Dharmendra Pradhan Takes Office As Union Minister of Education

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June 14, 2024

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan officially assumed his role as the Union Minister of Education today at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. He was welcomed by key officials, including Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, and Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, along with other senior ministry officials.

In his remarks after taking office, Shri Pradhan expressed profound gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his enduring trust and confidence. He emphasised the pivotal role of the Prime Minister’s leadership in steering India towards becoming a leading knowledge economy of the 21st century. Shri Pradhan highlighted the importance of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, expressing his commitment to its innovative implementation. He envisions a future-ready learning landscape that empowers individuals and propels India into a global educational powerhouse.

The newly appointed Ministers of State joined Shri Pradhan for the Ministry of Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Dr. Sukanta Majumdar. He congratulated them on their new roles and expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with them to realise the Prime Minister’s vision. Together, they aim to transform India into a hub of education, skills, innovation, and research.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, who represents the Sambalpur constituency in Odisha, has an extensive political career. He served as the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Petroleum & Natural Gas in 2014, then as the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in 2017. In 2019, he was appointed Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel. Since July 2021, he has held the dual roles of Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Also read: Ministry Of Education Announces Biannual Board Exams Starting 2025, Instructs CBSE To Finalize Logistics

During his tenure, Shri Pradhan has been instrumental in advancing the NEP 2020, launching several progressive initiatives that have significantly enriched India’s educational ecosystem. His leadership continues to drive transformative changes, positioning India at the forefront of global education and innovation.

RLD’s Jayant Chaudhary Appointed MoS for Skill Development, Education in Modi Cabinet 3.0

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Kapil Suri

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June 13, 2024

Jayant Chaudhary, the leader of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), was one of the 71 ministers who took the oath alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. He has been designated as the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Minister of State for the Ministry of Education. Chaudhary joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), continuing the political legacy of his grandfather, Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister of India. Previously, the RLD was in alliance with Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, during which it won eight seats and later secured an additional seat in a by-poll. However, tensions arose between the SP and RLD during the Uttar Pradesh civic polls last year over seat allocations in Nagar Maha panchayats and Nagar panchayats. Currently, the RLD holds nine seats in the Assembly.

Jayant Chaudhary was a member of the 15th Lok Sabha, representing Mathura from 2009 to 2014. His party joined the NDA in March 2024, just before the Lok Sabha elections began. His political career started in 2009 when he was elected the Mathura MP.

Also read: Transnational Skill Standards: New Initiative Launched by Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

According to the Rajya Sabha’s website, Jayant Chaudhary was born in Dallas, USA, on December 27, 1978, to former Union minister Ajit Singh and Radhika Singh. He pursued his education at Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi University, and the London School of Economics and Political Science in London. Additionally, he serves as the chairman of the Kisan Trust, established by his grandfather, Chaudhary Charan Singh, in 1978.

AICTE Updates Norms For Working Professionals Pursuing Technical Education

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Kapil Suri

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June 13, 2024

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has announced new guidelines for working professionals pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering colleges. Effective from the 2024-2025 academic year, these revised norms will apply to B.E/B. Tech courses and diploma programs in AICTE-approved institutions.

Under the new regulations, institutions with an average enrollment of over 80% in the past three years can admit working professionals only in the first year of their courses. This measure aims to streamline the admission process and ensure quality education for all students.

A significant change in the guidelines is reducing the permissible distance between the workplace and the institute. Professionals working in registered industries, organisations (Central or State), private or public limited companies, and MSMEs must now be within a 50 KM radial distance from the institute, down from the earlier limit of 70 KM. This change is expected to facilitate better integration of work and study for professionals.

Working professionals can apply for at least one full-time course while maintaining regular employment. The qualification criteria for these applicants remain the same as those for candidates eligible for lateral entry into the second year. To earn their degree, professionals must accumulate the credits specified in the AICTE model curriculum or by the affiliating university.

Also read: AICTE Launches PhD, M.E, M.Tech Programs For Diploma Faculty

The reservation policies of the respective State or Union Territory will apply in terms of academic requirements. Additionally, AICTE has introduced a special provision reserving one seat in every institute for candidates working in central government organisations, industries, companies, and autonomous organisations based on merit. The seat may be reallocated to the general category if no such candidates apply.

These changes reflect AICTE’s commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of working professionals, ensuring they have access to quality technical education while continuing their careers.

UGC Permits Biannual Student Admissions for Colleges Starting 2024-25

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Kapil Suri

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June 12, 2024

In a major policy shift, the University Grants Commission (UGC) will now allow higher education institutions (HEIs) in India to admit students twice a year starting from the 2024-25 academic session. UGC Chairman Professor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar announced this change aims to align Indian universities with international practices and enhance flexibility.

