Nagaland University to launch Undergraduate Program in Basic Sciences

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March 18, 2025

Nagaland University, the only Central University in the State, is going to launch a new undergraduate program in Basic Sciences from the Academic Year 2025-26. The University also plans to launch a Multidisciplinary Research Centre that will offer more programs in Basic Sciences. These initiatives are in keeping with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recognizes that higher education plays an extremely important role in promoting human as well as societal well-being and in developing India as envisioned in its Constitution – a democratic, just, socially conscious, cultured, and humane nation upholding liberty, equality, fraternity, and justice for all.

Initially, this New Centre will offer three or four-year undergraduate programmes in Botany, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Zoology. The University also plans to offer more programs in Basic Sciences in the coming years, including, Integrated Postgraduate programmes in Botany, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Zoology and a Ph.D. Programmes in all sciences and social sciences with an emphasis on the topics of multidisciplinary research

Highlighting the benefits of offering Basic Sciences programs, Prof. Jagadish K Patnaik, Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, said, “We want to pursue and promote world-class research and training and push the frontiers of basic sciences, covering broad areas ranging from material to life sciences with topics of multidisciplinary nature. We are keen to remove rigid boundaries and facilitate new possibilities for learners. Further, the University will also offer creative combinations of disciplines of study that would enable ‘multiple entry and exit’ points and re-entry options”

Prof. Jagadish K Patnaik added, “The ‘multiple entry and exit’ option will pave the way for seamless student mobility between or within degree-granting Higher Education Institutes through a formal system of credit recognition, credit accumulation, credit transfers, and credit redemption, through Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) mechanism.”

The Undergraduate/ Integrated Postgraduate programmes will start with an intake capacity of 50 students across all the disciplines (Botany, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Zoology) during the academic year 2025-26.

Also Read: ISRO Chairman launches fluid and thermal research centre at IIT Madras

Other key objectives of offering Basic Courses include facilitating the encashing of credits earned when the learner resumes his/her programmes of study and enabling credit accumulation and transfer along with the provision of evaluation and validation of non-formal and informal learning for the award of a degree and encourage lifelong learning.

AI and Machine Learning in Indian Schools Readiness, Challenges, & Opportunities

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March 18, 2025

The rapid evolution of technology has positioned Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) as transformative forces across various sectors, including education. As India progresses with its Digital India initiatives, the New Curriculum Framework (NCF) for School Education 2023, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizes integrating advanced technologies into the education system. However, while countries worldwide are embracing these changes, India faces unique challenges in readiness, infrastructure, and implementation.

The Future of Jobs 2025: Insights and Transformations

The Future of Jobs Report 2025, released by the World Economic Forum, provides a comprehensive analysis of the rapidly evolving global labor market. Based on insights from over 1,000 employers representing 14 million workers across 22 industries and 55 economies, the report examines macrotrends influencing the workplace, changes in job roles, and strategies for workforce transformation.

The Global Labor Market Landscape in 2025

In 2025, the labor market will be shaped by technological advancements, economic uncertainties, demographic shifts, and environmental imperatives. These forces drive transformations in employment, creating both opportunities for job growth and challenges of displacement. Despite global unemployment rates reaching historic lows, disparities persist across regions and demographics. The report provides a roadmap for navigating this dynamic landscape.

Drivers of Labor-Market Transformation

Technological advancements stand as the most significant driver of labor-market transformation. Technologies like AI, robotics, and generative AI are reshaping industries, with investments in AI creating demand for roles such as AI Specialists and Data Analysts. The green transition, characterized by efforts to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change, is also fostering growth in renewable energy roles like Environmental Engineers. Additionally, demographic shifts in high-income countries are increasing the demand for healthcare roles, while growing working-age populations in low-income regions emphasize the importance of education and job creation. Economic uncertainties and geopolitical fragmentation further highlight the need for resilience and innovation in workforce strategies.

AI and ML in Education: Transforming Learning

AI and ML technologies are reshaping education by creating personalized, adaptive, and efficient learning environments. These technologies enable personalized learning by adapting to individual students’ needs, providing tailored resources, feedback, and recommendations that foster better engagement and outcomes. Automated assessments powered by AI evaluate not only rote learning but also critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, offering consistent, unbiased evaluations and saving educators’ time.

Technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) create immersive experiences, making abstract concepts tangible and engaging. For instance, students can explore the solar system or conduct virtual lab experiments in their classrooms. AI-driven analytics also provide educators with insights into student performance, enabling timely interventions and targeted support to address learning gaps.

