CBSE Expands Globally: First Regional Office Launched in Dubai

News

By

-

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

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

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

Article

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

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

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

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

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

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

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

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.

SMART Technologies Introduces Locally-Made Interactive Displays for Indian Schools

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

September 3, 2024

SMART Technologies, a global leader in interactive technology, has officially launched its operations in the Indian market, marking a significant milestone in the company’s 35-year history. With the introduction of the SMART Board MX Series and SMART Board GX Series interactive displays, the company is set to revolutionise the Indian education sector by providing state-of-the-art, locally manufactured technology tailored specifically for Indian schools.

As part of its commitment to the Indian market, SMART Technologies has established a manufacturing base in Andhra Pradesh, working with one of India’s largest Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) partners. This strategic move not only enhances the company’s production capabilities but also underscores its dedication to local economic growth and efficient supply chain management. The locally-produced interactive displays are designed to meet the highest quality standards while addressing the specific needs of Indian educational institutions.

Jeff Lowe, Executive Vice President of SMART Technologies, emphasised the company’s dedication to the Indian market, stating, “Our launch in India is a testament to our commitment to this dynamic market. We are here to help teachers, students, and education leaders create connections that matter, and we’re thrilled to bring our leading products to millions of students and teachers across the country. SMART is here to stay, and we look forward to working closely with schools and organisations nationwide.”

SMART’s interactive displays are engineered to bring learning to life with features that save teachers time and engage students in meaningful ways. The SMART Board MX Series, equipped with SMART iQ, a designed-for-education embedded computing solution, stands out as an easy-to-use, power-efficient option that offers unique upgradability and multiple student engagement features.

Also Read: GEDU Partners with QE Barnet to Establish Elite Schools in India and UAE

In a further demonstration of its commitment to India, SMART Technologies has announced the designation of three Indian schools as SMART Exemplary Schools. GEI’s Subhedar Wada Medium School in Mumbai, Surana High Tech International School in Chennai, and Sense Kaleidoscopes in Bengaluru will join over 35 global schools that have been recognised for their innovative use of educational technology to drive positive learning outcomes. These schools will be formally awarded in the coming days, marking a first for the country.

Education professionals can experience SMART’s innovative interactive displays firsthand at InfoComm at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai and Didac India from September 18-20 at the Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre) in New Delhi.

With this launch, SMART Technologies is poised to transform the educational landscape in India, bringing advanced, outcome-focused technology to classrooms across the nation.

GEDU Partners with QE Barnet to Establish Elite Schools in India and UAE

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

September 3, 2024

Global Education Holdings Limited (GEDU), a leading UK-based education business, has announced a strategic partnership with Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, London, to establish affiliate schools in India and the United Arab Emirates. This expansion marks a significant milestone in delivering the esteemed educational ethos and heritage of Queen Elizabeth’s School to new international markets.

The first phase of this initiative includes the opening of two Queen Elizabeth’s (QE) international schools in India, with one located in GIFT City, Gujarat, and the other in Gurugram, near Delhi. In the UAE, a QE school is planned for Dubai, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to global education excellence. Each school will feature a dedicated headteacher, senior leadership team, and specialised teaching staff to ensure the highest educational standards.

Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, founded in 1573 by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I, is renowned for its rich heritage and pioneering tradition. It stands as one of the UK’s top-performing state-funded schools, known for providing a well-rounded education based on merit to pupils from diverse backgrounds. Notably, in 2023, only one other UK school outperformed QE Barnet at A-Level. The school has an impressive track record, with 45 pupils securing places at Oxford and Cambridge and 50 pursuing medicine or dentistry in 2023. In 2024, 55% of QE Barnet leavers received offers from QS World Top Five universities, including 62 offers from Oxford or Cambridge.

Also Read: Balancing AI & Human Touch: A Futuristic Approach To School Curriculums

The international QE schools in India and the UAE will carry the prestigious QE name and branding, adhering to the ethos and educational methodology of Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. Unlike the boys-only day school in Barnet, the international branches will be co-educational, with some schools accepting children from kindergarten. These new schools will be fee-paying institutions managed by GEDU and will not receive state funding.

The establishment of these QE international schools underscores GEDU’s commitment to expanding high-quality education globally, providing students in India and the UAE with access to the renowned QE educational experience.

Balancing AI & Human Touch: A Futuristic Approach To School Curriculums

Article

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

September 2, 2024

The advent of AI has become a topic of considerable interest, particularly in early childhood education. This emerging technology can potentially revolutionise learning behaviour among young minds. In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with the traditional modes of teaching presents a promising opportunity for creating more dynamic, immersive and personalised learning experiences. As we strive to prepare students for a future dominated by technological advancements, it becomes imperative to strike a delicate balance between the capabilities of AI and the irreplaceable human touch in education.

The futuristic mode of curriculum and education prepares students with immersive learning techniques and a gamified curriculum, which is essential to nurturing well-rounded and adaptable students. According to Global Market Insights, Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education reached USD 4 billion in 2022 globally and is projected to expand at over 10% CAGR from 2023 to 2032, owing to the growing inclination towards personalised learning. Further, we deep dive into AI’s various capabilities in education and how we embrace this technology.

