Assam Cabinet Approves Establishment of Two New Private Universities to Boost Higher Education

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March 6, 2025

In a significant move aimed at enhancing higher education infrastructure and fostering skill-based learning, the Assam Cabinet has approved the establishment of two new private universities—EdTech Skills University in Tinsukia and Maa Kamakhya National University in Sipajhar. These institutions are expected to play a crucial role in meeting the evolving demands of education and research in the state.

Strengthening Higher Education Through Private Institutions

The newly sanctioned universities will focus on providing industry-relevant education and research opportunities, helping bridge the gap between academic learning and professional requirements. The Assam government has emphasized that these universities must comply with strict regulations to ensure quality education. In line with this, the Cabinet has approved amendments to the Assam Private Universities Act, 2007, which mandates a national security clearance for private universities before they can commence operations. This initiative is designed to uphold academic integrity and prevent any regulatory violations.

Policy Reforms to Enhance Skill Development

Furthering its commitment to skill enhancement, the Assam government has partnered with PanIIT Alumni Reach to establish 10 skill development centers across the state. These centers will be set up at an estimated cost of ₹90 crore, with ₹10 crore contributed by the state government and the remainder funded by the PanIIT Alumni Association. The initiative aims to equip students and professionals with industry-ready skills, boosting employability and entrepreneurship.

Assam’s Industrial Growth and Construction Sector Reforms

Beyond education, the Assam Cabinet has introduced multiple policy reforms to position the state as a preferred industrial hub. A notable initiative is the Assam Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) Policy, aimed at attracting investments in the electronics sector and strengthening local manufacturing capabilities.

The government has also taken strategic measures to integrate unemployed graduate and diploma engineers into Assam’s construction industry. A new policy relaxes pre-qualification criteria for government projects, allowing unemployed engineers to bid for tenders. Those who do not meet the financial criteria can form a Special Joint Venture (SJV) with an eligible financial partner, ensuring broader participation in infrastructure development projects.

Additionally, the Cabinet has approved the inclusion of Engineered Bamboo Composite Materials in the Schedule of Rates (SOR) under PWD (Building & National Highways). As part of this initiative, all new public buildings in Assam must incorporate at least 5% bamboo-based materials, promoting sustainability and leveraging the state’s rich bamboo resources.

Honoring Ratan Tata: Assam’s New Electronics City

In recognition of the contributions of Ratan Tata, the Assam government has decided to name the upcoming logistics park, semiconductor assembly and testing facility, and proposed township in Jagiroad as ‘Ratan Tata Electronics City (RTEC), Jagiroad.’

A Transformational Step in Assam’s Educational and Industrial Landscape

With these initiatives, Assam is set to witness a transformative phase in higher education, skill development, and industrial growth. The establishment of private universities, along with policy reforms in education and infrastructure, underscores the state’s commitment to creating a well-equipped workforce and attracting investments in key sectors. These steps are expected to bolster Assam’s position as an emerging hub for quality education, research, and industry-driven skill development.

PhysicsWallah Expands AI-Powered NEET, JEE Courses in Regional Languages Facilitating Accessibility in Indian Education

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March 6, 2025

In a groundbreaking move aimed at making quality education more accessible, edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah (PW) has announced its initiative to offer AI-powered courses for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) in five regional languages. This initiative, known as Project Bharat, was unveiled during PW’s annual flagship event, Vishwas Diwas, and seeks to bridge language barriers, particularly benefiting students from rural and non-Hindi/English-speaking regions of India.

Breaking Language Barriers with Bharat Batches

Under Bharat Batches, PW’s flagship Lakshya program will now be available in Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, and English, with plans to expand to more languages in the future. By providing high-quality educational content in regional languages, PW aims to ensure that students across India receive equal learning opportunities, irrespective of their linguistic background.

The course content under Project Bharat will be scripted in native languages, dubbed for clarity, and further enhanced using Artificial Intelligence (AI). This innovative approach replicates the in-person learning experience, allowing students to grasp complex concepts more effectively.

AI-Driven Learning Enhancements

Alongside Project Bharat, PW introduced a suite of AI-powered tools designed to elevate the student learning experience:

Prep Meter: An advanced performance-tracking system that assesses students’ learning progress, identifies strengths and weaknesses, and provides AI-driven personalized video recommendations for improvement. The tool monitors students’ lecture viewing habits, Daily Practice Programs (DPP), and test performances, offering real-time performance analysis to help them enhance their preparation.
PW Books: A smart digital NCERT book available as a standalone app on the Google Play Store, offering an interactive way for students to engage with their study materials. Using AI-powered features, students can click pictures to access relevant content, highlight key concepts, take notes, and receive instant explanations, making their study sessions more effective and streamlined.

