Malaysia Emerging as a Global Education Hub: Delivering Cost-Effective & Quality Education

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October 26, 2023

Malaysia Emerging as a Global Education Hub

Over the last decade, Malaysia has established itself as an optimistic contender in the field of education, particularly for offering affordable yet high-quality tertiary education in the Asian region. The nation has set ambitious goals in its journey toward becoming a high-income developed country, aiming to enhance international collaborations and foster the exchange of knowledge and talent across borders. This aspiration to evolve into a regional hub for top-notch higher education is deeply ingrained in Malaysia’s higher education sector transformation plan, known as the National Higher Education Strategic Plan 2020. These discussions were further elaborated upon at the 27th Elets World Education Summit in Malaysia, where renowned experts shared their valuable insights on this topic.

Stella Lau, Managing Director, SEGi University and Colleges in Malaysia, shared some key strategies that have proven successful in maintaining a balance between cost and quality in education. SEGi University and Colleges, with one university and five colleges in Malaysia, has also recently acquired three international schools.

One of the primary strategies employed is fostering strong partnerships with industry stakeholders. These partnerships provide essential resources, internships, and real-world experiences for students. For example, collaborations with companies like Sony have enriched creative arts and design courses, offering expertise in filmmaking and videography. The pharmacy program benefits from partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, which invest in equipment and research resources.

SEGi University and Colleges have forged alliances with various industry players, including Malaysia Airlines and Realme, a technology brand. These collaborations encompass joint teaching, offering students real-world experiences and insights. Scholarships and partnerships with organizations like EMGN further open doors to global education access.

Stella Lau emphasized the importance of esports in education, highlighting how it teaches students resilience, communication, and strategy. SEGi University and Colleges actively engage with industry experts and organize events, such as the Game On Expo, to nurture future leaders.

Another successful strategy is leveraging technology to deliver cost-effective education. SEGi has launched the SEGi Meta Campus, incorporating blockchain technology to validate and verify academic certificates securely. The institution also provides free access to Microsoft and partners with Google and Microsoft to offer free online courses. Online exams are conducted with e-proctoring to maintain authenticity.

Lastly, SEGi University and Colleges’ listing on the stock exchange, coupled with its recognition for high return on equity over three years, reflects its commitment to providing quality education while managing costs effectively.

Prof. Datuk Ir Ts Dr Siti Hamisah Binti Tapsir, Group CEO & Vice-Chancellor of UCSI University in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, discussed the landscape of higher education in Malaysia, particularly focusing on international students. She noted that Malaysia has been ranked as a top destination for international students and highlighted the country’s efforts to democratize higher education.

Prof. Siti Hamisah mentioned the importance of quality, cost, culture, comfort, and language in attracting international students to Malaysia. She explained that Malaysia had pioneered transnational higher education programs like 3+0 and 4+0, which allowed students to earn degrees from reputable institutions at an affordable cost.

She acknowledged the challenges in implementing educational policies and mentioned the need for monitoring and execution. Prof. Siti Hamisah also emphasized the role of technology as an enabler for delivering cost-effective and quality education.

She shared insights into the sustainability, affordability, and quality triangle in higher education and mentioned the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration to address these challenges.

Zarina Nalla, Chief Operating Officer at the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER) in Malaysia, discussed the challenge of balancing cost-effective education with quality education in a post-pandemic world. She emphasized the need to prepare students holistically, not just for industry needs, and highlighted the importance of creating well-rounded individuals.

Zarina also shared concerns about students who cannot afford private education and may drop out of the system, potentially leading to increased poverty. She pointed out that online learning is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and some students prefer face-to-face interactions with educators.

Furthermore, Zarina urged private institutions to consider a social agenda alongside profits and called for collaboration with the government or civil society to ensure social mobility for all. She emphasized the importance of aligning the organization’s strategic intent with the changing landscape of education.

UAE and Scotland ink MoU to enhance bilateral trade, private sector, and academics

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October 26, 2023

UAE and Scotland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of enhancing bilateral trade, private-sector and academic collaboration in the field of advanced technology, innovation, education, and research.

