Education as the Backbone of the ‘Viksit Bharat’

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July 18, 2024

Education will be a big catalyst for driving India’s growth and development in the Amrit Kaal. As the fifth-largest economy poised to be the third-largest in the next two years, India is ready to make strategic technological, infrastructure, and education advancements. The nation’s diverse and skilled workforce, nurtured by world-class educational institutions, will boost innovation and productivity. Several progressive educational institutions are driving this change through world-class education. A leading name among them is Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions.
A legacy of 79 years in education lends this group an interesting concordance with the story of Independent India. Founded in 1945 with the establishment of Seth Anandram Jaipuria College in Kolkata, the group has evolved into a conglomerate comprising institutions delivering education from KG to PG. Today, the group boasts 21 K-12 schools, five preschools, two management institutions and a teachers’ training academy. The group has a base of 20,000 students and over 15,000 alumni, making a real difference in the world. The Jaipuria Group delivers education aligned with NEP 2020, focusing on holistic development and active learning. The emphasis is on multidisciplinary studies, skill development, and digital literacy. By fostering inclusivity and innovation, these institutions ensure students are well-equipped for future challenges and global competitiveness.
Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman of Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, says, “When India was on the cusp of gaining Independence from the colonial British, my grandfather Padma Bhushan Mungturam Jaipuria started the group with the vision of empowering the country’s youth to drive growth. My father, Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria, carried forward the vision, an ardent industrialist, educationist and philanthropist who believed in a harmonious blend of Indian values and progressive pedagogy. To date, we are committed to stimulating holistic development in learners through knowledge, new-age skills, and positive values.”
To better understand how the group creates a seamless educational journey from cradle to career, one needs a deeper look into the different aspects of this conglomerate.

Preschool Education: Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Little Ones, the Jaipuria Preschools, operate in several cities in Uttar Pradesh, including Ghaziabad and Kanpur. The preschools adopt unique developmentally appropriate practices conceptualised and designed to stimulate learning in the early years when 85% of the child’s brain development occurs. Some of these practices include the reading programme to develop literacy, Jodo Gyan to build numeracy and play-based pedagogy to make every lesson a game and every game a lesson.

K-12 Education: Shaping Minds for a Bright Future
Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Schools are located across 20 cities in North India, including Kanpur, Ghaziabad and Lucknow. The schools deliver new-age education focused on project-based, personalised, and social-emotional learning. Atal Tinkering Labs are innovation hubs, fostering creativity and interest in STEM education. The schools feature smart classrooms, radio jockey studios, and state-of-the-art sports infrastructure, providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment. A strong parental connection and community outreach are emphasised, alongside a commitment to sustainability. The school in Lucknow was chosen among the top 30 in the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, showcasing its global impact. The schools also strongly emphasise career and college counselling, guiding students towards successful futures. These comprehensive efforts ensure that students are well-rounded, socially responsible, and equipped with the skills needed for the 21st century.

Management Education: Making Learners Industry-Ready
Jaipuria Institute of Management (JIM), Ghaziabad, offers a full-time, two-year Master’s Degree Program in Business Administration (MBA), Business Analytics (BA), and Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI). The institute boasts an NAAC Grade A accreditation. JIM’s pedagogy includes case-study methods, live simulated projects, hands-on decision-support systems, summer internships, industrial visits, and MOOCs. It hosts a skill development centre and an Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), fostering innovation and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Jaipuria School of Business (JSB), Ghaziabad, is a prestigious PGDM institute with NBA accreditation and recognition by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), granting MBA equivalence to its PGDM programs. The 2-year full-time PGDM program integrates functional knowledge, industry practices, and employability certifications. Beyond business education, JSB provides various value-added certifications to enhance industry readiness. The institute’s International Immersion Programme develops a global perspective among students, supported by collaborations with the University of Denver, USA, Sunway University, Malaysia, UCSI University, Malaysia, and Skyline University, Sharjah. Adhering to the i-Lead philosophy, JSB aims to inspire and elevate its aspiring managers. Both JIM and JSB have a 100% placement record.

