The Future of Higher Education and Career Readiness

Article

By

-

March 26, 2024

In a world where the dynamics of education and employment continually evolve, the necessity for innovative approaches in higher education has never been more critical. At the 28th World Education Summit in Dubai, Sumesh Nair, Co-Founder of Board Infinity, shared insights into the pioneering strategies his organisation is implementing to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional success. With a focus predominantly on India, comprising 90% of its portfolio, Board Infinity’s mission is to closely collaborate with higher education institutions across Asia to enhance student career outcomes through unique upskilling methods.

He revealed, “We aim to integrate with these institutions tightly to see how we can upskill students for better career outcomes.” This vision is the cornerstone of their efforts to prepare students for the workforce by developing specialised curriculums tailored to the demands of modern job roles.

Collaboration is key to Board Infinity’s strategy, as evidenced by their partnerships with about 25 NF 100 institutions in India and plans to extend their innovative educational model to the UAE. Creating an Intellectual Property (IP), their skill taxonomy marks a significant step forward. This framework maps out over 40 job roles, guiding the development of mini-modules and skill modules within curriculums to equip students for various professions. “We customise our approach based on the institution’s input, ensuring a tailored solution rather than a one-size-fits-all approach,” he emphasised, showcasing their flexible and adaptive educational model.

With a track record of assisting around 40,000 students across 30 cities in India and embarking on international collaborations, including with a European business school and a prestigious institution in Dubai, Board Infinity’s impact is wide-reaching and profound. Their role extends beyond traditional education, partnering with global tech platforms like Coursera for content production, thus broadening their educational influence.

Central to Board Infinity’s philosophy is creating personalised career pathways for students, aligning educational experiences with the realities of the job market. This focus addresses long-standing employment challenges and is particularly relevant in competitive job markets like the UAE. “Skills like development, data science, and business development are in high demand,” he noted, underscoring the importance of aligning educational offerings with market needs.

The comprehensive approach adopted by Board Infinity also includes deploying an enterprise-grade Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate training and career development. This digital tool integrates seamlessly with curriculums, offering students guidance on potential career paths and relevant skill development. Moreover, their venture into digital course production, with over 100 courses for Coursera, signifies a commitment to accessible and quality online education.

Exploring the frontiers of technology, Board Infinity is also delving into generative AI with a product named VERA, envisioned as an AI-powered career coach. This innovative tool offers personalised teaching and career planning, embodying the digital-first approach essential for engaging today’s digitally native students.

He encapsulated Board Infinity’s mission “Our work revolves around customising educational pathways, enhancing career outcomes, and leveraging technology to meet the evolving needs of students and the job market.” His presentation highlighted the transformative work Board Infinity is undertaking and sparked a broader conversation on the future of education and employment.

UGC chairman announces increasing university enrollment in CUET UG for admissions

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 21, 2024

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has witnessed an uptick in higher education institutions across India adopting the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduates (CUET UG) for their admissions process. UGC Chairman Jagadesh Mamidala Kumar recently revealed that an impressive array of universities, including 46 central universities, 32 state universities, and 20 deemed-to-be universities, have now registered to use CUET UG scores for admitting students into their undergraduate programs.

The adoption of CUET UG scores extends beyond public institutions, with 98 private universities and six government institutions also joining the fold this year. This move marks a pivotal shift towards standardising entrance procedures and making the admissions landscape more uniform across the country.

Amidst the logistical challenges of coordinating with the election schedule, the UGC has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting CUET UG from May 15 to May 31, 2024, without any changes despite the Lok Sabha elections. The decision comes after considering the potential overlap with the election dates. UGC chief Kumar initially indicates that the exam schedule could be adjusted depending on the Lok Sabha polls timeline. However, the current stance underscores the determination to maintain the academic calendar’s integrity.

In preparation for CUET UG 2024, Kumar highlighted several enhancements designed to streamline the testing experience for candidates. These improvements aim to moderate the difficulty level of the entrance exam, increase accessibility, and reduce logistical issues, ultimately fostering a more conducive environment for test-takers. “Adjustments have been implemented to improve the overall testing experience for CUET UG 2024 candidates, creating a stress-free testing environment,” Kumar stated, reflecting the UGC’s dedication to facilitating a smooth and equitable admissions process nationwide.

Banaras Hindu University introduces four-year undergraduate program starting 2024-25

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 21, 2024

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has announced the introduction of a four-year undergraduate program from 2024-25. The program will be available in two formats: UG Honors and UG Honors with Research.

