built to encourage physical education and holistic student development.

To expand higher education opportunities, the government will establish 10 new universities and 15 new colleges, with a particular focus on promoting women’s education and rural accessibility. Special attention will be given to the establishment of Agriculture and Science Institutes, aligning education with the state’s economic needs. Additionally, a scholarship program will be launched to support girls pursuing technical education.

To bridge educational disparities, the budget introduces several measures for marginalised communities. These include scholarships, free textbooks, and financial assistance for students from economically weaker sections. Furthermore, the state will deploy mobile learning units and digital platforms to enhance educational accessibility in rural areas.

Recognising the importance of sports in education, the budget includes funding for new sports academies across multiple districts. The government also plans to establish specialised coaching centres for cricket, badminton, and football while implementing a Sports Quota in higher education institutions to support student-athletes.

To align with global educational advancements, the government is investing in e-learning platforms and digital laboratories. Innovation hubs will be established in major cities such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Agra to foster research and creativity among students.

Also Read: Indian Graduate Employability in AI and ML Reaches 46 Percent: Report

On a national scale, the education budget for 2025-26 has been increased to Rs 50,077.95 crore, up from Rs 47,619.77 crore in the previous year. The national budget includes provisions such as:

Rs 2,160 crore for student financial aid
Rs 681 crore for Digital India e-learning expansion
Rs 327 crore for research and innovation
Rs 11,349 crore for Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
Rs 3,335.97 crore for the University Grants Commission (UGC)
Rs 5,473.87 crore for National Institutes of Technology (NITs)

The Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for educational and employment growth in the state. By creating 92,000 new jobs, expanding technical and vocational education, and enhancing educational infrastructure, the budget ensures that students receive quality education while gaining relevant skills for the evolving job market. The initiatives in this budget reflect the government’s commitment to empowering youth, promoting gender equality in education, and strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s educational framework. As the state advances towards digital transformation and skill-oriented education, these initiatives promise to shape a brighter future for its students and workforce.

Indian Graduate Employability in AI and ML Reaches 46 Percent: Report

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February 20, 2025

A recent report by talent assessment firm Mercer Mettl has highlighted the promising employability of Indian graduates in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). The study, which analysed data from over 2,700 campuses and more than one million learners, found that 46.1% of Indian graduates are employable in AI and ML roles, the highest among all technical domains.

The findings indicate that while Indian graduates possess strong adaptability to AI and ML-related roles, certain skill gaps remain. The report notes that 50% of graduates exhibit the necessary soft skills for AI and Generative AI collaboration. However, creativity, a crucial component in AI innovation, was identified as an area for improvement, with only 44.3% of graduates meeting the employability benchmark in this category. Meanwhile, communication skills (55.1%), critical thinking (54.6%), and leadership abilities (54.2%) emerged as strengths among graduates. Learning agility, with a 46% employability rate, was also recognised as essential for success in the rapidly evolving tech industry.

The report further sheds light on employability variations based on educational institutions. Graduates from Tier 1 colleges demonstrated the highest employability rate at 48.4%, followed by those from Tier 2 institutions at 46.1% and Tier 3 institutions at 43.4%. Despite these differences, the report underscores the presence of potential across all tiers, particularly in specialised technical roles. Notably, Tier 2 graduates excelled in UI/UX developer roles, with a 58.3% employability rate.

Regional data also revealed significant insights. Delhi recorded the highest employability rate at 53.4%, followed by Himachal Pradesh and Punjab at 51.1%. Graduates from Uttarakhand and Jharkhand also performed well, with employability rates of 50% and 49.6%, respectively. These statistics suggest that while metropolitan areas continue to lead in employability, emerging regions are also making strides in technical education and job readiness.

A key highlight of the report is the gender parity observed in AI, ML, and data science roles, where male and female graduates demonstrated equal employability. However, disparities were noted in software testing, indicating the need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap.

Commenting on the findings, Siddhartha Gupta, President of Mercer India, stated, “In 2025, the overall employability rate for Indian graduates stands at 42.6%, marking a slight decline from 44.3% in 2023. This decline is primarily attributed to evolving industry expectations. However, technical roles have witnessed notable improvements in employability, as educational institutions and students increasingly align their skill development efforts with market demands.”

