ISBF and King’s College London Launch BSc Psychology Program to Address India’s Mental Health Needs

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January 22, 2025

The Indian School of Business and Finance (ISBF) is going to launch a BSc Psychology (Hons) program in collaboration with King’s College London, ranked third in the UK for psychology by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This partnership aims to address India’s growing need for skilled mental health professionals by offering students a globally benchmarked curriculum and cutting-edge resources.

To enhance hands-on learning, ISBF will establish a psychology lab where students can conduct simulations and experiments, bridging theory with practice. “This program reflects our commitment to providing students with world-class education and practical innovation,” said Arushi Bakshi, Director of ISBF.

A Legacy of Global Partnerships

Known for its academic collaborations, ISBF delivers undergraduate programs under the University of London (UOL), with academic direction from the London School of Economics (LSE). Its offerings in Economics, Management, Finance, and Data Science have earned recognition, including accolades like the National Education Award for B-School Leadership and ASSOCHAM’s Best Institute for Global Exposure.

ISBF also boasts a distinguished Advisory Board with leaders from institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford, alongside industry giants like Meta and Google. This ensures the curriculum remains aligned with global academic and professional standards.

Global Opportunities for Students

ISBF students benefit from unique international exposure opportunities, such as the LSE Summer School with a 40% scholarship, global university transfer options, and internships through the Mountbatten Programme with firms like HSBC and Deutsche Bank in hubs like London and New York.

Also Read: IGNOU Launches MBA Study Materials in Odia, Pioneering Regional Language Education

Modern Campus, Expansive Vision

In July 2024, ISBF inaugurated its state-of-the-art campus in South Delhi, equipped with advanced classrooms, research facilities, and sporting amenities, fostering holistic student development.

Applications for the 2025 intake, including the new psychology program, are now open. Interested candidates can learn more at www.isbf.edu.in.

By partnering with King’s College London, ISBF aims to redefine psychology education in India, addressing critical mental health needs while preparing students for global academic and professional success.

IGNOU Launches MBA Study Materials in Odia, Pioneering Regional Language Education

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January 22, 2025

In a landmark move to promote regional language education, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has introduced MBA (Master of Business Administration) study materials in Odia. This initiative marks the first instance of IGNOU providing course materials in the Odia language, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 objectives to offer higher education in local languages.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan officiated the digital launch of these Odia MBA books at Jaydev Bhavan in Bhubaneswar. Minister Pradhan commended IGNOU’s efforts, emphasizing that the availability of management education resources in Odia will significantly benefit students across Odisha. He also unveiled IGNOU’s e-GyanKosh and e-KUMBH portals during the event. The e-GyanKosh portal will host digital study materials, while the e-KUMBH portal will provide access to IGNOU’s online MBA books in Odia.

Professor Nayantara Padhi from IGNOU highlighted that the decision to offer MBA education in Odia stems from the implementation of NEP 2020 in Odisha, which advocates for the inclusion of regional languages in higher education. This initiative is expected to make management education more accessible to Odia-speaking students, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the academic landscape.

Also Read :- Dhananjay Shukla Elected as ICSI President for 2025; Pawan G Chandak to Serve as Vice President

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Odisha Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain and Higher Education and Odia Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who collectively lauded the initiative.

In a related development, the Odisha state government is contemplating the introduction of MBBS education in Odia. To achieve this, a committee comprising 22 doctors has been formed to work on translating MBBS textbooks into the Odia language, reflecting a broader commitment to integrating regional languages into professional education.

This progressive step by IGNOU not only aligns with the NEP 2020’s vision but also sets a precedent for other educational institutions to embrace regional languages, thereby enriching the educational experience and preserving linguistic heritage.

Dhananjay Shukla Elected as ICSI President for 2025; Pawan G Chandak to Serve as Vice President

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January 21, 2025

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has announced the election of Dhananjay Shukla as its president for the year 2025. A commerce and law graduate, Shukla is a fellow member of the institute and brings years of expertise as a practising company secretary based in Gurugram. His professional contributions have earned him recognition as a leading figure in the domain of company secretaries.

Joining him in a key leadership role, Pawan G Chandak has been appointed as the vice president of ICSI for 2025. Chandak, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, holds a specialization in labour laws and labour welfare. His extensive expertise includes assisting numerous start-up ventures in establishing their operations in India, especially those promoted by foreign entities.

