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MIB Minister Launches IICT to Advance AVGC-XR Sectors

MIB Minister

In a landmark move to bolster India’s position in the global creative economy, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) at WAVES 2025. Elaborating more on the plans that the government has for the new institution, Minister Vaishnaw stated, “IICT will follow the same template as the IITs and IIMs in India to transform itself into a massive world-class education and training hub for students who aspire to be professionals in the AVGC-XR sector. We have started an initiative that is completely novel in the world of film and entertainment. It follows the vision of our Prime Minister that India can take the global lead in the world in the media and entertainment sector.”

The IICT is envisioned as a premier institution dedicated to the study of many different creative media such as Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality. Modeled after the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), IICT aims to provide world-class education, research, and innovation in the creative technology domain.

Leading technology companies like Google, NVIDIA, and Microsoft have already shown support for the launch of the new institution by signing Letters of Intent as a way to create early and strong ties with IICT. These partnerships are set to enhance skill development, co-create platforms, and foster innovation within the institute. 

The Government of India has allocated around Rs. 400 crore for the establishment of IICT. A 10-acre piece of land at Dadasaheb Phalke Film City has also been set aside for the institute’s permanent campus. Until the campus is fully established in Mumbai’s film city, IICT will set up a temporary campus at the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) building.

With over 40 million creators living in India, Minister Vaishnaw highlighted India’s vast creative potential that needs to be fully utilised. He emphasized that IICT will serve as a catalyst for nurturing this talent, providing them with the necessary tools and training to excel in the global digital content industry. 

Also Read: Gujarat CM Finalizes Online Admissions for Over 20,000 CET-Qualified Students into State Residential Schools

With the launch of the IICT, India is getting closer to its goal of becoming a global hub for art industries and making use of its large population that works with many different creative media. By fostering collaboration between government, industry, and academia, IICT is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the AVGC-XR sectors, driving innovation, and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

Gujarat CM Finalizes Online Admissions for Over 20,000 CET-Qualified Students into State Residential Schools

Gujarat CET 2025

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has officially concluded the state-wide online admission process for more than 20,000 students from Standard 5 who successfully passed this year’s Common Entrance Test (CET). These students have now been allotted placements in 115 government-run residential schools across the state. The event was held in the presence of Minister of State for Education Shri Praful Pansheriya and Education Minister Dr. Kuber Dindor.

The initiative, overseen by the Chief Minister, reflects the government’s continued efforts to make quality education accessible to all sections of society, especially those from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds. To streamline the process, the Education Department introduced a centralized digital portal, specifically developed to manage admissions under various state education schemes. This digital infrastructure allows CET-qualified students to apply for and receive admission into specialized residential schools without administrative delays or manual interventions.

The CET for Standard 5 students was organized by the State Examination Board on March 22, 2025. Following the successful execution of the test, eligible students were admitted to schools under programs such as Gyan Shakti and other tribal and merit-based residential initiatives. The entire admission and allotment process was conducted digitally, ensuring transparency and ease of access for both students and their families.

In addition to school placements, financial aid in the form of scholarships was provided to bolster the students’ educational journeys. Under the Mukhayamantri Gyan Setu Merit Scholarship Yojana, over ₹16 crore was distributed directly to more than 30,000 beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. The scholarship beneficiaries included 14,595 boys and 15,405 girls, all studying in government and grant-in-aid institutions across Gujarat. The scheme is designed to support students from Class 6 to Class 12, ensuring that deserving candidates receive consistent academic assistance throughout their schooling years.

Applications for the scholarship were processed entirely online, reflecting the state’s commitment to adopting technology-driven governance models in the education sector. This move not only simplifies the application process but also reduces paperwork and enhances accountability.

Also Read :- ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ Approved By Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister, Aimed At Boosting Education For Girls

The event marking the completion of the admission process was attended by several senior government officials. Among them were Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Chief Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister; Shri J.P. Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Tribal Development Department; Shri Mukesh Kumar, Principal Secretary of Education; and Shri Ranjith Kumar, Project Director of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. Their participation underscored the collaborative efforts of multiple departments in successfully executing such a large-scale education initiative.

With this step, Gujarat reinforces its commitment to fostering inclusive education through merit-based selection and financial support, using technology as a key enabler for efficient public service delivery.

‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ Approved By Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister, Aimed At Boosting Education For Girls

Kalalaku Rekkalu

In a move to promote higher education among girls, Andhra Pradesh’s Human Resource Development, IT, and Electronics Minister, Nara Lokesh, has approved the ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ scheme. The initiative, which translates to “Wings to Dreams,” aims to provide financial assistance to girls pursuing professional courses, ensuring that economic constraints do not hinder their educational aspirations.

The ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ or ‘Wings to Dreams’ scheme facilitates access to bank loans for girls who have completed their intermediate education (Class 12). The state government will act as a guarantor for these loans and bear the interest for the entire duration of the course, thereby reducing the financial burden on students and their families. Eligible candidates can register for the scheme through the official website, where they receive a certificate to present to banks when applying for educational loans. This streamlined process ensures that deserving students can access the necessary financial resources without undue complications.

By facilitating higher education for girls, the scheme aims to empower women, promote gender equality, and contribute to the socio-economic development of the state. It reflects the government’s commitment to creating an environment where young women can pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society. The approval of the ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ scheme is not the only initiative that the government is taking to enhance education, though.

In addition to the ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ scheme, Minister Nara Lokesh also has measures in mind to enhance the educational landscape of Andhra Pradesh, some of which have already been implemented, and some that the government is still working towards.

Efforts are underway to upgrade 205 government libraries to support unemployed youth with skill development and study resources. Additionally, the revival of the Ambedkar Videshi Vidya Scheme and the strengthening of government degree colleges are on the agenda to enhance higher education opportunities. The minister has also set an ambitious goal to position at least two state universities within the QS Top 100 global rankings, reflecting a commitment to elevating the quality of higher education in Andhra Pradesh.

Also Read: UAE Eases Foreign Degree Recognition to Attract International Students and Professionals

The ‘Kalalaku Rekkalu’ scheme represents a pivotal step towards empowering young women in Andhra Pradesh through education. By addressing financial barriers and promoting inclusive access to professional courses, the initiative not only supports individual aspirations but also contributes to the broader goal of societal development and gender equality. Coupled with comprehensive educational reforms and infrastructure enhancements, the state is poised to create a more equitable and progressive educational environment for all.

UAE Eases Foreign Degree Recognition to Attract International Students and Professionals

UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) just recently made some reforms in order to simplify the recognition of foreign academic degrees. This was done to make the country a more appealing option for international students and professionals. The overhaul, introduced by the UAE Ministry of Education, has added more guidelines to the ‘University Certificates Recognition’ framework to make the process of certificate recognition for international students even easier.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has overhauled the recognition system, reducing required documents from 14 to just four, a 70% decrease. This change has led to a substantial increase in students with recognized qualifications, with numbers rising from 5,780 to 12,180 in the past year.

Key updates include the elimination of residency proof requirements and the removal of prior qualification verification for postgraduate applications, simplifying the process for master’s and PhD degree holders.

Unlike the previous system, which excluded online or hybrid learning models, the current policy now accepts degrees earned through distance learning, including fully remote programs, if they meet certain quality and accreditation standards. This change comes as global demand for flexible learning continues to surge.

The application system has been digitized, allowing applicants to submit credentials online without the need for in-person visits or fixed timelines. Verification is conducted through trusted third-party agencies such as Dataflow and QuadraBay, and the Ministry aims to maintain an average turnaround time of 30 working days.

The new guidelines are part of the UAE’s broader push under the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, which aims to make public services more efficient and citizen-friendly. The simplified recognition process not only benefits students and academic institutions but also supports the country’s goals in attracting international talent in key sectors such as healthcare, engineering, education, and IT.

Also Read: BHES 2025: Aligning Indian Education System With Global Standards

The Director of the International Education Support and Scholarships Department at MoHESR, Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, had the following to say on the new guidelines, “The updated system seamlessly integrates with various local scholarship bodies to streamline the recognition of foreign qualifications, using two unified standards across all specialisations and universities. This enhances the graduate experience, simplifying certificate recognition for employment or continuation of postgraduate studies.”

The UAE’s easing of foreign degree recognition is part of the country’s goal to become a popular international education hub. With simplified procedures, faster turnaround times, and recognition of online learning models, the country is opening its doors wider to international students and professionals than ever before.

BHES 2025: Aligning Indian Education System With Global Standards

BHES 2025

The Bharat Higher Education Summit (BHES) 2025, hosted at Mahindra University and convened by the Confederation of Indian Private Universities (CIPU), served as a platform for academic and industry experts to emphasize the urgent need to elevate India’s higher education system to global standards. Central to the discussions was the promotion of research-driven, interdisciplinary education.