Indian HEIs admit students only once a year, starting their academic session in July-August and ending in May-June. The new policy will introduce an additional admission cycle in January-February, benefiting students who miss the initial window due to delays in board exam results, health issues, or personal reasons. Inspired by the success of biannual admissions in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online modes, which resulted in nearly half a million additional enrollments, the UGC extended this approach to regular mode programs.

Also read: UGC introduces Life Skill courses aligned with NEP for undergraduates

Professor Kumar emphasized that biannual admissions will help HEIs manage resources more efficiently, allowing better faculty, lab, and classroom and support service utilization planning. This system, already in place at many global institutions, could enhance international collaborations and student exchanges, boosting India’s global educational competitiveness. However, biannual admissions will not be mandatory; HEIs with the necessary infrastructure and faculty can adopt this system to increase student intake and introduce new programs in emerging fields. Institutions will need to amend their regulations to facilitate twice-yearly admissions.

The broader impact of this policy includes a potential increase in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) and support for the vision of making India a “Global Study Destination” as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. HEIs must carefully plan for the administrative and logistical challenges of admitting students at different times of the year, ensuring faculty and staff are prepared for the transition and adequate support systems are in place. Additionally, biannual admissions could enhance job opportunities for graduates by aligning with industry needs, allowing for more frequent campus recruitments.

Report: Proper Data Collection and Analysis Can Enhance India’s Education System

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Kapil Suri

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June 10, 2024

A new study by Aapti Institute and Mozilla, funded by USAID, reveals opportunities and hurdles for data-driven decision-making in India’s vast education system.

Good News: Data Can Drive Improvement

The report highlights the potential for data collection and analysis to benefit the education system significantly.
Standardised data collection and analysis could inform better policies and interventions.

Challenges to Address: Data Collection and Privacy

The current system needs to be more cohesive, with different groups collecting data at various times, burdening schools.
Data collection methods must be updated, relying heavily on manual entry and paper records, raising privacy and security concerns.
The digital divide creates data gaps, potentially skewing policy decisions.

Recommendations for Improvement

The report suggests creating a central agency for standardised data collection with strong privacy protocols.
Financial incentives for data entry, specialists in each region, and IT training are recommended.
A standardised scoring system for schools would encourage data-driven improvement.

Importance of Responsible Data Use

USAID emphasises the importance of “clean, participatory data” for positive development.
Mozilla highlights the need to balance data’s potential with responsible handling to avoid harm.

Also read: PM Modi’s emphasis on industry-oriented education system

The Study: Scope and Impact

The report “Strengthening Data Ecosystems in Indian Schools” is based on nine months of research across ten states.
Responsible data use could significantly benefit India’s education system, which has over 1.49 million schools and 265 million students.

This summary condenses the key points of the news post while maintaining a clear and concise structure.

IMT Ghaziabad & NISM Join Forces To Create A Comprehensive Student Immersion Program

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Kapil Suri

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June 7, 2024

New Delhi: IMT Ghaziabad recently announced its collaboration with the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) to unveil a comprehensive Student Immersion Program. This initiative is crafted to provide hands-on experience to students enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma in Management—Banking and Financial Services (PGDM-BFS). It aims to offer exposure to the dynamic and rapidly evolving Indian securities markets.

The program spans six weeks, is designed for around 120 students, and encompasses 100 learning hours. The curriculum includes courses and an industry project that encapsulates a blend of academic rigour and practical experience. Students can leverage NISM’s simulated trading facilities and gain exposure through visits to prominent institutions such as SEBI, NSE, BSE, CDSL, and NSDL. Additionally, students can benefit from networking opportunities with industry practitioners and regulators during institutional visits, fostering valuable connections.

Dr Vishal Talwar, Director at IMT Ghaziabad, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering a comprehensive and industry-specific education experience for our students. By bridging the gap between academic learning and the dynamic landscape of financial markets, we aim to provide our students with invaluable hands-on experience and real-world insights right from within Mumbai – India’s financial capital. We are confident that this immersive experience will equip our students with the necessary skills and enable them to build robust professional networks, thus empowering them to excel in their future careers.“

Dr. Rachana Baid, Professor and Dean of Academics at NISM, stated: “NISM is delighted to collaborate with IMT Ghaziabad for the PGDM-BFS Students’ Immersion Program. Our advanced facilities and experienced faculty are well-equipped to offer students a comprehensive understanding of the securities markets. We look forward to nurturing the next generation of financial professionals through this partnership.”