STTAR: Equipping Educators With New-Age Pedagogical Skills
Saamarthya Teachers Training Academy of Research (STTAR) was founded in 2020 with the exclusive purpose of professional development of educators across all domains. The academy has since helped to transform the educational landscape with active engagement in various verticals such as teacher training, teacher competence testing, student assessments, academic research, curriculum development, and school enrichment.
The academy’s flagship events are the National Teachers Olympiad (NTO), National Students’ Olympiad (NSO), and STTAR Global Education Conference. The conference sees the convergence of the best leaders and educators from across India and the wider world to deliberate upon re-imagining and redefining pedagogy and teacher development in the technology-driven future. One of the most outstanding offerings of STTAR is the certificate course on ‘Transformative Teaching With AI’, which is presently an online programme delivered by global AI experts and specialists from Silicon Valley, USA

The Vision Ahead: Education For Viksit Bharat
Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions envisions a future of vertical growth and horizontal expansion. By 2027, the group aims to establish 70 K-12 schools, serving an expanded base of 50,000 students.
Shishir Jaipuria says, “We are committed to integrating technology and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to enhance the quality of education, improve teacher productivity, and increase work efficiency. Professional development for teachers is a key focus, ensuring they are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge. Our ultimate goal is to deliver education that contributes to a “Viksit Bharat”, fostering innovation, critical thinking, and holistic development in our students. This vision underscores our dedication to excellence and our role in shaping the future of education in India.”

The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Education

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By

Kapil Suri

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July 18, 2024

Throughout history, a constant drive for innovation to surpass what has already been discovered or achieved has remained the cornerstone of human intelligence. Each age has been defined by significant advancements that have propelled society forward. The evolution of technology, especially in the 21st century, has brought the human race to this point where it would not be exaggerated to call the times we live in the ‘Age of Artificial Intelligence and Data Sciences’.
With the advancements made in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and the way it has revolutionised various industries and several aspects of our lives in recent years, no sector has remained aloof from its influence, including the field of education. Just as the invention of computers and the internet revolutionised how information is accessed and shared, the integration of AI and ML in education has the potential to transform education in numerous ways.

Taking knowledge gain beyond geographical boundaries:
Only recently has the education sector needed to catch up in adopting digitalisation and using data and AI to accelerate learning. However, the post-COVID period saw the need and rise of online and blended learning in education systems, as it gave us the liberty to overcome the limits of geographical boundaries or physical presence to gain quality education from faculty.

As the means of personalised learning:
Today’s times call for a personalised or competency-based learning approach. Every student has different skill sets and interests, so they should be mentored according to their abilities and pace of learning. But, simultaneously, it is also easier said than done because of the shortage of trained teachers/faculty members and the required human hours.
The biggest asset AI and ML bring to the table is personalisation. Here, various tools and algorithms of artificial intelligence and machine learning/data analytics can be employed to analyse students’ learning patterns and customise the curriculum or instruction practices according to their needs, abilities, past progress, and personal goals. This targeted approach can make the educational content more resourceful and effective. Teachers/educators can use the overall learning progress and larger inferences through a dashboard to modify their in-class pedagogy whenever needed.
Furthermore, the predictive model of data analytics and machine learning can also identify patterns of student engagement or attention, such as reduced participation in online discussions, inconsistent attendance, sporadic assignment submissions, or a sudden dip in grades etc. Informed by robust data-driven evidence, it can provide real-time feedback to comprehensively understand each student’s unique learning profile and learning outcomes.

Helping automate the administrative tasks:
Besides providing opportunities for students to manage the process of their learning and aid a personalised journey of their professional transformation, the AI & ML-based models can also benefit the educators/faculty members by saving their time spent on the arduous tasks of assignments grading, reports and metrics analysis, attendance tracking, schedules creation, and so on, by offering automation of these administrative tasks so that they can focus on creating high-quality teaching pedagogy, new instructional methods, learning materials for face-to-face sessions, and providing individual student support.
Besides these, institutions can incorporate AI-driven chatbots that are available 24/7 to provide quick answers to frequently asked questions related to admissions, course details, campus facilities, etc. These virtual assistants can also be proactive by sending reminders about assignment deadlines, fee submissions, or upcoming events. This can lead to greater efficiency and cost savings for educational institutions, enabling them to allocate resources more effectively.

