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IIM Lucknow and FPSB India Launch New Financial Planning Certification Program

IIM Lucknow

In a strategic move to enhance the quality of financial planning education in India, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FPSB India. The agreement, finalised on Monday, marks a significant step towards addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the financial planning industry.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Archana Shukla, Director-in-charge of IIM Lucknow, and Krishan Mishra, Chief Executive Officer at FPSB India. This partnership aims to blend rigorous academic training with professional certification, equipping a new generation of financial planners with the skills necessary to meet the evolving needs of the sector.

According to a press release, the collaboration represents a major advancement in enhancing financial planning education and certification processes in the country. The partnership will launch a certification program in Financial Planning for the academic session 2024-25, available to both students and working professionals.

Key Outcomes of the MoU:

Certification Program in Financial Planning: The initiative will introduce a comprehensive certification program designed for aspiring students and professionals, combining academic rigour with practical skills.

Enhanced Financial Planning Education: This joint effort seeks to elevate the standards of financial planning education in India, ensuring that students receive industry-relevant knowledge and training.

Professional Certification Integration: The partnership will integrate IIM Lucknow’s academic excellence with FPSB India’s certification process, offering a pathway to obtaining the globally recognised CFP® certification.

Skilled Workforce Development: The collaboration aims to address the industry gap by preparing a new generation of financial planners equipped to offer holistic financial services.

Global Career Opportunities: The program will empower individuals to pursue rewarding careers not just in India but globally while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Prof. Archana Shukla emphasised the significance of the collaboration, stating that the partnership with FPSB India reflects IIM Lucknow’s commitment to innovation, industry-relevant education, and cooperation for the benefit of students and the industry. “As we work towards a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ it’s crucial that our Finance and Accounting curriculum remains dynamic and relevant, preparing our students to address evolving financial challenges effectively,” Prof. Shukla added.

Also read: IIM Lucknow celebrates its 38th annual convocation with 785 graduates

Krishan Mishra highlighted the importance of early financial planning and advised students to start planning with their first salary while seeking advice from credible sources. “This partnership aims to bridge the skills gap and equip financial planners to offer comprehensive services,” he said.

Prof. Vikas Srivastava, Dean (Programmes) at IIM Lucknow, underscored the necessity of introducing this program, stating that the partnership with FPSB India is a step towards fostering a generation of adept financial planners.

The collaboration between IIM Lucknow and FPSB India is poised to set a new benchmark in financial planning education, paving the way for a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the global economic landscape.

Kerala Government Introduces ‘Study in Kerala’ and Plans Seven Centres of Excellence

Kerala government

In a significant boost to the quality of higher education in Kerala, the state government has unveiled plans to establish seven ‘centres of excellence’. This initiative is designed to enhance research capabilities and academic standards, aligning with international benchmarks.

On Monday, Higher Education Minister R Bindu addressed the media, outlining the ambitious project which will see a total investment of Rs 11.4 crore this year. The seven centres are set to span various academic fields, including science and technology, social science, language, and culture. Each centre is envisioned as a hub for cutting-edge research and advanced studies, contributing to the state’s growing reputation as a leader in higher education.

The seven centres to be launched are:

  1. Centre of Excellence for Teaching, Learning and Training: Focused on improving pedagogical methods and professional development for educators, this centre aims to innovate and enhance teaching strategies across disciplines.
  2. Kerala Institute for Science, Technology, and Innovation (KISTI): Dedicated to fostering advancements in scientific research and technological innovation, KISTI will serve as a catalyst for groundbreaking discoveries and technological solutions.
  3. Kerala Institute of Advanced Studies (KIAS): This institute will concentrate on high-level research and advanced studies in various academic disciplines, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and scholarly excellence.
  4. Kerala Network for Research-Support in Higher Education (KNRSHE): KNRSHE will provide essential research support and resources, creating a robust network to facilitate and support higher education research initiatives.
  5. Centre for Indigenous People’s Education (CIPE): CIPE will focus on the education and preservation of indigenous cultures, promoting research and learning about traditional knowledge and practices.
  6. Kerala Institute for Gender Equality: This institute will address gender issues through research and education, working towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity in academic and social spheres.
  7. Kerala Language Network: Aimed at the study and preservation of regional languages, this centre will support research in linguistics and cultural studies, enhancing the understanding of Kerala’s diverse linguistic heritage.