Why India Needs AI and ML in Education

The integration of AI and ML in education is essential for future readiness. The employment landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in AI, ML, AR, and VR. Traditional jobs are transforming, and new roles are emerging, requiring skills that align with technological innovations. India’s curriculum needs to shift from rote learning to fostering computational thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. AI and ML must become core components of the curriculum to prepare students for the future.

The NEP 2020 and NCF 2023 emphasize a multidisciplinary, technology-integrated approach to education. Including AI and ML aligns with their focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and ICT (Information and Communication Technology). Skill development in these areas enhances employability and innovation, preparing students for interdisciplinary applications in fields like agriculture, healthcare, and smart cities. The NEP’s focus on joyful and bagless days can be complemented with technology-driven simulations, gamified learning, and practical skill development.

Challenges in Implementing AI and ML in Indian Education

India faces several challenges in adopting AI and ML in education. Awareness and acceptance among stakeholders, including educators and parents, remain low. Bridging the digital divide is crucial to ensuring that AI-driven education benefits all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Infrastructure gaps, such as unreliable internet connectivity and limited access to smart classrooms, further hinder adoption. Ethical and regulatory concerns, including data privacy and algorithmic bias, must be addressed through clear policies.

Opportunities for Growth

Despite these challenges, the opportunities are immense. Integrating AI and ML into education equips students with future-ready skills, aligning with global job market demands. AI fosters experiential and project-based learning, making education more engaging and relevant. Collaboration with EdTech firms can provide cutting-edge tools and training, enhancing the quality of education.

Strategies and Solutions for the Future

Curriculum Development

For successful implementation, curriculum development and resource preparation are crucial. NCERT, SCERTs, and education boards must introduce fundamental AI concepts, such as machine learning, algorithms, and ethical AI use. Textbooks should include real-world examples of AI applications in agriculture, healthcare, and smart cities.

Digital textbooks should incorporate AR and VR tools for experiential learning, enabling students to visualize and interact with complex ideas. Evaluation systems must evolve, with AI-enabled adaptive testing systems replacing traditional exams to focus on critical thinking and higher-order cognitive skills.

Teacher Training

The successful integration of AI and ML depends on teacher readiness. Teacher education programs like B.Ed curricula must include AI, ML, and AR/VR training modules. Regular workshops, certification programs, and hands-on training sessions should be conducted for in-service teachers. Appointing AI-trained faculty and officers can ensure consistent and effective use of AI and ML in classrooms.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure readiness is a significant bottleneck in India’s adoption of AI and ML in education. Schools need reliable internet connectivity, smart classrooms, and AI-compatible devices. Policy support is essential to establish guidelines for ethical AI use, data privacy, and cybersecurity. Collaboration with industry stakeholders can provide access to cutting-edge tools and resources.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the integration of AI and ML in education offers immense potential, it also raises critical challenges. Many educators and parents lack awareness of AI’s potential, creating resistance to adoption. Bridging the digital divide is essential to ensure equitable access to AI-driven education across socioeconomic groups. Ethical concerns, such as data privacy and algorithmic bias, must be addressed to build trust and ensure responsible AI use. Clear regulatory measures and guidelines are needed to govern the integration of AI in education.

Also Read: Investing in Potential India’s Education Priority

Conclusion

The integration of AI and ML into India’s school education system represents a paradigm shift that aligns with the vision of NEP 2020 and NCF 2023. These technologies promise to revolutionize teaching, learning, and evaluation, preparing students for the future workforce. However, achieving this vision requires collaboration among policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and parents. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, India can create a future-ready education system that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Views expressed by Dr. Parmod Kumar, State Programme Officer (NEP 2020 AND NCF) – Department of School Education, Government of Haryana

Investing in Potential India’s Education Priority

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March 18, 2025

Finance Minister Sitharaman’s 2025-26 Union Budget signals a major shift, prioritizing education, skill development, and infrastructure, and embracing the power of technology to transform the learning experience.

From AI-powered learning platforms to cutting-edge research in educational technology, the government is poised to transform classrooms across the nation. This ambitious push promises to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has access to high-quality education.