Expanding interactive E-learning and immersive virtual laboratories:
While the significance of one-to-one and on-campus education cannot be replaced, the possibilities provided by AI, AR & VR technologies can effectively enhance students’ learning experiences who may not be able to pursue or afford in-person education/degrees/immersive field visits.
For example, imagine students at a rural school being able to understand geography/environmental studies subjects by seeing Amazon forests or glaciers with AR/VR and starting to think about solutions to some of the pressing climate change problems. Similarly, they can immerse and explore ancient civilisation sites in one of the history classes, all from the safety and comfort of their classroom, and become fascinated to gain more knowledge about them. The use of such technologies can enhance retention and comprehension considerably.
A good case in point is also the “Virtual Labs” project, an initiative of the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, under the aegis of the National Mission on Education through Information and Communication Technology (NMEICT) through a consortium of twelve participating institutes. It is a commendable example of ICT-based education, in which more than 100 Virtual Labs with about 700+ web-enabled experiments have been designed for remote operation and simulation-based viewing by students, educators, and researchers of schools and Science and Engineering Colleges who do not have access to good lab facilities and instruments or want to collaborate. It can also encourage students to pursue STEM by arousing curiosity and enabling them to learn at their own pace.
In management education, interactive learning tools, virtual business simulations, cross-continental and interdisciplinary collaborative projects, business intelligence analytical software, and data analytics enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Challenges:
While the potential of AI and ML in education is vast, and it is the road ahead, we must also address concerns about data security, privacy, and ethical considerations. Forming robust protocols is the need of the hour to safeguard student data, preserve teacher-student interactions, and ensure transparency and fairness in AI algorithms. While the technology-enabled operations address the shortage of quality teachers/faculty, we also need effective teacher training to train educators to use AI-powered solutions to fill the gaps and provide quality education.
Additionally, we also need to ensure equitable access to AI-powered educational tools, necessary hardware, and internet connectivity and reduce the digital accessibility gap for students and institutions with limited financial resources to harness the potential of these technologies seamlessly.

Intrinsically linked new-age education:
Despite challenges, integrating AI, ML, Data Analytics, and AR/VR technologies in education can provide tremendous opportunities and significantly transform how students learn and educators teach. They can foster a holistic environment where traditional pedagogy intertwines seamlessly with cutting-edge technology to nurture today’s agile, adaptable minds and empower them to reach their full potential in today’s evolving and ever-expanding global landscape.

Views expressed by Prof Bharat Bhasker, Director, IIM, Ahmedabad.

Innovating Tomorrow’s Education

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By

Kapil Suri

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July 18, 2024

Dr. Abhay Jere, Vice Chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Chief Innovation Officer at the Ministry of Education, delivered an enlightening speech at the Fourth Elets Education Innovation Summit in Pune. This event centred around fostering educational advancements and provided a platform for discussing the future trajectory of India’s educational sector. Dr. Jere emphasised the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship within academic institutions, sharing key initiatives and valuable insights on transforming technical education.
Dr. Jere’s core message was clear – Innovation is not just a concept but a necessity for evolving educational systems to meet future demands.

The Journey of Innovation: Smart India Hackathon
In his speech, Dr. Jere recounted the inception and growth of the Smart India Hackathon, initiated in 2016 and officially launched in 2017. This nationwide event has become the world’s largest open innovation model, involving over 10 lakh students annually. The hackathon encourages students to solve real-world problems provided by various ministries and industries, fostering practical learning and creativity. “We took this movement to the people, making innovation accessible to every technical college in the country,” Dr. Jere emphasised, illustrating the widespread impact of this initiative.

Institution Innovation Council (IIC)
He also introduced the Institution Innovation Council (IIC) as a home-grown model aimed at comprehensive support for innovation in educational institutes. The IIC program has engaged 78,000 unique participants through 78 programs in the past year alone. This initiative has created a robust ecosystem for nurturing innovation within technical education. “Our goal is to create a seamless integration of innovation in technical education,” said Dr. Jere, highlighting how the program’s widespread impact fosters a culture of innovation in India’s educational landscape.

Training Faculty for Future-Ready Education
Recognising the pivotal role of educators in this transformation, Dr. Jere detailed the Innovation Ambassador Training Program. This program has trained about 15,000 faculty members nationwide, covering design thinking, pre-incubation, incubation, and startup registration modules that equip educators with the tools to nurture student innovation effectively. Dr Jere stressed, “Faculty members are key to fostering a culture of innovation. Their training ensures the right mentorship for students,” underscoring the importance of empowering educators to lead the charge in educational innovation.

Predictions and Future Trends in Education
Looking ahead, Dr. Jere forecasted significant changes in the education sector, driven by technological advancements like AI and the metaverse. He urged educational institutions to envision their future roles and emphasised the need for adaptive strategies to stay relevant. “Education will require new formats, and institutions must start planning for the next 25 years,” he predicted, encouraging a forward-thinking approach.
Dr. Jere’s address provided actionable insights for educational leaders. He advised institutions to explore converting student projects into viable ventures and ensure concrete technology outcomes from higher studies. He highlighted the importance of comprehensive hand-holding and mentorship, suggesting that institutions adopt design thinking workshops and innovation-focused curricula. These practical recommendations aim to enhance the effectiveness of educational programs and better prepare students for future challenges.

Views expressed by Dr Abhay Jere Vice Chairman AICTE & Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) at Ministry of Education, Govt. of India.

