National University of Dubai Launched with Dh4.5 Billion Investment

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September 9, 2024

Dubai has announced the launch of the National University of Dubai with an initial investment of Dh4.5 billion, aiming to offer specialised academic programs focused on emerging fields and future technologies. The university’s goal is to rank among the top 50 young universities globally within the next decade, emphasising research and academic innovation.

In a social media post, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said, “Today we are launching a new project to develop education in our country… Its goal is to be among the top 50 young universities over the next decade.”

The National University of Dubai will maintain an Emirati identity while offering international programs that align with the UAE’s developmental goals. It aims to equip graduates with the skills needed to compete on the global stage. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of preparing future generations, stating, “The world is changing rapidly, and the real challenge is to create generations capable of absorbing these changes and harnessing them to build a better future for our nation.”

Also Read: Indian Edtech Market Grows 96%, Long-Term Outlook Remains Strong.

The university is part of Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, a ten-year plan focused on enhancing the lives of Emirati families through improved housing, healthcare, quality of life, and future skills. Education is a cornerstone of this agenda, aiming to make high-quality education accessible and affordable for all UAE citizens, ensuring the nation’s future workforce is well-equipped to meet global challenges.

Indian Edtech Market Grows 96%, Long-Term Outlook Remains Strong

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 9, 2024

The Indian edtech sector experienced a significant resurgence in 2024, recording a remarkable 96% growth in funding during the first half of the year. From January to June 2024, Indian edtech companies attracted $164 million in funding, a sharp increase from the $81.9 million raised in the same period in 2023, according to Tracxn, a market intelligence platform.

With more than 11,000 active companies, India’s edtech ecosystem ranks as the third highest-funded globally, just behind the United States and China. The sector is home to six unicorns, making it the second highest globally after the US. Although funding levels remain below the highs of 2021, the 2024 growth demonstrates a renewed interest from investors despite macroeconomic challenges and the shift back to traditional classroom learning.

Neha Singh, Co-founder of Tracxn, highlighted the sector’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions. “Despite the overall cooling of the funding environment since 2021, the edtech sector has shown remarkable resilience. Investors are still interested, especially as companies blend traditional learning with digital education innovations,” she said.

While many schools in India have reopened for physical classes, the demand for online learning platforms and professional upskilling programs remains strong. These areas, where offline education often falls short, continue to drive growth in the edtech space.

Bengaluru remains a dominant hub for the Indian edtech industry, accounting for over 64% of the total funds raised, followed by Delhi and Mumbai. Despite ongoing challenges, the sector benefits from a combination of high demand, technological advancements, and supportive government policies, such as the National Education Policy 2020.

Also Read: IIT Guwahati and Airbus India Join Forces to Elevate Aviation Education in Assam

However, some sub-sectors within edtech are facing difficulties. The once-lucrative test preparation segment, which garnered $7 billion in funding, has seen a sharp decline. Leading investors like Blume Ventures, Wellfound, and LetsVenture are shifting focus toward other sub-sectors like professional education and vocational training.

Although only one funding round exceeded $100 million in 2024, compared to multiple rounds in prior years, the Indian edtech sector’s long-term growth outlook remains promising. Late-stage funding rounds continue to dominate, and startups are evolving to meet the changing needs of learners.

With the continued rise of technology-driven education solutions, the Indian edtech market is expected to innovate further and meet the growing demand for flexible, high-quality education in an ever-evolving landscape. This strong foundation, coupled with digital advancements, positions the edtech industry in India for sustainable growth in the years to come.

IIT Guwahati and Airbus India Join Forces to Elevate Aviation Education in Assam

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 9, 2024

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Airbus India Private Limited to enhance aviation and logistics education in Assam. This collaboration aims to drive socio-economic growth in the northeastern region by equipping students with the skills needed to excel in the fast-evolving aviation and logistics industries.

The partnership was formalised by signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) between IIT Guwahati Director Prof. Devendra Jalihal and Airbus India Private Limited President and Managing Director Rémi Maillard. The signing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who highlighted the significance of this collaboration.

Expanding Aviation Education in Assam

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasised the potential of this partnership to transform aviation and logistics education in the region. “This collaboration will not only promote knowledge sharing but also shape the future of the aviation industry,” Sarma said. The Chief Minister further added that key areas such as transportation, hospitality, skilling, and logistics will be integral to this initiative, creating new growth opportunities for students in Assam and beyond.

Prof. Devendra Jalihal echoed these sentiments, noting that the partnership aligns with IIT Guwahati’s mission to deliver cutting-edge education in aviation and logistics. “This initiative will empower the youth of Assam, fostering innovation and driving economic growth,” Jalihal stated.