Leadership Journey of Pawan G Chandak

Chandak has held significant roles within the institute and its regional councils over the years. Prior to his new position, he served as the vice president of ICSI in 2024. Additionally, he was elected to the Western India Regional Council (WIRC) of ICSI for the term 2019–2022, during which he served as Secretary of the region in 2019.

His leadership contributions extend to chairing the Pune Chapter of WIRC of ICSI in 2012 and 2017, further underscoring his dedication to the institute’s growth and member engagement.

Also Read: Skills Gap Challenges and Economic Optimism Define UAE and Saudi Job Market Outlook for 2025

A Vision for the Future

Under Shukla’s presidency and Chandak’s vice presidency, ICSI is expected to strengthen its initiatives to support company secretaries and advance the profession’s role in corporate governance and compliance. The duo’s combined expertise and leadership vision aim to drive innovation and promote best practices across the industry.

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India, established by an Act of Parliament, is a premier professional body in India dedicated to the development and regulation of company secretaries.

Skills Gap Challenges and Economic Optimism Define UAE and Saudi Job Market Outlook for 2025

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January 21, 2025

The job market in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is poised for significant shifts in 2025, as professionals and recruiters grapple with a growing skills gap. According to a new LinkedIn study, 75% of professionals in these countries plan to seek new job opportunities this year, despite acknowledging increasing challenges in hiring and job searching.

The research reveals that 51% of job seekers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia believe the employment search has become harder over the past year. At the same time, 46% of HR professionals report difficulties in finding qualified candidates, signaling a widening skills gap in the region.

For many professionals, the job hunt has become a source of frustration, with 43% citing the process as frustrating and 57% deeming it time-consuming. Despite these challenges, 58% of job seekers remain optimistic about their prospects, buoyed by expectations of robust economic growth in the region.

The UAE’s non-oil sector is projected to grow by 4-5%, while Saudi Arabia anticipates a 4.9% economic growth in 2025, driven by ambitious diversification strategies. This optimistic economic outlook fosters hope for a more dynamic job market, although many job seekers feel the need to apply to more positions to increase their chances.

Inefficient Strategies Hinder Success

The research highlights inefficiencies in job application strategies. While 44% of professionals are applying for more roles than ever, 48% report fewer responses from recruiters, and 34% admit to applying for roles without meeting key qualifications.

Recruiters face their own challenges, with 29% of HR professionals spending up to five hours daily reviewing applications, yet finding that less than half of candidates meet job criteria.

Najat Abdelhadi, LinkedIn Career Expert, noted, “Professionals need to shift their approach and be more strategic in applying for roles that match their skillset so they stand out.”

Emerging Roles and Skills for 2025

To bridge the skills gap, LinkedIn recommends professionals adopt an adaptability mindset, highlighting soft skills such as communication and flexibility during the hiring process. The platform also suggests leveraging AI tools to optimize profiles and identify suitable roles.

The “Jobs on the Rise” report from LinkedIn identifies Artificial Intelligence Engineer as a prominent emerging role globally, alongside increased demand for security-focused engineering and travel-related jobs as post-pandemic trends stabilize.

With nearly 71% of roles on the report being new additions, the demand for niche skills underscores the importance of ongoing professional development and targeted job search strategies.

Also Read: Karnataka Govt and British Council Join Hands to Enhance Rural Learning with Digital Library Access in 10 Districts

Navigating the 2025 Job Market

To enhance their job search success, professionals are encouraged to focus on verified job postings, leverage LinkedIn’s job match features, and explore actionable insights from its emerging roles report. These tools aim to empower job seekers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to align their skills with market demands and navigate a competitive hiring landscape effectively.

The findings highlight the pressing need for both job seekers and recruiters to prioritize skill development and adopt innovative approaches to overcome challenges in 2025’s dynamic job market.

Karnataka Govt and British Council Join Hands to Enhance Rural Learning with Digital Library Access in 10 Districts

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January 20, 2025

In a bid to strengthen its educational initiatives, the Karnataka government has partnered with the British Council to enhance learning opportunities for rural communities. An agreement was signed to provide 500 English-language books to 10 selected Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras (rural libraries) across 10 districts. These books will be housed in dedicated “British Council Library Corners,” creating spaces where children can explore, learn, and grow.