Bridging the Gap: AICTE’s Vision for Modernising Technical Education

Interviews

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Kapil Suri

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July 18, 2024

The landscape of Indian technical education is undergoing a significant transformation,
driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving industry demands, and a renewed
focus on skill-based learning. With initiatives like updated curricula, enhanced industry
collaboration, and increased emphasis on research and innovation, India is poised to become a global leader in technical education. Rajive Kumar, Member Secretary of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), delves into the transformative strides made in technical education across India in an exclusive interview with Elets News Network (ENN).

Before discussing AICTE’s plans, could you share your journey and contributions to the education sector over the past decades?

Certainly, I began my career as a mathematician, completing my Ph.D. from IIT Delhi and my master’s from IIT Roorkee. I initially joined DCR University of Science and Technology, Haryana, as a mathematics faculty member. Later, I pursued an M.Tech in computer science, which led to my transition from mathematics to computer science and engineering. In 2016, I joined AICTE as an advisor and Chief Vigilance Officer. Since 2019, I have been serving as the Member Secretary. During my tenure, we’ve implemented key policy changes, including revising outdated engineering, management, and pharmacy curricula and introducing a model curriculum that universities nationwide have widely adopted.

One significant initiative is the National Credit Framework (NCF). How do you see NCF impacting the employability of graduates in the next five years?

The National Credit Framework is pivotal in integrating skills into higher education. It provides a structured level system, from level 3 (10th grade) to level 8 (Ph.D.). This framework allows students to switch disciplines and offers flexibility with multiple entry and exit points, incorporating skill-based courses. For instance, 50% of the courses can be skill-oriented, allowing students to earn credits through various skill development courses.

Recently, AICTE developed model curricula for BBA, BCA, and BMS programs. How have educational institutions responded to these new curricula?

This year, we integrated BBA, BCA, and BMS programs under AICTE’s purview, and we’ve already approved over 4,500 institutions. Our goal was not just to grant approvals but to enhance students’ employability through structured education. A committee was formed to revise the curricula, and the new model curricula for these programs will be released within a few days. We have designed curricula for both three-year and four-year programs, incorporating minor degree courses to offer students more options. We expect universities to adopt these curricula soon, benefiting students significantly.

With the emphasis on integrating skill-based courses into technical education, how is AICTE ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with industry requirements?

Ensuring curriculum relevance is crucial. We collaborate closely with industry representatives to align our curricula with their needs. For example, our new BBA, BCA, and BMS curricula were developed with industry experts. We are also integrating skill-based courses into engineering curricula, leveraging inputs from industry to prepare students for emerging technologies.

Another excellent initiative is AICTE’s Support to Students for Participating in Competition Abroad (SSPCA) scheme. What led to its creation, and how does it benefit students?

The SSPCA scheme was created to support students participating in international competitions. Through this scheme, we provide up to INR 10 lakhs to support teams selected for international competitions. This funding covers transportation and other costs, enabling students to showcase their talents globally. The scheme, started six years ago, has been highly beneficial for many students.
Yes, we have several schemes to support students. For example, we fund visits to technological marvels and historical sites to enhance students’ learning experiences. We also help students present papers at conferences and fund student clubs in institutions.

What are AICTE’s top priorities for the next few years?

Our top priorities include creating a workforce for chip manufacturing and design, logistics, travel and tourism, and advanced communication technologies. We are building capacities in these areas within our institutions. For instance, we recently collaborated with a Taiwan delegation to connect Indian institutions working in VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) with their Taiwanese counterparts.

How does AICTE’s work align with the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ as our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisioned?

Our initiatives are closely aligned with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat.’ We are committed to creating a skilled workforce in emerging technologies, logistics, and blue economy sectors. We aim to contribute to India’s growth and development by providing relevant education and skill development. Our students, equipped with the right skills and knowledge, will be the driving force behind realising this vision.

Can you elaborate on the structural changes the National Credit Framework (NCF) brought about and how educational institutions and students receive these changes?

The National Credit Framework (NCF) is designed to be transformative. By defining levels from grade 10 to PhD, we offer a standardised yet flexible approach to education. Students can transition between different disciplines seamlessly. This framework promotes a holistic learning experience by allowing students to accumulate credits from various skill-based courses. The feedback from educational institutions has been overwhelmingly positive, as this framework aligns with the contemporary educational goals of flexibility, inclusivity, and skill development.

Could you provide more details on the development process of BBA, BCA, and BMS programs curricula and how they address current educational and industry needs?