He further added, “The development of non-technical and soft skills presents a more complex challenge, often requiring additional time to refine. These trends highlight the areas where institutions and graduates need to focus their efforts to enhance job readiness.”

The report underscores the growing significance of AI and ML in India’s job market and the increasing emphasis on skill development. With targeted improvements in creativity and other key areas, Indian graduates are well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities in the AI-driven economy.

Adani Group and GEMS to Transform K 12 Education with ₹2,000 Crore Investment

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February 18, 2025

The Adani Foundation has announced a strategic partnership with GEMS Education, a leading global K-12 education provider, to launch the ‘Adani GEMS Schools of Excellence’ across India. This initiative aims to make high-quality education affordable and accessible, with a strong focus on inclusivity.

The initiative will commence with an initial donation of ₹2,000 crore from the Adani family. Under this collaboration, at least 20 schools will be established over the next three years in major metropolitan areas, expanding to Tier II, III, and IV cities. The first school is set to open in Lucknow in the academic year 2025-26.

A key highlight of this project is its commitment to social inclusion. In each school, 30% of the seats in the CBSE curriculum will be reserved for underprivileged students, offering them free education. By leveraging the Adani Group’s extensive infrastructure network and GEMS Education’s expertise in pedagogy and digital learning, the initiative aims to create a scalable, sustainable, and impactful education model.

Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This initiative reflects our commitment to making world-class education affordable and widely accessible. By adopting global best practices and innovative digital learning through our partnership with GEMS Education, we aim to equip the next generation of change-makers to become socially responsible leaders in India.”

Sunny Varkey, Founder and Chairman of GEMS Education, also emphasised the significance of this initiative, noting, “Our vision has always been to make quality education accessible to every learner, regardless of their socioeconomic background.”

Also Read: Andhra Pradesh Strengthens IT Policy to Create More Remote Jobs for Women

The Adani Group has been actively involved in philanthropy, with a broader commitment of ₹10,000 crore towards various social development sectors. This includes ₹6,000 crore allocated for hospital infrastructure and ₹2,000 crore for skill development. The current education initiative aligns with the group’s broader mission of fostering sustainable development through strategic investments in health, education, and skill-building.

With the establishment of these schools, the Adani Foundation and GEMS Education seek to create a transformative impact on the Indian education system. By integrating cutting-edge teaching methodologies with world-class infrastructure, the initiative will provide students from diverse backgrounds with opportunities for holistic development and future success.

Adani to Develop India’s Largest ‘Skill and Employ’ Program to Support ‘Make in India’

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February 12, 2025

Ahmedabad, 12 Feb 2025: In line with Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani’s social philosophy सेवा साधना है, सेवा प्रार्थना है और सेवा ही परमात्मा है, the Adani Group has partnered with ITE Education Services (ITEES) of Singapore to build a skilled talent pipeline for serving the needs of industries, including Green Energy, Manufacturing, Hi-tech, Project Excellence and Industrial Design. To build this talent pool of industry-ready workforce, the Adani family will donate over INR 2,000 Cr for establishing internationally benchmarked schools of excellence.

Each of these finishing schools, called Adani Global Skills Academy, will select students from technical and vocational education backgrounds in India aligned to their industry and role aspirations. Once these students have been certified in their chosen field of study, they will be employed within the Adani Group as well as the broader industry, depending on their role and field of training. This will ensure that trained professionals are first-day, first-hour industry-ready and benchmarked to global standards of excellence.

In its initial phase, the program will prioritise establishing the world’s largest finishing school for technical training in Mundra, Gujarat, aiming to skill over 25,000 learners annually for a wide range of industry and service roles. These learners would be fresh graduates and diploma holders with vocational and technical qualifications from ITIs or Polytechnics and would be selected for an intensive boot camp experience within the schools.

The Adani Global Skills Academy will be the largest of its kind in the world and provide an immersive learning experience, with innovation centres and AI-based simulators combined with mixed reality-based learning, within a fully residential facility for students and faculty.

To ensure a high-quality learning experience, Adani is partnering with ITEES Singapore, a world leader in providing career-oriented technical and vocational training and a key developer of national occupational skills certification and standards.

ITEES Singapore will serve as a knowledge partner towards creating a continuous feeder for this technically qualified and industry-ready talent. The areas of collaboration will include creating a best-in-class learning experience that leverages world-class infrastructure and immersive technical content and roping in leading faculty with deep expertise across new-age industries.