This innovative academic structure is designed to offer students a comprehensive and flexible educational experience, focusing on holistic development and preparing them for professional challenges. According to BHU officials, the UG Honors with Research option will be exclusively available to the top 10 per cent of students who achieve a CGPA of 7.5 or above, ensuring that the selection process is merit-based.

The introduction of these programs is expected to significantly impact students’ career paths, particularly those completing UG Honors with Research, as they will become eligible for PhD programs directly, bypassing the need for a postgraduate degree. The flexibility in choosing minor courses across a wide range of disciplines aims to foster a multidisciplinary approach to higher education.

In addition to the specialised courses, BHU has emphasised the importance of a well-rounded education. Thus, all undergraduate students must earn credits in multidisciplinary courses, skill enhancement, ability enhancement, value-added courses, and internships. Those enrolled in the honours with research program will also undertake a dissertation in their final semester, further enhancing their research and analytical skills.

The university has decided to retain its five-year BA LLB course offered by the Faculty of Law and certain skill enhancement professional programs at the South Campus, as specific regulatory bodies govern these and, therefore, are not subject to the changes under NEP.

In a related development, BHU’s council has approved a policy to offer hostel facilities only to students who maintain at least 70 per cent attendance in their classes. This decision underscores the university’s commitment to encouraging academic diligence and participation.

Departments across BHU are currently reviewing their course offerings to align with the new programs and implement these transformative educational opportunities effectively. This initiative marks a significant step towards realising the goals of NEP 2020, aiming to enrich the academic landscape of India and equip students with the skills and knowledge required for the global professional arena.

Technology and Creativity Transforming Classrooms Worldwide

Interviews

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 21, 2024

SVIS is integrating technology into classrooms with tablets and smart boards. This integration ensures learning is easy, enjoyable, and focused on enhancing global perspectives. Meticulous planning of online classes during critical times has strengthened our bond with students, reinforcing the school’s dedication to adapting to evolving educational needs shares, Vinay Maheshwari, Executive Director – Sree Vidyanikethan Educational Trust, in an exclusive interaction with Nidhi Shail Kujur of Elets News Network (ENN).

1. How does the school differentiate itself to be recognised as one of the nation’s premier schools, emphasising excellence in teaching and learning?

The school distinguishes itself with a comprehensive approach to teaching and learning. Through diverse hobby and literary clubs, including the CV Raman Club (Science), students explore varied interests beyond the classroom. Emphasising experiential learning, field visits, and initiatives like the recently conducted Mohenjadaro experience at the school —a transformative journey delving into the profound legacy of the ancient Indus-Saraswati River Valley Civilization—the curriculum is crafted not merely to teach history but to bring it to life. Breaking away from traditional methods, the school focuses on practical insights, fostering a deeper understanding of subjects and building an innovative mindset essential for success in a rapidly changing world.

2. Could you highlight the unique facilities, including sports and recreational spaces, that contribute to a holistic educational experience at SVIS?

SVIS features a dynamic library as a research hub, inspiring students to love reading. Complementing this thought, the school introduced a unique Bus Stop Library initiative to revive reading habits in the digital era. The library offers diverse books for all ages, with plans to establish multiple Bus Stop Libraries across the community for widespread accessibility. Additionally, SVIS boasts India’s first Shakespeare Garden, providing an immersive environment for students to explore Shakespeare’s timeless works. State-of-the-art Labs like the CV Raman Club, Atal Tinkering Lab, and various hobby clubs cater to talents in music, arts, sports, and leadership. Students can engage in clubs and Leadership Forums, creating a vibrant tapestry of extracurricular activities. This emphasis on achievements underscores SVIS’s commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience, recognising and nurturing various talents among its student community.

3. As part of Sree Vidyanikethan Educational Trust, how does SVIS align with the broader goals and values of the trust in promoting education?

As part of the Sree Vidyanikethan Educational Trust, SVIS aligns with the broader goals and values of the trust by prioritising education as a means of empowerment and societal advancement. SVIS reflects the trust’s dedication to quality education through academic excellence, character development, and holistic growth. With our well-rounded syllabus, advanced facilities, and nurturing atmosphere, SVIS embodies the trust’s vision of education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship. By providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment, SVIS prepares students to be responsible individuals contributing meaningfully to society, thus aligning with the broader goals of the Trust.