Global Skilling Centre for Aviation and Logistics at IIT Guwahati

A major highlight of the partnership is the establishment of a Global Skilling Centre for Aviation and Logistics at IIT Guwahati. This centre will focus on addressing the skills gap in the logistics sector, a key component for supporting global trade and commerce. Airbus India will provide trainers, materials, and tools, while IIT Guwahati will offer infrastructure, student onboarding, and course organisation.

Suraj Chettri, VP and Head of HR at Airbus India and South Asia underlined the importance of creating a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the aviation industry. “India and the global aviation sector require large-scale skilled human resources to fuel growth. We aim to work closely with the Indian government and state governments to unlock the full potential of this industry,” he explained.

Key Features of the Partnership

Comprehensive Aviation and Logistics Programs: Airbus India and IIT Guwahati will develop courses that advance aviation education in Assam, focusing on both short-term and long-term training.
Global Skilling Centre: IIT Guwahati will establish the centre to address the shortage of skilled logistics professionals, which is vital for global trade growth.
Airbus-Facilitated Training: Airbus India will offer trainers, materials, and tools for specialised courses and conduct ‘Train the Trainer’ programs to enable IIT faculty to deliver Airbus-certified courses independently.
Job Creation and Career Advancement: The partnership is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, enhancing service quality in the aviation and logistics sectors.

Also Read: Ministry of Education to Host ‘Spectrum of Literacy’ Conference for Global Experts

The collaboration aligns with the Government of India’s Udaan scheme, which seeks to foster socio-economic development across the country. With a focus on transportation, hospitality, logistics, and skilling, the initiative promises to unlock new career opportunities for students in Assam and the northeastern region.

This partnership is a major step towards positioning India as a leader in aviation and logistics education while also contributing to the country’s overall economic and industrial growth.

By integrating innovative training programs and establishing key infrastructure, IIT Guwahati and Airbus India aim to create a sustainable ecosystem for the aviation and logistics sectors in Assam and beyond.

Ministry of Education to Host ‘Spectrum of Literacy’ Conference for Global Experts

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digitalLEARNING Network

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September 7, 2024

As a prelude to International Literacy Day 2024, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, is set to host a global event titled “Spectrum of Literacy”. Taking place virtually on September 7, 2024, from CIET, NCERT, New Delhi, this high-profile International Conference will bring together a diverse group of global and national experts, educators, policymakers, and literacy advocates. The primary focus will be on exploring the dynamic and evolving dimensions of literacy in today’s rapidly advancing world, addressing challenges and opportunities in education.

The conference will be chaired by Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL). Distinguished speakers include Smt. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary of DoSEL, Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT, and Smt. Joyce Poan, Chief of the Education Sector at UNESCO’s Regional Office for South Asia. These key dignitaries, along with other notable figures, will delve into the ways literacy can be advanced globally and in India, particularly in the context of today’s digital and interconnected world.

Key sessions include “Exploring the ‘Spectrum of Literacy’ in India” and “Global Perspectives on Literacy”. These discussions will cover the broad scope of literacy education, reflecting diverse regional needs and the global trend towards digital learning and innovation in literacy.

The central theme of the conference is the “Spectrum of Literacy,” and it highlights the evolving nature of literacy in the 21st century. It focuses not only on basic literacy but also on digital literacy, media literacy, and financial literacy, which are becoming essential skills for navigating modern society. The event will examine how educational policies and initiatives can promote inclusive education and boost global literacy rates.

Also Read :- National Education Conference

The International Conference on Spectrum of Literacy is a key event leading up to International Literacy Day 2024 on September 8. It emphasises India’s commitment to advancing literacy and fostering an equitable, inclusive learning environment. This conference is a major step towards addressing the global literacy gap and aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4—Quality Education for all.

ested in staying updated on developments in global and Indian literacy initiatives, this event is expected to deliver significant insights and set the tone for future educational reforms.

CBSE Expands Globally: First Regional Office Launched in Dubai

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 6, 2024

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched its first Regional Office (RO) and Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Dubai, marking a major step in expanding Indian education outside of India. This strategic move is designed to enhance educational services for Indian students in the UAE.

Located at the Consulate General of India in Dubai, the office officially began operations on July 2, 2024. The launch was celebrated on Teachers’ Day with an orientation session attended by CBSE officials, representatives from the Indian Mission in Dubai, and principals from 78 schools across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The session outlined the key goals of the office, including fostering outcome-based learning, introducing competency-based assessments, and promoting a holistic educational approach.

The establishment of this office follows an announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the UAE in February 2024. The CBSE Dubai office will play a pivotal role in managing examinations in the region. At the same time, the Centre of Excellence will focus on teacher training, equipping educators with cutting-edge skills aligned with global teaching trends.