The nation’s commitment to building a future-ready workforce, equipped to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence, is evident in the substantial budgetary allocations and targeted initiatives outlined in the 2025-26 Union Budget. This ambitious agenda aims not only to bridge the digital divide and democratize access to quality education but also to position India as a global leader in technological innovation and a hub for cutting-edge research. The focus on integrating AI into the education ecosystem, coupled with a renewed emphasis on skill development and vocational training, promises to enhance global competitiveness and empower a generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

The education sector’s budget has seen a considerable jump to ₹1.3 lakh crore, up from ₹1.1 lakh crore the previous year. This funding is divided between higher education (₹50,067 crore) and school education (₹78,572 crore), with a strong emphasis on bridging the digital gap. A key initiative involves expanding broadband access to government schools and primary health centers in rural areas, aiming to level the playing field after the pandemic’s disruptive impact.

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are leading this educational evolution. Five newer IITs, located in Jammu, Bhilai, Dharwad, Palakkad, and Tirupati, will collectively add 6,500 student seats over the next five years. This expansion builds on the already impressive doubling of student capacity across all 23 IITs in the last decade, from 65,000 to 1.4 lakh. Increased funding for IITs, now at ₹11,349 crore (compared to ₹10,467 crore in 2024-25), highlights the government’s commitment to advanced research and technological progress.

Beyond infrastructure, the budget invests in talent. 10,000 technology research fellowships at IITs and IISc will nurture future innovators. The creation of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools, along with five new National Centres of Excellence (CoEs) focused on skilling, will provide hands-on learning opportunities. For the integration of AI in the education ecosystem to create a future-ready workforce to thrive in the AI-driven economy, a dedicated allocation of ₹500 crore for a Centre of Excellence in AI for education has been announced. This also demonstrates the government’s vision of integrating cutting-edge technologies into learning.

Skill development and vocational training are also prioritized. ₹3,000 crore has been earmarked for modernizing Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and ensuring their courses align with industry needs. Furthermore, substantial funding growth for the India-AI Mission, from ₹173 crore in 2024-25 to ₹2,000 crore in 2025-26, underscores the importance of artificial intelligence in developing a future-ready workforce. These combined efforts are expected to stimulate economic growth, create more job opportunities, and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.

The All India Council for Technical Education’s (AICTE) declaration of 2025 as the “Year of AI” further emphasizes this commitment. By empowering over 14,000 colleges and 40 million students with AI knowledge and skills, AICTE aims to create a generation of AI-ready professionals who can contribute to India’s emergence as a global leader in artificial intelligence. This initiative will not only equip students with the technical skills needed to thrive in the AI-driven economy but also foster a deeper understanding of the ethical and societal implications of AI, ensuring that its development and deployment are guided by principles of responsible innovation.

The vision for India’s educational transformation extends beyond technical skills and focuses on nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only competent professionals but also responsible global citizens. As Dr. Suresh D. Mane, Principal, Dr D Y Patil Pratisthans College of Engineering, articulates, “In 2025, we will empower our students to become responsible global citizens and leaders.” This emphasis on holistic development includes integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the curriculum, fostering intercultural competence through international collaborations, and promoting ethical leadership.

Also Read: AI Credit Solutions for Rural Students & NBFCs’ Role in Digital Learning

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s description of the 2025-26 budget as a “significant step toward an inclusive and empowered India” captures the essence of this transformative vision. The increased investment in education, coupled with the focus on skill development, AI integration, and global citizenship, promises to create a more equitable and prosperous society.

By empowering individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to thrive in the 21st century, India is laying the foundation for a future where its citizens are not only globally competitive but also deeply committed to building a better world. This comprehensive and forward-looking approach to education is not just about preparing individuals for jobs; it is about shaping a generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will drive India’s progress and contribute to global well-being.

ISRO Chairman launches fluid and thermal research centre at IIT Madras

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March 17, 2025

On March 17, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the Shri S Ramakrishnan Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Science Research at the IIT Madras. This new facility, located within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Indian Insitute of Technology Madras, aims to enhance research in thermal management for spacecraft and launch vehicles.

During the inauguration, ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan emphasized India’s advancements in cryogenic engine technology, noting that the country has developed three cryogenic engines, including one designed for human missions, despite earlier technological challenges. He mentioned that only six countries globally have mastered this technology.

The centre is named in honor of Shri S. Ramakrishnan, an IIT Madras alumnus and aerospace engineer celebrated for his significant contributions to launch vehicle engineering, particularly as Project Director for PSLV and GSLV Mk-III. He also held the position of Director at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), receiving the Padma Shri award in 2003.

IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti underscored the critical role of thermal and cooling technologies in space exploration. The centre will concentrate on thermal management for spacecraft and launch vehicles, conduct studies on cooling systems, perform high-fidelity simulations and testing, and provide training programs for ISRO scientists.

