Odisha to Implement NEP 2020 in State Universities from this Academic Year

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November 11, 2024

In a major step forward, the Odisha government has announced that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 will be implemented across all state-run universities and affiliated colleges, effective this academic year. This transformative move, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, aims to modernise Odisha’s education system, making it more flexible, inclusive, and employment-oriented.

As part of the NEP framework, four-year undergraduate programs will replace the traditional three-year courses, offering students progressive certification: a certificate after the first year, a diploma after the second, a degree after the third, and an honours degree upon completing the fourth year. This structure is designed to enhance both academic flexibility and employment prospects for students in the state.

The state has introduced a credit-based framework aligned with University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, enabling students to earn credits through skill development, internships, community service, and extracurriculars such as NCC and NSS. By participating in these activities, students can enrich their learning experience while enhancing their employability.

Further, the NEP introduces significant flexibility for students to complete their degrees over seven years, with options for multiple entries and exits. This feature allows students to return to their studies after a break or transition to new areas of interest without losing credits.

Aligned with NEP 2020, the Odisha government is also committed to enhancing the quality, autonomy, and inclusivity of its higher education system. The policy encourages research and innovation through practical learning and skill-building internships, aligning course content with industry needs for greater employability.

Also Read: IIT Kanpur Honours Prof. Rajat Moona with Institute Fellow Award 2023

The state government has approved two skill development programs, 112 multidisciplinary courses, 14 vocational courses, 56 value-added courses, and 84 additional skill-building courses, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). These initiatives, along with a model syllabus developed for 40 core undergraduate degree courses, are intended to make higher education in Odisha both rigorous and relevant to today’s job market.

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IIT Kanpur Honours Prof. Rajat Moona with Institute Fellow Award 2023

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November 11, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has conferred Professor Rajat Moona with the prestigious Institute Fellow Award 2023, recognising his outstanding contributions to education, research, and technological development.

Prof. Moona began his tenure at IIT Kanpur in 1991 as a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Over the years, he has supervised numerous PhD scholars and taught various courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His innovative work in computerising the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) processes and developing e-governance applications has significantly streamlined operations.

In 2017, Prof. Moona was appointed as the founding director of the Indian Institute of Technology Bhilai, where he played a significant role in establishing the institute’s permanent campus.

Nationally, Prof. Moona has been integral to various projects, including the Electronic Toll Collection system, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), and the National Supercomputing Mission. His leadership in designing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and contributing IT solutions for the Election Commission of India underscores his commitment to enhancing the country’s technological infrastructure.

Also Read: India Remains a Leading Contributor to Germany’s International Academic Community

Since October 2022, Prof. Moona has been serving as the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN), where he continues to inspire future generations of engineers and researchers.

The Institute Fellow Award, instituted by IIT Kanpur in 2005, honours individuals who have significantly contributed to the institute’s growth. Prof. Moona’s recognition as an Institute Fellow 2023 reflects his impactful legacy and influence on future generations of engineers and researchers.

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India Leads in QS Asia Rankings 2025 with Focus on Research, IIT Delhi Rises to Top Spot Among Indian Institutes

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November 11, 2024

The recently released QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025 showcases a strong presence from India, marking it as the most represented country with 163 universities in the rankings. This recognition underscores India’s growing focus on research and global academic reputation, bolstered by initiatives like the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). The rankings, which featured 984 universities across 25 higher education systems, assess institutions based on 11 indicators, including academic reputation, employer reputation, and research productivity. In the rankings, the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) emerged as the highest-ranked Indian institution at 44th in Asia, with six Indian universities securing places in the top 100. Following IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay achieved the 48th spot, while IIT Madras is positioned at 56th. Other Indian institutions in the top 100 include IIT Kharagpur (60), Indian Institute of Science – Bengaluru (62), and IIT Kanpur (67).

In the South Asian category, IIT Delhi also clinched the top spot among universities from India and Pakistan. Notably, seven of the top ten universities in this category hail from India, with IIT Kanpur and Pakistan’s National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) Islamabad sharing the 6th position.

India’s performance in the QS Asia Rankings highlights its advancement in research productivity, reflected in the rankings’ criteria, which emphasize academic and employer reputation, faculty/student ratio, research output, and international engagement. While China, with 135 institutions, leads in the number of universities in the top ten, India’s focus on research is proving effective in enhancing its global standing, particularly for its elite institutions such as the IITs and the Indian Institute of Science.

