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Shri Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates I-Hub foundation at IIM Sambalpur’s 100 Cube Conclave

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan ji

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, graced the 100 Cube Conclave at IIM Sambalpur. The event marked the inauguration of the I-Hub foundation, aimed at fostering a robust incubation ecosystem. Dignitaries including Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, and Prof. Manoj Tiwari, Director of IIM Mumbai, alongside notable academicians, industry leaders, innovators, and students, were present.

The conclave showcased a short film on the 100 Cube and I-Hub foundation, highlighting their objectives and potential impact. Furthering academic-industry collaboration, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with industry partners for establishing a Center of Management Education in Angul.

Shri Pradhan emphasised India’s transition towards becoming a knowledge-based, technology-driven economy, urging the shift from job seekers to job creators. He highlighted the 100 Cube Odisha initiative as a catalyst for fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth, aiming to transform Odisha into an entrepreneurial hub.

The event also included a CSR meeting on 28th February, connecting corporations with sustainable business practices in key sectors like textiles, agriculture, and healthcare, among others. This initiative aligns to launch 100 startups each valued at Rs. 100 crore by Odisha’s centenary in 2036, initiated on 11 February 2024 at IIT Bhubaneswar.

The I-Hub foundation will serve as a comprehensive incubator and accelerator, supporting startups and MSMEs across various sectors, thereby contributing to India’s socio-economic growth and the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Roadmap for Aspiring Educators in International Education and Administration

Burcu Aydin

GMU prioritises the integration of real-world experiences into the curriculum, shares Burcu Aydin, Director-Student Affairs Department, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE in an exclusive interaction with Nidhi Shail Kujur of Elets News Network (ENN). Edited excerpts:

How has your international experience influenced your teaching and administrative style?

My international experience working in 10 countries has enriched my teaching and administrative style by exposing me to diverse cultures and educational systems. It has instilled adaptability, fostering an inclusive approach in my teaching. Administrative practices now integrate global perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive educational environment. I’ve adopted a holistic perspective, incorporating best practices from different institutions to create more effective policies. This cross-cultural exposure has heightened my appreciation for diversity, emphasizing collaboration and communication in both teaching and administrative roles. Overall, my international journey has refined my versatile and culturally sensitive approach, enhancing the quality and impact of my educational leadership.

As you are the Director of Student Affairs at Gulf Medical University. Could you elaborate on GMU’s unique offerings?

In my role as the Director of Student Affairs at Gulf Medical University (GMU), I’m proud to highlight our institution’s distinctive features. GMU stands out for its Short Term Certificate Courses, tailored to address dynamic healthcare demands. These courses provide students with specialized, industryrelevant skills, enhancing their professional readiness. Moreover, GMU prioritizes the integration of real-world experiences into the curriculum. This approach ensures that theoretical knowledge is complemented by practical insights, preparing students for the challenges of the medical field. By embedding real-world scenarios into the learning process, GMU cultivates a holistic educational experience, aligning academic pursuits with the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.

What do you see as the most significant opportunities and challenges facing higher education in the coming years, especially in the context of global education?

In the coming years, higher education faces both substantial opportunities and challenges within the context of global education. The advent of technology presents a significant opportunity, enabling widespread access to education and fostering innovative teaching methods. However, challenges include adapting swiftly to technological advancements, ensuring inclusivity in a digital environment, and addressing the evolving nature of careers in an increasingly interconnected world. Additionally, globalization offers opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, but challenges include navigating diverse educational systems and ensuring equitable access to educational resources. Striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and maintaining educational equity will be pivotal for the future of global higher education.

Queen Mary University strengthens ties with OP Jindal Global University

University partnerships

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) has deepened its partnership with OP Jindal Global University (JGU) in India. Since 2014, JGU has been Queen Mary’s first partner institution in India, rapidly rising in prominence since its inception in 2009. JGU boasts the title of the number one Private University in India by QS rankings for three consecutive years and holds the prestigious designation of an Institute of Eminence by the Ministry of Education in India.