Also Read: Diversity & inclusion shape consumer choices in hospitality – IIM Lucknow research

This research centre will promote collaboration between ISRO scientists and the faculty and researchers at IIT Madras, aiming to tackle complex thermal challenges in space applications. Ultimately, it is expected to contribute to the development of reusable spacecraft and enhance deep-space exploration capabilities, supporting missions like Gaganyaan and future lunar and interplanetary endeavors.

Diversity & inclusion shape consumer choices in hospitality – IIM Lucknow research

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March 17, 2025

An IIM Lucknow research has found that consumers have a favourable opinion of hospitality brands that include Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Indian Institute of Management Lucknow faculty Prof. Vishakha Chauhan has found that encouraging diversity and inclusion has now become a strategic requirement for hospitality brands to effectively serve an increasingly diverse customer base.

Published in the Journal of Hospitality Marketing and Management, the study examined how DEI initiatives affect consumer sentiments, brand integrity, and purchase decisions through two controlled experiments.

The first experiment examines how DEI commitments influence brand attitudes in the context of a fictitious hospitality brand.
The second experiment builds on these findings using a real-world hotel brand.

The research team was comprised of the researchers from IIM Lucknow, IIM Sambalpur and Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM), New Delhi. Additionally, DEI initiatives also influence brand integrity in a positive way, which enhances consumer perception. Also, compared to socially conscious customers, materialistic customers are less impacted by a hotel’s DEI initiatives. These insights highlight the necessity of customised marketing approaches that appeal to different customer segments.

Speaking about the significance of this research, Dr. Vishakha Chauhan, Assistant Professor, Marketing, IIM Lucknow, said, “The hospitality and tourism sector is exposed to a diverse segment of consumersglobally; hence it is extremely crucial for this industry to adopt diversity, equity and inclusion practices. Our research presents empirical evidence of the positive impact of these practices on how consumers perceive and choose a hospitality brand”

The study underscores that it is important for the firms to match their advertisements with genuine internal processes, as simply showcasing diversity in advertisements is insufficient. Transparent communication regarding diversity and inclusion initiatives, workforce policies that encourage genuine inclusivity, diversity training for staff to enhance customer experience, and authentic representation of marginalised communities in campaigns and events are all examples of effective DEI techniques. For example, hospitality brands hosting LGBTQ+ Pride Month celebrations should collaborate with the represented communities to maintain credibility and consumer trust.

Also Read: Potential drug for THIS mosquito-borne disease: IIT Roorkee researchers discover

With consumers, especially younger generations, aligning more with brands that reflect their values, DEI initiatives are not just moral obligations but also effective economic strategies. This research provides hospitality leaders with actionable insights to strengthen brand reputation, build consumer trust, and enhance competitiveness in an increasingly diverse marketplace.

Along with Dr. Vishakha Chauhan from IIM Lucknow, the research paper was co-authored by, Dr. Aqueeb Sohail Shaik, Assistant Professor, Strategy, IIM Sambalpur, and Dr. Mansi Gupta, Assistant Professor, Marketing, Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management, New Delhi.

Potential drug for THIS mosquito-borne disease: IIT Roorkee researchers discover

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March 17, 2025

Researchers at IIT Roorkee have discovered a possible solution for a mosquito-borne disease – Chikungunya. According to IIT Roorkee, Efavirenz, a drug commonly used to treat HIV, may also be an effective treatment for Chikungunya disease, as research indicates it can reduce Chikungunya virus replication in both laboratory settings and mouse models. Chikungunya causes join pain, muscle pain, fever and rash.

This discovery comes from a study conducted by IIT Roorkee in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The research demonstrated that Efavirenz lowered virus levels in cultured cells and in infected mice. The National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control reports that Chikungunya is a persistent public health issue in India, with cases emerging in various states annually. Currently, there are no approved antiviral treatments specifically for Chikungunya. Additionally, the study found that Efavirenz also impacted the replication of the Sindbis virus, which is related to Chikungunya.

Dr. Sanket Nehul, the study’s first author, noted that the findings indicate that Efavirenz can interfere with the virus early during its replication phase. “Given that this medication is already widely prescribed for HIV, further clinical trials could investigate its potential for treating Chikungunya, thus saving time and resources on developing new antiviral drugs,” Dr. Nehul stated.

Prof. Shailly Tomar, the study’s corresponding author, emphasised the importance of these results, explaining that those affected by Chikungunya currently depend on managing symptoms since no specific antiviral treatment exists. “Our study provides preliminary scientific evidence that Efavirenz could serve as a potential antiviral option for Chikungunya treatment. However, clinical trials are necessary to evaluate its effectiveness for patients with Chikungunya,” Prof. Tomar said.

Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, expressed the institution’s commitment to conducting research aimed at tackling public health challenges.

Also Read: IIT Madras launches UG Programs for Olympiads excellence students

“This study represents progress toward finding potential solutions for mosquito-borne viral infections,” he remarked. Importantly, the research has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. However, IIT Roorkee cautioned that the current findings do not yet validate Efavirenz as a Chikungunya treatment, and further studies, alongside clinical trials, are essential to assess its safety and efficacy for treating Chikungunya in patients.

IIT Madras launches UG Programs for Olympiads excellence students

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March 13, 2025

IIT Madras has launched undergraduate programs for students with excellence in National and International Olympiads. Called ‘Science Olympiad Excellence’ (ScOpE), Indian Institute of Technology Madras has called this admission will be outside the JEE (Advanced) Framework with the students to be admitted from the academic year 2025-2026.

These Olympiads are competitive examinations that assess and challenge students in various academic subjects and skills. Similar to admissions through Sports Excellence Admissions and Fine Arts and Culture Excellence modes, ScOpE will also have two supernumerary seats per program of which One Seat will be exclusively for women students.

The eligibility criteria such as passing of Class 12 and age, among other criteria, remain exactly the same as that of JEE (Advanced) for the respective year. The candidate also should not have been admitted to an IIT in the previous years. The applications will be open for the First Batch from 3rd June 2025). The detailed guidelines and business rules for ScOpE admission are available on the following website – https://ugadmissions.iitm.ac.in/scope.

Outlining the vision for ScOpE admissions, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “The world’s grandest puzzles aren’t solved by memorizing textbooks, but by those who dare to dismantle them, piece by piece, and create new wonders for the future generations. With this vision, IIT Madras embarks on yet another new journey by offering admission to her much coveted undergraduate programs for candidates with demonstrated excellence in science Olympiads. “

Urging students all over the country who excel in Olympiads to apply under this initiative, Prof. V. Kamakoti added, “To those who’ve proven their brilliance on the international stage of science Olympiads, we don’t just offer admission; we offer a sanctuary where their insatiable curiosity will find its most fertile ground amongst the blissful IITM flora and fauna.”IIT Madras launches UG Programs for Olympiads excellence students

The allotment of seats under this scheme will be based on the ScOpE Rank List (SRL), which will be based on the performance and achievements of the candidates in five Olympiads (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Informatics, and Biology). The Business Rules will be provided on the website for details on the preparation of ScOpE rank list.

Also Read: ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING course: SEBI, with NISM, starts two courses on it

The admission process through SCOPE would not be through the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) portal but on a separate portal (https://jeeadv.iitm.ac.in/scope) maintained by IIT Madras.

The IITM-SCOPE portal is to be used exclusively for admission to various academic programs at IIT Madras under SCOPE admission only. The candidates are required to apply separately on JoSAA portal for the academic programs at IIT Madras and/or other IITs where the seats are offered through JoSAA.

ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING course: SEBI, with NISM, starts two courses on it

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March 12, 2025

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched two new courses centred on Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) aimed at market intermediaries. The goal is to set a minimum knowledge standard for employees and associated individuals concerning AML and CFT concepts, as well as essential elements of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), relevant rules, and scheduled offences under the SEBI Act and the Companies Act, as stated by the market regulator.

As part of its broader initiative to improve the capital market, SEBI has been conducting outreach programmes focused on AML and CFT provisions, specifically tailored for intermediaries operating within the securities market. In addition, the regulator is involved in various initiatives to enhance awareness of these provisions among market participants.

To further this objective, SEBI, in partnership with the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), has created a certification examination titled “AML and CFT Provisions in Securities Market.”

Meanwhile, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai, in collaboration with the edtech platform TalentSprint, has introduced an advanced postgraduate diploma in Financial Economics and Management. This 45-credit programme has been designed to offer participants a profound understanding of essential financial concepts, including investment and risk management, macroeconomic trends, financial regulations, accounting, behavioural finance, and analytical frameworks.

Also Read: IIT Madras comes with Industry & Educational Institutions to offer skilled courses on SWAYAM Plus

Aimed at both recent graduates and working professionals, the programme is offered in cooperation with the National Stock Exchange (NSE), which acts as the knowledge partner. The course combines online flexibility with immersive on-campus sessions at IIM Mumbai, ensuring a holistic learning experience. Participants will engage in real-world case studies, projects, and interactive sessions led by distinguished faculty members. Upon successful completion, graduates will receive a PG diploma from IIM Mumbai, gain alumni status, and have access to an extensive network of industry professionals and peers, as stated by the institute.