The summit, themed Building Next Generation Leaders in Higher Education, brought together over 150 Vice Chancellors and senior academics from institutions nationwide to deliberate on future pathways for the sector. Throughout the two-day event, attendees explored themes such as global academic exchange, institutional partnerships, and strategies to boost the international credibility of Indian universities.

Panel sessions addressed a wide range of topics, including Public-Private Partnerships for research development, digital leadership, fostering entrepreneurial mindsets in education, and promoting innovation-led academic leadership.

In his opening remarks, Professor T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), stressed that, amid fast-paced technological evolution and shifting global dynamics, higher education institutions are tasked with shaping forward-thinking leaders. He more specifically stated that India’s private universities are going to be the key to reaching a 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2035.

Professor Yajulu Medury read a message by Anand Mahindra, Chancellor of Mahindra University, at the event. In the message, Mahindra emphasized the importance of continuing India’s rise in the global knowledge ecosystem through innovation and originality. The message also pointed to the summit’s success in fostering meaningful collaboration between academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and policy leaders.

Professor Medury, also Chairperson of CIPU’s Southern India Regional Council and Vice Chancellor of Mahindra University, personally welcomed participants by calling the summit a vital step in promoting leadership, technological progress, and sustainable innovation. He expressed pride in Mahindra University’s role as host for such an impactful dialogue focused on nurturing globally aware and socially responsible leaders.

Dr. Rahul Karad, Executive President of MIT-World Peace University and Chief Patron of CIPU, underlined the value of unity and cooperative advancement within a democratic framework. He advocated for stronger representation and support systems for the growing network of private universities, facilitated by platforms like CIPU.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof (Dr) Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and NAAC, talked about the accreditation process and the importance of ethical governance.

Also Read: Ministry of Education Approves New IIFT Centre at GIFT City

The summit concluded with closing remarks by Prof (Dr) GK Shirude, Honorary Vice President of CIPU, who thanked the attendees. Academic leaders pledged to carry forward the insights gained through continued engagement and collaboration aimed at transforming India’s higher education landscape.

Ministry of Education Approves New IIFT Centre at GIFT City

IIFT

The Ministry of Education, Government of India, has granted formal approval for the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi, to establish an off-campus centre at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar. The new centre will be developed in line with the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023.

This development follows the successful completion of all requirements stipulated in the Letter of Intent (LoI) issued in January 2025. IIFT submitted a comprehensive proposal detailing its plans for a multidisciplinary institution accommodating over 1,000 students, the recruitment of qualified faculty, academic programmes, and the blueprint for a permanent campus. Additionally, provisions for a modern library and other infrastructural facilities were part of the compliance process.

The approval, granted under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, marks a significant step in expanding India’s capacity for specialised education in international trade. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, congratulated the institution, stating, “Heartiest congratulations to IIFT on obtaining approval to establish its new off-campus centre in GIFT City, India’s global financial hub. This initiative will facilitate talent development through the flagship MBA (International Business) programme, as well as various short-term training programmes and research initiatives in international trade.”

The GIFT City centre will be housed on the 16th and 17th floors of GIFT Tower 2. It will offer IIFT’s renowned MBA (International Business) programme, along with a variety of specialised short-term training courses aimed at enhancing expertise in international trade and associated fields. The centre also plans to foster cutting-edge research to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the global trade landscape.

This move aligns closely with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks to broaden access to high-quality education and promote multidisciplinary learning. By establishing its presence in GIFT City, IIFT aims to create a vibrant hub for trade education that not only benefits students but also contributes to India’s broader strategy of export-led growth.

Established in 1963 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, IIFT has built a distinguished reputation in international trade education and capacity building. Recognised as a deemed-to-be University since 2002, the institution holds an A+ accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), placing it among an elite group of global business schools.

Also Read: UAE to implement AI education as early as kindergarten

The new campus at GIFT City is expected to bolster India’s trade education infrastructure and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market. It reflects a strategic effort to integrate academic excellence with the nation’s growing ambitions in international trade and finance.

UAE to implement AI education as early as kindergarten

UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is introducing AI education in schools starting as early as kindergarten. This initiative places the UAE at the forefront of global education reform, reflecting the country’s commitment to nurturing future-ready generations equipped with the skills needed for the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

This new development was announced on the X account, formerly known as Twitter, of the prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The announcement post reads, “As part of the UAE’s long-term plans to prepare future generations for a different future, a new world, and advanced skills, the UAE government today approved the final curriculum to introduce “Artificial Intelligence” as a subject across all stages of government education in the UAE, from kindergarten to grade 12, starting from the next academic year. We appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Education in developing a comprehensive curriculum, affirming that artificial intelligence will transform the way the world lives. Our goal is to teach our children a deep understanding of AI from a technical perspective, while also fostering their awareness of the ethics of this new technology, enhancing their understanding of its data, algorithms, applications, risks, and its connection to society and life.”