This collaboration’s prime objective is to deliver exposure to the Indian securities markets, industry visits, and practical learning experiences for IMT Ghaziabad’s PGDM-BFS students. Moreover, It aims to significantly enhance their career prospects, preparing them to become future leaders and innovators in the financial sector.

Professor Rekha Saxena Appointed As Head Of The Political Science Department At Delhi University

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Kapil Suri

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June 7, 2024

The University of Delhi (DU) has named Professor Rekha Saxena the head of its Department of Political Science, which supervises the political science curriculum in over 60 DU colleges. An alumna of Hindu College, Professor Saxena has been associated with DU for more than four decades, beginning her esteemed teaching career at St. Stephen’s College.

In addition to her new role, Professor Saxena is the honorary senior advisor at the Forum of Federations in Ottawa and vice-chairperson of the Centre for Multilevel Federalism in New Delhi. Her extensive expertise in federalism and intergovernmental relations is widely recognized, and she has authored numerous academic articles and over a dozen books on these topics.

Also read: NCERT revises Class XII political science textbook

Professor Saxena earned her PhD in Political Science from DU in 2002, focusing her dissertation on “Intergovernmental Agencies in Federal Systems: A Comparative Study of Canada and India.” She also holds an MPhil in Political Science, obtained in 1993, where she explored the “Changing Nature of the Party System in India.”

Professor Saxena’s vast experience and profound knowledge make her a valuable asset to DU’s Department of Political Science, promising to further enhance its academic and research endeavours.

IIFT Welcomes Rakesh Mohan Joshi As Its New Vice-Chancellor

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Kapil Suri

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June 6, 2024

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) welcomes Dr. Rakesh Mohan Joshi as its new Vice-Chancellor. A renowned expert in international trade, Joshi previously served as IIFT’s Dean.

Joshi brings a distinguished academic background honed at institutions like Harvard Business School and IIFT. He also boasts a prolific career, having authored influential books on international trade.

Vision for a World-Class IIFT

Joshi’s vision is ambitious: to transform IIFT into a global leader in international trade and management education. He emphasizes the crucial role of cutting-edge research and training in propelling India towards becoming a world trade powerhouse.

“I am dedicated to making IIFT a world-class business school,” Joshi declared, highlighting his commitment to cutting-edge research and education.

Also read: V Ramgopal Rao, former IIT Delhi Director, was appointed as group Vice Chancellor for BITS Institutions.

IIFT’s Continued Growth

Established in 1963, IIFT has played a vital role in developing India’s international trade sector. Under Joshi’s leadership, the institute is poised to further its mission and gain greater global recognition.

This appointment signifies a major step forward for IIFT’s journey towards educational excellence. Under Joshi’s guidance, the institute will continue to shape the future of India’s international trade professionals.

How can early childhood education play a vital role in fixing India’s biggest sustainability and climate change issues?

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Kapil Suri

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June 5, 2024

As we achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a country, involving our children in this pursuit is critical. The earlier we start sensitising them about their environment, the more responsible they become. And what’s better than integrating sustainability into early childhood education (ECE)? It could help nurture a generation that inherently practices sustainable living.

Early childhood, defined as the period from birth to eight years, is scientifically the most formative years in a child’s life. A child develops foundational cognitive, behavioural, and social skills during these years. It is also when a child becomes aware of their surroundings and learns to adapt to the environment. Introducing sustainability principles at this stage of development can foster environmentally conscious behaviour that becomes a way of life for the child.

Connecting environment concerns via engaging methods like storytelling, songs, and playful activities

We can effectively integrate sustainability into early education by introducing environmental science through simple, relatable concepts such as how to recycle used products, why to use water judiciously, and the importance of clean energy. The earlier they understand how the human quality of life depends on the environment and how the harmonious coexistence of plants and animals is critical to a healthy life, the better it is. This can be achieved through engaging methods like storytelling, songs, and playful activities that capture the imagination and curiosity of young learners.

Infusing Sustainability in School’s DNA

Schools must reflect their teachings by practising sustainability on their campuses. For example, schools can adopt rainwater harvesting, solar energy, and zero-waste policies. Using environmentally friendly, sustainable materials in the classrooms and on the school premises protects children from harmful substances and teaches them how to practice sustainability.

Experiential learning in the lap of nature and the environment

Extending learning beyond the classrooms and engaging children in gardening, planting trees, collecting and disposing of garbage, and making the best out of waste helps children understand and respect nature. Such hands-on learning experiences instil practical environmental skills in children.