In addition, all 5,880 Arivu Kendras will gain first-level access to the British Council’s Digital Library. With digital library walls set up in internet zones, people across rural Karnataka will benefit from world-class learning tools and resources.

This collaboration marks a significant step in the state’s commitment to providing free access to books, computers, and internet facilities to over 50 lakh children and adults. The Arivu Kendras, open 8 hours a day including weekends, have become vibrant centers of knowledge and curiosity, thanks to the dedication of librarians who foster learning within communities.

Priyank M. Kharge, Minister of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Karnataka, shared the update on social media platform LinkedIn with a quote from the great scientist, Albert Einstein: “The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library.” He emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every person in rural Karnataka has access to resources that inspire curiosity, build skills, and unlock new opportunities.”

This collaboration builds upon previous partnerships between the Karnataka government and the British Council, including efforts to upskill teachers and students, improve learning outcomes in physical education, and enhance higher education collaborations.

Duolingo Launches DETermined Scholarship to Empower Indian Women in STEM

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January 20, 2025

The Duolingo English Test (DET), a leading platform for digital English proficiency testing, has introduced the DETermined Scholarship, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Indian women in STEM fields. Launched in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, the scholarship was announced at a press conference in New Delhi by Severin Hacker, CTO and Co-Founder of Duolingo, alongside Carrie Wang, Senior Director of the Duolingo English Test.

Supporting Women in STEM

The DETermined Scholarship provides a one-time grant of USD 30,000 to cover tuition fees for a master’s degree in STEM at a U.S. university that accepts the DET for admissions for the 2026–2027 academic year. The initiative underscores DET’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive global education ecosystem and breaking gender barriers in STEM.

India’s progress in STEM education has been remarkable, with women’s participation rising from 38.4% a decade ago to 42.6%, according to the University Grants Commission. The scholarship aims to build on this momentum, supporting women innovators and leaders who will contribute to India’s growing reputation as a global hub for science, technology, and innovation.

Role of the PSA Office

As a knowledge partner, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser will facilitate applications through the Manthan portal and contribute to the jury for selecting scholarship awardees. This collaboration aligns with the government’s vision of bridging gender gaps in STEM and driving innovation through diverse perspectives.

Dr. Sapna Poti, Director of Strategic Alliances at the PSA Office, emphasized the partnership’s importance: “Empowering women in STEM fosters diversity and drives innovation. By partnering with Duolingo, we aim to provide talented women access to world-class education, enabling them to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat and global innovation leadership.”

Scholarship Features and Selection Process

Mentorship Opportunities: Finalists will receive guidance from STEM experts.
Three-Step Selection Process: Includes an application phase, a STEM impact proposal challenge, and a final interview.
Eligibility: Open to Indian women with a bachelor’s degree in STEM, demonstrated leadership in science and technology, and a commitment to contributing to India’s innovation ecosystem upon returning from their studies.

Accessibility Through DET

The DET offers an accessible, flexible, and affordable means for students to showcase English proficiency. With online testing and results in 48 hours, the DET ensures test integrity through AI-powered security protocols. Accepted by over 5,500 programs worldwide, the DET is a gateway for aspiring scholars to realize their academic dreams.
Severin Hacker highlighted the scholarship’s impact: “Education transforms lives. Through the DETermined Scholarship, we aim to empower talented women to achieve their dreams and foster a more inclusive and innovative future for India and the world.”

Application Details

Applications open in June 2025 on the Manthan portal, with recipients announced in September 2025. Applicants must submit a DET score of 120, a strong academic record, and a proposal showcasing their vision for STEM innovation.

About DET and the PSA Office

The Duolingo English Test integrates cutting-edge AI and assessment science to provide a fast, convenient, and affordable solution for certifying English proficiency. Its scores are widely accepted by prestigious universities, including Columbia, the University of Toronto, and Yale.

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, established in 1999, provides strategic guidance on science and technology to the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, fostering innovation and development.