The QS Asia University Rankings, published annually since 2009, recognise Asia’s top universities through a refined methodology tailored to the region. While similar to the QS World University Rankings, this approach includes additional metrics and adapted weightings to reflect the strengths of Asian institutions better.

The rankings evaluate universities using 11 key indicators: academic reputation (30%), employer reputation (20%), faculty/student ratio (10%), international research network (10%), citations per paper (10%), papers per faculty (5%), staff with a PhD (5%), and the proportions of inbound (2.5%) and outbound (2.5%) exchange students.

Also Read: India Remains a Leading Contributor to Germany’s International Academic Community

This year, Peking University retained its leading position, followed by the University of Hong Kong in second and the National University of Singapore in third. Mainland China, with 135 institutions in the rankings, is the second most represented country and dominates the top ten. India, however, leads overall with the highest number of institutions and notable improvements in research output.

As Indian universities continue to prioritise research and collaboration, this robust representation in the QS Asia Rankings positions India as a significant academic hub in Asia, contributing to its growing influence in global higher education.

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India Remains a Leading Contributor to Germany’s International Academic Community

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November 9, 2024

Germany’s International Academic Community

India continues to play a vital role in Germany’s academic landscape, contributing around 49,000 students and 6,700 researchers to German universities, according to the latest report from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This influx positions India among the top sources of international talent in Germany, as the country reaches record levels of global engagement with over 75,000 researchers and nearly 380,000 international students. Germany has now become Europe’s leading academic destination for international students and researchers, second globally only to the United States.

DAAD President Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee emphasized Germany’s appeal as a global academic hub, highlighting its expanding English-language Master’s programs that draw students and researchers from around the world. The country’s reputation as a premier location for science and research has been further bolstered by its surpassing of the UK in 2021 as Europe’s top host for international researchers, with nearly 4,000 foreign professors among them. Indian researchers represent the largest group, followed by those from China and Italy.

International student numbers in Germany continue to rise, with almost 380,000 enrolled this academic year, a 3 percent increase over the previous year. Germany’s international students now represent nearly 13 percent of the total student body, with over 114,000 first-year enrollments from abroad—a record high. India leads as the primary country of origin, followed by China and Turkey. The regions of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria, and Berlin host the largest numbers of these students, underscoring Germany’s robust support for its diverse and expanding academic community.

The DAAD report highlights that global student mobility has risen significantly over the past decade. While Germany’s numbers have increased, its own students are increasingly studying abroad, with Austria, the Netherlands, and Switzerland as preferred destinations. However, Brexit-related tuition hikes have reduced German student numbers in the UK. Worldwide, the United States and China continue to lead as the top destinations and sources of international students, respectively.

Also Read: TAISI’s 20th Annual Conference Unveils Education 4.0, A Blueprint for India’s Future Classrooms

World Statistics

In 2021, UNESCO reported that 6.4 million students were studying abroad, a substantial increase of 2.4 million, or nearly 60 percent, since 2011. The United States remains the top host for international students, with approximately 833,000 enrolled, while China holds the lead as the largest source country, contributing around 996,000 students globally. However, both nations experienced declines due to the COVID-19 pandemic: in 2019, the U.S. hosted 960,000 international students, and 1.1 million Chinese students were studying abroad.

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TAISI’s 20th Annual Conference Unveils Education 4.0, A Blueprint for India’s Future Classrooms

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November 9, 2024

At the TAISI’s 20th Annual Conference of The Association of International Schools of India (TAISI), held from November 7-9, 2024, two landmark initiatives signaled a transformative shift in Indian education. With a focus on “Shaping Hyper-Connected, Future-Forward Schools,” the conference introduced Education 4.0—a forward-looking approach integrating AI, social media, and emotional intelligence into curriculums to prepare students for a tech-driven world.

In a bold move, TAISI also launched the Australian Curriculum in India, offering a framework emphasising adaptability, critical thinking, and holistic student development. Seen as a game-changer, TAISI’s initiatives aim to elevate educational standards, equipping schools to face modern challenges head-on.

The TAISI’s 20th Annual Conference drew over 300 international schools from across India and participants from 10+ countries. Featuring 16 interactive sessions and 40+ speakers, highlights included an inspiring keynote by Ria, an advanced AI humanoid, on AI’s impact on education. Chairperson Syed Sultan Ahmed also announced new ventures like the TAISI International School Sports League (ISSL) and the TAISI Esports Prix.