Each centre will be equipped with a top-tier faculty, researchers, and industry representatives. Additionally, a five-member core academic team will lead each centre, supported by a group of doctoral and post-doctoral students. The centres are planned to be situated on university campuses to foster academic collaboration and integration, leveraging existing resources and infrastructure.

In conjunction with these developments, the Kerala government is also launching the ‘Study in Kerala’ programme. This initiative is designed to position Kerala as a premier educational destination for international students. Under this programme, foreign students will be offered innovative courses and unique academic experiences in areas such as Kerala’s traditional art forms, indigenous knowledge, tourism, and culinary traditions. This effort aims to attract students from around the globe, furthering Kerala’s stature as a global educational hub.

Also read: Kerala government plans to launch new e-learning module for children on cyber threats

Minister Bindu also announced that a higher education conclave would be held later in the year, scheduled for November-December. This conclave, to be jointly hosted by various higher education institutions across the state, will serve as a platform to discuss and showcase the comprehensive reforms and advancements in Kerala’s education sector.

These initiatives represent a significant step towards transforming Kerala’s higher education landscape, enhancing research capabilities, and promoting academic excellence on both a national and international scale.

Karnataka’s Initiative to Support 25,000 Students

Karnataka is set to launch a significant educational initiative, offering free coaching to 25,000 pre-university science students from government colleges to help them prepare for the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) and the Common Entrance Test (CET). School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa announced this on Wednesday, marking a significant step towards levelling the playing field for students from rural backgrounds, who often lack access to such resources compared to their urban counterparts. The government has allocated Rs 12.5 crore for this project, which will also include free coaching for other competitive exams.

Minister Bangarappa explained that the coaching would be available to both first and second-year pre-university course (PUC) students. The selection process will involve shortlisting 25,000 students from a pool of 80,000 PUC science students through an entrance exam. Qualified trainers from a selected coaching institute will provide the coaching. The government plans to invite tenders soon to engage a coaching institute for this purpose.

In addition to this coaching initiative, Minister Bangarappa highlighted some of the challenges facing the state’s education system. He pointed out that approximately 6,400 government schools in Karnataka have fewer than ten students enrolled. To address this, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is working on a project to develop model schools in each panchayat based on a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This approach aims to attract students from schools with low enrollment to these model schools, where they will receive quality education.

The Education Minister also expressed concern about parents’ reluctance to send their children to government schools and the issue of children being involved in fieldwork and other menial jobs at a young age. He acknowledged the infrastructure and teacher availability issues in government schools and assured that efforts are being made to resolve these problems. Minister Bangarappa urged parents to prioritise education and send their children to school rather than engaging them in work at an early stage.

Also read: Veranda Learning Steps Into Upskill Government College Students In Karnataka

Additionally, the minister announced that the education department is working on reducing the weight of school bags by introducing single notebooks for multiple subjects or note sheets instead of traditional notebooks. In a pioneering move, the department is also planning to trial a face-recognition system to mark students’ attendance. This system will be linked to the Students Achievement Tracking System (SATS), which monitors students’ performance, representing a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state.

These measures reflect Karnataka’s commitment to improving educational opportunities and addressing systemic challenges in the state’s education sector, aiming to create a more equitable environment for all students.

Tata Motors Unveils Vidyadhan and Utkarsha Programs to Empower Higher Education

In its ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between aspirations and accessibility, Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer, today announced the launch of two special funding programs, ‘Vidyadhan’ and ‘Utkarsha’. These initiatives aim to support the higher education of children of its technicians working in manufacturing facilities across India, including plants in Pune, Lucknow, Jamshedpur, Dharwad, Sanand, and Pantnagar regions.

Under the ‘Vidyadhan’ program, education loans are being made available at concessional rates to support the higher education of children who have successfully cleared grades 10th and 12th. The ‘Utkarsha’ program offers additional annual scholarships to benefit girls, transgender individuals, and specially-abled children.

Announcing the launch of Vidyadhan and Utkarsha, Mr Sitaram Kandi, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of Tata Motors, stated, “Quality education is vital for progress and development. With these programs, we are making higher education more accessible and enabling the next generation of our hardworking technicians to fulfil their dreams as well as those of their parents. While the children can focus on studying beyond 10th and 12th grades in any field of their choice, the parents do not have to worry anymore about the financing required for it. They will have better opportunities to build a successful career and life with the right qualifications and skills.”