Formerly known as the National Institute for Training in Industrial Engineering (NITIE), IIM Mumbai was established in 1963. It ranked sixth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024, an annual ranking published by the Ministry of Education.

IIT Madras comes with Industry & Educational Institutions to offer skilled courses on SWAYAM Plus

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March 12, 2025

IIT Madras is partnering with the industry and other higher education institutes to offer employability-focussed courses on SWAYAM Plus. The Higher Education Institutions will collaborate with SWAYAM Plus to encourage students to take up these industry-relevant courses as part of their academic curriculum.

Through the MoUs signed with these institutes, the initial phase is set to bring in over 2,500 learners enrolling in courses on SWAYAM Plus in the coming weeks. SWAYAM Plus will also onboard more Institutes, targeting the enrolment of more than 10,000 students from various institutions who will be taking SWAYAM Plus courses for credits.

The MoUs were signed during the recently-held IInvenTiv 2025 event at Indian Institute of Technology Madras campus on February 28 and March 1, 2025 in the presence of Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, Prof. R. Sarathi, Dean (Planning), IIT Madras & SWAYAM Plus Coordinator, IIT Madras and other stakeholders.

Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Prof. R. Sarathi, Dean (Planning), IIT Madras & SWAYAM Plus Coordinator, IIT Madras, said, “The objective of these MoUs is to encourage higher education institutions to embed SWAYAM Plus courses into their semester schedules. Institutions will conduct proctored exams and award academic credits to students upon completing these courses and their assessments.”

SWAYAM Plus is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, with IIT Madras designated as the nodal agency for its implementation. The platform aims to revolutionize professional development by providing access to high-quality learning content and career growth opportunities, empowering learners to take charge of their futures.

The MoUs signed with the Industry will enable them to offer employability-focused courses on the SWAYAM Plus portal. The goal is to enhance learners’ job prospects by equipping them with industry-relevant skills. The Industry MoUs were signed with Veranda Learning Solutions and NSE Academy

The collaborations with Higher Education Institutions will allow them to integrate SWAYAM Plus courses into their curriculum. SWAYAM Plus will support the implementation of these courses, including assessments and certification. These MoUs were signed with Sathyabama University, Thiagarajar College of Arts, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Sri Venkateswara University and Vinayaka Mission’s Law School

Industry partners will offer courses that focus on industry-specific skills and employability. These courses will be made available on SWAYAM Plus, allowing learners to gain practical and career-relevant knowledge. They will share courses, which will be onboarded on SWAYAM Plus after the approval from the Programme Implementation Committee at IIT Madras.

Also Read: Benefits of education and technology must reach Indian villages: President Droupadi Murmu

A key focus of SWAYAM Plus is to mainstream skill development in higher education. The platform currently hosts around 350 courses from 50+ leading industry players. These MoUs will help expand course offerings and encourage Higher Education Institutes to integrate them into their academic programs, making SWAYAM Plus the preferred platform for skill-based learning in India.

Benefits of education and technology must reach Indian villages: President Droupadi Murmu

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March 11, 2025

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu has stressed on the necessity that the benefits of education and technology reach Indian villages. On Monday, President Droupadi Murmu graced the convocation ceremony of Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana where she was giving her commencement address. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that preparing the young generation for the changing global demands is challenging task for higher education institutions, for the balanced and sustainable development of the country.

“Higher education institutions like Guru Jambheshwar University have a very important role in this context,” with this statement she expressed that the university has a high number of students from small towns and rural areas. She urged those students to make the people of their village and city aware of the importance of education, and inspire them to get good education.

During convocation, a total of 2,080 degrees were conferred, including 561 prestigious PhD degrees, at the convocation ceremony. In addition, an impressive number of 564 students received gold medals for their outstanding achievements.

Also Read: 10,000 Marathi women to be trained in AI: Maharashtra Budget 2025 points in education

The President said that world-class research conducted in higher educational institutions would play an important role in establishing India as a Global Knowledge Super Power. She was happy to note that its students and faculty members have made many significant achievements in various research and research projects. It has special departments for Incubation, Start-up, Patent filing and Research projects. She expressed confidence that all these efforts would develop the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among the students and help in making India a Global Knowledge Super Power.

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