TAISI Chairperson Syed Sultan Ahmed underscored the initiatives’ importance, stating, “Incorporating AI and global curricula into education is essential today. These tools equip students with the skills to thrive in a globally interconnected environment. By embedding these competencies early on, we ensure students are prepared for both academia and the workforce.”

Also Read: IIM Nagpur Invites Applications for Executive Management Programme for Working Professionals

Vijay Kumar, the conference’s Chief Guest and Senior Advisor to the VP of Open Learning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), stressed the need for a balanced approach: “Education’s future hinges on merging technology with human-centric, research-based learning. AI and digital tools should be partners in holistic learning, shaping students as proactive drivers of change.”

Kathleen Naglee, Head of the International School of Helsinki, echoed the significance of AI, sharing, “With AI tools like my digital twin ‘Katbot,’ we’re able to assess students’ emotional engagement with learning. While these innovations open new doors, they also require a responsible approach to their ethical and emotional impacts. Our goal is to nurture technically skilled, resilient, and empathetic learners for a rapidly evolving world.”

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IIM Nagpur Invites Applications for Executive Management Programme for Working Professionals

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November 8, 2024

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Nagpur, in collaboration with Jaro Education, is now accepting applications for the sixth cohort of its Postgraduate Certificate Programme in General Management (PGCPGM). Tailored specifically for working professionals, this program provides a flexible, comprehensive learning experience aimed at enhancing managerial skills, fostering strategic acumen, and supporting entrepreneurial ambitions.

The PGCPGM curriculum has been designed to empower executives and managers with practical insights that can be immediately applied to their professional environments. According to IIM Nagpur, the program aims to equip participants with skills essential for navigating today’s dynamic business landscape, enhancing their potential for career advancement and innovation.

Key Highlights of the Programme:

Flexible Structure: Spanning multiple months, the program’s structure is designed to accommodate busy professionals, allowing them to learn at their own pace while managing ongoing responsibilities.
Three-Day Campus Immersion: Participants will benefit from a three-day campus experience at IIM Nagpur, offering direct interaction with faculty and peers and fostering valuable networking opportunities.
Real-World Simulations: The course includes case studies, simulations, and projects focused on real business challenges, sharpening participants’ problem-solving abilities.
Alumni Status: Graduates earn IIM Nagpur alumni status, providing access to an extensive network of professionals and resources for ongoing career development.

Direct Link to Apply

Ranjita Raman, CEO of Jaro Education, emphasises the program’s adaptability and practical approach, describing it as an essential resource for professionals aspiring to lead in today’s rapidly evolving business environment.

Also Read: UGC Introduces Ayurveda Biology as New Subject in NET Exam

Applications can be submitted through the official IIM Nagpur website. This program serves as a stepping stone for professionals looking to advance in leadership, develop strategic thinking, and explore entrepreneurial pathways.

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UGC Introduces Ayurveda Biology as New Subject in NET Exam

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November 8, 2024

In a move that promotes interdisciplinary study and acknowledges the ancient science of Ayurveda, the University Grants Commission (UGC) announced the inclusion of “Ayurveda Biology” as a subject in the UGC-NET exam. Starting December 2024, candidates can select this unique subject, opening up new avenues in academic and research pursuits.

UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, highlighted the significance of this addition, stating, “The introduction of Ayurveda-Biology in UGC-NET will inspire students to delve into Ayurveda’s Sanskrit texts, bridging ancient wisdom and modern science to foster a holistic approach in contemporary biological studies.”

Prof. Kumar explained that graduates with a PhD in Ayurveda-Biology will have opportunities to engage in research and teaching roles at universities, nurturing a new generation of students in this interdisciplinary field. He noted the increasing public interest in natural and holistic healthcare, which has led to Ayurveda’s growing acceptance alongside allopathic medicine.

“Integrating Ayurveda with modern healthcare requires a scientific understanding of Ayurveda’s principles. Ayurveda Biology provides that bridge,” he added.

Ayurveda Biology, as a discipline, aims to examine India’s extensive traditional knowledge in Ayurveda through the lens of modern biological sciences.