Developing the model curricula for BBA, BCA, and BMS programs involved extensive collaboration with industry experts, academic leaders, and educators. Our primary objective was to ensure these programs aligned with industry trends and demands. We formed a committee comprising industry professionals and educational experts to revise and develop these curricula. The new model curricula include core subjects, elective courses, and minor degree options to provide students with a comprehensive education covering theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

How does AICTE plan to continuously update these curricula to keep pace with rapid technological advancements and changing industry requirements?

Continuous curriculum updates are essential to keep pace with technological advancements and industry changes. AICTE has established a system of regular review and revision cycles involving feedback from industry partners, academic experts, and alums. We conduct periodic workshops and consultations to gather insights on emerging trends and skills required in the job market. Additionally, we encourage institutions to integrate industry-led courses and certifications, ensuring that students receive the most up-to-date education.

Moving on to the Support to Students for Participating in Competition Abroad (SSPCA) scheme, could you share some success stories or examples of how this initiative has positively impacted students?

The SSPCA scheme has profoundly impacted many students. For instance, a team from a leading engineering college participated in an international robotics competition in the United States. With the SSPCA scheme’s financial support, they could transport their equipment and cover travel expenses, which would have otherwise been a significant barrier. The team participated and won accolades, showcasing their innovation and technical skills on a global platform. Such experiences boost students’ confidence and enhance their learning and career prospects.

Beyond financial support, what other measures is AICTE taking to prepare students for international competitions and global exposure?

Besides financial support, AICTE focuses on comprehensive preparation for students. We organise workshops and training sessions to enhance their technical skills, presentation abilities, and cultural awareness. We also facilitate mentorship programs where experienced faculty and industry professionals guide students through preparation. Furthermore, we encourage institutions to establish dedicated clubs and centres for innovation and competition preparation. These measures ensure that students are financially supported and well-prepared to excel in international competitions and gain valuable global exposure.

NAAC Announces Strategic Reforms for Improved Higher Education Accreditation

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By

Kapil Suri

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July 18, 2024

The quality of higher education, a key aspect of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is set to undergo significant improvements with the introduction of reforms from the Dr Radhakrishnan Committee. Approved by the Ministry of Education and adopted by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), these reforms include the introduction of Binary Accreditation and Maturity-Based Graded Levels to enhance educational standards.

To implement these changes, the Apex Committee and various Discipline-wise Committees conducted approximately 40 meetings, consulting stakeholders to finalize the necessary manuals and processes for Binary Accreditation. In the coming months, NAAC will conduct five regional workshops to gather feedback from universities and colleges on the Binary Accreditation manual before its official launch. NAAC also plans to engage with Higher Education Departments and Councils across states to ensure widespread participation in the new accreditation process.

The proposed framework aims to reduce cycle time, lower accreditation fees, and eliminate the need for physical peer team visits. Data validation, primarily quantitative, will be conducted by the institutions to ensure objectivity and correctness in assessments. The framework includes 59 metrics for universities, 56 for autonomous colleges, and 46 for affiliated colleges. NAAC has also developed discipline-specific manuals for fields such as law, health sciences, and management to meet their specific requirements.

During the inaugural workshop, Dr. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Former Chairperson of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training, underscored the importance of integrating skill development into the accreditation framework. He also highlighted the relevance of the National Curriculum Framework to skill development.

Professor Kalsi emphasized the necessity for changing NAAC parameters stemming from NEP 2020, particularly in integrating the national curriculum framework and skill development. He introduced major approaches for incorporating skills into disciplines like humanities and social sciences and also proposed Education 5.0, which focuses on online and blended learning, further stressing the need to integrate innovations into the accreditation framework.

The Binary Accreditation Framework (BAF), presented at the workshop, is derived from the 10 Attributes proposed by the Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee. These attributes are classified based on input, process, and outcome dimensions essential for achieving quality assurance in higher education. The framework shifts focus to ‘outcome and its impact’ on the contribution of higher education to the nation’s socio-economic development. It is designed to accommodate the requirements of universities, autonomous, and affiliated colleges, and captures the uniqueness of institutions impacting specific stakeholder groups.

Dr. Devendra Kawday, Adviser, NAAC, detailed each metric, explaining the rationale for new metrics essential for the quality of higher education in the current context. The first of the five regional workshops was organized in partnership with IISc Bengaluru on July 16.

In the coming months, NAAC will continue to gather feedback from universities and colleges through these workshops to refine and finalize the Binary Accreditation manual before its official launch. NAAC’s engagement with higher education departments and councils across states aims to ensure widespread participation in the new accreditation process, marking a significant step towards enhancing the quality of higher education in India.