“This partnership is critical to our initiative as a Group to build high-level technical talent and is in line with our commitment towards the Make-in-India focus across our portfolio. With deep engagement across academic quality assurance, certification-led learning pathways, faculty and student exchange programs and leadership development, this partnership will embed the best of application-led learning to support industries across sectors, thus contributing to Viksit Bharat,” said Mr Robin Bhowmik, CEO of Adani Skills & Education.

Also Read: Smart Education in 2025 Shaped by AI in School Curriculums

“ITEES is pleased to collaborate with Adani to share ITE’s expertise and knowledge in skills education and training. Through this meaningful partnership, ITEES aims to enhance skill development and create lasting impact by transforming education and lives,” said Mr Suresh Natarajan, CEO of ITEES, Singapore.

Over the years, ITEES has received many accolades for its trailblazing transformation in technical education, including being the first education institution to win the Singapore Quality Award with special commendation in 2011.

For more information v, visit: www.adani.com

For media queries, contact Roy Paul: roy.paul@adani.com

Smart Education in 2025 Shaped by AI in School Curriculums

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February 12, 2025

Few technological advancements in human history since electricity’s invention have been as transformative as Artificial Intelligence. Since its public release, AI has seamlessly integrated into various facets of life, reshaping efficiency, functionality, and even the way it is studied. The education sector, in particular, has reaped significant benefits, with AI revolutionizing curricula, pedagogy, methodologies, and student learning experiences. Alongside the rise of digital learning, AI integration has proven instrumental in building smart education systems. Consequently, AI is now poised to redefine school curriculums, driving the evolution of smart education systems well beyond 2025.

This shift is backed by compelling data. A recent major report indicates that nearly 89% of students worldwide use some form of AI for homework. Additionally, a striking 90% of students believe studying with an AI assistant is more effective than learning from a teacher. Further reports suggest AI-driven smart education systems enhance student retention rates by up to 30% through personalized learning. This underscores AI’s role in reshaping education, directly influencing stakeholder perspectives in 2025.

The Shift Towards Smart Education Systems

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital learning solutions. The subsequent public emergence of AI further reinforced this transition, with Large Language Models (LLMs) modernizing Learning Management Systems (LMS). Initially, institutions focused on digitizing knowledge delivery methods, but the transformation soon expanded beyond that scope. AI integration evolved toward smart classrooms, innovative pedagogies, and, most importantly, personalized education tailored to students’ skills, needs, and learning capacities. While the first phase enhanced knowledge acquisition by extending learning beyond textbooks to digital platforms, the next phase leveraged deep learning, AI analytics, and pattern recognition to bridge learning gaps and address difficulties.

This holistic transformation continues to shape smart education systems. With AI and Machine Learning-powered digital tools assessing vast amounts of student performance data, benchmarks have been established to evaluate strengths and weaknesses. By aligning these insights with individual learning needs and preferences, smart education systems are becoming increasingly relevant.

The emergence of these systems is timely, not just due to AI but also shifting societal demands. Over the past decade, global education needs have evolved significantly, driven by technological progress. In India, the traditional education system, deeply rooted in a colonial framework, was designed to produce workers for an industrial era. However, as the world shifts towards knowledge-based professions, modernizing education to equip millions for the future has become imperative. Today, governments, institutions, and private-sector stakeholders in India and beyond are prioritizing smart education systems as a necessity to overcome learning challenges and ensure future readiness.

Are Smart Education Systems Beneficial for Students?

The transition from conventional to smart education systems addresses multiple educational needs. Enhancing student engagement, improving retention rates, and adopting modern pedagogies have been key priorities for education stakeholders. Smart education systems effectively address these challenges by prioritizing individualized learning preferences, capabilities, and needs. Personalized learning allows students to progress at their own pace, fostering a more immersive and engaging experience. This, in turn, leads to a deeper understanding, improved comprehension, and heightened student participation.