Also Read: IIT Bhubaneswar Launches Diploma Course in Semiconductor Technology and Chip Design

According to a notice from UGC Secretary Prof. Manish R. Joshi, the inclusion of Ayurveda Biology was approved at the UGC’s 581st meeting on June 25, 2024, based on recommendations from an expert committee. The syllabus is available on the UGC-NET website, www.ugcnetonline.in, as per a notice dated November 5.

With this addition, UGC-NET now offers 105 subjects, including Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Education, Women’s Studies, and more, catering to diverse academic interests.

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Rise of Interdisciplinary Studies: How Indian Institutions are Breaking Traditional Boundaries in Education

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November 8, 2024

In recent years, the outlook of education in India has undergone a remarkable transformation with a high rise in interdisciplinary studies. This enlightens the increasing perception of the interconnectedness of knowledge and the limitations of traditional academic disciplines. Several Indian institutions are now embracing the new model, by doing this they are breaking old prejudices. With this, they are also preparing the students for more complex situations in a rapidly growing world.

Combining knowledge and methods from several academic fields to solve complex problems is known as interdisciplinary study. Instead of focusing on just one discipline, this approach encourages learners to explore connections between fields like science, art, social science, economics, and politics. It further helps learners think more broadly and creatively, and equip them for real-world challenges where several disciplines intersect. In light of the realization that our lives are interrelated and so are solutions to our problems, environmentalists, educators, scientists, governments, and academicians have begun to view an interdisciplinary approach as the key to solving some of the world’s most pressing issues.

The Need for Interdisciplinary Approaches

The need for an interdisciplinary approach arises from the complexity of the challenges faced by the modern world. These challenges can not be effectively addressed within the confines of a single discipline. In the current scenario, the problems faced are varied like climate change, public health crises, technological disruptions, etc. Approaching these issues necessitates the attention of multiple disciplines to go beyond the boundaries. By breaking down traditional academic silos, an interdisciplinary approach equips students with the diverse skill sets necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. It further leads to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

Institutional Initiatives

Institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to enhance education and research. Initiatives include cross-disciplinary research centres, integrated degree programs, and courses that incorporate diverse methodologies. Collaborative projects and workshops encourage students as well as faculty to address real-world problems together and stimulate innovative thinking. Industry partnerships enable interdisciplinary knowledge to be applied practically, and networking events promote connections among students and professionals. Through collaboration and perspective expansion, these initiatives equip students to tackle complex global challenges.

Collaboration Between Disciplines

Collaboration between disciplines is essential to address complex challenges that require diverse perspectives and expertise. By bringing together students and professionals from different fields, interdisciplinary collaboration promotes creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

One of the major reasons for the rise of interdisciplinary studies across the nation is collaboration between disciplines. Institutions are working together with the faculties of different departments on projects and research, providing space for exchanging thoughts, opinions and perspectives. Collaborative learning experiences like workshops and seminars encourage students to get the opportunity to understand diverse opinions and perspectives. These experiences not only develop their ability to tackle various situations but also nurture them in skill sets that are essential in their day-to-day activities.

The Role of Technology

Technology plays a crucial role in opening the door for a wide range of academic disciplines, including interdisciplinary studies. Technological advancements provide tools and resources that support the integration of knowledge across disciplines. With the introduction of online learning platforms, students can access a range of information despite its origin. Students and researchers can connect with their fellow mates across the globe virtually irrespective of discipline. As a result, technology not only broadens educational opportunities but also augments innovation and creativity in addressing multifaceted issues.

Also Read: IIM Nagpur Invites Applications for Executive Management Programme for Working Professionals

Challenges and Opportunities

The rise of interdisciplinary studies in India is facing a lot of hindrances, including the difficulty of reconciling different methodologies, terminologies, and theoretical frameworks. Traditional academic structures, rigid curricula, departmental isolation, and institutional negligence can also be the reason for the hindrance in collaboration. Sometimes faculty too opposes the novel learning methods which are habitual to traditional teaching methods and can also be hurdles. These challenges present significant opportunities for innovation and creative problem-solving. To address these, institutions need to adopt a flexible curriculum that promotes cross-disciplinary learning. To enhance the educational experience, institutions can arrange faculty development programs where the faculties could learn new teaching-learning methods to inculcate the students. Additionally, financial aid should also be given to support interdisciplinary research initiatives.

Investment from both government and private sectors in these programs is essential to improve the quality of research and ultimately benefit society as a whole. Encouraging an environment conducive to interdisciplinary studies can lead to comprehensive solutions for complex global issues.