Gamifying Learning with Level-Up

PW has also launched Level-Up, a reward-based system that transforms studying into an engaging and competitive experience. This feature allows students to track their progress and compete with peers nationwide, motivating them to stay consistent with their studies. During a pilot phase conducted among Class 9 and 10 students, the feature reportedly led to a 30% increase in study time on the PW App.

Students using Level-Up start at an initial level and are grouped with 30 peers, earning XP points for completing academic activities such as watching lectures, solving DPPs, taking mock tests, and participating in regular assessments. This gamification strategy fosters motivation and encourages students to stay on track with their learning goals.

Pegasus: A Premium Program for NEET & JEE Aspirants

For students aspiring to excel in JEE Advanced and NEET, PW has introduced Pegasus, a specialized premium course available in both four-year and three-year formats. This program offers early advantages with a fast-paced curriculum, integrates Olympiad preparation, and includes an eight-month practice and testing phase before board exams. By providing a structured and comprehensive approach, Pegasus ensures that students receive rigorous training and ample preparation time to succeed in these highly competitive exams.

Revolutionizing Indian Education with AI and Vernacular Learning

The launch of Project Bharat and AI-driven educational tools marks a transformative shift in India’s education sector, setting a precedent for inclusivity and innovation in learning. By integrating regional languages, AI-powered study tools, and gamified learning strategies, PW is breaking barriers and making high-quality education more accessible, engaging, and effective.

Alakh Pandey, Founder and CEO of PhysicsWallah, emphasized the company’s commitment to serving the student community, stating, “Throughout the previous year, I have received feedback from students requesting educational content in their regional languages. Project Bharat is our first attempt towards making this vision a reality. Additionally, with AI-driven tools like Prep Meter, PW Books, and Level-Up, we are ensuring that students receive a holistic and enriched learning experience.”

Also Read | PhysicsWallah Crosses 150 Centres Across India; New Vidyapeeth Centres in Dibrugarh, Chennai and Udaipur

This initiative is expected to empower millions of students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, by eliminating language barriers and providing cutting-edge digital learning solutions. With AI, regional content, and gamification, PhysicsWallah is poised to redefine the landscape of competitive exam preparation in India, making quality education equitable and accessible for all.

Leap Finance Secures $100 Million Debt Facility from HSBC to Expand Study Abroad Loans

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March 6, 2025

In a significant development for the Indian education financing landscape, Leap Finance, the student lending arm of South Asia’s largest study-abroad platform, has secured a $100 million debt facility from HSBC under its ASEAN Growth Fund. This milestone funding is poised to benefit thousands of Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad, while also influencing the broader education ecosystem in India.

Boosting Access to Global Education

The lack of affordable and flexible financing options remains a primary barrier for many talented students aiming to study abroad. Leap Finance addresses this challenge by offering collateral-free, USD-denominated loans that cover the full cost of international education. Unlike traditional banking models, which often rely on a family’s existing financial standing, Leap’s model evaluates a student’s future earning potential, making education loans more accessible and inclusive.

With this new debt facility, Leap Finance aims to expand its reach across the United States, enhance university partnerships, and strengthen its presence in India. The company has already facilitated over $250 million in education loans, enabling more than 5,000 students to pursue postgraduate degrees overseas.

“With lack of financing often the largest impediment to global aspirations, this facility will enable us to help hundreds of students make their move abroad,” said Vaibhav Singh, Co-founder, Leap Finance.

Impact on the Education Industry in India

The infusion of $100 million into Leap Finance’s lending portfolio will have significant ripple effects across the education ecosystem in India.

Enhanced Student Mobility: The expansion of Leap Finance’s loan offerings will enable more Indian students to access world-class institutions abroad, fostering international collaborations and knowledge exchange.
Growth Opportunities for EdTech & Study-Abroad Consultants: The study-abroad sector in India, including test preparation services, visa consultancies, and overseas education advisory firms, is likely to witness increased demand, driving business growth.
University Collaborations: With Leap Finance expanding its partnerships with global institutions, Indian education service providers will have enhanced opportunities to collaborate with foreign universities, facilitating smoother admissions and student transitions.
Innovation in FinTech and EdTech: The success of Leap Finance’s lending model, which relies on future earning potential rather than current financial status, sets a precedent for other fintech companies to develop innovative education financing solutions.
Economic Upliftment: Indian students who graduate from top international universities typically see a significant increase in their earning potential. As they return to India or work in global markets, their enhanced financial capabilities contribute to economic growth and professional upskilling within the country.