Furthermore, smart education systems are built on a foundation of connectivity. Their digital model democratizes learning while significantly increasing accessibility. This enhanced engagement also supports the development of essential 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

The long-term impact of smart education tools is profound. Virtual tutoring, for instance, enhances student interaction, making learning more immersive. AI-driven systems provide personalized content recommendations based on learning styles, progress, and requirements, reducing search time and broadening students’ exposure to relevant material. Additionally, algorithm-based automated assessments assist teachers in monitoring student performance, identifying learning gaps, and delivering real-time feedback.

Also Read: Budget 2025 Forecasts: Empowering Every Learner, Teacher and School for a Brighter India

Global Initiatives in Smart Education

Countries worldwide are actively incorporating AI into their education systems. Nations such as Singapore, South Korea, India, and the US have emerged as frontrunners in this movement. Singapore, in its quest to become a smart nation, has integrated AI into automated grading systems. India is leveraging AI to enhance and democratize education across all demographics. Meanwhile, the US is advancing AI-driven personalized learning and adaptive assessments, reflecting the global shift toward smart education. Similar initiatives are being undertaken worldwide, and as these systems gain momentum, they are set to redefine the future of education in the coming years.

Views expressed by: Arun Prakash, Founder & CEO, GUVI Geek Networks

Andhra Pradesh Strengthens IT Policy to Create More Remote Jobs for Women

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February 11, 2025

The Government of Andhra Pradesh is taking a significant step towards expanding work-from-home (WFH) opportunities, particularly for women professionals. Recognising the evolving work landscape post-COVID-19, the state administration is actively promoting remote work, coworking spaces, and Neighbourhood Workspaces (NWS) to enhance employment prospects and improve work-life balance.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, in a recent review meeting at the State Secretariat, underscored the need for educated women to actively participate in the workforce. He emphasised that women should not be confined to household responsibilities alone but should be provided with viable employment opportunities through remote work models.

To facilitate this vision, the Andhra Pradesh IT & GCC (Global Capability Centers) Policy 4.0 has been introduced as a transformative initiative aimed at fostering IT infrastructure development across cities, towns, and mandals. The policy offers incentives to developers for creating IT office spaces and extends support to IT and GCC firms, ensuring job creation at the grassroots level.

The Chief Minister highlighted that work-from-home and coworking spaces present an excellent opportunity for women who may face constraints due to familial responsibilities. By providing training to educated women in rural and semi-urban areas, the government aims to equip them with skills that can help them secure employment and contribute to economic growth.

During the review meeting, Naidu directed officials to identify and train potential candidates, ensuring that digital workspaces are accessible to them. He pointed out that many qualified women remain unemployed due to a lack of suitable work opportunities close to their homes. By developing coworking centres and neighbourhood workspaces, the government seeks to bridge this gap and empower women to re-enter the workforce.

The policy is expected to have far-reaching benefits. By integrating technology with flexible work arrangements, businesses can leverage a wider talent pool while employees enjoy the advantages of remote work. This initiative not only benefits women professionals but also strengthens the overall workforce participation in the state.

The Chief Minister’s commitment to promoting work-from-home and flexible employment options aligns with global trends, where digital transformation is reshaping traditional work models. He firmly believes that increasing workforce participation among women will contribute significantly to economic development.

Also Read: NITI Aayog Targets 9 Crore Higher Education Enrolments by 2035

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as a reminder of the importance of providing equal opportunities to women in the workforce. Andhra Pradesh’s initiative to support remote work is a step forward in ensuring that women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and other sectors have the flexibility to balance their careers and personal lives effectively.

With the implementation of these policies, Andhra Pradesh aims to set a precedent for inclusive employment strategies, paving the way for a more dynamic and diverse workforce. The government remains optimistic that these measures will create sustainable employment opportunities for women, fostering economic empowerment and long-term growth.

NITI Aayog Targets 9 Crore Higher Education Enrolments by 2035

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February 11, 2025

NITI Aayog has unveiled a comprehensive policy report titled ‘Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities’. The report, launched by Vice Chairman Suman Bery along with other senior officials, aims to address critical challenges in India’s higher education landscape, focusing on the role of State Public Universities (SPUs).

With 495 SPUs and 46,000 affiliated institutions accounting for 81% of student enrolment, these universities play a pivotal role in India’s higher education system. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 sets an ambitious target to increase higher education enrolment from 4.33 crore to 9 crore by 2035. The report underscores that enhancing the quality of SPUs is crucial for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The report highlights the need for SPUs to move beyond their traditional role of providing access to higher education and evolve into globally competitive institutions. Key areas requiring attention include improving research quality, pedagogy, and financial sustainability while maintaining affordability and accessibility. The report calls for policy, regulatory, and fiscal interventions to enhance governance, curriculum design, and institutional infrastructure.

