Curriculum Mag July 2020

www.curriculum-magazine.com RNI No. UTTENG/2010/37634 Vol 10 No 9 magazine THE INDIA EDUCATION LANDSCAPE UPDATE July 16 2020 IN BRIEF Revised UGC guidelines Terminal semester(s)/ final year(s) examinations by Sep end NEET, JEE Mains & AICTE directs affiliates to follow UGC revised guidelines Advance deferred to for new academic calendar Sep Overruling concerns and requests from a section of students and parents, the Government as of now is Fresh examination dates of of view that final year degree/diploma exams need to be held NEET and JEE Mains & Advance have been announced The terminal semester(s)/ final inconvenience/ disadvantage. Instead of Aug 1, the com- Reduction of syllabi as the National Testing Agency year(s) examinations be con- The above provision shall be mencement of classes by CBSE for classes (NTA) has decided to postpone ducted by the universities/ applicable only for the current including for lateral entry to IX-XII raises a JEE and NEET examinations. institutions by the end of academic session 2019-20 as a second year courses for political storm, JEE Main examination will September, 2020 in offline (pen & one-time measure. newly admitted students critics and Govt now be held between 1st-6th paper)/ online/ blended (online + In April 2020, the University will start on Oct 15 while as attack each other Sept, 2020 and JEE Advance offline) mode as per revised Grants Commission constituted for existing students except exam will be held on 27th University Grants Commission an Expert Committee to deliber- PGDM/PGCM, the classes Following a communiqué on 30% September, 2020. examination (UGC) Guidelines on ate and make recommendations will begin on Aug 17. The will be held on 13th Examinations and Academic regarding the issues related to counseling rounds for reduction of syllabi by CBSE for September, 2020. Calendar for the Universities in Examinations and Academic admissions will be between The National Testing Agency view of COVID-19 Pandemic that Calendar. Other guidelines Oct 5-15. Classes for secondary classes, media outlets has prepared a testing App for were released in New Delhi on 6th regarding intermediate semester/ existing PGDM/PGCM all the candidates through July, 2020. year examination, as notified on begin on July 15. picked up key deletions made in the which students can complete The students of terminal semester/ 29.04.2020 will remain their preparations. final year students having backlog unchanged. In a letter the AICTE has written to political science that turn out to be should compulsorily be evaluated HRD minister Ramesh Pokhriyal all approved institutes to follow 'Experiential by conducting examinations in 'Nishank' said that the decision revised UGC examination and related to the constitutional values and Learning' course offline (pen & paper)/ online/ was taken to safeguard the academic calendar guidelines nust for all CBSE blended (online + offline) mode as principles of health, safety, fair issued on July 6. “The classes may social ethos. A barrage of outrage and teachers, principals per feasibility and suitability. In and equal opportunity for be started online, offline (class- case a student of terminal students. At the same time, it is room) or blended mode following outpouring happened on social media To promote experiential semester/ final year is unable to very crucial to ensure academic the prescribed protocols /guide- learning pedagogy in schools, appear in the examination credibility, career opportunities lines related to Covid 19”, the letter platforms forcing the government and CBSE in association with Tata conducted by the University for and future progress of students said while adding, “Institutions Trusts has developed an whatsoever the reason(s) may be, globally. He applauded the who have already started classes as CBSE to clarify. The politics around interactive online course on he/she may be given opportunity initiatives of UGC for constantly per earlier AICTE calendar, either 'Experiential Learning' for to appear in special examinations making efforts to address various postpone the classes or conduct the controversy has nevertheless teachers and school leaders. for such course(s)/ paper(s), issues related to teaching, special classes for students who This course is available on which may be conducted by the learning, examinations, academic would be required to appear in the added to the narrative of the present MHRD's Diksha platform. university as and when feasible, calendar etc. in the difficult times final year examination of their According to a letter sent to so that the student is not put to any of COVID-I9 pandemic. gradation/diploma.” Students regime being insensitive to building a schools by CBSE, the training have to be admitted byAug 30. course aims to share multi- just, civic and inclusive society sensory pedagogical processes MHRD issues in the experiential learning, Guideline on Online through school education. sensitize educators to Classes...details P 5 implement it in classrooms and On July 7, the union HRD ministry in a make learning more joyful, reflective and statement announced that CBSE has multidisciplinary. The course is mandatory for all decided to rationalize syllabus up to teachers and school leaders of all CBSE schools. 30% for classes IX-XII while retaining New NCF expected the core concepts during the academic by Mar 2021 session 2020-21, which has been badly The new National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for School hit by C19 pandemic. Stating that the Education has also been initiated. NCERT will be Union Minister for HRD Ramesh expected to make changes in the textbooks in accordance Pokhriyal 'Nishank' had invited with the new NCF. Subject experts will initiate this suggestions from all educationists on process for school education, and give interim report by the reduction of syllabus on social December 2020. While redesigning textbooks, it media by using #SyllabusFor is to be ensured that nothing but the core content is placed Students2020, the statement said that a in textbooks. Also, the cognitive load of the textbooks reduction has made based on more is too high. Additional areas, such as creative thinking, life than 1.5K suggestions finalised by the skills, Indian ethos, art, and integration, etc. need to be respective Course Committees with integrated. NCERT will also start working on the layout and the approval of the Curriculum design of the new textbooks well in advance, however, the Committee and Governing Body of the new textbooks shall be written based on the new NCF. The Board. Contd P3 new NCF is expected to be ready by March 2021. IIT Madras launches world's first-ever online B.Sc. Degree This unique online degree program open to 10+2 students of all streams and others is expected to reach to 2.5 lakh students will be offered in three different stages – Foundational Programme, Diploma Programme and Degree Programme. At each stage, students will have the freedom to exit from the program and receive a Certificate, Diploma or a Degree, respectively, from IIT Madras Building on its legacy and lakh students. Data Science which any on-campus UG course. Even SPOTLIGHT: experience of running National is one of the fastest growing the current batch of students who Post- pandemic, Programme on Technology sectors is predicted to create 11.5 are completing their Class XII in unprepared Govt Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) million jobs by 2026 was chosen 2020 is eligible to apply. schools may get a since 2005, Indian Institute of for its job potential and ease of In contrast to the typical student rush... Technology Madras (IIT Madras, administering online. admission processes of IITs Page 9 ranked No.1 in India Rankings The programme, which is a which are constrained due to the 2020), on June 30, 2020 took a historic and serious effort at limited number of in-campus quantum jump and leapfrogged to making quality education seats, in this programme all launch country' s first ever online affordable and widely available, students who clear (with an B.Sc. degree programme in is open to anyone who has passed overall score of 50%) the qualifier Programming and Data Science, Class XII, with English and Maths exam will be eligible to register which is expected to enroll 2.5 at the Class X level, and enrolled in for the foundational program. Contd on Pg3