Also Read: Strengthening Higher Education & Research Collaboration: Key Takeaways from the Visitor’s Conference 2024-25

Industry Leaders Weigh In

“With the unique metrics of the ASEAN Growth Fund, we are able to support Leap Finance as they expand their business and footprint,” said Shaun Sakhrani, Head of Structured Banking, Southeast Asia, HSBC.

The strategic partnership reflects the growing confidence in India’s education financing sector and its potential to create global opportunities for students.

This announcement follows Leap Finance’s $65 million Series E equity funding round led by Apis Partners last month. With cumulative funding exceeding $400 million since its inception in 2019, Leap Finance continues to be a pioneering force in international education financing.

As the demand for global education continues to rise, innovative financing solutions like those offered by Leap Finance play a crucial role in bridging the accessibility gap. With its latest funding, the company is well-positioned to empower more students, strengthen industry partnerships, and drive significant growth in the education sector in India. Education leaders, fintech innovators, and university stakeholders must take note of this transformative shift and explore collaborative avenues to enhance student mobility and financial inclusivity on a global scale.

For education businesses, study-abroad consultants, and universities, Leap Finance’s expansion represents a growing market and a testament to the evolving role of technology and finance in reshaping the future of education.

Strengthening Higher Education & Research Collaboration: Key Takeaways from the Visitor’s Conference 2024-25

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March 5, 2025

The Visitor’s Conference 2024-25, hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marked a significant milestone in India’s higher education landscape, bringing together Vice Chancellors, Directors, and key stakeholders from Central Universities, IITs, NITs, and other prestigious institutions. Presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, the conference served as a vital forum for deliberations on policies, advancements, and challenges in the education sector.

Key Themes & Discussions

Innovation in Higher Education: Exploring ways to enhance curriculum flexibility, integrate emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing, and adopt interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving.
Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships between universities and industries to enhance employability, foster R&D, and drive economic growth.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 Implementation: Reviewing progress and addressing challenges in adopting the NEP framework across institutions.
Digital Transformation & Global Rankings: Strategies to improve digital infrastructure in education and enhance India’s standing in global university rankings.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) & Higher Education: Role of educational institutions in addressing climate change, sustainability, and social inclusivity.

Sessions & Key Participants

Inaugural Address by the President of India: Emphasizing the role of higher education in shaping India’s future and promoting global research leadership.
Panel Discussion on NEP 2020: With participation from policymakers, university leaders, and educators, this session delved into curriculum restructuring and holistic education models.
Industry-Academia Synergy Roundtable: Featuring CEOs, academic heads, and research directors from leading organizations like DRDO, ISRO, and corporate R&D units, discussing ways to enhance innovation ecosystems.
Session on AI & Digital Transformation in Education: Led by experts from NITI Aayog, IITs, and tech firms, highlighting the integration of AI, blockchain, and digital learning tools.
Vice-Chancellors’ Conclave: A high-level discussion focusing on leadership in higher education, governance challenges, and the need for global collaborations.

Emphasizing Research and Innovation

President Murmu underscored the need for institutions to enhance their research capabilities to align with global standards. The discussions focused on strengthening interdisciplinary research, increasing industry-academia collaboration, and boosting investments in R&D.

Government initiatives such as the National Research Foundation (NRF) and Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) were highlighted as crucial steps in empowering scholars and scientists to drive cutting-edge innovations.

Internationalization of Higher Education

In light of India’s ambitions to establish itself as a global knowledge hub, the Visitor’s Conference 2024-25 addressed the internationalization of higher education. The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on global partnerships, foreign faculty recruitment, and student exchange programs were central to the discourse. Enhancing the global rankings of Indian institutions and attracting international students remain key objectives.

Industry-Driven Curriculum and Employability

Bridging the gap between academia and industry has been a longstanding challenge. The conference stressed the importance of skill-based education and industry-aligned curricula to enhance employability. The integration of emerging technologies like AI, data science, and blockchain into academic programs was discussed to ensure graduates are equipped for the evolving job market.