The announcement ended with the message that the goal of this decision to implement the study of AI across all levels of school education was to equip students with new skills to match the new conditions of the world that they currently find themselves living in.

The decision aligns with the UAE’s broader national strategy for artificial intelligence, first launched in 2017. Known as the UAE AI Strategy 2031, the initiative aims to position the country as a world leader in AI by integrating cutting-edge technology into various sectors, including education, healthcare, and transportation. By introducing AI concepts to young learners, the government is taking proactive steps to ensure students are not just passive users of technology but informed creators and innovators.

Teaching AI from an early age offers multiple benefits. It enhances critical thinking, encourages curiosity, and fosters creativity as well as the skills essential for the future workforce. Moreover, it helps bridge the digital skills gap and prepares students for careers in high-demand tech sectors.

In the long run, this initiative is expected to contribute to the UAE’s economic diversification goals by developing a highly skilled, tech-savvy population. It also supports global sustainability by promoting responsible AI use and digital literacy.

As digital technologies continue to shape every aspect of life, the UAE’s decision to start AI education early could serve as a model for other countries. By prioritizing technological literacy from a young age, the UAE is not only preparing its youth for future challenges but also laying the groundwork for a more innovative and resilient society.

Also Read: University of York signs MoU, to set up campus in Mumbai, India

Introducing AI into the classroom, starting from kindergarten to 12th grade, is a transformative step that demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to leading in education and technology. As this initiative unfolds, it is likely to redefine what it means to be a digitally literate global citizen in the 21st century.

University of York signs MoU, to set up campus in Mumbai, India

University of York

The University of York, in collaboration with India, recently announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and plans on opening an international campus in Mumbai. This move underscores the growing trend among prestigious global universities to tap into the vast potential of the Indian higher education market, which is undergoing transformative reforms under the country’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The University of York, a prominent member of the UK’s Russell Group of research-intensive institutions, is positioning itself to meet the rising demand for international education in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. This aligns with the goals of the India’s Universtiy Grants Commission (UGC), which recently gave the best international universities in the world freedom to set up campuses in India. This policy shift is aimed at increasing the availability of quality education within the country and reducing the need for students to pursue costly overseas degrees.

India presents an attractive destination for foreign universities for several reasons. With over 40 million students enrolled in higher education institutions, the country has one of the largest student populations in the world. Moreover, the government has been actively encouraging international collaborations through policy changes that allow foreign universities to establish independent campuses.

Though the academic programs for the India campus have yet to be finalized, officials have stated that they plan to provide undergraduate and postgraduate courses on subjects like computer science, economics, and industries revolving around art and other creative endeavours.

The university has expressed interest in working closely with Indian academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to ensure that the curriculum is both globally relevant and locally responsive. The new campus could serve as a hub for research collaboration, innovation, and skill development, aligning with India’s focus on creating a knowledge-based economy.

York’s expansion into India is not just about student recruitment; it represents a long-term commitment to educational exchange and cross-border knowledge creation. By bringing its academic expertise to India, the university hopes to contribute meaningfully to the country’s educational and economic growth.

The University of York is one of many different international universities looking to set up a campus in India. Institutions such as Deakin University and the University of Wollongong from Australia have already announced plans to set up campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City, an emerging hub for international education.

Also Read: “Over one million entrepreneurs raised in India,” remarks MSDE Minister at TiEcon 2025

As both India and The United Kingdom seek to strengthen their academic and cultural ties, this initiative holds the promise of delivering high-quality, internationally accredited education to a broader segment of Indian students. If successful, it could set a precedent for future collaborations and redefine the contours of higher education in a rapidly globalizing world.

“Over one million entrepreneurs raised in India,” remarks MSDE Minister at TiEcon 2025

TiEcon

In a special video address at TiEcon 2025 held at Santa Clara Convention Center in California, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, shared that the Government of India is actively supporting over one million entrepreneurs through landmark initiatives such as Startup India, Skill India, and the Atal Innovation Mission. He emphasized that these programs are laying the groundwork for a resilient and innovation-driven economy.