Also read: Tata Motors signs MoU with NIT Trichy

Vidyadhan: Building Brighter Futures

‘Vidyadhan’, an education loan program, serves as a transformative bridge to higher learning, empowering the next generation to realise their potential to the fullest. Eligible technicians can access loans of up to Rs. 7.5 lakh, covering up to 95% of fees for domestic education or up to 85% for international education fees. These loans are being offered in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI), with Tata Motors providing concessions on the interest rate charged by SBI – 50% lower interest rates for boys and 70% lower for girls, transgender individuals, and specially-abled children. To qualify, students must be enrolled in a full-time graduate or postgraduate course of at least two years in duration affiliated with recognised universities or AICTE-equivalent institutions in India or abroad.

Utkarsha Scholarship: Fostering Inclusivity with Empowerment

The ‘Utkarsha’ program will provide a scholarship of Rs. 25,000/- annually to support the higher education of girls, transgender individuals, and specially-abled children post successful completion of grade 10th or 12th. To qualify, applicants must have scored a minimum of 60% and secured admission to a recognised university or AICTE-equivalent institution in India or abroad.

With the launch of Vidyadhan and Utkarsha, Tata Motors continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering the next generation through accessible and inclusive education, ensuring that the children of its technicians have the opportunities and support needed to achieve their educational and career goals.

Dharmendra Pradhan Launches NATS 2.0, Ensuring Rs. 100 Crore Stipends to Nurture Young Talent

Dharmendra Pradhan NATS 2.0

New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at enhancing the employability of young Indians, Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan launched the National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal. Alongside the portal launch, he announced the disbursement of ₹100 crore in stipends to apprentices through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. The initiative took place in a high-profile event in New Delhi, attended by leaders in education and industry.

The NATS 2.0 portal is designed to streamline the registration and application process for apprenticeships across various sectors, including IT/ITeS, manufacturing, and automobile. It serves as a dual platform where establishments can manage their apprenticeship vacancies and contracts efficiently. Pradhan highlighted that this portal will significantly democratise apprenticeship opportunities, bridge the existing skills gap, and make Indian youth future-ready.

Also read: Budget 2024-25 Lauded by Dharmendra Pradhan in Drive for India’s 2047 Goals.

During the event, two panel discussions were held, focusing on the future of apprenticeships and the integration of degrees with apprenticeships, the collaboration between industry and higher education, and the utilisation of technology to enhance e-governance and the efficiency of DBT.

Eminent dignitaries such as  K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education; Prof. T G Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE; and Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of UGC, attended the event. The event also recognised top contributors to the apprenticeship ecosystem, including major corporations like Cognizant Technology Solutions Pvt Ltd., Infosys Ltd., and Tech Mahindra Pvt Ltd.

In his address, Pradhan stated, “The NATS Portal 2.0 is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic expansion of our apprenticeship frameworks to meet the dynamic needs of both industry and our youth.” He emphasised the importance of apprenticeships in today’s technology-driven age, not only for degree attainment but for building real-world competencies.

The NATS 2.0 portal, developed in-house by the Ministry of Education with support from AICTE and the Board of Apprenticeship Training, is touted as a one-stop solution for managing the complete lifecycle of apprenticeship activities. This includes everything from student registration, vacancy advertisement, and application processing to contract creation and stipend disbursal through DBT.

Pradhan also called upon educational institutions and industries to actively participate in this revamped apprenticeship scheme. “We aim to make apprenticeship a mass movement, integral to our education system,” he added, urging stakeholders to devise a comprehensive strategy to utilise India’s demographic dividend effectively.

The launch aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to mainstream vocational education and remove barriers between different streams of education, promoting a more integrated and flexible approach to learning and skill development.

The initiative marks a pivotal step towards fulfilling the government’s commitment to enhancing the skilling, employability, and economic potential of India’s youth.

Breaking Boundaries: Indian Ed-Tech Companies Driving Towards Global Expansion

Indian-EdTech-Market

The ed-tech industry is experiencing a global surge, projected to reach a value of US$661.2 billion by 2032. In this transformative landscape, India is emerging as a key player, propelling its domestic ed-tech sector onto the international stage. Indian ed-tech companies are not just breaking barriers; they are reshaping the global education sector. As the demand for education access, a tech-savvy generation, and a growing number of internet users escalate, Indian ed-tech companies are at the forefront of this global transformation.