The report proposes a multi-pronged strategy with short, medium, and long-term policy recommendations across five core areas:

Research & Development: Establishing research hubs, faculty training programs, patent cells, and R&D advisory committees to enhance innovation.
Curriculum Enhancement: Implementing industry-linked curricula, periodic syllabus updates, and multidisciplinary education to meet evolving job market needs.
Employability & Skilling: Introducing mandatory internships, entrepreneurship programs, and industry-academia collaborations to bridge the skill gap.
Digitalisation: Leveraging technology through AI-driven student lifecycle management, digital learning centres, and tech-enabled classrooms.
Internationalisation: Encouraging global collaborations, faculty exchange programs, and initiatives to attract international students.

To ensure sustainable funding, the report advocates for increasing education expenditure to 6% of GDP, as recommended by NEP 2020. It suggests establishing a dedicated infrastructure finance agency for SPUs, encouraging corporate social responsibility (CSR) investments, and piloting fee autonomy for select universities while ensuring scholarships for affordability.

On governance, the report recommends a shift from regulatory control to a facilitator model, strengthening State Councils for Higher Education (SCHEs), expediting faculty recruitment, and implementing transparent governance structures.

Recognising the need for stronger academia-industry linkages, the report proposes initiatives such as ‘Internship Banks’ to connect students with industry opportunities. It also calls for formal partnerships with industry bodies like CII, FICCI, and NASSCOM for research collaborations and faculty appointments of industry experts as ‘Professors of Practice’.

The policy document presents nearly 80 policy recommendations spanning governance, funding, quality enhancement, and employability. These insights are based on extensive consultations with 20 state governments, 50 SPUs, and key stakeholders in the education sector.

Also Read: Kerala to develop state-owned AI engine for schools under KITE’s leadership

NITI Aayog’s Vice Chairman Suman Bery emphasised that public universities globally, such as those in the U.S. and Brazil, set benchmarks for academic excellence. He urged Indian SPUs to align with global standards. NITI Aayog Member Dr Vinod Kumar Paul stressed that transforming SPUs is essential for India’s transition into a global knowledge powerhouse.

NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam reaffirmed that nearly 80% of India’s higher education will continue to be delivered through SPUs, making their reform crucial. The report serves as a strategic blueprint to complement NEP 2020 in strengthening India’s higher education system, thereby positioning SPUs at the forefront of national development.

Kerala to develop state-owned AI engine for schools under KITE’s leadership

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February 10, 2025

In a significant move to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into school education, the Kerala government has announced plans to develop a state-owned AI engine within the academic framework. The initiative, led by Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE), aims to enhance the learning experience and equip students with AI-driven educational tools.

State General Education Minister V Sivankutty made the announcement on Saturday while inaugurating the State Camp of Little KITEs at the International Centre for Free and Open Source Software (ICFOSS) campus. According to an official statement, the AI engine will be developed within the year, further strengthening the state’s commitment to digital education.

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote technology-driven learning, the state government has also completed the distribution of 29,000 Open Hardware Robotic Kits to schools. These kits, deployed through KITE, include essential components such as Arduino Uno Rev3, LEDs, servo motors, light sensors, IR sensor modules, buzzers, push buttons, and breadboards.

Minister Sivankutty emphasised the importance of CSR partnerships in scaling up such educational initiatives. He urged more companies to follow the example of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), Qburst Technologies, and Canara Bank, which have contributed CSR funds to make robotics education more accessible to students across Kerala.

Also Read: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches 41 Books Under PM YUVA 2.0 at NDWBF 2025

In addition to promoting AI and robotics education, Kerala’s ICT textbooks now include critical topics such as digital well-being, combating misinformation, and responsible use of technology. The minister stressed the need for a balanced approach to technology use among children to mitigate potential risks.

Declining Enrollment and Institutional Shifts

Investments in Higher and Technical Education

Streamlining Admissions and Enhancing Access

Broader Budgetary Focus

Symbolism in Budget Presentation

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