IIM Ahmedabad and FPSB India Join Forces for Capacity Building in Financial Planning

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By

Kapil Suri

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July 18, 2024

The Indian Institute of Management (IIMA), Ahmedabad, and FPSB India, the global standards-setting body for the financial planning profession and owner of the international CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification program, has announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a series of capacity-building initiatives for professionals in financial planning and investment advisory services.

This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the financial planning sector. Under the MoU, IIMA and FPSB India will jointly conduct training programs, applied research, and focused workshops on contemporary themes. These initiatives are designed to equip working professionals and students with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in financial planning.

Krishan Mishra, CEO of FPSB India, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This collaboration with IIMA underscores our shared commitment to excellence in management education and our dedication to nurturing the next generation of professional financial planners equipped with a globally recognized CFP certification. With this association, we aim to fill the gap that exists in the industry for a skilled workforce in the financial planning sector.”

Prof. Bharat Bhasker, Director of IIMA, emphasized the institution’s dedication to academic excellence and collaboration, stating, “At IIMA, we believe in providing our students with holistic education and professional know-how that not only enriches their knowledge base but also empowers them with practical skills relevant to today’s dynamic and evolving financial landscape. This partnership with FPSB India is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in financial planning education.”

FPSB India, home to 2731 CFP® professionals in India and part of a global network representing more than 223,770 CFP professionals worldwide, aims to leverage this collaboration to set new benchmarks in financial education and certification. As part of the initiatives, IIMA and FPSB India will organize a workshop on asset allocation and factor models for certified financial planners at the IIMA campus in December 2024. This workshop will focus on the discussion of factor models and smart beta investing based on experience in the Indian market.

The collaboration between FPSB India and IIMA is poised to enhance the financial planning education and certification process in India, empowering individuals to pursue rewarding careers as Certified Financial Planners while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Centre and UGC Unveil ‘ASMITA’ to Create 22,000 Books in Indian Languages

News

By

Kapil Suri

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July 17, 2024

In a significant stride towards enhancing educational resources in Indian languages, the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) have unveiled the ‘ASMITA’ project. This ambitious initiative, which stands for Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing, aims to develop 22,000 books over the next five years. The project was announced at a launch event attended by Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of Higher Education, who underscored its potential to transform the educational landscape in India.

Key Objectives of ASMITA

ASMITA is a collaborative effort between the UGC and the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, a high-powered committee established by the Ministry of Education. The primary objective is to promote and integrate Indian languages more deeply into the education system, thereby enriching the learning experience and making it more inclusive. This project is part of a broader strategy to enhance the accessibility and quality of educational materials across various Indian languages, ensuring that students have access to high-quality study materials in their native languages.

Education Minister’s Perspective

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the significance of ASMITA on social media. “Launch of three landmark initiatives — ASMITA, Bahubhasha Shabdkosh, and Real-time Translation Architecture, will give momentum to imparting learning in Bharatiya Bhashas, empowering learners in their academic pursuits and preserving and promoting India’s language traditions,” he wrote on X. He added that these initiatives, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), would help create a comprehensive pool of academic resources in 22 scheduled languages, bridge the linguistic divide, foster social cohesion and unity, and transform the country’s youth into socially responsible global citizens.

UGC Chairman’s Insights

UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar emphasized the project’s goal of creating a robust ecosystem for translation and original book writing in Indian languages across various disciplines within higher education. “The goal is to produce 1,000 books in 22 languages within five years, resulting in 22,000 books in Bharatiya bhasha,” Kumar said, as per news agency PTI. Thirteen nodal universities have been identified to lead the project, along with member universities from various regions.

Kumar also detailed the standard operating procedure (SOP) developed by the UGC for the book-writing process in each assigned language. “The SOP includes the identification of nodal officers, authors, allocation of title, subject and programme, writing and editing, submission of the manuscript, review and plagiarism check, finalisation, designing, proofreading and e-publication,” he explained.

Launch of ‘Bahubhasha Shabdakosh’

In addition to ASMITA, the Ministry of Education also launched the ‘Bahubhasha Shabdakosh’, a comprehensive dictionary of words in all Indian languages and their meanings. This initiative, developed by the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in collaboration with the Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, aims to facilitate the use of Bharatiya words, phrases, and sentences in various modern domains such as IT, industry, research, and education. The UGC stated, “This Shabdakosh will help in using Bharatiya words, phrases and sentences for various new-age domains like IT, industry, research, and education.”

The ASMITA project and associated initiatives mark a significant milestone in promoting linguistic diversity and inclusivity in Indian education, fostering a more comprehensive and accessible learning environment for students across the country.