2 Curriculum July 16, 2020 News Updates XLRI I Delhi-NCR Campus gets AICTE Guide for Building Healthy Digital Habits. The module has been Suresh Prabhu joins approval designed to guide students become responsible digital users, identify and report threats and harassment as well as report misinformation. At least Rishihood University as XLRI-Xavier School of Management has begun the admission 10,000 students will be covered in the training which will be imparted by process of 120 students for the first batch of XLRI I Delhi-NCR the Centre for Social Research (CSR). the founding Chancellor Campus for the academic Session 2020-2022. Two sections of 60 Instagram's Guide for Building Healthy Digital Habits has been students each for the Business Management program will be offered developed in collaboration with The Jed Foundation (JED) and YLAC Suresh Prabhu, former union admissions. The AICTE has given formal approval to start the (Young Leaders for Active Citizenship). It's made for teachers, educators minister and MP, has joined operations of the XLRI I Delhi-NCR campus. The New Campus will and parents, with the goal of ensuring that the time young people spend Rishihood University, Sonipat as be the first branch of one of the most reputed B-Schools of the country on Instagram is positive, inspiring, and balanced. It is a guide to better the Founding Chancellor. “With - XLRI, Jamshedpur. understand the socio-emotional space young people operate in, and his extensive experience across XLRI I Delhi-NCR campus is located in Jhajjar District, at Aurangpur, support them by engaging in healthy conversations around using the vast spectrum of politics and which is 25 km from Gurugram and is centrally connected to the main Instagram or any other social media platform. nation-building, he will offer his districts like Delhi, Gurgaon, and Rewari.The foundation stone for the Also, as part of the collaboration, Facebook will support CBSE in its first profound leadership and XLRI I Delhi-NCR campus in Jhajjar District was laid on 16 January ever initiative to introduce AR as a curriculum. In the first phase, 10,000 guidance to the future success of 2017. Shri Om Prakash Dhankar, Cabinet minister, Government of teachers will be trained while 30,000 students will undergo the same in Rishihood University,” said a Haryana unveiled the plaque of the foundation stone, and Rev. Anil the second phase. The three-week training, to be conducted in batches, statement from the university. Couto,Archbishop of Delhi, blessed the foundation stone. will cover fundamentals of AR and ways to utilise Facebook's software, Prabhu is currently India's The new state-of-the-art campus is spread over an area of 36 acres, has Spark AR Studio in order to create augmented reality experiences. The emissary to the G20 Summits. been designed to promote eco-friendly living and to foster climate objective is to give the learners an opportunity and platform to conceptu- Speaking on his new role, Prabhu consciousness. The orientation of the campus buildings has been alize, create and brand their own AR experiences. The hands-on learning said, “It gives me immense planned using detailed sun studies and applying concepts of solar- experience of AR will help in preparing the students for a career in the pleasure to offer my experience to passive architecture. The areas that receive harsher sunlight have a digital economy. The teachers who successfully complete the training in lead and nurture a future-ready second skin in the form of ventilated cladding. The new campus has the first phase will train 30,000 students in the second phase. SV.CO wave of talented youth in India, earned a Gold-level Green Building Certification, and it has been Digital Learning Platform Private Limited has been onboarded as the with the unparalleled potential to designed using IGBC guidelines to be able to achieve a platinum rating implementation partner. usher a new-age of development. from IGBC in the future. Announcing the curriculum, Manoj Ahuja, Chairperson, CBSE said, We are currently navigating an In the years ahead, the new XLRI I Delhi-NCR campus will offer a “Incorporating technology and digital safety into school curriculum will unprecedented turning point in broad portfolio of courses including the regular, Two-year post- ensure students are not only gaining knowledge to succeed in the digital human history which will require graduate programs in Human Resource Management and Business economy but also learning and collaborating in a safe online environ- all of us to innovate and collabo- Management - PGDM HRM & PGDM BM. 15-months Executive ment.” rate like never before” General Management Programme for the executives having Rishihood University is one of a experience of more than five years – Executive PGDM GMP. Fellow IIT Roorkee launches a Global Network of IIT handful of private universities in Program in Management – FPM. Corporate Programmes and India to appoint a founding Certificate Programme in Entrepreneurship and other industry- Roorkee Alumni chancellor who is not associated relevant short and long term programs will be launched in a phase- with ownership of the university. wise manner. IIT Roorkee is launching a Global Network of IIT Roorkee Alumni to Founders include eminent establish an extensive connect with its large number of alumni spread all educationists, entrepreneurs, National Test Abhyas mobile app adds over the world. It will fulfill a longstanding need of the institute and its public leaders such as Ajay alumni for a comprehensive and accurate alumni database. The Global Gupta, CEO of Bachpan Play Hindi option Network of IIT RoorkeeAlumni will be run by alumni volunteers. Schools (chain of 1000+ The Network will contribute in keeping alive the heritage and legacy of playschools) and Academic National Test Abhyas mobile app by National Testing Agency (NTA) Thomason College of Civil Engineering to University of Roorkee and Heights Public Schools (chain of has launched Hindi feature in its app. Now Hindi language candidates now IIT Roorkee. It would blend the old and new generations of alumni 100+ formal K12 schools), Maj will be able to practice or give mock tests for these competitive exams of this unique institute with a glorious history since 1847. General (retd) DN Khurana who in Hindi. Hindi version is a boon for students across India, as now, it Among the privileges that nembers will have include opportunities to also continues to be on the board has become even more accessible to students whose first language isn't participate and contribute to schemes such as student mentorship of Indian Institute of English. It is sure to be used now by several more students, to prepare programs, internships, and other activities of the institute. Members will Management (Lucknow), Dr. for their entrance exams. also have a single window for connecting to a Dean, a Head of depart- Harsh Mahajan, Padma Shri Students who have already downloaded the app can start attempting ment / centre, a faculty specialising in a particular area or an office in the awardee and the President of the mock tests in Hindi right away, or if they don't have the app, it can be institute. Indian Radiology & Imaging downloaded free of cost from the Google play store. The latest version Commenting on this new lanuch, Prof Ajit Chaturvedi Director IIT Association (IRIA). Other of the app offers navigation, instructions, test taking and analysis in Roorkee said, “In this digital age, there is a paradigm shift in relation to prominent advisors include. HP both languages, English and Hindi. Once the app is downloaded on social and professional networking. Information technology has raised Mangla, JK Garg, Dr. Madhukar their smartphone or tablet, students will need to sign up with their expectations of alumni and students for a flat and efficient platform Gupta, Mahesh Gupta, R N details, and then, they can choose Hindi as their language preference, instead of a hierarchical and bureaucratic process. They want to connect Prasher, Rakesh Aggarwal, Ritu and start giving mock tests for their selected examination in the Hindi seamlessly with each other and with the institute too.” Beri, Saroj Khan, Dr. Shenoy language. He further added, “This will probably be the first network of its kind in Robinson, Sunita Kohli & Tilak