On 13 February, a large delegation from Queen Mary, led by President and Principal Professor Colin Bailey, visited JGU to explore new avenues of collaboration. During the visit, academics from four different schools at Queen Mary met with their JGU counterparts to discuss various opportunities for joint initiatives. Highlights of the visit included presentations by two Queen Mary academics to JGU students and the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Psychology. This marks the first progression agreement between Queen Mary’s Faculty of Science and Engineering and JGU, and the fifth agreement since the two institutions began their collaboration in 2014.

Professor Colin Bailey expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “As our longest-standing partner in India, OP Jindal Global University and Queen Mary share a special bond. JGU is an excellent higher education institution and is at the vanguard of India’s educational development. Both we and JGU are keen to further develop our partnership, as evidenced by the visit today.” He also noted the warm welcome received from Professor Raj Kumar and his team at JGU, highlighting a mutual eagerness to see the collaboration continue to flourish.

This enhanced partnership between Queen Mary and JGU underscores their commitment to advancing educational development and fostering international collaborations, promising a brighter future for students and academics at both institutions.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan introduces SWAYAM Plus portal

swayam plus

Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister of Education, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship, has unveiled the “SWAYAM Plus” portal. This innovative platform, developed in partnership with leading industry players such as Microsoft, Cisco, and L&T, aims to offer courses tailored to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world skills.

Managed by the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras), a pioneer in the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platform and a founding member of Swayam-NPTEL, SWAYAM Plus is set to revolutionize online learning. With an impressive growth in enrollment from 31 lakh in 2017 to an anticipated over 72 lakh by the end of 2023, the platform stands as a testament to the increasing demand for quality online education in India.

SWAYAM Plus is designed to significantly boost the employability quotient of both college students and lifelong learners by integrating the practical expertise of its industry partners with the academic excellence of the SWAYAM educational platform. The courses will span a diverse range of fields including manufacturing, energy, computer science and engineering, IT/ITES, management studies, healthcare, hospitality, and tourism, reflecting the multifaceted needs of the global job market.

At the launch, Minister Pradhan emphasized the alignment of SWAYAM Plus with the National Education Policy (NEP), highlighting the unprecedented collaboration between reputable industrial houses, the University Grants Commission (UGC), esteemed educational departments, and elite institutes like IIT Madras. He assured that all courses offered through the portal would be accredited, ensuring their recognition and value.

IIT Madras assures that students engaging with the SWAYAM Plus platform will gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, insights into the latest industry trends, and the competencies demanded by employers today. This initiative is poised to narrow the existing knowledge gap between academia and industry, elevating the employability and competitiveness of graduates.

The SWAYAM Plus platform introduces several innovative features to enhance the learning experience, including credit recognition for academic progress, multilingual content to cater to a wider audience, and an AI-enabled chatbot designed to support students throughout their learning journey.

Meeting the Challenges of Modern Education

parth

The most common challenge for higher education institutions is to provide a balanced education base that has equal margins for pedagogy, hobby enrichment, holistic development, and job opportunities with modern approaches shares Parth Gautam, Executive Director, Invertis University in an exclusive interaction with Nidhi Shail Kujur of Elets News Network (ENN).

What steps has the university taken to continuously improve the quality of education provided, aligning with industry standards and global benchmarks?

Invertis University has revolutionized the education trends in its region. Invertis University has always been committed to providing academic excellence. The refined curriculum and syllabus with the latest exposure are being provided to all the students. The university focuses on teachings that emphasize studies with global reference.

Regular industrial visits and professionals‘-driven special classes are major keys of the university.

With an increasingly globalized world, how is Invertis University preparing students for international opportunities and challenges?

Invertis University goes hand in hand with developing technologies, which has led to the establishment of the Centre of Skill and Entrepreneurship Development on its campus, which caters to students with the latest projects on modern technologies to enhance their learning opportunities and provide comprehensive technical learning to IT aspirants.