Additionally, the role of vocational education and apprenticeship programs was emphasized to provide students with hands-on experience and practical skills.

Digital Transformation and EdTech Integration

As the world continues to shift towards digitalization, leveraging technology in education was a major focal point. The conference explored the role of EdTech solutions in making education more inclusive and accessible, especially for students in remote and underserved regions. Initiatives like SWAYAM, the National Digital Library, and hybrid learning models were discussed as pivotal tools in democratizing knowledge dissemination.

Social Responsibility and Sustainability in Education

Higher educational institutions were encouraged to actively contribute to society through social responsibility programs and sustainability initiatives. Universities were urged to integrate environmental consciousness into their curriculums and operations, aligning with India’s broader sustainability goals.

Also Read: Meritto, Info-Edge backed firm, aims for IPO of ₹500 crore this year

Strengthening Governance and Institutional Autonomy

Institutional autonomy and governance reforms were also a crucial part of the discussions. The need for decentralized decision-making, faculty empowerment, and performance-based evaluation systems were highlighted as key to improving institutional efficiency and academic excellence.

The Visitor’s Conference 2024-25 reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming higher education in India through innovation, collaboration, and policy reforms. As institutions implement these strategic initiatives, the future of higher education in India looks promising, with a stronger focus on research, employability, digital transformation, and global competitiveness.

This landmark event set the stage for a renewed approach to learning, ensuring that Indian institutions emerge as global leaders in education and research.

Meritto, Info-Edge backed firm, aims for IPO of ₹500 crore this year

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March 4, 2025

Meritto, an enrolment automation company backed by Info Edge, has bagged investments from IIFL Capital and SBI Capital for its ambitious IPO. The public offering is aimed to raise between ₹500-600 crore. According to a report by Moneycontrol, this Gurugram-based firm aims for a ₹2,000 crore valuation in the market and plans to submit its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) in the coming months, maximum by the end of this year.

Their website introduces itself as SaaS + Embedded Payments platform that aims to empower educational organizations to drive revenue growth and improve operational efficiency in the Student Acquisition layer.

Sources at the Moneycontrol indicate that the current market environment is unstable, particularly affecting small-cap firms. While the company’s promoters have high expectations, the ultimate outcome will depend on market responses regarding IPO size and valuation. The benchmark indices, including the Sensex and Nifty, have seen significant declines—nearly 15% from their September highs—due to geopolitical tensions and trade war concerns, with the Nifty Smallcap100 and Nifty Midcap100 indices dropping over 25% and 21%, respectively.

Meritto specialises in customer relationship management (CRM) software tailored for educational institutions, facilitating enrollment, communication, fee collection, and alumni engagement through its Merrito brand. For FY24, the company reported revenues of ₹70 crore and a net profit of ₹4 lakh. However, in the first nine months of the current fiscal year, it recorded revenues of ₹67.7 crore alongside a loss of ₹50 lakh. Despite this, the company is experiencing a 40% year-on-year growth rate, leading to optimism about its profitability.

With over 1,200 clients, Meritto is also looking to expand internationally. CEO Goyal highlighted the potential of the Indian education market, projected to reach ₹25,00,000 crore by FY28, positioning Meritto as a key player for institutions seeking operational efficiency and revenue growth. The government’s goal to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio to 50% by 2035 further underscores the demand for advanced educational technology.

Also Read: IIFT partners with a Belgian institute in logistics & port management education

This IPO will mark the third public offering from Info Edge, which has previously seen substantial returns from its investments in companies like Zomato and PB Fintech. However, the share prices of these firms have recently declined, impacting Info Edge’s valuation.

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

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March 4, 2025

In the past few years, technology has played a crucial role in improving learning experiences as it has transformed global education. Not only has it enhanced digital learning, but also engagement in learning. The Digital Learning industry in India is expected to reach US$ 4 billion by 2025, growing at an outstanding CAGR of 39.77%, according to a report by FICCI. The rapid growth is a result of initiatives taken by the government like “Digital India” and accessibility to the internet, which make high-quality education more widely available to students nationwide.

The challenges in obtaining school loans are one of the main barriers students face in rural areas. Further deepening the issues, the limited access to smartphones, laptops, and internet connection creates a significant gap impacting the opportunities for online education. Families with unstable economic conditions are unable to avail loans as debt repayment becomes a challenge. Inconsistent income sources make repayment dubious while simultaneously reinforcing loaners’ perspectives of rural students as high-risk candidates. To address these would require a collective response that would incorporate the use of AI to allow for simpler loan distribution, e-learning services that provide the benefits of online education, financial education, and policies allowing greater long-term sustainable academic chances.