The ed-tech journey in India started in the early 2000s with only a few players in the market. At the moment, the situation is a diverse picture of companies that can meet various needs of users. These enterprises are leading the digital transformation of education in India across skills, languages, and STEM. The ed-tech sector in India emerged as the second largest in the world and raised a record US$4. 73 billion in funding in the recent past. This financial muscle and a user base that has crossed 18 million underscore the huge possibilities of ed-tech in India. 

Growth Drivers: Affordability, Accessibility, and Innovation.

Several factors are driving the rapid growth of India’s ed-tech industry. The country’s expanding internet user base, which is predominantly mobile-driven, provides a fertile ground for ed-tech businesses. Additionally, India’s youthful population fuels the demand for upskilling and reskilling, creating a substantial market for online courses and certificates. These factors, combined with the affordability and accessibility of Indian ed-tech platforms, are propelling the industry’s growth.

One of the key factors that sets Indian ed-tech platforms apart is their affordability. Compared to their Western counterparts, Indian ed-tech platforms offer significantly lower costs. For instance, online postgraduate programs can be obtained at a fraction of the price of a traditional degree abroad. This affordability, coupled with the virtual format that transcends geographical limitations, is making quality education accessible to a wider global audience. This cost-conscious approach positions Indian ed-tech as a frontrunner in the worldwide market, promising substantial revenue opportunities and the potential for widespread educational impact.

Also read: Indian EdTech Titans Unacademy And K12 Techno Eye Landmark Merger

Indian ed-tech companies stand out for their unique strategies that set them apart in the global market. Their commitment to bridging educational disparities and their innovative approaches are key to their success as they expand globally. These strategies include strategic collaborations, technological universality, and cultural adaptation, all of which contribute to their competitive edge.

Cultural Adaptation

Indian ed-tech companies are going beyond simple translation to achieve true cultural adaptation. Here’s how:

  • Content localisation: They’re tailoring learning materials to resonate with different learning styles. This includes adapting examples, references, and humour to be culturally relevant to the target audience.
  • Incorporating diverse perspectives: The content acknowledges and celebrates global viewpoints, ensuring students encounter a richer learning experience.
  • Language learning with cultural context: Language learning platforms are going beyond vocabulary and grammar, integrating cultural nuances to aid communication and understanding.

Technological Universality

To ensure global accessibility, Indian ed-tech companies are focusing on:

  • Offline functionality: Understanding that internet connectivity can be unreliable in some regions, platforms are enabling features that allow students to download lessons and access them without an internet connection.
  • Mobile-first approach: Since mobile phones are often the primary internet device in many countries, platforms are optimised for mobile learning, with downloadable apps and responsive web design.
  • Lower bandwidth requirements: Catering to areas with limited internet speed, companies are developing content that uses less data to stream or download.

Strategic Collaborations:

Indian ed-tech companies are forging partnerships to:

  • Tap into local expertise: Collaborating with local educational institutions and businesses provides valuable insights into the specific needs and preferences of the target market.
  • Leverage existing distribution networks: Partnering with established educational organisations allows ed-tech companies to reach a wider audience through existing channels.
  • Develop co-created content: Joint ventures with international partners can lead to the creation of educational content that is truly international in scope and perspective.

The rise of Indian ed-tech benefits not only students and educators in India but also their global counterparts. A recent study revealed that instructors on Indian ed-tech platforms dedicate more time to students and reach a larger student base compared to those on foreign platforms. This translates into increased earning potential for educators and a richer learning experience for students worldwide.

The Future of Education: A seamless blend of technology and innovation.

The global growth of online education presents exciting opportunities for all stakeholders. As online learning evolves, the post-pandemic landscape of higher education will be transformed. India’s strong belief in the potential of digital tools positions the country as a leader in shaping the future of education. The global rise of Indian ed-tech companies heralds a new era that seamlessly integrates technology, innovation, and cultural understanding. With their unwavering commitment to quality and affordability, Indian education technology is poised to make a lasting impact on global education, ensuring access and quality for all.

Finally, India’s ed-tech sector is more than just a home success story; it is poised to become a worldwide phenomenon. Indian ed-tech companies are democratising access to great education by using innovation, affordability, and a commitment to cultural awareness. As the world adopts online learning, India is well-positioned to lead the way, imagining a future in which education is accessible, inclusive, and empowering to everyone.