The MoU was inked by Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, UAE, and Neil Gray, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, UAE.

The work of the joint UAE-Scotland task team, which was formed earlier this year to explore areas of mutual interest, directly led to the most recent agreement. Additionally, the MoU aims to improve cooperation in important fields including artificial intelligence and sustainable energy.

Scotland and the United Arab Emirates already have fruitful business ties. They exchanged non-oil trade valued at over $870 million (about AED 3.2 billion) in 2022, a 70% increase from 2021. In recent years, the two countries have also pursued a number of strategic investments, such as Masdar’s 25% ownership of Hywind Scotland, a floating offshore pilot wind farm in the North Sea with a capacity of 30 megawatts.

IIIT Hyderabad launches Online Masters Programme in Computer Science in collaboration with TalentSprint

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October 25, 2023

International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT Hyderabad) launched Online Masters Programme in Computer Science in collaboration with TalentSprint, a globally recognised edtech for innovative and transformative learning experiences.

IIIT Hyderabad has demonstrated its dedication to promoting technological education and developing talent for the digital age with the inauguration of the Online Masters Programme, coinciding with the institution’s 25th anniversary as a global hub for AI research. The academic strength of IIIT Hyderabad and TalentSprint’s experience and ability in effectively supporting eMasters Degree programs offered by esteemed IITs are combined in this special program. The first cohort of the Online Masters Program is expected to start in January 2024, and applications are currently being accepted.

Prof P J Narayanan, Director, IIIT Hyderabad commented on the momentous occasion, “Our 25-year journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence in AI research, teaching and innovation. Today, we stand as a beacon of innovation and a global leader in the field. Since its inception in 1998, the institute has not only nurtured exceptional talent but has also consistently delivered groundbreaking research contributions that have earned it global recognition. Launch of Online Masters programme underscores our commitment to providing an engaging and immersive learning experience that will equip working professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a fast-paced and ever-changing tech landscape.”

The two-year Online Masters program at IIIT Hyderabad offers a comprehensive curriculum selected by industry leaders and distinguished faculty, making it suitable for working professionals’ schedules. Students will be able to participate in live, interactive sessions with teachers, which will enable them to ask questions and receive real-time clarification, resulting in an enhanced educational experience. Practical application is the program’s main focus. By working on projects that are pertinent to the industry, participants will obtain practical experience that will improve their employability. Additionally, the Online Masters Programme gives students access to seasoned industry mentors who may offer advice and insights to help build their careers. Participants will obtain a prominent credential from IIIT Hyderabad upon successful program completion, attesting to their skill and dedication to excellence.

Dr. Santanu Paul, Founding CEO and Managing Director, TalentSprint, said, “Our commitment to nurturing tech talent aligns perfectly with IIIT Hyderabad’s legacy of excellence. Over the years, TalentSprint and IIIT Hyderabad’s collaboration has explored new paradigms to bring customized offerings that address changing needs. Bringing new learning options to learners, the Online Masters Programme aims to provide world-class technology education within the reach of aspiring and experienced tech professionals.”

Competency-Based Education: Rethinking Curriculums for Skill Development

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October 25, 2023

In today’s rapidly evolving world, education stands as a pivotal cornerstone for personal and societal growth. It is the key that unlocks doors to a brighter future, and its quality and relevance matter now more than ever. Traditional education systems have served us well for centuries, but the demands of the 21st century have made it clear that we need to adapt and evolve. It’s time to re-evaluate how we approach education, and one promising avenue is competency-based education.

As the founder of an organisation deeply entrenched in the education industry, I have witnessed first-hand the changing landscape of learning. My three-decade experience has taught valuable lessons about the power of competency-based education in redefining curriculums for skill development. Therefore, let’s look into the concept of competency-based education, its advantages, and how it can shape the future of learning.

Competency-Based Education Defined

Competency-Based Education (CBE) is a student-centered approach that focuses on mastering specific skills and knowledge rather than simply progressing through a predetermined curriculum based on time spent in the classroom. In a CBE framework, learners advance when they demonstrate proficiency in predetermined competencies or learning objectives. This approach allows students to move independently and provides a more flexible and personalised learning experience.