4. Could you elaborate on the school’s approach to enhancing students’ self-esteem and igniting curiosity and imagination?

SVIS prioritises a 360-degree educational approach, emphasising students’ self-esteem, curiosity, and imagination. Our educational framework integrates modern tools like ‘Buzzle,’ a personalised learning app, and incorporates design thinking and essential life skills outlined by the WHO for comprehensive growth. SVIS actively fosters creativity through ‘Innovation Challenges,’ expands horizons with ‘Exploratory Sessions,’ and encourages imaginative projects at ‘Imagination Fairs,’ cultivating a forward mindset and innovation culture. SVIS guides students on a journey of self-discovery, instilling a passion for learning, creativity, and self-confidence.

5. How does technology at SVIS foster independent learning and ensure global perspectives aligned with international educational standards?

At SVIS, technology is crucial in cultivating independent learning and promoting global perspectives aligned with international educational standards. Cutting-edge facilities, including the CV Raman Club and Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL), feature advanced science, robotics, and computer science technology, emphasising hands-on learning experiences. These labs shape students’ scientific acumen and prepare them for Industry 4.0 through projects like the Automatic Theft Alarm System, Joystick Controlled Robots, and more.

Beyond laboratories, SVIS is a pioneering school in India, integrating technology into classrooms with tablets and smart boards. This integration ensures learning is easy, enjoyable, and focused on enhancing global perspectives. Meticulous planning of online classes during critical times has strengthened our bond with students, reinforcing the school’s dedication to adapting to evolving educational needs.

6. How does SVIS contribute to the holistic development of students by focusing on physical fitness and well-being?

At SVIS, we prioritise both intellectual growth and physical well-being. Our facilities, such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, horse riding amenities, and unique sports like tent lugging exemplify our dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Recognising the link between physical well-being and academic success, these activities enhance concentration, stress management, and overall student well-being. Our 14 dynamic hobby clubs, covering areas like Dance, Science, Debating, and Photography, offer a wide range of avenues for exploration and growth.

The school adopts a comprehensive approach to overall well-being, supporting physical, emotional, and mental health in a supportive environment. A team of qualified wellness professionals and physical education teachers provide guidance and support, while extracurricular activities, sports, and arts encourage talent development. Regular health check-ups, nutritional programs, and awareness sessions further contribute to students’ well-being, promising an environment conducive to personal growth and success.

7. In what ways does the multi-disciplinary curriculum at SVIS contribute to students emerging as wholesome personalities?

The multi-disciplinary curriculum at SVIS is instrumental in cultivating individuals with varied skills. This approach surpasses the conventional academic scope, nurturing critical thinking skills, adaptability, and versatility. Exposure to diverse subjects fosters a global perspective, instilling open-mindedness and cultural awareness. Emphasis on extracurricular activities and community service enriches education, promoting the development of leadership and teamwork skills. This allows for personalised learning paths, empowering students to pursue their passions.

Futuristic approach towards design education and student innovations in 2024

Interviews

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 20, 2024

Amidst the dynamic transformations shaping the contemporary design landscape, anticipating the future of design education calls for a crucial re-evaluation.

The convergence of industry practices and design education emerges as crucial, necessitating a new skill set transcending practical applications while promoting lifelong learning. Shaped by a framework of divergent thinking and challenging ingrained assumptions, the innovative skill set includes problem-solving, critical thinking, digital proficiency, adaptability and resilience.

Apple revolutionised the music and consumer electronics industries, Uber disrupted the conventional taxi business, Airbnb transformed the accommodation sector, and Amazon redefined retailing. These examples highlight the profound impact of divergent thinking and innovation on reshaping industries and meeting evolving needs and consumer preferences.

Design educators must integrate this skill set into curricula to devise an innovative curriculum for preparing future-ready students. Promoting innovation through joint research projects, hands-on learning, corporate training and workshops, entrepreneurship centres, real-world problem solving, and industry advisory boards ensures graduates possess the skills and mindset for success in a rapidly changing professional landscape.

While experiential learning has found a place in some design institutes, it has yet to become a mainstream component of design education on a broader scale. Prioritising a shift from traditional rote memorisation to a learning-by-doing approach, especially in a hands-on, project-based format, is a critical step for future-ready design education.

Navigating these changes positions academic design institutions for growth and success, ensuring they remain at the forefront of educational evolution in the dynamic professional landscape.