Similar to the experience in English language, every day, the NTA will the country. We believe it has the potential to be replicated in other Chandna. release one new test in Hindi on the app, which students can download academic institutions.” to attempt. They can attempt these tests offline, while their device is on Shashi Tharoor to teach 'Airplane' mode, and will need to go online once again, in order to The WiT all-Women Hackathon winners submit the test and view their result. With a list of daily tests for exams at the Masters' Union including JEE Main, NEET and other exams to be added soon, develop useful tech solutions students will be able to practice and attempt these tests from their School of Business homes, and can view their detailed test results immediately, along with WiT (Women In Technology), India with focus on increasing gender a detailed analysis of their performance, all in their preferred language, balance in STEM careers through engagement, enablement and Dr Shashi Tharoor, former union whether Hindi or English. employment, recently announced the results of its The WiT all-Women minister, renowned author and Hackathon and as expected women Covid warriors aren't lacking in tech Member of Parliament represent- CBSE and Facebook launch Curriculum on space. ing the Thiruvananthapuram Digital Safety & Online Well-being and AR The winning solution was from the team from Jio that came up with a constituency, has joined solution addressing counterfeiting of drugs in the market by using a Gurugram-based Masters' Union With the objective of ensuring online well-being of students and blockchain mechanism powered by AI engine and IoT. Close second was School of Business (MUSB) as a preparing them for the future of work, the Central Board of Secondary team from Credit Suisse with a solution to 'fact-check' the spread of Master. He will teach a founda- Education (CBSE), and Facebook are launching a comprehensive deliberate misinformation and rumours across social media platforms. tion course at the Masters' Union curriculum on Digital Safety & Online Well-being and Augmented The third winner in battle of ideas was Olx team presented a solution that and while doing so will draw Reality (AR). The modules are for secondary school students. The builds trust in the hygiene levels of food delivered through apps by 'live from his experience as an curriculum is now available on the CBSE website tracking' food orders. eminent thinker, writer, adminis- http://cbseacademic.nic.in/fb/FacebookForEducation.html. In the popular choice category, another team from Jio won for presenting trator and one of the most revered This partnership is led by Facebook for Education, a global initiative a solution that can track and provide real-time information on hospitals political voices from India on the by Facebook, to build diverse learning communities and bring the and its inventory of beds and ventilators. Next popular choice award world stage. world closer together. winner was the team from Deloitte India that presented a concept for a The course taught by Dr Tharoor As more and more young users get online, it becomes important to farmer assistance system that supports farmers in the pre and post will revolve around themes like educate young adults, and students on making well informed choices harvesting season. diplomacy and communications. online and also help them develop skills they need to safely navigate Announced towards the end of May 2020, WOMEN CO[vi]DE During his nearly three-decade the internet. The curriculum on Digital Safety and Online Well-being WARRIORS an all-Women Hackathon in partnership with IBM and long prior career at the United covers aspects such as safety, privacy, mental health and Instagram's Sequoia Capital turned out to be a successful effort to bring together an Nations, he served as a peace- all-woman 'power force' from the tech world to envisage and create keeper, refugee worker, and solutions against an invisible enemy that has disrupted our lives and administrator at the highest challenged the normal. levels, serving as Under- Anuranjita Kumar, Founder & Chairperson of WiT says, “It is encourag- Secretary General during Kofi ing and inspirational to receive more than 425 solutions at a time when all Annan's leadership of the of us have been working in silos out of our respective homes.” organisation. He is also an award- winning author of twenty books of both fiction as well as non- fiction.

Curriculum July 16, 2020 3 News Feature Urgent action needed to safeguard Contd from P1 futures of 600 million South Asian children threatened by COVID-19: UNICEF ...Reduction of syllabi by CBSE With the pandemic expanding let alone internet access. There are joining some 240 million children “The Heads of Schools and Teachers have been advised by the Board to rapidly across South Asia that concerns that some disadvantaged already classified as poor. ensure that the topics that have been reduced are also explained to the contains a quarter of the world's students may join the nearly 32 In order to mitigate the impact on students to the extent required to connect different topics. However the population, the latest Lives million children who were already poorer families, the report says reduced syllabus will not be part of the topics for Internal Assessment and Upended (a UNICEF Report) out of school before COVID-19 that Governments should year-end Board Examination. Alternative Academic Calendar and inputs describes the disastrous struck. immediately direct more resources from the NCERT on transacting the curriculum using different strategies immediate and longer-term Phone helplines are reporting a towards social protection schemes, shall also be part of the teaching pedagogy in the affiliated schools,” the consequences that the virus and surge in calls from children including emergency universal release said. the measures to curb it have had suffering violence and abuse child benefits and school feeding On close scrutiny It was found that the Central Board of Secondary on 600 million children and the during confinement at home. programmes. Education (CBSE) has “completely deleted” chapters on federalism, services they depend on. Some children are struggling with “Putting such measures in place citizenship, nationalism, and secularism from the political science The side-effects of the pandemic depression, even resulting in now will help the countries of curriculum of Class 11 for the academic year 2020-21. CBSE has carried out across South Asia, including the attempts at suicide. South Asia transition faster from this exercise across 190 subjects but this kind of reduction in political lockdown and other measures, The report also notes that life- the humanitarian crisis caused by science was considered by many as ill-advised and in contravention of have been damaging for children saving vaccination campaigns COVID-19 to a resilient and constitutional values. in numerous ways,” said Jean against measles, polio and other sustainable development model, Former union MoS HRD, noted author and Congress MP, Shashi Tharoor Gough, UNICEF Regional diseases must resume, as should with long term benefits for child while reacting to the news tweeted, “So children of Std.X will no longer Director for South Asia. “But the work to help the estimated 7.7 wellbeing, the economy, and social learn about 'democracy &diversity', 'gender, religion &caste', 'popular longer-term impact of the million children who suffer from cohesion,” said Gough. struggles& movements'... Also dropped: 'challenges to democracy'. Students economic crisis on children will severe wasting — more than half The report highlights the of Stds. XI-XII, who are on the cusp of becoming voters themselves, will no be on a different scale entirely. the global total. Schools should importance of tackling critical longer learn lessons on 'understanding Partition', 'nationalism& secularism', Without urgent action now, reopen as soon as possible child-related issues exposed by or 'India's relationships with its Neighbours'. These are vital topics. One has COVID-19 could destroy the provided adequate handwashing COVID-19 including: to doubt the motives of those who selected the topics to drop. Have they hopes and futures of an entire and other physical distancing lProviding community health decided democracy, diversity, secularism &the like are more dispensable generation.” precautions are in place. workers and other social services concepts for tomorrow's Indian citizens? I urge the Govt to rationalise the According to the report, In recent years, rising levels of staff with personal protective curriculum rather than strip it of civic values.” immunization, nutrition and prosperity produced significant equipment (PPE) to enable them to He was joined by thousands in decrying the move by the CBSE and attributed other vital health services have health, education and other do their work safely. it to ulterior motives of the Sangh Parivaar and the BJP. CPI (M) leader been severely disrupted, advances for children in South lScaling up of low-tech home Sitaram Yechury in his tweet said that pandemic is being used to damage our potentially threatening the lives Asia. Improvements in infant and learning solutions (for example, future generations by removing all the foundational principles of the Indian of up to 459,000 children and maternal mortality were matched using a combination of paper and Republic from the syllabus. mothers over the next six by declines in the number of out- mobile phone-based materials) Forced to react, the ministry in a series of rebuttals in defense said that while months. Food insecurity is of-school children and in child especially for vulnerable groups it is easy to misconstrue exclusion of 3-4 topics like nationalism, local growing: A UNICEF survey in marriages. such as girls, children living in government, federalism, etc. and build a concocted narrative, a wider perusal Sri Lanka showed that 30 per But the economic turmoil remote areas and urban slums, and of different subjects will show that this exclusion is happening across cent of families have reduced triggered by COVID-19 is hitting children with disabilities. subjects. their food consumption. In families across the region hard. lAddressing the widescale need “#Education is our sacred duty towards our children. Let us leave politics out Bangladesh, some of the poorest Large-scale job losses and wage for water supply, toilets and of #education and make our politics more educated.” families are unable to afford cuts have coincided with the loss hygiene services in schools and The CBSE in its clarification says the reduction was a one-time measure three meals a day. of remittances from overseas health care facilities. only. “The objective is to reduce exam stress of students due to prevailing With schools closed, more than workers and from tourism. lWorking with religious leaders health emergency situation and prevent learning gaps,” it said in a statement 430 million children have had to UNICEF projections show that and other partners to address the on July 8 while adding that the topics being mentioned or dropped are either rely on remote learning which over the coming six months as myths and hate-speech that the being covered by rationalized syllabus or in the Alternative Academic have only partially filled the gap; many as 120 million more pandemic has given rise to.. Calendar of the NCERT. “No question shall be asked from the reduced many households – especially in children could be pushed into syllabus in the (CBSE) Board exams 20-21 only, : the board said in its press rural areas – have no electricity, poverty and food insecurity, note. While this round of controversy has definitely brought the ideological NISHTHA programme goes online for 1200 Key divided in sharp focus, still a greater worry must be that both teachers and Resources Persons of Andhra students are losing agency to influence any decision about education process. The near absent or secretive consultation process and commodification of education, is gradually making decisions on education look like soulless and exposed to limitations. Need is to rediscover the socio-political and developmental value of education and let it guide the process and the system. The first on-line NISHTHA 2019. Thereafter, 33 states/UTs teacher education system must be from pg 1 programme for 1200 Key have launched this programme in sensitive to the feedback from the Resources Persons of Andhra their states/UTs in collaboration teachers. And the teachers' ...IT Madras online B.Sc. Pradesh was launched by Union under Samagra Shiksha, a individual innovations must be Degree Course HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriya Centrally Sponsored Scheme. In recognised for their pedagogic 'Nishank' and Minister of State 29 States/UTs, the NISHTHA values and should become part of Graduates and working serious study, will be delivered on a for HRD Sanjay Dhotre virtually training programme has been our standard teaching methods. It professionals can also take up this state-of-the-art online learning in New Delhi on July 16. completed by the NCERT at the is also important for us that our programme. This unique offering platform that is closest to a classroom The Minister said that due to state level. In 4 States/UTs teachers must be very actively removes all barriers of age, learning experience. The program will COVID-19 pandemic situation, (Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, sensitized towards diversities of discipline or geographic location hone students' skills in managing data, sudden lockdown has affected the J&K and Bihar), the training at the our country. Then only our and provides access to a world- visualizing patterns to gain managerial conduct of this programme in state level is still in progress. In children can become sensitive to class curriculum in data science insights, model uncertainties and build face-to-face mode. Therefore, for two states, it is yet to be launched. the huge and different diversities which is in huge demand for skilled models that assist in producing providing training to remaining District level teacher training is of this vast nation. With these professionals. forecasts to make effective business 24 lakh teachers and school programme has been initiated in efforts only, our children can grow The programme was launched decisions. The program will have heads, NISHTHA has been 23 States/UTs. Around 23,000 up with the spirit of Ek Bharat virtually by Ramesh Pokhriyal videos from the faculty, weekly customized for online mode to be Key Resource Persons and 17.5 Shreshth Bharat, as envisaged by 'Nishank', Union Minister of HRD assignments and in-person invigilated conducted through DIKSHA and lakh teachers and school heads our honourable Prime Minister. and Sanjay Dhotre, MoS HRD exams just like any other regular NISHTHA portals by the have been covered under this He further added that technology with Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka, course. NCERT. He further informed that NISHTHA face to face mode till can't replace good teachers, but Chairman, Board of Governors, “The pen paper examination and Andhra Pradesh is the first state date. good teachers assisted by Director and the faculty of the evaluation will ensure higher standards for which we are launching on- Speaking on the occasion Dhotre technology can do wonders in Institute. Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe, of the programme through a network of line NISHTHA programme for said that in order to be in sync with transforming education. Under the Chairman of AICTE was also part centres across the country,” say the 1200 Key Resources Persons this fast-evolving world, our visionary leadership of our prime of this historic launch. The portal team that is overseeing this path through NISHTHA portal. These teachers also need to constantly Minister Shri Narendra Modi we for the programme is: breaking initiative. It also means that resource persons will help in the upgrade their world view, are committed to ensure value- https://www.onlinedegree.iitm.ac. the programme though online will not mentoring of teachers of Andhra understanding, and methods of based quality education assisted in/index.html be available outside India. Pradesh, who will take on-line teaching. It is imperative on us to by technology for realising The programme, which will bear NISHTHA training on DIKSHA enable this as an ever-continuing Atmanirbhar Bharat. the rigor and high quality standards later on. process across the country in the of IIT system and therefore need of NISHTHA in face-to-face mode most effective manner. was launched on 21st August, He added that our in-service