Making Digital Learning More Accessible

Credit solutions that are powered by artificial intelligence have transformed how banks today assess and manage risks. AI has the potential to provide risk profiles for potential borrowers by analysing various data points that include non-traditional data sources. Such practices make it easier to have access to funds required to pursue education. This approach allows for both the creation and distribution of funds that are targeted to meet the unique needs of rural students.

Automated systems quickly determine creditworthiness from millions of parameters, making educational finance more accessible in rural areas. This is beneficial for the borrowers and improves the operational efficiency of lending institutions.

AI-based credit solutions are transforming education, with NBFCs playing a key role in funding digital learning. Advanced risk-scoring models leverage data analytics to enhance decision-making and risk management, evolving continuously to predict delinquencies. AI-powered chatbots automate processes like KYC verification, Aadhaar authentication, and digital agreement signing, ensuring a smooth loan disbursement. They also assist in onboarding via WhatsApp, reducing scalability challenges for CX teams. Technologies such as PAN OCR and machine learning-based KYC further improve accessibility, enabling students, especially those in rural areas, to continue learning without financial hurdles.

Apart from providing funding to educational loans, NBFCs are also actively supporting digital learning initiatives. Interactive learning tools such as digital labs and smart classrooms have been adopted by many educational institutions in rural areas to improve the learning experience. NBFCs facilitate these changes by providing financing options for schools to invest in technology-driven education solutions. By making digital infrastructure more affordable, they help schools bridge the digital divide and enhance learning opportunities for students.

Encouraging Financial Literacy and Inclusion

Beyond providing financial aid, there is a need to educate families about responsible borrowing and financial planning. Many organizations, including NBFCs, are working on financial literacy initiatives to assist parents and students in making informed decisions concerning education loans. Clear and succinct information on loan terms, repayment options, and budgeting ensures that families can access credit without succumbing to financial distress. Offsetting personal borrowing risks is among the other positive upshots of artificial intelligence offered to rural residents. Personalized literacy programs through digital media enable an institution to instil in communities the need for credit management and budgeting. This fosters long-term financial stability and empowers communities to make prudent financial decisions.

Also Read: Smart Education in 2025 Shaped by AI in School Curriculums

Building a Sustainable Future for Rural Education

By supporting education and digital learning solutions, NBFCs have a tangible impact on rural areas. By eliminating financial barriers and promoting the adoption of modern learning tools, the institutions are facilitating an uninterrupted education for students. As India progresses towards an inclusive education model, the flexible financing options will continue to be indispensable in ensuring that every student gets the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their location and socio-economic status. The convergence of AI-driven credit solutions with the preparedness of the NBFCs to fund digital learning initiatives is largely defining the realm of education in rural India. They are doing so through a two-pronged approach: meeting the financial shortfall for securing the modalities while also ensuring that quality education reaches every student regardless of geographical location.

Views expressed by: Steve Hardgrave, CEO and Co-Founder, Varthana

IIFT partners with a Belgian institute in logistics & port management education

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March 4, 2025

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) has partnered with a Belgian training institute to provide training in logistics, port management and supply chain. The New Delhi based college has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with APEC – Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center, Belgium, marking a significant step towards enhancing academic collaboration and knowledge exchange in the academic of international trade, logistics, and supply chain management.

The MoU was signed in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry; Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry – Ajay Bhadoo; the Belgian delegation – His Excellency Matthias Diependaele, Minister-President of the Flemish Government and Flemish Minister of Economy, Innovation, and Industry, Foreign Affairs, Digitalisation, and Facility Management; Mr. Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges; Mr. Dirk De Fauw, President of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International and Mr. Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International.

Underscoring the importance of this partnership, the minister said, “India and Belgium have shared strong trade ties for decades. This MoU will further build on our cooperation, ensuring that our future business leaders are equipped with world-class training and insights into global trade practices.”

Prof. Rakesh Mohan Joshi, Vice Chancellor, IIFT, along with other faculty members and alumni who have previously benefited from exposure to the Port of Antwerp, aims to implement this MoU via the student-exchange programs. Prof. Joshi expressed, “This collaboration will not only enhance our students’ understanding of port operations and global supply chain mechanisms but also create opportunities for joint research, training programs, and faculty exchanges.”