Traditional education had us memorise, test, and repeat. For twelve years, we adhered to the familiar rhythm: learn, test, progress. But in a rapidly changing world, driven by technology and unpredictable shifts, is that enough?

We, as educators, have a pressing responsibility. The very core of education is not just to prepare our students for exams or careers, but to empower them for life. To be future-ready, our learners need more than what textbooks can offer. They must challenge the status quo, imagine the unimaginable, and tread uncharted territories.

The Challenge Ahead

Today, the world stands at a transformational juncture. Digitalisation and shifting economic paradigms are redefining jobs, roles, and life itself. By 2030, AI and automation will reshape the global workforce, moving beyond blue-collar jobs to professional domains like accounting, law, and medicine.

In such a world, the uniquely human traits – empathy, creativity, intuition, ethics – become our most treasured assets. Skills that can’t be digitised or automated will be invaluable.

Merging the powerful realms of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands powerful acronyms like DREAMTIME = Design Thinkers, Reflective Thinkers, Excited Thinkers, Adaptive Thinkers, Media Literate, Thinkers about Thinking, Imaginative Thinkers, Moonshot Thinking and Emotional Intelligence.

Imagine your students engaging with them rather than reading about historical figures. Delving deep into ancient Greece, conversing with Plato, experiencing history as it unfolds. Or mastering complex subjects with VR-enhanced experiences, enhancing retention and emotional connection to the content.

Research supports this avant-garde approach. With VR training, students learn four times faster, connecting more deeply with the material. Game-based learning has shown consistent superiority over traditional methods. DREAMTIME is not just a tool but a revolution.

As someone deeply committed to the field of education, my experiences have shown me that competency-based education can be a transformative force. It empowers learners to take control of their education, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. It’s time for educators, institutions, and policymakers to embrace this innovative approach and rethink curriculums to prioritise skill development and lifelong learning. The future of education is competency-based, and it holds the promise of a brighter and more equitable future for all learners.

Authored article by Lina Ashar, Founder, Poweredby Dreamtime Learning

Byju’s announces new additions to their finance department; Ajay Goel quits

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October 25, 2023

Byju’s announced changes in the leadership roles of the finance department. Ajay Goel, who was serving as Chief Financial Officer, quit from his present position and is set to rejoin Vedanta, as per the official statement from the company.

Ajay Goel expressed his gratitude to Byju’s and said, “I thank the founders and colleagues at Byju’s for helping me assemble the FY22 audit in three months. I appreciate the support received during a short but impactful stint at Byju’s.”

Nitin Golani who is currently handling the position of President- Finance will take charge as the India CFO. Also, Bjyu’s decided to appoint Pradip Kanakia as the Senior Advisor. Kanakia is an industry veteran and has held significant leadership roles at KPMG and Price Waterhouse.

The founders of Byju’s, Byju Raveendran and Divya Gokulnath expressed their positive confidence in the new leadership roles in the finance department. “Their experience, understanding and insights on business and finance will help us in our ongoing turnaround efforts”, said Byju and Divya.

IIM Kozhikode lays foundation stone of new campus in Kochi

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October 23, 2023

Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM K) laid the foundation stone of its new campus in Kochi. A Vellayan, Chairman, Board of Governors of IIM K, Prof Debashis Chatterjee, Director, IIM K, and Loknath Behera, Managing Director, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) were present to witness the historic moment. The event was witnessed by the Board of IIM K, Senior professors, Deans, Alumni of IIM K, and Directors of KMRL.
In 2013, IIM K opened its first campus in Kochi, housed in Infopark Kakkanad. Students will have quick and simple access to the new, specially designed IIM K Kochi campus building, which is being constructed by KMRL and is situated below the CUSAT Metro station in Kalamassery, just off the Kochi-Salem Highway (NH 544).

IIM K, the six-story, over 50,000 square foot, accessible vertical campus will include plenty of parking as well as digitally equipped and aesthetically pleasing multi-format classrooms, conference rooms, studios, libraries, and buzz-rooms.