How is Invertis University tapping into emerging opportunities, such as international collaborations, research partnerships, or industry integration, to foster academic growth?

Invertis University stands at the forefront in terms of collaborative institutional efforts. Invertis shares diplomatic associations with Livingstone College (North Carolina USA), University of South Carolina (Upstate, SC, U.S.A), Regenesys Business School (South Africa) and Advanced College of Engineering & Management (Kathmandu, Nepal) and several other institutions. The International Student Exchange Program is a prominent program of Invertis University that helps students study beyond physical boundaries and earn global education advancement.

What do you see as the most significant challenges currently facing higher education institutions, and how is Invertis University addressing these challenges?

The most common challenge for higher education institutions is to provide a balanced education base that has equal margins for pedagogy, hobby enrichment, holistic development, and job opportunities with modern approaches. Invertis University serves as one capital for students to live in an innovative atmosphere with an equilibrium of education and opportunities, which contributes to a fulfilling university experience.

In the era of personalized learning, how does Invertis University ensure a student-centric approach in its academic programs and support services?

The freedom to make study selections is the ideal principle of Invertis University, which could be mapped by student-driven live projects and events. This gives the students a sense of taking initiative and learning as per their choices. Invertis University shares a collaboration with the LinkedIn Learning Portal, which allows students to learn and study the modules of their interests and choices for free.

What are your thoughts on global collaborative platforms like the World Education Summit, which aims to improve the education landscape worldwide?

Platforms like the World Education Summit prove to be the pioneers in bringing quality education experts and institutions together on one table to think, decide, and formulate better solutions to changing education trends while sharing mutual benefits and contributing to the goal of enhancing education patterns and outcomes globally.

PDRL marks a milestone with the successful conclusion of 1st AeroGCS Global Competition at Sandip University

PDRL

PDRL (Passenger Drone Research Ltd) successfully hosted the first-ever AeroGCS Global Competition in Nashik, Maharashtra. This groundbreaking competition not only highlighted the prowess and potential of AeroGCS technology but also marked a significant milestone in the world of drone technology.

The grand finale was more than just a competition; it was a vibrant showcase of talent, innovation, and expertise in AeroGCS, PDRL’s flagship Ground Control Software. The event brought together the brightest minds in the drone community, offering a unique platform for participants to demonstrate their skills and push the boundaries of what’s possible in drone technology.

PDRL has long been recognized for its innovative contributions. With the AeroGCS Global Competition, the company has further cemented its position as a leader in the field. AeroGCS, renowned for its comprehensive suite of features, empowers users to execute drone missions with unprecedented precision. From meticulous planning to precise execution and detailed post-mission analysis, AeroGCS ensures operational excellence across the board.

The demand for skilled professionals in the AeroGCS ecosystem is on the rise, with approximately 50% of Indian drone manufacturers type-certified with AeroGCS. Moreover, around 75% of Indian agriculture drones are licensed with AeroGCS Green, highlighting the widespread adoption and trust in the technology. In response to this growing demand, PDRL has committed to certifying 10,000 professionals on its AeroMegh platform, a testament to its dedication to advancing drone technology and education.

The competition kicked off with a ceremonial lamp lighting by esteemed guests Dr. Amol Potgantwar, Professor & Director at the School of Computer Sciences and Engineering, and Dr. Vishal Sulakhe, Professor and Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at Sandip University. They were joined by PDRL’s CEO, Mr. Anil Chandaliya, and CTO, Mr. Vishal Dharankar, underscoring the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in fostering innovation.

As PDRL continues to lead the way in drone technology, the AeroGCS Global Competition has set a new benchmark for drone competitions worldwide, showcasing the immense talent and innovative spirit of the drone community.

Innovative Approaches to Math that Engage and Empower Students

shlok

The specter of mathematics, traditionally a daunting subject, has haunted students for generations. A staggering 82% of students in Classes 7-10, according to a 2021 survey, admit to feeling “fearful” of math. To confront this issue head-on, schools and educators are now embracing revolutionary new-age methodologies that go beyond the conventional and promise a transformative learning experience.