The new CBSE Regional Office will also introduce innovative learning methods, including art-integrated education, health education, and the inclusion of new skill-based subjects that meet the demands of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Also Read: byteXL and Microsoft Partner to Shape the Future of AI Education

In his address, Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai, emphasised the significance of the new office, noting that the Centre of Excellence will empower teachers and enhance the overall learning experience for students in the UAE.

The establishment of the CBSE office in Dubai is a milestone in the ongoing development of Indian education abroad, providing critical support for students, educators, and parents while advancing the CBSE’s mission to deliver high-quality education globally.

byteXL and Microsoft Partner to Shape the Future of AI Education

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 6, 2024

byteXL, a leading EdTech platform focused on revolutionising engineering education and IT skills in India, has announced a strategic partnership with Microsoft to launch B.Tech programs specialising in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). These programs will be rolled out at ten prestigious universities across India, including Lovely Professional University, Parul University, Chandigarh University, GLA University, and Rayat Bahra University.

As part of this partnership, byteXL will act as the executing agency, deploying Microsoft-certified trainers to deliver the course syllabus on campus. Students will have access to the latest tools and technologies in AI and ML and will earn Microsoft certificates integrated into their regular coursework. In addition to the certifications, students will benefit from paid internships and guaranteed placements with competitive salary packages, thanks to Microsoft being the knowledge partner for this initiative.

Karun Tadepalli, CEO and Co-Founder of byteXL highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The introduction of AI and ML in B.Tech courses will not only prepare students for the industry but also equip them for global opportunities. We aim to bridge the gap between engineering education and industry requirements, creating future leaders in the tech sector.”

Also Read: The Role Of Educational Publishers in Developing Future-Ready Graduates

Lovely Professional University’s Associate Dean, Sami Anand, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with byteXL and Microsoft allows us to provide students with cutting-edge skills and industry-relevant certifications, ensuring they are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the tech industry.”

Parul University’s Sr. Director, Santosh Nair, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the significance of this partnership in advancing engineering education and IT skilling in India.

The Role Of Educational Publishers in Developing Future-Ready Graduates

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 5, 2024

In contemporary times, both technology and workplace cultures are undergoing significant transformations. This change has created new demands on educational systems, where the role of publishers now extends beyond simply producing textbooks and instructional materials. Academic publishers are becoming increasingly responsible for preparing learners to thrive in a dynamic, technology-driven workforce where adaptability and problem-solving are key.

The future job market requires graduates who are not only knowledgeable in their disciplines but also possess critical skills such as creative problem-solving, innovative thinking, and the ability to collaborate in diverse teams. Educational publishers are meeting this demand by producing content that is not just informative but also highly engaging, interactive, and suited to the modern learner.

One of the primary ways publishers are innovating is through the integration of technology. E-learning platforms, interactive tools, and gamified learning experiences have become essential in improving student engagement and knowledge retention. By leveraging digital platforms that incorporate personalised learning and real-time feedback, students are empowered to explore topics in-depth, practice skills in a hands-on manner, and receive instant assessments of their progress. These advancements have made learning more flexible and accessible, enabling students to tailor their education to their individual needs and preferences.

Workplace demands today also emphasise soft skills, such as effective communication, collaboration, and teamwork. Educational materials are now being designed to reflect these competencies, incorporating group work, case studies, and debate-based activities. These pedagogical tools not only help students develop interpersonal communication and critical thinking skills but also prepare them to work effectively in cross-functional teams, an essential capability in today’s globalised workforce.

Beyond the classroom, the role of educational publishers extends to lifelong learning. In an era where industries are continuously evolving, education cannot stop at graduation. Publishers are now focused on creating modular, adaptable content that supports continuous learning and skill development. This allows individuals to remain competitive in the workforce by acquiring new skills, updating existing ones, and staying attuned to the shifting demands of their industries.

Also Read: Telangana Launches Education Commission to Lead Statewide Reforms

The current landscape presents a strategic opportunity for educational publishers to influence the design of future societies. The materials and tools they develop today are shaping the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow. As such, publishers are not only keeping pace with technological and societal change. Still, they also play a pivotal role in ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in an ever-changing world.

To sum it up, the evolving role of educational publishers is both a challenge and an opportunity. By embracing innovation, technology, and a commitment to lifelong learning, publishers can help develop graduates who are ready not just for the jobs of today but for the unpredictable future. As education continues to transform, publishers have a unique responsibility—and the ability—to reshape education for the betterment of society at large.

Views expressed by: Sachin Sharma, Business Head at S Chand Publishing – Higher Education

Telangana Launches Education Commission to Lead Statewide Reforms

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 5, 2024

The Telangana government announced the formation of the Telangana Education Commission (TEC) on September 4, 2024. Aiming to improve the quality of education across all levels—from pre-primary to university and technical education—the TEC will function as a policy advisory body committed to driving transformative reforms in the state’s education system.