“This new, state-of-the-art campus signals IIM K’s commitment to Kerala. Expanding in Kochi is a strategic decision for us. Kochi has a vibrant business and start-up ecosystem, is centrally located and offers great connectivity to domestic and international participants. Our executive education programmes have been seeing increasing traction, and this new campus will help us accommodate more programmes”, said Vellyanon on the occasion.

Also Read | IIM Kozhikode to establish ‘India-Japan Study and Research Centre’

“The new Kochi campus marks 10 years’ presence in this iconic city. Management education is India’s unique soft power offering and IIM K has constantly been redefining the standards, and making great strides. The new campus at Kochi underscores our emphasis on “hi-tech and hi-touch”, as it will enable us to offer a variety of executive programmes in multiple and blended formats”, added Prof Debashis Chatterjee.

Adda247 lays off approximately 300 jobs; an edtech platform backed by Google

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October 21, 2023

Adda247, an edtech platform supported by Google made a job cut of approximately 250–300 workers, across all of its verticals. Across the nation, layoffs are still devastating edtech companies. An Entrackr report states that StudyIQ, an edtech platform with a UPSC focus, laid off between 100 and 150 workers.

In December 2021, Adda247 paid roughly $20 million to acquire StudyIQ.

It is reported that 150 workers were requested to move to other verticals, such as content and sales. This is the company’s first layoff in a few years. The laid-off employees were reportedly asked to leave without being given any sort of notification.

Adda247 was established in 2016 by Anil Nagar and Saurabh Bansal to meet the educational needs of millions of students from tier 2 and tier 3 cities. The company presents itself on the social media platform X, as “India’s largest vernacular learning platform – backed by Google, WestBridge, InfoEdge, Asha Impact #BuildingTheNationThroughEducation Telegram.”

The primary reasons behind this state of affairs are the steadily dropping financing figures, which are the main cause of the bleeding startup job market in India. A study claims that in 2022, Indian strartups raised $25 billion, a 40% decrease from the historic 2021 funding round.

As we approach the midway point of 2023, financing in the third-largest startup ecosystem globally has substantially decreased. In the first half of 2023, Indian entrepreneurs raised $5.4 billion, which is 72% less than the almost $19 billion they raised in the same period the previous year. 111 Indian firms have laid off an estimated 28,871+ workers since the funding winter started in 2022.

Adda247 secured $35 million in October of last year in a round headed by WestBridge Capital. Google also became a new investor in the round. Info Edge and Asha Impact, two longtime investors, also took part in the investment round.

Edtech company Byju’s recently declared that as part of a “business restructuring exercise,” it will be laying off 4,000–5,000 workers. In the last two years, the company has laid off more than 10,000 employees.

Balancing Cost-Effective and Quality Education in a Post-Pandemic World

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October 21, 2023

Zarina Nalla, Chief Operating Officer at the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER) in Malaysia, discussed the challenge of balancing cost-effective education with quality education in a post-pandemic world. She emphasized the need to prepare students holistically, not just for industry needs, and highlighted the importance of creating well-rounded individuals.

Zarina also shared concerns about students who cannot afford private education and may drop out of the system, potentially leading to increased poverty. She pointed out that online learning is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and some students prefer face-to-face interactions with educators.

Furthermore, Zarina urged private institutions to consider a social agenda alongside profits and called for collaboration with the government or civil society to ensure social mobility for all. She emphasized the importance of aligning the organization’s strategic intent with the changing landscape of education.

“A foresight study that suggested traditional universities could face challenges in the coming years as students increasingly opt for online learning. She stressed the importance of adaptability and change management within educational institutions to meet the evolving needs of students”, she concluded.

Ministry of Education declares restructuring of JEE Apex Board

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Sheeba Chauhan, Senior Sub Editor

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October 21, 2023

The Ministry of Education announces restructuring of JEE (Joint Entrance Exam) Apex Board (JAB) and its administrative framework. National Testing Agency (NTA) to handle all Software Support ( IT related) and all examination work of JEE mains and advance in the upcoming session. Additionally, this will also include the responsibility related to managing all the online applications for the exam.