Views expressed by: Mr. Diwakar Chittora, Founder & CEO, Intellipaat

Overcoming Language Barriers in Career Development

In today’s interconnected global economy, access to education and career opportunities should not be hindered by linguistic barriers. For students in rural areas, proficiency in English often stands as a challenging obstacle, limiting their access to crucial information on educational opportunities, career advancements, and prospects for higher education. Recognising this challenge, innovative educational platforms have emerged as transformative tools, bridging the language gap and empowering students to pursue their academic and professional dreams. 

Personalised Education Platforms: Bridging the Language Gap

Recognising this challenge, innovative education platforms have emerged as pivotal tools for students in rural areas, addressing the critical issue of language barriers in accessing information. These platforms provide tailored services that cater to the unique informational needs of individual students, offering targeted support to enhance their access to higher education and career opportunities. Through comprehensive databases of educational resources, real-time translation tools, and user-friendly interfaces, students can navigate crucial information at their own pace and comfort.

Many of these platforms feature specialised modules designed to make foundational information on educational institutions, courses, and career paths accessible in multiple languages. Advanced offerings include live guidance sessions with experts, interactive informational webinars, and access to extensive databases of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Such comprehensive tools not only help students in tier 2 and 3 cities overcome initial language barriers but also instil the confidence necessary to make informed decisions about their academic and career aspirations.

By bridging the language gap, these platforms empower rural students to access critical information, thus levelling the playing field and providing them with the opportunities needed to achieve their dreams.

Integrating Language Learning with Personalised Career Guidance

Beyond language instruction, these platforms integrate robust career guidance services, leveraging predictive analytics to provide personalised support. They offer insights into diverse career paths tailored to each student’s skills, interests, and academic capabilities. By merging language acquisition with career development, these platforms equip students with the requisite knowledge and direction to navigate their future career choices effectively.

Through advanced data analysis, these platforms can assess individual student profiles and suggest career paths that align with their strengths and passions. This personalised approach ensures that students receive guidance that is relevant and actionable, helping them to set realistic and achievable career goals. By bridging the language gap and offering customised career guidance, these platforms empower students to make informed decisions and compete effectively in the global job market.

Also read: Bridging the Internship Gap with New Programs.

Empowering Students for Success

Despite the formidable challenges posed by linguistic disparities in tier 2 and 3 cities, personalised education platforms offer a tangible solution. By delivering targeted language instruction and personalised career guidance, these platforms empower students to transcend language limitations and unlock their full potential. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected global landscape, the imperative to eliminate these barriers becomes crucial, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to chart a successful career journey.

The role of personalised education platforms in breaking down language barriers cannot be overstated. They serve as catalysts for social mobility, enabling students from diverse linguistic backgrounds to thrive in a competitive world. By investing in these platforms and embracing linguistic diversity, we pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future where talent knows no linguistic bounds.

Views Expressed By: Mr Rohan Rai, CEO and Co-Founder, Edupull 

Ministry of Education Unveils IKS Publications at 2024 Education Summit

New Delhi: In a significant celebration held at the Manekshaw Centre Auditorium, New Delhi, the Ministry of Education commemorated the fourth anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) 2024. The event was graced by key figures, including the Minister of State for Education & Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, and the Minister of State for Education & Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar.

Joining them were Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education; Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, along with a host of academicians, vice-chancellors, officials, and students.

A Tribute to Indian Knowledge Systems

The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of several pivotal publications by the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division of the Ministry of Education, designed to foster a deeper understanding of IKS among students and educators. Among these was a comprehensive collection of lecture notes from the Faculty Training Program for Master Trainers in IKS, spearheaded by Shri Anurag Deshpande and Shri S. Sriram of the IKS Division. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the University Grants Commission (UGC), has unfolded in three stages over the past year, offering rich insights into various disciplines, including Chemistry, Agriculture, Ayurveda, Mathematics, and more, underscored by philosophical foundations and methods intrinsic to IKS.

Noteworthy Publications

The event also saw the release of “Kautilya’s Arthashastra: Timeless Strategies for Modern Governance,” co-authored by Vinayak Rajat Bhat and Tejusvi Shukla. This work reinterprets the ancient text with modern applications, serving as a crucial resource for scholars and practitioners alike.

Another significant publication, “Marma Kannadi: Decoding the Human Body the Siddha Way” by Gurukkal Dr. S. Mahesh, explores the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu and Siddha medicine, shedding light on the sage Agasthya’s profound teachings.