Views Expressed By Professor Usha Patel, Director, Indian Institute of Art & Design

Maharashtra schools implement grading system to uplift educational standards

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 20, 2024

Maharashtra has introduced a school grading system grading. Mirroring the system in higher education, schools will now be evaluated and assigned grades ranging from A+ to C, reflecting the quality of education they provide. Under the School Quality Assurance & Accreditation Framework (SQAAF), this initiative aims to increase transparency, hold schools accountable, and empower parents with informed choices.

Schools will be assessed on various parameters crucial for a well-rounded learning environment. These include essential infrastructure, quality of teaching methods, student safety and security measures, and inclusivity practices that promote gender equality. The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has meticulously designed the SQAAF framework, aligning with national guidelines and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The evaluation process involves both self-assessment and external evaluation. Schools will conduct self-evaluations annually, while the newly formed State School Standard Authority (SSSA) will determine the frequency of external assessments. To ensure transparency, schools will be required to display their grades prominently.

Additionally, the SSSA will create a dedicated website where parents and the public can access comprehensive data on school evaluations.

This grading system is expected to impact Maharashtra’s education landscape positively. Schools, now aware of their strengths and weaknesses, will be motivated to improve their performance and strive for higher grades. This can lead to better teaching methodologies, improved infrastructure, and a more focused approach towards student development. Ultimately, the aim is to create a competitive environment that benefits students by providing them with a superior educational experience.

However, concerns remain about the potential pressure on schools to prioritise grades over holistic learning. Experts emphasise the importance of using the system as a tool for improvement rather than a rigid measure of success. With careful implementation and a focus on long-term educational goals, Maharashtra’s grading system has the potential to be a game-changer in ensuring quality education for all its students.

NCERT announces new CBSE syllabus for grades 3 and 6 under the 2023 National Curriculum Framework

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 20, 2024

The National Council of Educational Research (NCERT) is set to introduce a revamped Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) syllabus for Classes 3 and 6, aligned with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. This comprehensive curriculum update is scheduled to be implemented in the academic year 2024-25, marking a significant step towards modernising and enhancing the quality of school education in India.

In a detailed notification, NCERT outlined its plan to the CBSE, emphasising the need to adjust school timetables to accommodate the new syllabi. The reform aims to foster a collaborative effort among CBSE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), and the Department of School Education and Literacy to fulfil the objectives set by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The upcoming curriculum emphasises engaging students in grades 3 and 6 with playful and activity-based learning experiences. It encourages an environment enriched with arts, physical education, well-being, skill education, and refreshed perspectives on core subjects like language, mathematics, science, environmental education, and social sciences.

To support this transition, NCERT will provide CBSE, KVS, and NVS with a bridge syllabus program for Grade 6 and specific guidelines for Grade 3. These initiatives are designed to ease students into the new pedagogical methods and areas of study, ensuring a smooth shift to the updated curriculum. Special attention is being given to incorporating subjects such as Arts, Physical Education, Vocational Education, and exploring the world around us, with new activity books and textbooks currently in development.

This educational overhaul strongly recommends that schools actively disseminate information about the changes to all stakeholders, including school heads, teachers, parents, and the broader community. By doing so, the NCERT aims to prepare students for a more engaging and holistic learning experience and involve parents and educators in this transformative journey.

IIT Delhi and Flipkart set to collaborate on research to provide customised recommendations

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 20, 2024

The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) has joined forces with Flipkart, one of India’s leading e-commerce platforms. This partnership is part of Flipkart’s ongoing initiatives to bridge the gap between academic research and industry challenges, aiming to propel forward the capabilities of e-commerce through cutting-edge technological research and development.

Under the agreement, Flipkart will extend research grants and provide market insights to the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), IIT Delhi’s premier industry interface organisation. The collaboration is set to unlock new insights into consumer behaviour, leveraging detailed data analysis to identify nuanced segments of e-commerce users based on many factors, including shopping patterns, demographics, and the influence of peer behaviour.

A cornerstone of this partnership is the development of a versatile user activity graph employing advanced Graph Neural Network (GNN) techniques. This endeavour aims not only to overcome the constraints faced by current persona creation tools but also to facilitate a deeper understanding of user interactions and preferences through a comprehensive graph that captures the multifaceted personas of each user.