4 Curriculum July 16, 2020 Lead Feature Will this pandemic change the fundamentals of India's SCHOOL EDUCATION SYSTEM? For close to 30 years, Indian Parliament has never spent a full day discussing country's education system and now most discerning people are forgetting that public education is a core social contract of democracy and a basic objective of for which welfare state of India has committed constitutionally. That ideology has been completely overturned in favor of cost efficiency story of non-state players Autar Nehru Seventy two years ago, the notion has in fact given a reason Education System' hosted by RTE of non-state actors becoming part because schools are more than several discourse around school for thousands of budget private Forum on July 16. of policy planners and makers ways connected to constitutionality of education in the newly schools to bloom everywhere The covid19 pandemic disrupted through various committees and the state,” said Pradipta Nayak, independent India was how to mostly with untrained low paid education literally as a continuing other indirect influencers, the president AIPA, Odisha. According to make education an instrument teachers and shoddy infrastruc- civilizational nation has reduced motives need to be questioned. him there needs to be clear cut of fostering an inclusive, ture. the choices and channels of According to Dr Anupam regulatory policy for every school and enlightened and egalitarian education process long ago as Pachauri, Centre for Policy private schools shouldn't be allowed to nation building society. That According to Kiran Bhatty, everything has been made Research in Higher Education collect disproportionate fee to its way school education was to Senior Fellow, Centre for Policy normative and replication. This (CPRHE), the role of non-state establishment cost and a reasonable become building block of a new Research (CPR) and a former crisis has provided the opportunity actors if unpacked will reveal that surplus as ordered previously by the emergent India that will be National Coordinator RTE at for increased technocratic view, investment on education at Supreme Court. “It would have in progressive, enabling and NCPCR, non-state actors have interference and influence in this household level has increased fitness of things if SC had directed caring. been presented as cost effective process as online education became over the years and this is MHRD or the ministry itself had taken In this thought process much of and efficient alternatives to the choice of fighting this disrup- impacting the poor more. “The a policy stand keeping the difficulty of which was cemented by Kothari government schools where tion. It is a different tale that in a claim of efficiency about private parents in this pandemic and not Commission (1966), while it emphasis on quality has gone vast country as India, more than schools can't be corroborated as allowed the situation to come to a state was felt that universal access of down despite the enactment of half of children in school going age no evidence exists,” and adding where we have to demonstrate in front education should be a matter of Right to Education Act, 2009 (as despite best intention and effort about non-state actors she of schools,” he added. He also made right, still given the lack of per reports only about 12.7 can't go online because of accessi- continues, “yet in our research we claims that private school lobbies have resources to make it justiciable, schools in the country are RTE bility, cost and lack of devices. have found in case of South Delhi been doing everything possible to it was left to the state to make compliant). “Government has These children in the bottom of the Municipal Corporation, teachers break the resistance of parents and public education available, given up on itself is part of pyramid are left out and a large of the schools complaining about weakening the movement, “but we are accessible and affordable in that problem. The other part is that number of them may even dropout how they were obstructed in committed to this fight till its logical spirit. However, as Prof R private and other non-state if this pandemic prolongs with a classrooms and faulted to make end.” Isn't it a time for a national policy Govinda, a former vice- providers who come on promise multiplier effect. The normal time sure a definite message goes out “ on fee regulation, when 13 states have chancellor of NUEPA and an of better governance and costing teacher bashing has now given way A friend in need is a friend indeed, it already in some form? acclaimed school education does't hold true either. The values to a new paradigm in which teacher goes the saying. But seeing the The biggest problem is data about policy expert said at the recent brought by these non-state actors is replaced with technology. confrontation between private private schools. There isn't enough webinar titled, “Re-imagining aren't democratic, egalitarian and Teacher education abandoned, schools and parents, it appears information and transparency or self- Education for Equitable, uniform. In supplementary text vacancies not filled and crisis not this wasn't a friendly relationship regulation of these schools is a long Democratic Society', it has been books, assessments or teacher acknowledged. Child is now learner at all. Parents, which is a largest time suspect. Bhatty advocates a a different story where instead training, it is a common knowl- and potentially a consumer. Both stakeholder as a community in monitoring architecture different from of the lofty inclusive and edge how these players are teachers and children have lost school education isn't organized what exists today. “NCPCR is struck empowering objectives of delivering and at what price?”, agency. and it is only in the past a few between two ministries—Women and education as a common societal she said at a webinar on ' When we are preparing a society years that an effort has started. So, Child Development and Human good, it is a continuing story of Regulation of Private Schools through education then the question the community's legitimate Resources Development, and there is a segregation and discrimination. and Non-state Actors in Public concerns remain unaddressed. structural problem. We need an “The inequalities in school This pandemic pushed the independent and representative system are rather an antithesis envelope and in a more spontane- monitoring body to tame the chal- of common learning pathways ous reaction to fee demand by lenge,” she said. As of now what is that our constitutional founders schools, a lot of parents came on happening that a low level (block or visualized as there is now a streets and even knocked at the zone) education officer is entrusted school for every section of doors of courts. “The matter with monitoring job. In most cases he society and in a sense inequality reaching the Supreme Court is in is intimated, bribed or pressurized to are made starker and accepted itself a telling tale of a parent's give favorable reports because of the narrative. With crumbling plight in our country. It was very presence of big coporates, business- infrastructure, the goals of unfortunate the way the Apex men, politicians, school chains and education for all will be Court decided on the plea and not other non-state actors in the system. seriously jeopardized and it is taking a stand on state regulating There is no denying that the funda- heading to a grim siutaiton ,” he every school in the country mental importance of public education added. system remains as a priority as ever and in this pandemic when it has come While the quality of education with a rethink opportunity, imparted in government Government should start a dialogue on schools across the country has an architecture that will reassert this been a challenge gone from bad importance to this whole discourse and to worse, yet the erosion of trust put school education on right tracks. between these schools and parent communities has been accelerated by a spiraling positive narrative about private schooling. Private schools have to a large extent emerged as an alternative in this narrative on its inherent strength as well as on a manufactured and aided perception. This spreading