Inculcating New Age Methodologies

Modern classrooms are not just spaces for teaching math; they are hubs of transformative learning. Envision a scenario where students aren’t passive observers but active participants, immersed in a world of colorful manipulative, and engaging activities. This paradigm shift is powered by hands-on tools that transcend the traditional boundaries of teaching aids. They become keys unlocking the latent potential within every student.

Practical Demonstrations and Real-Life Connections

At the heart of this evolution lies a shift from abstract to concrete. New methodologies are infused with practical demonstrations, ensuring students no longer stare at obscure numbers but actively engage with math through experiments and real-world problem-solving. Take, for instance, the teaching of geometry, which moves beyond rote memorization to encompass creating models, exploring spatial relationships, and discovering the geometry inherent in everyday life.

Math Kits: A Visual and Tactile Learning Experience

Enter the realm of math kits – treasure troves of visual and tactile learning experiences. These kits are curated with tools and materials designed to demystify abstract concepts. From counting blocks for the youngest learners to geometric shapes and algebraic tiles for older students, these kits redefine the landscape of math education. When students can touch, see, and manipulate mathematical ideas, fear dissipates, replaced by a profound curiosity and understanding.

Teacher Training for Effective Implementation

The success of these methodologies hinges on the skill set of our educators. Teachers are no longer just instructors; they are architects of learning experiences. Equipped with specialized training, they delicately dissect complex problems into more manageable components. The emphasis is on personalized attention, recognizing the unique needs of each student, particularly those grappling with math anxiety. Teachers guide students through the learning process, providing continuous support and encouragement.

Empowering Weak Students through Practice

Acknowledging the diversity in learning paces, teachers are providing additional support to students who need it the most. The focus is on empowering rather than leaving behind. Weak students are not merely assisted to pass exams but are given the tools and resources to develop a genuine understanding and appreciation for math.

Real-Life Integration and Practical Approach

This transformative approach extends beyond the classroom. It integrates math into daily life, emphasizing its practical application. Students no longer perceive math as an isolated subject but as an indispensable tool with real-world implications. This not only aids in understanding complex concepts but also in debunking the myths surrounding math.

The Role of Positive Reinforcement

Beyond techniques and methodologies, positive reinforcement plays a pivotal role. Encouraging words, acknowledgement of progress, and celebration of achievements create a positive atmosphere that enhances the learning experience. This culture of positivity is woven into the fabric of classrooms, creating an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to explore the vast landscape of mathematics.

Conclusion

The integration of new-age math methodologies into the Indian school curriculum represents not just a shift in teaching techniques but a fundamental transformation of mindsets. By emphasizing practical demonstrations, real-life connections, comprehensive teacher training, and positive reinforcement, schools are succeeding in eradicating the fear of math. In this transformative journey, students are not just learning math but becoming mathematicians – confident, curious, and unafraid.

By, Shlok Srivastava, VP Academics, Orchids The International School

From Industry 4.0 to Workforce 4.0 – Adapting to the Changing Technological Paradigm

stephen

The brave new world of Industry 4.0 is here, and it is drastically altering conventional human approaches to industry and to every aspect of business activity. Machines and human beings are now interacting more closely than ever before, integrating physical, mental, and cyber systems to achieve unprecedented levels of automation and data exchange.

The advent of Industry 4.0 has heralded a new era of unprecedented technological advancements, promising to reshape industries and economies worldwide. We find ourselves catapulted into a strange world marked by the convergence of digital technologies, automation, and artificial intelligence, confronting the human workforce with both opportunities and challenges.

Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data and Business Analytics, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced Robotics are omnipresent. While it is human nature to resist these trends initially, we have to admit that new technologies trigger higher efficiency and productivity, as machines take on more tasks than humans currently perform. On the other hand, these developments bring into focus the urgent need for new skills and knowledge, as the tasks performed by humans change in nature.