Nurturing Sustainable teaching pedagogies and teachers of tomorrow

Effective teacher training is also important in equipping educators with the necessary knowledge and tools to integrate sustainability into their teaching in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Besides, we must develop innovative environmental education curricula, pedagogy, and lesson plans to ensure consistency in the delivery of sustainability education.

Also Read: IIT Kanpur launches new online master’s degree programs in finance and sustainability

Need for Communities to Set Right Examples!

The community and parents’ engagement and involvement are equally important as they help reinforce lessons learned at school and promote a sustainable lifestyle at home. We can engage them by organising cleaning drives, eco-walks, and environment-friendly projects.

Undoubtedly, this is an ambitious plan, and this integration is easier said than done. Ensuring that sustainability education is culturally relevant and accessible to children across the country, irrespective of their backgrounds, requires a lot of planning and resources. Hence, robust policy support from state and Union governments is needed the most.

Schools, teachers, educationists, and policymakers must collaborate to create an ecosystem supporting children’s sustainable development. By embedding sustainability into early education, we will prepare our children for a better future and contribute greatly to saving the planet.

Views Expressed By: Mr Naman Jain, Director, Silverline Prestige School, Ghaziabad

Empowering Digital India: The Role of Data Science in Building a Future-Ready Workforce

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Kapil Suri

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June 5, 2024

In the digital age, where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, India’s journey towards becoming a digital powerhouse has gained momentum. The Digital India initiative, launched by the Government of India, aims to transform the nation into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. At the heart of this transformation lies the role of data science, which holds immense potential in shaping the future of work. By harnessing the power of data, organisations can gain valuable insights, drive innovation, and make informed decisions. In this article, we explore the crucial role of data science in creating a future-ready workforce aligned with the Digital India mission.

Unlocking Insights for Informed Decision Making:

Data science encompasses a range of techniques, including data mining, machine learning, and predictive analytics, to extract knowledge and insights from large and complex datasets. In the context of Digital India, organisations across various sectors, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and financial institutions, can leverage data science to make data-driven decisions. By analysing vast amounts of data, policymakers can identify trends, anticipate challenges, and design effective strategies to address them. For instance, data analytics can help optimise resource allocation in healthcare, improve urban planning, and enhance public service delivery.

Driving Innovation and Economic Growth:

Innovation is the cornerstone of India’s digital transformation journey. Data science drives innovation by enabling organisations to develop new products, services, and business models. Startups and enterprises are leveraging data science techniques to gain a competitive edge in the market. From personalised recommendations in e-commerce to predictive maintenance in manufacturing, data-driven innovation is reshaping industries across the board. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, India can unleash its economic growth and job creation potential.

Enhancing Skills and Capabilities:

As the demand for data-driven insights grows, so does the need for a skilled workforce proficient in data science and analytics. Recognising this, initiatives such as the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and Skill India are working to equip individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. Universities and educational institutions offer specialised courses and training programs in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI) to meet the growing demand for talent. Moreover, continuous learning and upskilling have become essential for professionals to stay relevant in an ever-evolving job market.

Also Read: EduBrisk – Transforming Education through Neuroscience and Data Science-based Teaching-Learning Ecosystem for Schools

Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

India’s digital transformation requires collaboration and knowledge sharing across sectors and disciplines. Data science is a common language that enables stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and co-create solutions to complex challenges. Open data initiatives, hackathons, and data science competitions provide platforms for collaboration between government, academia, industry, and civil society. By leveraging diverse stakeholders’ collective expertise and resources, India can accelerate its progress towards a digitally inclusive society.

Addressing Ethical and Regulatory Challenges:

While data science offers tremendous opportunities, it also presents ethical and regulatory challenges that must be addressed. Data privacy, security, and bias require careful consideration to build trust and ensure responsible data use. The government, industry, and civil society must work together to establish robust frameworks and standards for data governance and ethics. India can foster trust in digital technologies and promote inclusive growth by promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in data practices.

Data science holds immense promise in shaping the future of work and driving India’s digital transformation agenda forward. By unlocking insights, driving innovation, enhancing skills, fostering collaboration, and addressing ethical challenges, data science can empower organisations and individuals to thrive in the digital economy. As India continues its journey towards becoming a digitally empowered nation, investing in data science capabilities will be crucial to building a future-ready workforce aligned with the Digital India mission.

Views Expressed By: Prof Abhijit Dasgupta, Director – Bachelor of Data Science at SP Jain School of Global Management

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