Curriculum July 16, 2020 5 News Feature Screen time in the age of online classes Ministry of HRD releases is an issue, but experts feel the hysteria is unnecessary PRAGYATA Guidelines for online classes According to a leading Healthcare eyes are sturdy to take signs of distress, any anxiety over expert in the field of all kinds of radiations, however too much screen time is not 30-45 minute periods recommended with two synchronous cognitive what matters the most is when the necessary,'' said Dr. Ravindran, sessions for classes 1-8 and four classes for classes for 9-12 on neuroscience from Harvard, blinking rate goes down or if the education psychologist and trainer a day what matters in screen time is exposure to a screen is at a close while emphasizing on the the content that is consumed distance. Size of the screen importance of online social PRAGYATA Guidelines developed by MHRD from the perspective of and the context of it that affects matters, a laptop and computer at interactions for children, the need learners, with a focus on online/blended/digital education for students who one's well-being. It is also an arm's length distance is for routines and structures and how are presently at home due to lockdown and released on July 14 recommend imperative to make a intermediate and are therefore it may have a positive impact on a cap on duration and number of online sessions in a day for students from distinction between productive more suitable as against a tablet, their socio-emotional health. Focus Class I to XII. and unproductive screen time. book or mobile phone held should be laid on training the While the non-binding guidelinesrecommend not more than 30 minutes Screen time where an adult is closely to the eye. “The best way teachers to make the experience for interacting with parents and guiding them in case of preprimary on the other side engaging to deal with the harmful effects is more engaging and leave education children, for classes 1 to 12 , it has suggested adaptation of the alternative children in the process of by taking enough breaks, for to educators. academic calendar of NCERT at http://ncert.nic.in/aac.html . Two learning cannot be viewed as instance, a 10/10 rule or the Role of parental guidance in digital sessions/online classes of 30-45 minutes each have been recommended in harmful. Besides, teachers 20/20 rule, wherein after every learning is paramount. As parents continuity for classes 1-8 while as it is for classes 9-12 there can be four ought to be trained to ensure 10 minutes one must practice cannot protect them from the classes of 30-45 minutes each in a single session on a day. that these are not one sided shutting the eyes for 10 secs, screen but must protect them on the These guidelines for school heads and teachers describe the need lectures and there is a certain similarly for the 20 min rule. One screen. On the issue of cyber assessment, planning and steps to implement digital education while level of interactivity and also could also download security and need for digital ensuring cyber safety and privacy measures. It also outlines the support to tasks integrated into the lesson applications to set reminders citizenship, Rakshit Tandon, cyber be provided to students with special needs. Main emphasis is on balanced that allow the child to work about these healthy practices. security expert added, “What online and offline activities keeping the screen time as an essential independently. “In effect, it is Screen time does not cause any parents and children need to parameter in accordance with the level of students. the quality of the interaction long term damage to eyes.” understand now is that we are all The Guidelines also emphasize the need to unify all efforts related to and content that matter and not Screens were there and screens virtual or digital citizens. It is time digital/ online/on-air education, benefitting school going children across so much the time,” told Vishnu will be there in the modern world. to give children the values of digital the country. The initiative includes DIKSHA, SWAYAM Prabha, Karthik, who is educated in The idea is to learn how to make citizenship- Responsibility, SWAYAM MOOCS, Radio Vahini, Shiksha Vaani, Special content for mind, brain and education from productive use of the technology Respect, Compassion, Resilience, children with special needs and ITPAL. In a country like India Harvard University to a at hand. It is not a good idea to Integrity and creating positive characterized by multifarious diversity, switching over to digital modes of audience of mainly parents at a expose children to screens, digital footprints. Two words I education needs various States/ UTs level organization and National level webinar organized by FICCI below the age of 2. However, for believe should be added to the organizations to join hands for a change that will sustain post-COVID-19 ARISE (Alliance for Re- children above 3 years, 2-3 hours curriculum are netiquettes and also. imagining School Education) of time engaged in active digital wellness which I The PRAGYATA guidelines include eight steps of online/ digital learning on Sunday (July 5). learning is a suggested amount of compliment with the word cyber that is, Plan- Review- Arrange- Guide- Yak(talk)- Assign- Track- Understanding the impact of screen time. “As long as there is a hygiene. Get trained to navigate the Appreciate. These steps guide the planning and implementation of digital healthy diet, adequate sleep and internet highway.'' education step by step with examples. excessive screen time on the play time and no extra-ordinary Guidelines for physical health and mental wellness is stressed across the guidelines for all stakeholders measures so that children do not get overly eyes is perhaps the most stretched or stressed, or get affected negatively (postural defects, ophthalmic issues, and other physical problems) owing to prolonged use of important thing for everyone. digital devices. Also it provides sufficient Do's and Don'ts regarding ergonomics and cyber safety. According to Dr. Parul Sharma, HRD minister Ramesh Pokhriyal while releasing the guidelines said that to mitigate the impact of the pandemic, schools will not only have to Director and HOD, remodel and reimagine the way teaching and learning have happened so far, but will also need to introduce a suitable method of delivering quality Ophthalmology, Max education through a healthy mix of schooling at home and schooling at school. Mos HRD, Sanjay Dhotre added that the online education has filled lot of gaps during the pandemic but utmost care has to be taken while using digital technologies to educate the students. Reacting to the new set of guidelines, Manit Jain, Chairman, FICCI Arise expressed the opinion that while most of the guidelines are relevant it is important to make a distinction between good and bad screen time, however putting restrictions on timings without understanding the effect on learning continuity will have an adverse impact on students' development. “There are several myths around online learning that need to be busted and policy makers must recognize that productive screen time is not only desirable but is necessary in such times. Many countries continue to run their entire time tables as they did when they were running in the physical environment. What if learning remains interrupted for the next 18 months? What might be the potential learning loss? What happens in International Boards where they will not cut substantial portions of the syllabus? What will happen to the last child who will not have access to a home environment that can compensate for the learning losses? ” he questioned, while adding, “We are repeating history, rather than looking at this as an opportunity for a potential renaissance in education to truly democratize learning, we are once again creating boundaries that will push us into mediocrity. We must focus on empowering teachers to embrace technology and put the students on a path of self-directed learning. This is the time to make learning devices and internet a fundamental right and to pave the way for a much needed learning revolution and to solve the issues of equity, access, quality and relevance. One definite fallout would be, that schools do limited work and educational technology providers mushroom to fill in the gaps as coaching centers have done in the past. This definitely needs a more informed review.”