This year’s TiEcon, running for three days under the theme “AiVerse,” explored the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on business and society. The event brought together a global audience of entrepreneurs, investors, technologists, and academic leaders. An esteemed Indian delegation of experts in fields including deep-tech, climate technology, healthcare, and AI is representing the nation’s capabilities and aspirations on the world stage. Their presence underlined India’s role as a purpose-led innovation partner, promoting inclusive growth and technological advancement.

Speaking during the conference, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Managing Director of NSDC International, stressed the need for proactive steps to prepare for an AI-driven future. “AI is transforming the world in ways we never imagined, which necessitates proactive measures to navigate the challenges and harness the opportunities it brings. Skilling our youth and professionals is one of the most critical steps we must focus on today to prepare for the future. NSDC has been making significant efforts to skill and upskill the workforce through various targeted initiatives. We are empowering young people with the capabilities to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and future leaders in emerging fields. Our focus is on leveraging the power of human capital and technology to build a better tomorrow.”

NSDC set up an exhibition booth at TiEcon that drew strong interest from global attendees. The display featured India’s innovative training models and AI-powered learning solutions, prompting discussions on potential partnerships in workforce development and talent mobility.

On the second day of the conference, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella visited the NSDC booth, where he had a brief exchange with Mr. Tiwari. Their conversation focused on India’s progress in building a future-ready workforce and the contributions of NSDC in equipping youth with in-demand skills.

Also Read: UWA To Set Up Physical Campuses In India

India’s active engagement in TiEcon 2025 underscores its ambition to be recognized as a global center for talent and a key player in the AI-driven world. With a range of strategic initiatives underway, the country is bridging global talent shortages and contributing meaningfully to the emerging AI ecosystem.

UWA To Set Up Physical Campuses In India

UWA

In a landmark development that underscores the evolving landscape of international education, the University of Western Australia (UWA) has announced plans to establish its first overseas campus in India. The announcement was made at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at the Jio World Centre. A private meeting was held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and UWA Chancellor Diane Smith-Gander to discuss the establishment of a physical campus of UWA in Mumbai.

This move marks a significant milestone not only for UWA but also for the broader Australia-India academic relationship. The decision is emblematic of a global trend where prestigious universities are transcending national borders to engage with emerging education markets, offering mutual benefits to both host and home countries.

The University of Western Australia is a member of the Group of Eight (Go8). Being one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities, it is renowned for its academic rigor, research excellence, and global outlook. UWA aims to expand its educational footprint and cater to the increasing demand for quality international education in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies by setting up a campus in India.

India, home to the world’s largest youth population, presents a compelling opportunity for global educational institutions. With a burgeoning middle class and an increasing emphasis on higher education, Indian students are actively seeking access to world-class programs. UWA’s move aligns with this aspiration, potentially reducing the financial and logistical barriers faced by students who wish to study abroad.

The establishment of UWA’s India campus is not an isolated development. It reflects broader strategic and diplomatic ties between Australia and India. The 2020 Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, along with the 2022 update of Australia’s international education strategy, has prioritized deeper engagement with India. Recent policy shifts in India, such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, have also paved the way for foreign universities to operate within Indian borders, allowing them to grant degrees and maintain academic autonomy.

For UWA, the India campus offers access to a vast and dynamic talent pool, opportunities for localized research, and potential partnerships with Indian industries and governments. It also supports Australia’s broader goal of diversifying its international student base, especially in the aftermath of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, this expansion is not without challenges. Ensuring the same quality of education, faculty recruitment, cultural alignment, and regulatory compliance will be critical. Moreover, the success of such a venture depends heavily on sustained investment, adaptive governance, and mutual trust between stakeholders.

For India, the entry of a prestigious institution like UWA represents a vote of confidence in its higher education reform agenda. It could catalyze competition and innovation among domestic universities, raise academic standards, and improve global rankings of Indian institutions. Moreover, students who might otherwise have gone abroad for education may choose to study at international campuses within India, leading to a potential reversal of the brain drain.

Also Read: ‘Solve For Tomorrow’ Challenge’s 4th Edition Launched By Samsung India

UWA’s planned India campus is more than just an educational venture — it is a strategic initiative with diplomatic, economic, and cultural implications. As globalization continues to reshape the contours of education, such cross-border ventures may become the norm rather than the exception. If executed thoughtfully, the UWA-India campus could serve as a model for other global institutions looking to tap into new regions while contributing to local development..

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