Views expressed by: Vivek K Singh, Co-founder and CEO, Careerera

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IIT Bhubaneswar Launches Diploma Course in Semiconductor Technology and Chip Design

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November 7, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has partnered with MOSart Labs, a private organisation focused on providing professional skill training, to launch a professional diploma programme in semiconductor technology and chip design for engineering graduates.

The programme is designed to equip engineering graduates with the skills necessary for various specialisations in very large-scale integration (VLSI), covering areas such as semiconductor technology, analog design, digital design, design verification, physical design, layout design, validation, and test and measurements, according to a statement from the institute on Wednesday.

An MoU was signed between IIT Bhubaneswar and MOSart Labs on Tuesday, formalising the collaboration. “IIT Bhubaneswar is committed to advancing high-impact education through strategic partnerships that bridge academic excellence with industry expertise,” said Shreepad Karmalkar, Director of IIT Bhubaneswar. He added that the collaboration with MOSart Labs to launch this professional diploma programme aligns with this vision.

The programme will be taught by a distinguished faculty comprising semiconductor industry leaders, IIT alumni, and faculty members from IIT Bhubaneswar, according to Vijay Shankar Pasupureddi, the programme coordinator. The course is primarily targeted at students who have completed their engineering degrees in electronics and communication, electrical, and computer science. It is also open to professionals currently working in the semiconductor industry, Pasupureddi added.

Programme Details

The diploma programme is structured into three modules. The first, known as the Launchpad Module, offers students a thorough understanding of the integrated circuit (IC) lifecycle and the VLSI industry landscape, along with an introduction to VLSI concepts.

Following the Launchpad Module, students will take an entrance exam to qualify for the next stages. Those who pass will move on to the Foundation Module, a semester-long programme featuring five courses that cover the basics of chip design and semiconductor technology.

The final module, the Specialisation Module, is also semester-long and includes three courses and a mini-project in the student’s chosen area of specialisation. This phase allows students to focus on practical, industry-level work and become industry-ready by gaining hands-on experience in their field.

Also Read: UK’s International Education Champion Labels India an ‘Absolute Priority’ Amid Strategy Overhaul

Krishna Kanth Avalur from MOSart Labs said, “With the government and industry working closely to build the semiconductor ecosystem in the country, this initiative is expected to create numerous opportunities for VLSI engineers. We believe this is the right time to introduce the programme, helping students across India upskill and become ready for the industry”.

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UK’s International Education Champion Labels India an ‘Absolute Priority’ Amid Strategy Overhaul

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November 7, 2024

Sir Steve Smith, the UK government’s International Education Champion, has reaffirmed that India remains an “absolute priority” as the country revises its International Education Strategy under the newly elected Labour government.

Speaking at the launch of the third edition of the India-UK Achievers Honours at the House of Lords in London this week, Sir Steve emphasized that the UK’s Graduate Route post-study work visa, a key draw for international students, will not be altered. Indian students are among the largest beneficiaries of this visa category.

“While we are currently revising our International Education Strategy, I can assure you that India will remain a central focus in fostering deeper connections between our higher education systems, our students and staff, and most importantly, between our two peoples,” said Smith, who previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter.

“My message is simple and clear: international students are welcome in the UK. There is no cap on the number of students who can come, and importantly, the Graduate Route will remain unchanged under the new government. That’s a commitment we’ve fought hard for, and the bottom line is, it’s staying,” he added.

This assurance follows the independent review of the Graduate Route conducted by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) under the previous Conservative government, which concluded that the post-study work scheme should be preserved.

Also Read: New PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme Provides Financial Aid for Meritorious Students Pursuing Higher Studies

The India-UK Achievers Honours, hosted annually by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK, highlight the achievements of Indian students and alumni from UK institutions, strengthening educational ties between the two nations. The event enjoys backing from key UK organizations, including the British Council in India, Universities UK International (UUKi), UKCISA, Chevening Scholarships, and London Higher.

“The Achievers Honour is not just an award; it’s a movement that celebrates the transformative journeys of Indian students and alumni who have leveraged their UK education to make a meaningful impact,” said NISAU UK Chair Sanam Arora.

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The Need for Interdisciplinary Approaches

Institutional Initiatives

Collaboration Between Disciplines

The Role of Technology

Challenges and Opportunities

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