6 Curriculum July 16, 2020 Entrepreneurships/ India Skills Entrepreneur First and IIT Kanpur to hardest roles to fill. NASSCOM FutureSkills is a first-of-its-kind edWisor.com moves to industry initiative to get India accelerated on the journey to building 100% live lectures Support Early Stage Tech Entrepreneurs skills and becoming the global hub for talent in the emerging technologies. EdWisor.com has recently announced a Entrepreneur First (EF), a UK-based global talent investor and Expressing his delight on the partnership, Amit Aggarwal, CEO, IT- complete shift to 100% Live Foundation for Innovation and Research in Science and Technology ITES SSC NASSCOM & Co-architect of NASSCOM FutureSkills Classrooms from a Recorded (F.I.R.S.T.), a section 8 company promoted by Indian Institute of initiative said, “Globally there is a greater need for the Arts (A) to get Curriculum. This move is the latest step Technology Kanpur (“IITK”) have collaborated to build a strong embedded in STEM. It is imperative for modern workforce to be better in their commitment to empowering support ecosystem for aspiring tech entrepreneurs. This partnership at skills like problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration and over 100 million professionals & will facilitate the journey for exceptional and talented individuals who communication for seamless integration of technical know-how with students globally. As online learning aspire to start tech ventures. EF will support with the process of finding real-world applications. These skills have become a critical requirement becomes commonplace, the live a co-founder at the very early stage of a startup, as well as close to succeed in the IT-ITES industry these days, and should be studied and lectures vs. recorded lectures debates mentorship on the idea and business model, and pre-seed investment. learnt along with traditional STEM subjects. We are happy to welcome are gaining traction. In such The startups formed will have an opportunity to access IITK business GlobalGyan as a NASSCOM FutureSkills Platform Partner and we are unprecedented times, EdWisor's move incubator as the next step to build a network of expert advisors, access confident that their industry-oriented, practical approach to to 100% LIVE online learning is to prototyping facilities and grants. The partnership will also help professional development will aid with the STEM to STEAM successfully paving the way for a new expose smart technical graduates and researchers from IITK and transition.” paradigm. affiliated institutions to the potential impact they can create through Srinivasa Addepalli, CEO and co-Founder, GlobalGyan said, “The real edWisor creates batches of sizes entrepreneurship. jobs crisis is that there is a mismatch between the skills that the industry varying between 1:1 and 1:50, totally Entrepreneur First has pioneered talent investment in India and has desires and those possessed by professionals and students. NASSCOM based on the skill-knowledge levels of already helped create and invest in 20 companies in just 18 months. FutureSkills is a great platform to not only prepare India for future jobs students who enroll. With LIVE The partnership with IITK will further enhance EF's commitment to but also create an environment of creativity and innovation. We are classes, they are doubling down on their accelerating tech entrepreneurship in the country. excited to partner with this prestigious industry body and look forward commitment to personalizing Key features of this collaboration are: to creating wonderful learning experiences on the platform.” employability for each and every aspiring student. £ EF and IITK will work together to make ambitious, talented AI for banking online programme from About this new step towards personalized employability, edWisor individuals aware about how they can maximize their potential by IIT Roorkee in association with WileyNXT CEO Ramandeep Arora said, “The starting a tech company at EF Education and Ed-tech industry is Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee in collaboration with rapidly changing. Everyone must adapt £ The startups that come out of EF will have access to mentors from WileyNXT, has announced the launch of AI in Banking Programme, to prevailing global situations and India's first-of-its-kind online programme made for existing as well as student feedback to keep up.” IIT Kanpur and, relevant ones can also get fast tracked to the IITK recently-graduated technology and finance professionals, who aspire to incubator with all its lab and technical support facilities build a career in AI and analytics in the banking domain. The 4-month Great Learning launches programme will focus on training IT professionals and graduates to £ IITK recognizes that EF has a pioneering model that invests in implementArtificial Intelligence in the banking sector. Olympus Digital Campus The programme will cover industry immersion classes by top business individuals even before they have a company. This will unlock tech leaders to give an in-depth understanding of the role of AI in Banking The platform supports all aspects of entrepreneurship in India and financial domains. It will offer a joint certification from WileyNXT online learning including live learning, and IIT-Roorkee. proctored exams, smart time tables, £ EF acknowledges that the IITK Incubator brings valuable “Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform banking and assessments, grading, peer improve compliance. The current COVID-19 crisis coupled with collaborations, content development, technical support for some of the deep tech companies to accelerate growing security and privacy concerns has reinforced the need for student progress tracking/engagement, their growth leveraging new-age skills to tackle the emerging challenges. The and faculty feedback Speaking about the partnership with IIT Kanpur, Esha Tiwary, General program will open new avenues for the participants in the banking Great Learning, ed-tech company for Manager of Entrepreneur First India said, “This partnership is an sector,” said Prof.Ajit K. Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee professional education, has announced important step toward strengthening the early stage tech ecosystem in The present global pandemic has seen a movement towards digital and its new offering 'Olympus Digital India. These are challenging times, but EF and IITK will work together virtual platforms including the banking sector is shifting towards Campus', an end-to-end cloud-based to support early stage entrepreneurs. EF addresses many of the barriers contactless banking. It has been observed that about 32% of financial technology solution for online learning that aspiring founders face – including finding a co-founder, ideation, service providers in India are already using AI technologies like delivery and program management, on mentorship and financial support. Combining this with the access to predictive analytics, voice recognition et al, according to joint research a subscription basis to colleges and expertise, lab facilities and network of IITK will become a powerful conducted by the National Business Research Institute and Narrative universities across the country in a bid resource for ambitious individuals to create and accelerate tech Science. Some of the leading banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, among to help them deliver online and blended startups.” others have adoptedArtificial Intelligence in their system. learning programs. It is a seamless According to Prof Amitabha Bandyopadhyay, Faculty Head of IITK Vikas Gupta, Managing Director, Wiley India, while commenting on solution that supports all aspects of Incubator, “In the current times, the brightest minds need to be the collaboration said, “There is a tremendous emphasis on automation learning including live learning, time- working on new innovative solutions to global problems.” He further to accelerate the development and deployment of products in the tabling, proctored exams, assessments, added, “The innovation ecosystem of FIRST/IIT Kanpur is apparent Banking and Finance sector. This has fuelled the demand for a digitally- grading, student collaboration, from the fact that in the past two months alone, IIT Kanpur's incubated enabled workforce. Our innovative learning solutions are meant to cater attendance, content development, companies have commercialized three products aimed at fighting to modern workplace demands.” progress/engagement tracking, and different aspects of the COVID-19 crisis. The collaboration with EF faculty feedback. will further enhance this ecosystem.” Edubull launches B2B platform Built and perfected in India over the As part of the collaborative program, the two brands will engage with last 7 years, the Olympus Digital potential founders through webinars, interactive discussions, and 'eprofessor' Campus has been designed using highly online mentorship for students, researchers, and alumni of IITK and scalable, secure, and world-class cloud affiliated institutions. The initial webinar held recently was a huge Edubull, online learning platform, announced the launch of B2B technologies. It has enabled Great success, with over 200 attendees. It featured founders of startups that platform 'e-Professor' that shall enable educational institutions and Learning to support over 25 million have gone through the EF program talking about their journey and individual teachers, to serve their students online. Amid Covid19 