Mr. Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International, highlighted the longstanding relationship between Port of Antwerp and IIFT, stating, “This MoU will further solidify our efforts in capacity building and knowledge-sharing in trade facilitation.”

Also Read: Research spending in India doubled in the last decade: Science and Tech Minister

Began in 2019 with 206 students, Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center is a training institute affiliated with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, providing specialized programs in port management, trade facilitation, and logistics.

Research spending in India doubled in the last decade: Science and Tech Minister

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March 4, 2025

Spending on Research and Development (R&D) in India has become more than doubled in the last decade, says Dr. Jitendra Singh. Dr. Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, was speaking at an event by Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) on Monday in New Delhi.

At the DISHA event at India Habitat Centre, Dr. Singh said, “India R&D spending (GERD) is double in last one decade during the government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, from Rs 60,196 cr in 2013-14 to ₹1,27,381 cr and is shaping the future economy of India which will be defined by home-grown innovations in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing.”

Underscoring the role of government-backed initiatives in catalysing scientific advancements, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the government’s multi-pronged strategy to position India as a global leader in deep-tech innovation and commercialisation. The Union Minister for Science and Technology (Independent charge) reiterated that India is making significant strides in fostering an intellectual property (IP)-driven innovation ecosystem, with academia, industry, and startups playing a pivotal role.

The DISHA Program, an initiative aimed at Developing Innovations, Successful Harnessing, and Adoption, is a step towards building a knowledge-based economy where research-driven solutions transform industries. The program is designed to support faculty members and students working on disruptive technologies across disciplines, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of global innovation.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that initiatives like DISHA align with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), which seeks to create a unified research ecosystem bridging science, humanities, and social sciences. This integrated approach will empower Indian researchers to engage in cross-sectoral collaborations, pushing the boundaries of discovery and implementation.

The space sector, in particular, has witnessed a surge in innovation, with startups actively contributing to satellite development, launch services, and space-based applications. The government’s decision to open up the nuclear energy sector to private players is another transformative step aimed at leveraging indigenous expertise to drive energy security and sustainability.

Also Read: 40% of global population lacks education in native language: UNESCO Report

One of the key highlights of Dr. Jitendra Singh’s address was India’s policy shift in allowing private sector participation in strategic fields such as space technology and nuclear research. “What was once solely the domain of government institutions is now open to private enterprises, enabling faster technological advancements, higher efficiency, and global competitiveness,” he stated.

40% of global population lacks education in native language: UNESCO Report

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March 3, 2025

A recent UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) report has revealed that 40% of people worldwide do not have access to education in a language they speak and understand fluently. In some low- and middle-income countries, this figure soars to 90%, affecting more than a quarter of a billion learners. The language barrier has been identified as a critical challenge in ensuring quality education and learning outcomes.

The report, titled “Languages Matter: Global Guidance on Multilingual Education,” was released on the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day. It highlights the growing linguistic diversity in classrooms worldwide due to migration, displacement, and historical education policies. According to UNESCO, over 31 million displaced youth currently face language barriers in education, further widening the existing educational gap.

Language Barriers Worsening Learning Gaps

The report warns that students who do not receive education in their home language face significant learning losses, particularly in core subjects such as reading and mathematics. Analysis by the GEM team found that between 2010 and 2022, the learning gap between native and non-native language learners widened substantially:

The reading proficiency gap increased from 12 to 18 percentage points
The mathematics proficiency gap grew from 10 to 15 percentage points

The findings indicate that linguistic exclusion disproportionately affects disadvantaged learners, who struggle to keep up with education due to instruction in an unfamiliar language. The COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid influence of technology have further worsened learning disparities.

Challenges in Implementing Multilingual Education

Despite increasing awareness of the benefits of home-language instruction, many countries struggle to adopt and implement policies effectively. The report identifies several key barriers, including:

Limited teacher capacity to instruct in multiple languages
Shortage of learning materials in home languages
Resistance from communities due to socio-political factors
Historical policies, often influenced by colonial legacies, that favoured dominant languages over local dialects

In some multilingual countries, the lack of resources to implement education in multiple languages poses additional challenges. In wealthier nations, rising immigration has introduced new languages into classrooms, making it difficult to develop inclusive curricula and assessment systems.