The collaboration between Flipkart and FITT is not limited to research alone; it also encompasses a series of initiatives designed to nurture an ecosystem of innovation and learning. These initiatives include the organisation of seminars, the provision of conference travel grants, and the undertaking of company-sponsored research projects on topics of mutual interest. Through these efforts, the partnership is set to make significant strides in enhancing personalised user recommendations by integrating sophisticated user personas into product recommendations.

Moreover, this collaborative venture promises to advance machine learning models, exceptionally capable of effectively processing and analysing large-scale, real-world datasets. Such advancements are expected to have a broad and lasting impact on e-commerce.

This partnership continues Flipkart’s commitment to academic alliances, having embarked on five projects over the past two years with prestigious institutions like IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Through these collaborations, Flipkart aims to address critical industry challenges while fostering a culture of research and development that bridges the academic and industrial worlds.

EduBrisk – Transforming Education through Neuroscience and Data Science based Teaching-Learning ecosystem for schools

Interviews

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 20, 2024

The neuroscience and data science-based TeachingLearning approach of EduBrisk aims to customise educational content and methodologies for individual learners by leveraging neuroscience principles that focus on how the brain processes and retains information. Teachers can effectively address neurodiversity in the classroom, identify and bridge learning gaps using these principles. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more adaptive and tailored learning experience that aligns with the cognitive and individual needs of students, shared Saiju Aravind, Founder, EduBrisk in an exclusive interview with Elets News Network. Edited excerpt:

What challenges in the education sector do you believe EduBrisk’s solutions are particularly well-equipped to address?

EduBrisk is addressing a range of challenges in the education sector, making it more accessible for schools to implement their solutions. Among the issues tackled are disintegrated and static curriculam that seem detached from real-life applications, non-inclusive classrooms lacking personalized learning approaches, and a weak teaching and learning ecosystem. Additionally, the platform addresses concerns related to the accessibility and cost of quality education, exacerbated learning gaps, and the absence of a dedicated platform for senior leadership in schools to meet regulatory compliance and adapt curricula. Moreover, EduBrisk aims to enhance the limited integration of technology in educational practices.

In response to these challenges, EduBrisk provides targeted solutions to streamline the workload of teachers, enhancing their effectiveness and efficiency. The platform emphasizes inclusive, integrated, and individualized learning experiences in alignment with educational mandates. It offers tools for tracking and monitoring progress, along with analytics-based interventions. EduBrisk conducts upskilling programs for teachers and accelerated learning workshops for students. The platform also extends expertise support and guidance for UAE School Inspection, contributing to an inclusive improvement in academic performance. Leveraging neuroscience and data science, EduBrisk facilitates accelerated performance improvement for students, ensuring a holistic and adaptive approach to education.

Edubrisk emphasizes personalised teaching – learning. Could you explain how your platform tailors educational content to individual student needs?

We place a strong emphasis on personalized learning by providing tailored teaching and learning resources to both teachers and students. The platform ensures that individuals receive the most suitable resources based on their unique needs, fostering a truly personalized and effective learning experience. Employing a differentiated curriculum approach, EduBrisk offers content and resources in VARK format, catering to diverse learning needs. What sets EduBrisk apart is its commitment to allowing teachers and students to further customize and fortify the content as part of the curriculum adaptation and progression process, ensuring a flexible and adaptive educational environment. Additionally, the platform incorporates a topicspecific pre-assessment module to diagnose individual learning needs, accompanied by guided modules designed to address and mitigate any identified learning gaps, promoting a comprehensive and targeted approach to education.

Could you elaborate on the key solutions and services that EduBrisk offers to educational institutions?

We offer a multitude of features designed to significantly alleviate the workload of teachers. These include an Assignment & Test creator, Scheduler, and Test Analysis tools that streamline the assessment process. The platform facilitates efficiency through the autopopulation of step-down topics for pre-teaching, ensuring a cohesive learning experience for students. It also provides access to a repository of 10 years’ board exam question papers, aiding in comprehensive exam preparation. EduBrisk further supports educators with a Lesson planner and a wide array of integrated cross-curricular teaching resources. The platform goes beyond one-size-fits-all approaches by offering differentiated teaching and learning resources tailored for Emerging, Expected, and Exceeding categories of learners.