The Ministry of Education and the Government of India collaborated to establish the National Testing Agency, or NTA, in 2018. This was established as an autonomous, independent, and self-sustaining testing organisation in accordance with the Societies Registration Act of 1860. The primary goal of this organization’s formation was to administer tests to candidates while upholding international standards and to do so with appropriate efficiency and transparency.

Furthermore, the official notification also suggested that the NTA may seek support from C-DAC ( Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) and National Informatics Centre (NIC), whenever necessary.

JEE is one of the most significant engineering tests in India. Its centrality in the nation’s educational system makes it an exam at the national level. Those who pass this exam are eligible for admission to renowned colleges around the nation, including the NITs, IIITs, and IITs.

As per the official notification, NTA will handle the administrative and logistical aspects of holding JEE (Main) exams across the nation, while the board will be the ultimate authority for establishing the norms, rules, and regulations for the exam’s administration.

The education ministry had previously declared that the JEE Apex Board (JAB) would be reconstituting to facilitate the administration of the JEE (Main) and JEE (Advanced) Entrance Examinations in 2024 and 2025. Since the previous JEE Apex Board’s tenure was coming to an end, the new board’s constitution was necessary.

Who will be onboarding JAB?

The Director General of NTA will join JAB as the Member Secretary of the board. Professor S.K. Jain, the Vice Chancellor of BHU will join as Honorary Chairman. The other members who will be taking up the responsibility of JAb will be –

Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT Bombay
Parameswar K. Iyer, Director, IIT Guwahati
Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras
Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela
Prof.B Ravi, Director, NIT Surathkal
P. J. Narayanan, Director, IIIT Hyderabad
Arun Mohan Sherry,Director, IIIT (PPP) Lucknow
Prof. Sri Niwas Singh, Director, IITM Gwalior

The state governments of Madhya Pradesh, Assam/Manipur, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are also represented on the board, along with a representative from Deemed University (Punjab Engineering College), the chairman of the CBSE, the director general of NIC, the director general of C-DAC, the additional secretary/joint secretary (TE), and the MoE.

Medhavi Skills University signs MoU with NWWA

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October 20, 2023

Medhavi Skills University (MSU), Sikkim, makes a significant advancement by signing a tri-partite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Navy and NWWA (Navy Welfare & Wellness Association). This significant occasion is evidence of MSU’s ongoing dedication to transforming India via skill-integrated, hands-on education and unwavering support for our country’s guardians and their families.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) builds a long-lasting partnership between MSU and the Indian Navy, with backing from NWWA, to create special educational and skill-building opportunities for the wards of active, retired, and service Navy members. MSU has designed this program with significant scholarships and preferred seat allocations catered to the needs of the dependents of Indian Navy officers as an homage to their enormous sacrifices and service.

In the presence of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of Personnel, Commodore Satish Shenai, Commanding Officer, INS India, and NWWA members, as well as Kuldip Sarma, Pro-Chancellor, MSU, and Air Vice Marshal D. K. Awasthi (Retd.), (Board Member, MSU), the tri-partite Memorandum of understanding was signed at the Kota House, New Delhi, by Kala Hari Kumar, President NWWA, Commodore G Rambabu, Cmde (Naval Education), and Pravesh Dudani, Founder & Chancellor, MSU.

This Memorandum of Understanding states that MSU will give spouses of Indian Navy personnel a 50% tuition cost reduction. In addition, 10% off the cost of dormitory accommodations would be granted by the university, on top of the discounts already granted depending on the results of the government-conducted national admission exams.

Pravesh Dudani, Founder & Chancellor, of Medhavi Skills University expressed, “Our objective extends beyond merely providing educational opportunities for the Defence Forces and their families. Through our network of 400+ Industry partners in India and abroad, we will customise unique job-linked programmes which will provide practical Industry-relevant learning along with assured career progression and growth. As we move forward, we intend to work closely with defence institutions to tailor training programs, research projects, and educational opportunities to their specific needs.”

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