UNESCO’s Recommendations for Bridging Language Gaps

To address these disparities, the GEM team has urged countries to adopt context-specific, inclusive language policies that ensure equitable access to education. Key recommendations include:

Developing tailored language policies that reflect each country’s linguistic diversity
Creating bridging programs for immigrant students to support language acquisition
Aligning teacher training and deployment with language proficiency requirements
Ensuring culturally and linguistically responsive pedagogy in early childhood education
Providing school leaders with professional training to foster inclusion and support multilingual students
Strengthening community engagement to promote acceptance of home-language education

The report stresses that language transition must be carefully managed through curriculum adjustments and the availability of teaching and learning materials in relevant languages.

Also Read: Hello Kids Preschool Celebrates 1,000th Center Milestone in India

India’s National Education Policy and Multilingual Education Debate

The report is particularly relevant to India, which is currently implementing its National Education Policy (NEP). The NEP advocates multilingual education through a three-language formula in schools. However, the policy has faced resistance from some states, with concerns over the imposition of certain languages over regional ones.

Experts argue that promoting home-language education can significantly enhance learning outcomes and inclusion. As linguistic diversity grows globally, UNESCO has called for immediate action to prioritise multilingual education and ensure that language is not a barrier to quality education.

Hello Kids Preschool Celebrates 1,000th Center Milestone in India

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March 3, 2025

Hello Kids Preschool Chains has achieved a significant milestone by opening its 1,000th centre in India. India’s 1st no-royalty model and one of the largest preschool chains is on its projectile growth with an ambition to open 2000 centres by 2028 across the country and Bangladesh. Currently pervaded across the southern Indian states, the Hello Kids chain is set to spread itself across the northern and western parts of India to popular across major cities further strengthen its foothold in the preschool segment.

Founded in 2005 by Pritam Kumar Agrawal, the journey of Hello Kids has been one of perseverance, innovation, and passion towards educating children during their formative years.

The success story of Pritam Agrawal is more like a larger-than-life story, as the founder hails from a small village and overcame the challenges of establishing a preschool. One of the living manifestations of a ‘self-made-man’, Agrawal diligently learnt the nuances that build a credible preschool, including single-handedly managing daily operations and personally driving school vans.

A beacon of ‘couple-preneur’, his wife Sunita Jain boosted both the business and each other’s motivation for this business. With her dedication and efforts, Jain, a software engineer, joined the venture post and made the journey and growth trajectory of Hello Kids Pre School more evident. Leveraging the power of franchising, Hello Kids became one of the most sought-after brands for parents to send their tiny tots. Agrawal had, over the years, pioneered and established India’s first no-royalty model preschool chain, ensuring sustainable growth without compromising on the quality of education.

“From humble beginnings to becoming a household name in early childhood education, Hello Kids has always focused on making preschools affordable while providing the best learning environment for young minds. Our goal is to reach 2,000 centres by 2028 while staying committed to excellence in early learning,” said Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Founder & Director, Hello Kids.

The brand Hello Kids soon got noticed for its consistent performance in early child education and got several recognitions, including India’s Most Respected Childhood Education Brand 2022-23 by Education World and was also conferred as the Leading Preschool Chain by the Elets World Education Summit 2022. Over the years, Hello Kids has consistently been recognized for innovation in preschool pedagogy, early childhood curriculum excellence, and its commitment to early childhood education.

“At Hello Kids, we believe in nurturing young minds with innovative learning experiences. Our goal has always been to make high-quality preschool education accessible to every child. As we expand further, we remain committed to providing a safe, engaging, and stimulating environment for early learners, ensuring they build a strong foundation for the future,” added Sunita Jain, Director & CEO, Hello Kids.

One of the key ingredients behind the popularity of the chain is its ability to equip its franchise partners with the tools and training that are relevant and vital for the effective delivery of early childhood education. The company conducts comprehensive training sessions covering curriculum, pedagogy, marketing strategies, social media engagement, admission handling, and parent counseling. The academic training sessions emphasize innovative teaching methods, including phonics, Montessori techniques, STEM education, and social behaviour development, areas that are vital for the early years’ development of a growing child.

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Hello Kids’ curriculum aligns with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, integrating digital learning tools like Virtual Reality kits, digital slates, and talking pens to enhance the student learning experience. With a child-friendly, hygienic environment, CCTV-monitored classrooms, and experienced educators, the brand ensures a safe and enriching atmosphere for young learners.

As Hello Kids continues its journey of innovation and excellence, it remains committed to shaping the future of early childhood education in India and beyond. For more information, visit www.hellokids.co.in.

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