The “Shodha Vijaya,” a scholarly exploration of the grandeur of southern dynasties focusing on the Vijayanagara Karnata Kingdom, was also introduced. This compilation includes a variety of research articles covering aspects from theatre and dance to ancient scriptures, edited by Dr. Manorama B. N.

Also read: Ministry of Education Commemorates NEP 2020’s 4th Anniversary at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024

Future of Indian Knowledge Systems

Further enriching the event, Prof. Mohan Raghavan from IIT Hyderabad unveiled a report on the state of the Indian Knowledge Systems and Heritage (IKS & H) Industry. The report projects this sector to potentially evolve into a trillion-dollar industry within the next decade, driven by a unifying Indic identity and heritage across various domains such as Culinary, Textiles, Tourism, and Ayurveda.

Looking Ahead

The ABSS 2024 stands as a milestone event, reinforcing the synergy between traditional wisdom and contemporary educational frameworks. Initiated in July 2022 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Varanasi, the summit continues to foster dialogue, collaboration, and innovation among stakeholders, driving the effective implementation of NEP 2020 across India’s educational landscape.

 

Ministry of Education Commemorates NEP 2020’s 4th Anniversary at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024

Ministry of Education celebrated the 4th anniversary of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 at the Manekshaw Centre Auditorium in New Delhi.

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, graced the occasion and shared his insightful experiences in spearheading the implementation of NEP 2020. The event was also honoured by the presence of the Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, the Minister of State for Education & Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Sukanta Majumdar, and other dignitaries. Several eminent academicians, Vice Chancellors of universities, officials, and students attended the celebration.

During the event, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated several significant initiatives of the Department of Education. These included dedicated TV channels to facilitate learning various Indian languages, including a Tamil channel, and primers for early graders in 25 Indian languages, adding to the 54 already available. He also introduced guidelines for ten bagless days to transform learning into a fun, stress-free school experience. Additionally, he launched Career Guidance Guidelines, a massive library of over 500 job cards, resources such as NMM & NPST in Braille and audiobooks. Other notable initiatives included the School Innovation Marathon by AICTE & AIM and the establishment of graduation attributes and professional competencies.

Shri Pradhan also unveiled several books and lecture notes designed to promote the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) among students and teachers, furthering the educational goals set forth by NEP 2020.

The Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) was conceptualised to celebrate the adoption of the National Education Policy 2020. It aimed to reinvigorate the commitment of various stakeholders for its effective implementation and to harness collective strength for achieving shared goals through collaborative efforts. The day it featured six-panel discussions, delving into multiple ministry initiatives with participation from eminent academicians and stakeholders.

Also read: CM Patel: New NEP to Highlight the Valor of India’s Forgotten Heroes

The first event of ABSS, organised in July 2022 in Varanasi, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. That event aimed to create a platform for all stakeholders to come together for the effective, smooth, and timely implementation of NEP 2020. It also sought to establish strong linkages among various higher educational institutions and discuss the challenges faced by HEIs while articulating solutions.

The celebration at Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 marked a significant milestone in the journey of NEP 2020, showcasing the Ministry of Education’s dedication to transforming and improving the educational landscape of India.

Fee Act Enforcement: Government Takes Action Amidst Academic Year

Education Secretary Krishna Kunal instructed department officials to strictly implement the provisions of the Fee Act in private schools. Kunal emphasised that only RBSE and CBSE books should be used in affiliated schools, eliminating pressure on students to buy additional books.

Parents’ associations expressed concerns, pointing out that these instructions came after the academic session had started and books had already been purchased. Abhishek Jain Bittu, the state spokesperson of Sanyukt Abhibhavak Sangh, criticised the timing of these directives, noting ongoing investigations into fee regulation in major schools that remain unresolved.

Additionally, a directorate-level committee has been established to recommend amendments to the Rajasthan Non-Government Educational Institutions Act and Fee Act, with a report expected in 15 days. The education department had previously issued guidelines in May to control fee hikes, stipulating that fees could only be increased once every three years and decided by a committee. Parents were also allowed to buy books and uniforms from outside the school.

Also read: The UP government has disallowed any increase in school fees for the academic year 2021-22

These measures aim to standardise educational expenses and alleviate financial burdens on parents, ensuring a fair and transparent system in private schooling.

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