To address learning gaps, EduBrisk incorporates diagnostic pre-teaching assessment tests and enhances foundational learning skills based on subject-wise prerequisites. With horizontal and vertical integration of subjects/ resources, the platform ensures a cohesive educational journey. Integration of stakeholders, including school management, teachers, students, and parents, creates a collaborative educational environment. EduBrisk allows for the individualization or customization of curriculum content, ensuring continuity in the teaching-learning process. The platform also facilitates the monitoring of progress and attainment for specific cohorts, validating school assessments through triangulation, and tracking school-wise academic targets, goals, and learning loss.

Most of your solutions cater to school education as your target audience. Could you please elaborate on this aspect, and why you selected this particular segment as your audience?

At EduBrisk, we observed that a large number of students are losing their interest in learning early on in their life due to the ‘burden of noncomprehension’. We could address and mitigate this problem with the help of knowledge available through recent developments in neuroscience and pinpointing the difficulties using advanced Diagnostic tools. We found that the best time for intervention is during the school years from grade 2 to 12, as recifying the problem early on helps students to reinvent the joy of learning. Further, these changes early on in life help in sustained neuroplastic changes in learning.

We strongly believe that the above can be achieved through progressive minded school leadership and teachers willing to embrace advancements in both technology and pedagogy. Our vision and product align seamlessly with the guidelines set by regulatory bodies such as MoE/KHDA/NEP 2020, offering schools a valuable framework to benchmark themselves with international standards.

What are the various types of workshops that EduBrisk conducts for schools?

We are committed to fostering holistic development within schools through a diverse range of workshops. The School Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) stands out as a cornerstone initiative, focusing on equipping educators with essential skills in ICT, inclusive, and integrated education. Through this program, teachers gain valuable insights and training to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology and ensure inclusivity in their teaching methods. Additionally, the Students Curriculum Oriented Empowerment (SCOrE) workshop addresses critical aspects of accelerated learning, dispelling the illusion of competence, and bridging learning gaps among students. This initiative reflects EduBrisk’s dedication to enhancing the overall learning experience and promoting student success.

Furthermore, the Parents As Life Mentors (PALM) workshop delves into the intersection of parenting and technology, recognizing the vital role parents play in supporting their children’s educational journey. By engaging parents in discussions about technology’s impact on learning, PALM aims to foster a collaborative and supportive home environment conducive to a child’s academic growth. Together, these workshops underscore EduBrisk’s comprehensive approach to education, involving teachers, students, and parents in a collective effort to optimize the learning ecosystem.

Can you share any upcoming innovations or developments within Edubrisk?

EduBrisk is developing a holistic report card, AI-based quick learning and doubt-clearing modules, and guided mode for corrective actions, and Intuitive dashboards with suggestive actions for SLT, Teachers, Students & Parents.

IIM Calcutta announces establishment of Center of Excellence for Design Thinking

News

By

digitalLEARNING Network

-

March 19, 2024

The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta) has taken a significant step forward in the realm of innovative education by signing a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) on March 18th with the School of Design Thinking (SoDT) and Mission Samriddhi. This collaboration marks the creation of a Center of Excellence in Design Thinking, aiming to embed design thinking principles deeply within the academic curriculum, research, and projects at IIM Calcutta.

SoDT will serve as a key partner for IIM Calcutta, applying Design Thinking across various domains, while Mission Samriddhi will focus on community-impacting social initiatives and projects. The partnership seeks to advance educational methodologies by utilising SoDT’s “Design The Thinking” mindset, ” which emphasises design thinking as essential for problem-solving and innovation. Meanwhile, Mission Samriddhi plans to utilize its Community Development Framework with IIM Calcutta’s research expertise to foster social initiatives.

This MoU, set to last three years, aims to champion Design Thinking as a core institutional leadership and innovation strategy. IIM Calcutta aspires to establish India’s first Center of Excellence for Design Thinking within a business school, positioning itself as a focal point for all Design Thinking endeavours. The School of Design Thinking, known for launching India’s first ‘Design The Thinking®’ program tailored for academia, will support this initiative by offering special courses to students and stakeholders at IIM Calcutta.

Additionally, Mission Samriddhi’s involvement will ensure the design and development of sustainable projects capable of scaling to benefit larger populations, mainly focusing on reaching out to rural clusters in collaboration with IIM Calcutta.

The collaboration is set to introduce a variety of courses at IIM Calcutta, along with interventions in Design Thinking applications across different domains. Academic and training programs will also see the development of modules and assignments centered on Design Thinking, further enriching the educational landscape at IIM Calcutta and beyond.

LATEST NEWS

Top Trending News

Top Trending Categories