BrightCHAMPS Acquires Edjust to Strengthen Global Footprint in K-12 EdTech

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January 20, 2025

BrightCHAMPS, a global edtech platform, has acquired Mumbai-based K12 education marketplace Edjust in a cash and stock deal. This marks BrightCHAMPS’s fourth acquisition since its inception in 2020, following the purchases of Education10x in 2021, Schola in 2022, and Metamorphosis Edu in 2023.

Post-acquisition, Edjust’s founders will lead efforts to establish a new distribution channel focused on delivering academic subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and English to enhance students’ overall success and future readiness. Additionally, Edjust plans to refine its sales model and expand its presence across 30 countries, offering parents immersive digital experiences.

Founded in 2022 by Dushyant Panchal, Anmol Mittal, and Sanjay Panikar, Edjust utilizes a combination of artificial intelligence and human emotional intelligence, along with sophisticated data and contact centers, to engage parents with a high inclination for edtech products. The platform has established networks of parents in the US and UK.

BrightCHAMPS, led by founder and CEO Ravi Bhushan, offers online programming and AI courses for children in the K-12 segment. Operating in 30 countries, including the US, Canada, Nigeria, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, the startup also provides courses on coding, financial literacy, and robotics for children aged 6-16.

In November 2021, BrightCHAMPS raised $63 million in a Series C funding round led by Premji Invest, GSV Ventures, and others, valuing the company at approximately $500 million. To date, the company has secured a total of $84.9 million in funding.

Also Read | EdTech Platforms Providing Access to Education Across Regions, Driving Workforce Readiness in India

This acquisition aligns with BrightCHAMPS’s strategy to expand globally by adding new course experiences, entering new geographic regions, and finding innovative ways to reach more parents and students worldwide.

EdTech Platforms Providing Access to Education Across Regions, Driving Workforce Readiness in India

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January 18, 2025

India’s edtech sector is playing a huge role in bridging the geographical divide in education, making quality learning accessible to millions across the country. A report released at the India Digital Summit by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and Grant Thornton Bharat highlights the sector’s success in overcoming traditional barriers to education through technology-driven solutions.

The study reveals that 98% of teachers and 69% of parents acknowledge edtech’s contribution to breaking down geographical barriers. By offering resources like video lectures, interactive modules, and virtual classrooms, edtech platforms ensure that students in remote areas can access high-quality education that was previously unavailable locally.

Edtech’s impact extends beyond accessibility. The report highlights that 94% of students and 84% of teachers find edtech content engaging. Moreover, the platforms are effectively bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, fostering employability and preparing students for future demands. About 87% of students value edtech’s role in enhancing real-world skills such as coding and artificial intelligence, critical for workforce development.

The economic accessibility of edtech platforms is another key driver of their growth, with 86% of users considering them cost-effective alternatives to traditional education. Around 85% of students believe edtech has significantly improved their learning outcomes.

EdTech Breaking Barriers: Prateek Maheshwari

“Edtech platforms are revolutionising education by removing the limitations of physical classrooms, bringing learning to the remotest corners of the country,” said Prateek Maheshwari, Co-Founder of PhysicsWallah and Chair of the India EdTech Consortium. “However, challenges like low-bandwidth solutions and data privacy need urgent attention to ensure long-term success,” he added.

Dharmender Jhamb, Partner at Grant Thornton Bharat, emphasised the sector’s broader impact: “India’s edtech industry is not just transforming education delivery but also fostering a more equitable knowledge economy by enhancing accessibility and empowering learners and educators.”

The 4A Framework: A Roadmap for Inclusive Growth

The report underscores the importance of the 4A framework—academic quality, accessibility, affordability, and advancing employment—in addressing gaps in traditional education systems. This commitment is particularly visible in rural and underserved regions, where edtech is increasing student participation and creating new opportunities for growth.

As the Indian edtech sector continues to evolve, its focus on equitable access, innovative solutions, and skill development is poised to shape the future of education, creating a more inclusive and future-ready learning ecosystem.

EdTech Set to Contribute 0.4% to India’s GDP by 2029, Reinventing Learning Across the Nation

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January 18, 2025

India’s edtech industry, currently valued at $7.5 billion in 2024, is on track to reach an impressive $29 billion by 2030, according to a new report. This rapid growth is expected to be driven by many factors, including the expansion of digital infrastructure, a cultural shift towards online learning, and the rising aspirations of students and families. The sector’s contribution to India’s GDP is anticipated to increase significantly, from 0.1% in 2020 to 0.4% by 2029.