The Telangana Education Commission’s establishment comes in response to pressing challenges such as underwhelming student performance, as evidenced by the National Achievement Survey 2021, and a decline in research output at the university level. Moreover, the growing disconnect between current academic curricula and market-relevant skills further underscores the need for comprehensive reforms. Principal Secretary (Education) Burra Venkatesham, in his order, highlighted these objectives as the core focus of the TEC.

Comprised of a five-member panel, the TEC will include a chairperson, three educational experts, and a member secretary, who will oversee its operations. The non-official members of the commission will serve a two-year term.

Also Read: Union Education Minister Plans 5,000 Centres of Excellence to Propel India’s Growth

Tasked with the responsibility of charting out actionable recommendations, the TEC will collaborate extensively with stakeholders from various educational sectors and consult experts to draft evidence-based strategies. Its primary goals include ensuring access to early childhood education, strengthening foundational skills across all academic levels, and embedding employability skills within higher education programs. The TEC also seeks to promote values-driven education to cultivate socially responsible and globally aware citizens.

Funding for the commission will come from a combination of state government resources and private-sector partnerships. A separate order will soon outline the terms of service for the commission members, paving the way for structured, focused efforts toward reforming Telangana’s education system.

Union Education Minister Plans 5,000 Centres of Excellence to Propel India’s Growth

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 5, 2024

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan revealed plans to elevate 5,000 higher education institutions into Centres of Excellence. Speaking at a workshop, the minister underscored the pivotal role of higher education in transforming India from a consumption-based economy to a production-oriented one. The event marked the launch of the Institutional Development Plan (IDP) for Higher Education Institutes, a key initiative aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The Union Education Minister emphasised that these institutions are critical to achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by promoting research, innovation, and multidisciplinary learning. The minister outlined his vision of making India’s youth future-ready through holistic education approaches, enhancing their skills, and fostering innovation.

The IDP is designed to provide higher education institutions with a strategic framework to set long-term goals, track progress, and implement initiatives that align with national priorities. Pradhan highlighted the need for these institutions to adopt a comprehensive approach, integrating Indian languages, encouraging entrepreneurship, and prioritising digital and financial planning.

Also Read: Kirti Pandey Becomes First Chairperson of UP Education Service Commission

Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, also stressed the importance of these institutional plans. He pointed out that the IDP would help Indian institutions compete globally by improving their quality and adaptability. The workshop featured participation from over 170 representatives of higher education institutions across India and included discussions on governance, digital innovation, and human resource development.

As part of the event, Pradhan also unveiled a comprehensive compendium of UGC regulations spanning from 1957 to 2023, streamlining decision-making and compliance for educational institutions. The Institutional Development Plan Guidelines, released earlier this year, aim to empower institutions with tools to enhance their effectiveness and align with India’s national priorities.

Kirti Pandey Becomes First Chairperson of UP Education Service Commission

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Chetan Tawakley

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September 3, 2024

Prof. Kirti Pandey has been appointed as the first chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh Education Service Commission (UPESSC), marking a significant milestone in the state’s education sector. This newly formed commission is tasked with overseeing all teacher appointments across the state, covering basic, secondary, and higher education levels. Prof. Pandey’s tenure will extend for five years, during which she will lead the commission from its headquarters in Prayagraj.

The decision to appoint Prof. Pandey, currently the Dean of Arts Faculty at Deendayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University and President of Vidya Bharati, comes after an extensive search process. The government initially aimed to appoint an IAS officer to the position. Still, the location of the commission’s headquarters in Prayagraj deterred many officers, who preferred to work in Lucknow or Noida. Consequently, the role was entrusted to an educationist with deep roots in academia and a strong affiliation with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

Prof. Pandey’s academic journey began at Pavanagar Mahavir Inter College in Fazil Nagar, Kushinagar district. She later graduated from Kushinagar College before pursuing research at Gorakhpur University under the guidance of renowned sociologist Prof. S.P. Nagendra, who also served as the Vice Chancellor of Lucknow University. Throughout her career, Prof. Pandey has held various administrative and academic roles, contributing significantly to the university’s development.

Also Read: SMART Technologies Introduces Locally-Made Interactive Displays for Indian Schools

The formation of the UPESSC and Prof. Pandey’s appointment are seen as crucial steps in streamlining the teacher appointment process in Uttar Pradesh, ensuring a transparent and efficient system that aligns with the state’s educational goals.

This development underlines the Yogi government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Uttar Pradesh by appointing a leader with a strong academic background and experience in educational administration. Prof. Kirti Pandey’s leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the commission, guiding it towards achieving its objectives effectively.

Expanding Aviation Education in Assam

Global Skilling Centre for Aviation and Logistics at IIT Guwahati

Key Features of the Partnership

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