Impact of Oracle Academy in Higher Education

Article

By

Kapil Suri

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July 16, 2024

Globally, Oracle Academy values educators as collaborators who are empowered to lead innovative student learning anytime, anywhere. We offer educators the technology education resources they need to help students learn, build, explore, develop, innovate, lead, and become career-ready across industries with relevant technology knowledge and hands-on skills, says Damian Haas, Senior Director, Oracle Academy, Asia Pacific & Japan.

Oracle Academy, Oracle’s global philanthropic educational program, is open to educators worldwide to advance technology education, skills, innovation, diversity and inclusion. We offer academic institutions and their educators free teaching and learning resources―including curriculum, cloud software, and professional development―that help them prepare students with knowledge, hands-on practice, and career-relevant skills.

About Damian:

Damian has over 18 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business development in the IT industry across Australia/New Zealand and globally. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies and SMEs, specialising in market and business development.
Before entering the private sector, Damian served 20 years as an officer in the Australian Army, including a secondment to the PNG Department of Works and a posting to the MFO Peacekeeping mission in Sinai, Egypt.
As the Regional Director of Oracle Academy, JAPAC, he oversees regional outreach, marketing, and member services. He leads the Oracle Academy team across JAPAC and collaborates with senior management and external stakeholders to achieve results.

What key elements does Oracle Academy offer tech education in today’s colleges?

Oracle Academy offers educators free technology resources for teaching and learning. This includes curriculum, learning resources, Oracle Cloud, Oracle APEX, Oracle NetSuite, Oracle Primavera, and a wide range of software, support, professional development, and other resources. Oracle’s leadership in emerging technologies and cloud development spurs Oracle Academy’s innovation-focused curriculum, resources, technology, and events.

For educational institutions with often limited funds, the fact that these high-quality, top-notch educational resources are free means that every institution and student will be included.

What benefits can colleges, faculty members, and students derive from Oracle Academy?

Oracle Academy requires Institutional membership for academic institutions and their educators who wish to access our free teaching and learning resources. This provides access to all resources, member recognition and discounts. View the latest membership benefits.

Members access all resources through the Oracle Academy Member Hub, an intuitive, state-of-the-art learning management system. Members simply log in on the home page of academy.oracle.com.

To engage students, educators need a robust academic curriculum that sparks curiosity and imagination while teaching critical knowledge and skills. Oracle Academy’s free modular curriculum, designed by professional educators for educators, has computing pathways spanning from one semester to three years.

How is Oracle Academy equipped to upskill the future generation in the rapidly evolving technology landscape?

Oracle Academy works with public and private collaborators to provide the tools and training educators need to engage, inspire, and prepare students for fulfilling careers. Learners cannot join Oracle Academy as members; those whose institutions are members have access to a wealth of resources, including curriculum, learning resources, a Career Center for further self-study, and cloud access for higher education students.

In addition to curriculum and software, we offer Oracle Academy Education Bytes, short, flexible learning modules that teach new concepts and enhance existing knowledge and skills, problem-solving, creativity, and learning retention. Education Bytes provide self-directed, diverse learning experiences at all skill levels in programming, database, data science, big data, Java, SQL, PL/SQL, Map/Reduce, R, Hadoop, Analytics, Cloud Services, Web Services, Machine Learning, Digital Assistant, AI, and more.

All Education Bytes include a content synopsis, recommended prerequisite knowledge and skills, level of difficulty, target age group, and required software or equipment. They include hands-on labs, projects and challenges, and videos and presentations.

What message would you like to convey to our readers, including academicians, colleges, faculty, and students?

Oracle Academy values educators as collaborators who are empowered to lead innovative student learning anytime, anywhere. We offer educators the technology education resources to help students learn, build, explore, develop, innovate, and lead.

We also help educators keep abreast of ever-evolving technologies with the necessary resources to hone core knowledge and skills aligned with industry standards. Oracle Academy offers virtually integrated education and events to help them earn continuing professional development (CPD) education credits.

Oracle Academy looks forward to continuing to delight our members in more than 135 countries globally with the technology education resources educators need to help students learn, innovate, and become career-ready.

Revolutionizing Tech Education: Kuhoo Edufintech and WOJ Education Join Forces

By

Kapil Suri

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July 16, 2024

Kuhoo Edufintech and WOJ Education have announced a groundbreaking partnership to reshape tech education and empower students with unparalleled opportunities in India. This strategic alliance seeks to provide greater opportunities to students from all backgrounds, with a shared commitment to social impact and equitable access to education.

The partnership between Kuhoo Edufintech and WOJ Education is fueled by a mutual dedication to creating social impact by providing greater opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds. The initiative aims to enable access to quality education and career opportunities, positively impacting the lives of numerous students who wish to enhance their education and skills but are still being determined by financial constraints.