The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies has led to increased automation, changing the nature of work in manufacturing. While some manual and repetitive tasks will undoubtedly be replaced by machines, new job roles requiring specialized skills are emerging. These roles often involve collaboration with technology, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

Advantages of Industry 4.0

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, is an epochal moment in modern history. Inherent in this movement are some highly disruptive elements, but, if used properly, can be harnessed for the common good.

Industry 4.0 is bringing about significant changes in the workplace, revolutionizing how businesses operate and how employees carry out their tasks. It brings a host of benefits.

It automates repetitive tasks, through advanced robotics, relieving human workers of the drudgery and allowing employees to focus on more creative and strategic aspects of their jobs.

Industry 4.0 helps boost efficiency and productivity, by integrating IoT, AI, and data analytics to enable realtime monitoring and optimization of production processes, enabling companies to meet market demands effectively.

It empowers customization and personalization. New technologies, such as additive manufacturing, enable mass customization of products to meet individual customer needs and preferences. This level of personalization was not feasible in traditional manufacturing processes.

Industry 4.0 technologies, such as cloud computing and collaboration tools, facilitate remote work arrangements. Employees can work from anywhere, improving work-life balance and access to a global business talent pool.

With abundant data and advanced analytics, businesses can make data-driven decisions in real time. This agility helps companies respond swiftly to market changes and customer demands, staying competitive in dynamic environments.

Views expressed by Prof. Stephen C. Wilhite, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success / Provost, American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK).

Centre Directs States to Standardize Class 1 Admission Age to Six Years

Class 1 Admission

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 mandate that six years of age be the minimum age for admission to Class 1. The Center has sent notice to all states and Union Territories to this effect.

The Department of School Education and Literacy of the Ministry of Education (MoE) has sent letters to the administrations of the Union Territories and the state governments repeating directives that have been issued on multiple occasions since the NEP’s inception in 2020. The previous year, a similar notification was also given.

“The session 2024-25 is soon to begin when new admissions will take place. It is expected that the age in your State/UT has now been aligned to 6+ for admission to Grade-I, accordingly,” the ministry said in its letter dated February 15.

The Lok Sabha was notified by the Center in March 2022 that children who have not completed six years of school are eligible for admission to Class 1 in fourteen states and union territories, including Assam, Gujarat, Puducherry, Telangana, Ladakh, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Goa, Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Kerala.

The Center has previously said that measuring net enrollment ratios in various states is impacted when the minimum age is not in line with the NEP requirement.

The first five years of the NEP 2020 education system, which is designed for grades three through eight, are made up of two years of Classes 1 and 2, which correspond to grades six through eight, and three years of preschool, which corresponds to age groups three through six.

Revolutionizing Higher Education: Trends, Transformations, and the Subharti Paradigm

shalya

The landscape of higher education is undergoing significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, shifting student preferences, and global factors. This dynamic higher education panorama is changing at an unprecedented rate, challenging conventional norms and giving rise to fresh trends that are molding the university experience. Successfully navigating through these transformations demands a proactive stance; utilizing valuable insights, and implementing effective marketing strategies. This is crucial for ensuring success not only for educational institutions but also for marketing firms operating in this rapidly evolving space.

Analyzing the dimensions and growth patterns within the global higher education sector, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University is actively addressing the repercussions of the pandemic on higher education and its enduring effects. It is delving into the incorporation of technology into higher education, examining its influence on teaching methods, learning experiences, and student involvement. To facilitate this, the university introduces adaptive learning platforms and tailor-made educational journeys. Embracing alternative credentials beyond the conventional educational routes, the University’s PrePhD coursework curriculum is meticulously crafted to cater to diverse student demographics, fostering an inclusive academic environment. This proficiency stems from our comprehension of student behaviours, enabling us to formulate strategies that resonate with students and contribute to the establishment of a strong brand identity. This is operationalised through our social platforms, enhancing engagement and recruitment efforts.