Embracing AI in Education

Personalised Learning: Personalised learning is the most significant benefit of AI. By analysing AI algorithms, educators can analyse students’ performance and further tailor educational content. This allows educators to customise lesson plans addressing individual needs. This ensures every student gets optimum benefits at their own pace, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.
Strengthened Educational Resources: Virtual tutors, interactive simulations, and adaptive learning platforms powered by AI provide students with additional support and opportunities for engagement. These technologies can simulate real-world scenarios, making complex subjects more accessible and fostering deeper understanding and retention.
Data-Driven Insights: AI’s ability to analyse educational data empowers educators with valuable insights into student performance trends and learning patterns. This data-driven approach enables teachers to make informed decisions about curriculum design, instructional strategies, and individualised interventions.
Foster engagement: AI enhances student engagement through gamification. Making learning fun, interactive, and engaging increases communication capabilities. Additionally, various rewards motivate students to engage more in learning.

Preserving Human Element

While AI offers remarkable advantages, the human touch remains indispensable in education:

Emotional Intelligence and Social Skills: Teachers play a crucial role in nurturing students’ emotional intelligence, empathy, and social skills. These qualities are essential for collaboration, leadership, and interpersonal relationships, which cannot be fully developed through technological means alone.
Critical Thinking and Creativity: AI excels in processing information and solving problems based on predefined algorithms. In contrast, educators inspire critical thinking, creativity, and innovative thinking—skills that are vital for adapting to complex challenges and driving future advancements.
Ethical Considerations: As AI becomes more prevalent in education, ethical considerations such as privacy, bias in algorithms, and responsible use of technology become increasingly important. Educators must guide students in understanding these ethical implications, fostering responsible digital citizenship.
Personalised Teaching: The mentorship and guidance provided by teachers extend beyond academic instruction. They serve as role models, mentors, and advocates for students’ holistic development, offering personalised support and encouragement that AI cannot replicate.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu Partners with Google to Launch AI Labs in Chennai

Accomplishing Balanced Approach

Achieving an optimal balance between AI and the human touch requires a thoughtful and integrated approach:

Professional development and teacher training: AI can benefit educators by providing them with professional development programs and training on technology and tools which will embrace immersive and effective teaching and learning methodology.
Curriculum Design: Curriculums should be flexible and adaptive, incorporating AI technologies to enhance learning experiences while prioritising the development of critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
Collaboration and Feedback: Regular partnership between educators, AI developers, students, and parents facilitates the integration of AI in education. Feedback loops ensure that AI applications align with educational goals and meet the evolving needs of students.
Parental Engagement: Educating parents about AI’s role in education promotes understanding and support. Collaborative partnerships between schools and parents contribute to students’ holistic development and academic success.

As we move towards futuristic education, the interaction between AI and human touch holds the key to unlocking students’ full potential. By integrating AI’s efficiency and personalisation capabilities with the empathy and mentorship of human teachers, we can create a futuristic curriculum that prepares students for the complexities of the modern world, ensuring they are knowledgeable, emotionally and socially adept. As educators, it is our core duty to embrace a futuristic approach to education, ensuring that every student acquires the exposure and practical skills and providing them with the support necessary to excel in the 21st century.

Views expressed by: Lina Ashar, Founder, Dreamtime Learning

Tamil Nadu Partners with Google to Launch AI Labs in Chennai

News

By

Chetan Tawakley

-

September 2, 2024

The Tamil Nadu government has taken a significant step forward in embracing artificial intelligence (AI) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google to explore and advance AI initiatives within the state. As part of this groundbreaking partnership, the state will establish the ‘Tamil Nadu AI Labs’ in Chennai, solidifying its position as a hub for technological innovation.

Artificial intelligence has rapidly evolved over the past few years, with nations worldwide striving to harness its potential. India is at the forefront of this movement, and Tamil Nadu’s collaboration with Google marks a pivotal moment in the state’s journey towards AI-driven development. The partnership was announced on Saturday, August 31, by Dr TRB Rajaa, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Industries, coinciding with Chief Minister MK Stalin’s visit to the United States.

In addition to the MoU with Google, Tamil Nadu has secured agreements with other leading firms, including Nokia, PayPal, and Infinix, to establish new centres in key cities such as Coimbatore, Madurai, and Chennai. These partnerships are expected to enhance the state’s technological landscape further and create a robust ecosystem for AI innovation.

The Tamil Nadu AI Labs facility in Chennai, developed in collaboration with Guidance, the state’s investment agency, will focus on integrating AI technology into startups, MSMEs, and rural communities. This initiative is set to empower 2 million youth through AI training provided via the Naan Mudhalvan upskilling platform, offering mentorship and networking opportunities for startups and enabling MSMEs to access Google Cloud’s AI technology through an open network marketplace.

Amit Zavery, Google Cloud Platform Head, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth and technological progress through AI. We look forward to working together to build a thriving AI ecosystem in Tamil Nadu, one that not only drives innovation and creates opportunities but also empowers individuals with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.”

Also Read: Odisha Empowers Higher Education with PM-USHA Launch

This partnership between Tamil Nadu and Google is poised to transform the state’s digital landscape, positioning it as a leader in AI and innovation. The establishment of the Tamil Nadu AI Labs in Chennai represents a significant leap towards achieving this vision, with the potential to impact industries, education, and the broader economy across the region.

LATEST NEWS

Top Trending News

Top Trending Categories