As part of the collaboration, students will gain access to WOJ’s globally recognized speciality programs in Full Cycle Software Engineering, Full Stack Development, and AI Machine Learning. Kuhoo Edufintech will serve as the official lending partner, facilitating financial access for students pursuing these cutting-edge programs.

Prashant A. Bhonsle, Founder of Kuhoo Edufintech, commented on the development, stating, “Our collaboration with WOJ Education marks a significant milestone in our mission to make quality education accessible to all talented Indian students. By combining our innovative financing solutions with WOJ’s cutting-edge educational programs, we’re not just funding education; we’re investing in the future of India’s tech workforce. This partnership embodies our commitment to empowering middle-class families and ensuring that financial constraints never hinder a student’s potential.”

WOJ Education, led by Esther Wojcicki, the “Godmother of Silicon Valley,” revolutionizes education with decades of innovative methods. Her T.R.I.C.K. method—Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness—has transformed learning for thousands of students, fostering collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking.

Reflecting on the impact of the partnership, Esther Wojcicki, founder of WOJ Education, said, “My T.R.I.C.K method has yielded radical results for decades in Silicon Valley, and I am thrilled to launch WOJ Education Programs in India. Students in India have incredible potential, and believing in themselves is the first step. I founded WOJ Education to develop this potential, as many young people lack access to opportunities that build leaders and teach essential skills for today’s tech environment. Our cutting-edge computer science programs, implemented with my T.R.I.C.K method, will pave the way for success in tech and entrepreneurship for WOJ graduates. Our strong partnership with Kuhoo ensures no financial barriers for students and reinforces our shared commitment to scalable social impact.”

Union Home Minister Launches Rs 486 Crore College Initiative in Madhya Pradesh

News

By

Kapil Suri

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July 15, 2024

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, inaugurated the Pradhan Mantri Colleges of Excellence, a significant educational initiative built at a cost of Rs 486 crore, covering all 55 districts of Madhya Pradesh. The inauguration took place in Indore, with notable dignitaries, including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and Union Minister Smt. Savitri Thakur, in attendance.

Addressing the inaugural event, Shri Amit Shah emphasized the crucial role of education in building a developed India by 2047. He highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s foresight in introducing the New Education Policy (NEP) in 2020, designed to cater to the nation’s educational needs for the next 25 years. The NEP aims to create a globally competitive educational environment while preserving India’s rich cultural heritage and languages.

Shri Shah outlined the NEP’s emphasis on holistic development over mere degree acquisition. The policy integrates the ‘syllabus of academics’ with the ‘syllabus of life,’ encouraging students to think ‘out of the box’ and move away from traditional rote learning. Recognizing the digital age, the NEP includes provisions for practical, skill development, and vocational training, preparing students for careers in the Internet, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Analytics.

Congratulating the Madhya Pradesh government, Shri Shah lauded the state for being the first to implement the NEP and for translating engineering and medical science curricula into the mother tongue. This initiative has made higher education accessible to many students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The newly inaugurated Pradhan Mantri Colleges of Excellence offer students the flexibility to study multiple disciplines according to their interests, including Biotechnology, Computer Science, Culture, and Arts. Students can simultaneously pursue diplomas in diverse subjects, allowing a commerce student with an interest in technology to also study related courses.

Courses like B. Ed and B. Sc Agriculture have been introduced, linking youth with agriculture and self-employment opportunities. Collaborative efforts with institutions like IIT Delhi have connected various diploma and certificate courses, further enhancing the educational ecosystem. Additionally, the Madhya Pradesh Hindi Granth Academy’s book centres have been established in all 55 colleges.

Shri Amit Shah urged the youth to set clear goals and work diligently to achieve them, stressing that time wasted without a purpose is lost forever. He encouraged students to embrace hard work, which is essential for laying the foundation of success. Highlighting the NEP’s focus on innovation over memorization, he called on the youth to aim for comprehensive personal and academic growth.

Indore, already recognized for its achievements in various sectors, is now poised to become an education hub. Shri Shah acknowledged the city’s advancements in pharma, automobile, textile, and food processing industries, with education joining the ranks as a new frontier of excellence.

The inauguration of the Pradhan Mantri Colleges of Excellence marks a significant milestone in India’s educational journey. With the NEP at its core, these institutions aim to nurture a generation ready to lead India to global prominence by 2047. As Shri Amit Shah concluded, today’s youth are the torchbearers of tomorrow, and their education is the foundation of a developed and prosperous India.

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