The report, titled “Impact Study of EdTech in India: Driving Innovation & Creating Opportunities” was jointly prepared by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and consultancy firm Grant Thornton Bharat. It highlights the transformative role of technology in reshaping education and learning across the country.

Over the past decade, despite facing challenges such as a decline in funding post-COVID-19 and corporate governance concerns, India’s edtech sector has demonstrated resilience. Factors such as the increasing competitiveness of the job market, growing awareness of global education standards, and an expanding middle class have spurred demand for alternative learning solutions. Edtech platforms have capitalized on these trends by offering more interactive, engaging, and personalized learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of students.

The sector’s growth is also being supported by advancements in emerging technologies such as generative AI, gamification, and augmented/virtual reality, which are opening new avenues for personalised and immersive education. These technologies are expected to enhance the learning experience, helping students progress at their own pace while gaining access to high-quality educational resources.

Also Read :- IIT Madras Gets Ready for 3rd Edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam from February 15 This Year

One of the key drivers of this growth is the continued expansion of internet connectivity, especially in rural areas. As of March 2024, India had 954.4 million internet subscriptions, and edtech companies are increasingly targeting tier II and tier III cities by offering affordable and region-specific content tailored to local needs. This broadens access to education across socio-economic backgrounds, making edtech platforms an economically viable alternative to traditional methods.

However, the report also notes that high GST rates have inflated the cost of these services, posing a challenge to their affordability. Despite this, 86% of respondents consider edtech platforms a cost-effective option compared to conventional education.

IIT Madras Gets Ready for 3rd Edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam from February 15 This Year

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January 17, 2025

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is gearing up to organise the third edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam, an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to strengthen cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and Varanasi. Scheduled to take place from February 15 to 24, 2025, the event will focus on fostering connections between two ancient centers of learning and culture.

The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi will serve as the host institution for this edition, which coincides with the grand Maha Kumbh Mela (January 13 to February 26, 2025). Participants will have the opportunity to take a holy dip (Shahi Snan) and visit prominent landmarks, including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Focus on Cultural and Academic Exchange

Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, shared insights about Tamil Nadu’s participation in the event:

1,000 participants from Tamil Nadu will take part, divided into five groups.
Delegates will represent diverse backgrounds, including students, teachers, farmers, artisans, professionals, small entrepreneurs, women, and researchers.
An additional 200 Tamil students from Central Universities will join, with plans for visits to Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.

This year’s event will emphasise the contributions of Sage Agasthyar to various fields, including the Siddha system of medicine, classical Tamil literature, and the cultural unity of India.

Exhibition and Academic Discussions

A dedicated exhibition will showcase Sage Agasthyar’s work in health, philosophy, science, linguistics, literature, and art, particularly in the context of Tamil culture and Tamil Nadu. Alongside, seminars and workshops will delve into these themes, creating opportunities for academic and cultural discourse.

Reconnecting Ancient Bonds

The Kashi Tamil Sangamam was first held from November 16 to December 16, 2022, as part of a government initiative to revive the historical ties between Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. The second edition, held from December 17 to 30, 2023, witnessed enthusiastic participation, prompting the organisation of this third edition.

Participants from Tamil Nadu will also visit key sites, including:

The ancestral house of Tamil poet Subramania Bharati.
Kedar Ghat and Kashi Mandapam.
The Tamil Department at BHU for literary and academic interactions.

Also Read: India Ranks 2nd Globally in Future Job Market Readiness in QS Skills Index 2025

Call for Applications

Registration for participation is open to the public in five categories through the event’s portal. The categories include students, teachers, professionals, artisans, and researchers, among others.

With its blend of cultural, academic, and spiritual elements, the Kashi Tamil Sangamam aims to deepen the ties between two of India’s most historically and culturally significant regions.

A Legacy of Global Partnerships

Global Opportunities for Students

Modern Campus, Expansive Vision

Leadership Journey of Pawan G Chandak

A Vision for the Future

Inefficient Strategies Hinder Success

Emerging Roles and Skills for 2025

Navigating the 2025 Job Market

Focus on Cultural and Academic Exchange

Exhibition and Academic Discussions

Reconnecting Ancient Bonds

Call for Applications

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