This period signifies the convergence of innovation and education, as educators within universities consistently assess the impact of educational technology tools such as AI, virtual reality, and learning management systems. They strive to revolutionise learning, fostering online education and flexible methodologies. Recognizing the imminent need for personalized, career-focused education, ongoing learning, active alumni engagement, and an increasing emphasis on sustainability and social impact, Subharti is proactively offering interdisciplinary studies and practical skills tailored to evolving industries. The institution continually explores partnerships with industries, other educational entities, and technology firms to enrich its offerings and broaden its reach. In this technologically driven era, the challenge of accessing quality education persists due to escalating costs, and Subharti addresses this issue by consistently developing and refining new financial models, and scholarships, and enhancing online educational platforms.

In response to the evolving needs of learners seeking a holistic and forward-thinking education, university is undergoing a significant transformation. Its focus extends beyond the mere dissemination of knowledge to empowering individuals to navigate the dynamic challenges of the contemporary world. In alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is swiftly adapting to offer more flexible and accessible learning experiences. This involves transcending geographical constraints through student exchange programs with leading universities from diverse nations worldwide.

In tune with the Indian knowledge system, the university is embracing adaptability by integrating interdisciplinary studies, practical skill-based programs, and experiential learning opportunities. This strategic approach aims to equip students with the skills demanded by rapidly evolving industries. Amid global competition, the university actively seeks collaborative ventures, creating a wealth of opportunities for academic and research advancement. Adopting a learner-centric approach, these collaborations extend to countries such as Russia, South Korea, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and more, allowing students to explore their interests and strengths. The overarching goal is to facilitate continuous upskilling and reskilling throughout their careers. To achieve this, the university has adjusted its pedagogy to offer short professional courses and micro-credentials, ensuring that learning remains continuous and adaptable to evolving career prospects.

University best practices champion lifelong learning by involving alumni in continuous education and nurturing enduring connections with graduates that integrate sustainability and social impact. Dr. Shalya Raj, CEO of Subharti, is a staunch advocate of lifelong learning. She acknowledges the shift from traditional subjects to specialized areas and emphasizes that the higher education landscape is undergoing a transformative phase. This necessitates adjustments in student expectations, tackling challenges of access and affordability, harnessing technology, and preparing for a future centred on personalized learning to create a more inclusive environment.

Amidst these changes, there is a clear call to promote inclusivity and diversity, reshaping the higher education landscape. Subharti is unwaveringly committed to fostering diverse and inclusive environments, recognizing the value of varied perspectives and backgrounds. The institution underscores this commitment by commemorating unsung warriors, freedom fighters, and torchbearers from India’s history. Every building, corner, street, stadium, and auditorium is named after these heroes, symbolizing the importance of their contributions. The Entrepreneur Development Cell, Research and Incubation Center, and University Chairs at Subharti instil a profound sense of social responsibility and sustainability in students. This collective effort not only nurtures individual growth but also actively contributes to the larger goal of nation-building; aligning with the vision of a developed Bharat by 2047.

The future of higher education unfolds as a seamless integration of both physical and digital learning realms. The interplay of technology, data, and a global perspective intricately shapes this dynamic journey. At Subharti, the mentor-mentee didactic approach serves as a guiding principle, offering insights, tracking performance, predicting success, and personalizing the learning journey for students. The focus is on ensuring that education is meticulously tailored and responsive to the unique needs of students in this data-driven century. In the contemporary landscape, obtaining a degree transcends mere certification; it’s about acquiring the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in a rapidly changing world.

India, with its vast population and diverse educational landscape, is emerging as a prominent hub for higher education, and Subharti proudly stands as a testament to the growing demand for quality education. The institution is dedicated to enriching the educational odyssey of students, fostering growth, discovery, and success.

Views expressed by Prof. (Dr.) Shalya Raj, CEO, Subharti University

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