crisis, hours of learning to 100,000 students answering questions from aspiring entrepreneurs. the technology aims to simplify and digitize learning. and deliver high impact programs As the name suggests, the app facilitates both teachers and students with offered in partnership with prestigious GlobalGyan signs MOU with NASSCOM a platform where they can interact, however through digital medium for universities like Stanford University, further learning.e-professor technology, the first ever in India, shall UT Austin, and Great Lakes Institute of FutureSkills® empower Institutes with versatile online learning, administrating, Management among others. teaching and communication tools. Under the app, teachers and Mumbai's GlobalGyan Academy of Management Education, a institutions, can upload courses, create virtual classrooms for live growing corporate EdTech companies, has signed a Memorandum of teaching, share assignments, collect responses, create exams, track Understanding (MoU) with NASSCOM FutureSkills, the flagship progress/attendance all on one interface.The app, blends learning and reskilling initiative by NASSCOM, the trade association of Indian IT Live teaching in HD with an integrated virtual classroom, enabling 2- BPM industry to become a Platform Partner for the NASSCOM way video and phone call option, whiteboard teaching, screen sharing, FutureSkills platform. Under the MoU, GlobalGyan will partner with chats as well as lecture recording. Designed with individual dashboard; NASSCOM FutureSkills on a journey to reskill and upskill 2 million admin, teachers, students, parents, each of them having access to tools current employees and also train another 2 million coming into the to moderate and monitor. workforce from universities. Apart from creating own content, the app comes pre-loaded with The partnership will enable GlobalGyan to empower thousands of IT industry professionals and students, with access to courses on professional skill development, creating dynamic learning experiences. GlobalGyan will support NASSCOM FutureSkills with a focus on content, evangelism and industry connects, imperative for the IT-BPM industry in India. The research report on Talent Shortage 2020 shows that 63% of Indian companies report major talent shortage and IT remains one of the

Curriculum July 16, 2020 7 Entrepreneurships/ India Skills NSDC launches ASEEM Portal and App as a kind of Coursera's latest GLOBAL SKILLS INDEX: e-employment exchange India lags in data science skills, but surges ASEEM https://smis.nsdcindia.org/, also available as work rather than office space. As an ASEEM APP, is acronym of 'Aatmanirbhar Skilled offices and teams adopt new ways ahead other countries in business and Employee Employer Mapping' -developed and of working via virtual workplaces, managed by NSDC in collaboration with Bengaluru- asynchronous communication, technology skills based blue collar employment company, Betterplace, and results-based tracking, we'll be has already about 300 employers onboard. Job seekers able to focus much less on where The Coursera's latest Global Skills Index along with accompanying report can upload their profiles and get tracked besides we're working, and instead on the released on July 16 says India lags in data science skills, especially in data staying informed on trends, upskilling and host of immense contributions that we're management. Within the data science domain,India ranks #51 globally other information services making to our companies and (lagging) and #12 among APAC countries in data science overall. Within the industries. data management competency, India ranks #58 globally [only slightly better If one department of the with technology at the core of 4. Equal contribution by men than Nigeria (0%) and Philippines (2%)] and #15 among APAC countries in Government has made better of making all of this possible. Today, & women at work / home data management skills at 3% skills proficiency (lagging). However, on a the prevailing situation and there are workplace collaboration Businesses are now being forced to good note, India surges ahead of China in business and technology skills. converted it into an opportunity and communication platforms that operate remotely and long-term Within the business domain,India ranks #34 globally (emerging), whereas of making skilling information offer an all-in-one suite with flexibility could be here to stay, China ranks #45. Within the technology domain, India ranks #40 globally management system efficient, it access to email, calendar, to-do's, which allows both men and (emerging), whereas China ranks #50. would be the Ministry of Skill voice notes, video conferencing women to balance both work-life The report has looked across 65 million learners on its platform, and drawing Development and and more. Video conferencing has and household tasks on rich performance data of learners in the past 12 months, the report Entrepreneurship (MSDE) as it emerged as a powerful tool to simultaneously. This new benchmarks skills proficiency for 60 countries, 10 industries and 11 fields of has captured skill data of over drive team collaboration at several workplace structure generates study in business, technology, and data science. The report also provides an 1.5 crore skilled and semi- leading brands worldwide. more equity at home as both men early analysis of the pandemic's impact on the skills landscape. skilled workers, whose 2. Working from home forever and women are able to spend The report maps 16 countries across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region and 60 movement (reverse migration) it Twitter was the first company to quality time with their families and countries globally. India ranks in the emerging or lagging categories across is tracking in 116 districts move to telework in March as a contribute to household duties key skill domains including Business (#8/16 in APAC and #34/60 globally), alongside those returning from result of the world health crisis equally. This development will Technology (#10/16 in APAC and #40/60 globally) and Data Science foreign countries under and it recently announced that it also enable us to create a more (#12/16 inAPAC and #51/60 globally). SWADES. will continue that policy gender balanced workplace in the Globally, APAC is an emerging region for data science skills. 12 out of 16 This effort gave a fillip to NSDC indefinitely as part of a move near future. countries in APAC are either lagging or emerging in data science. Only 4 project of creating an interactive towards a “distributed 5. 9-to-5:Athing of the past? countries display competitive skills in data science: Hong Kong (75%), AI-based online information workforce.” The past few months We are staying at home more than Singapore (73%) New Zealand (59%), andAustralia (54%). system on mapping of skilled have proven a lot of the businesses ever, and this demands us to Rapid rise of big data and analytics has caused a massive shortage of data manpower and job opportunities who were earlier unsure about balance our work and home lives science professionals. According to a report by Accenture and Qlik , lack of that was started in the beginning remote working that works from all in the same place. Recently, data skills costs Indian firms productivity worth INR 332 billion every year. of this year. And today (July 10) home is do-able. So if employees many employers have relaxed As per the 2018 Talent Crunch study by Korn Ferry India will have a talent culminating the effort, the are in a role and situation that rules about workers starting and surplus by 2030 driven by a growing, younger working population compared platform enables them to work from home ending their days at a set time. The to the aging population in China. India's emphasis on affordable and https://smis.nsdcindia.org/ as and they want to continue to do so new norm is about having respect accessible education, especially at the college level, will produce a vast well as ASEEM App was forever, organisations will make it for and trust in your employees. To number of Level A talent. As per the study, by 2030 the talent surplus will be formally launched by Dr. happen. Also, if organizations do maintain that structure, managers the most visible in industries like financial services (with a surplus of 1.1 Mahendra Nath Pandey, union decide to get back to the office, it could set expectations for when million professionals), technology, media, telecommunications (with a minister of Skill Development & won't be a snap back to the way it they need their teams in the office surplus of 1.3 million professionals), and manufacturing (with a surplus of Entrepreneurship through a was before. for important internal events and 2.44 million professionals). virtual launch event. 3. Result based tracking? conferences or online for meetings Higher skill proficiency is linked to GDP growth, labor force participation, Besides identifying major skills Working from home is going to and other team activities. and income equality, according to Coursera's latest Global Skills Index. gap in the sectors and providing stay, even when the economy Additionally, if one wants to create The pandemic has impacted the lives of more than 555 million workers and review of global best practices, eventually reopens. Productivity a balance between work time and 200 million higher education students around the world. In India, the ASEEM will provide real-time is often measured by seeing an personal/family time, employees unemployment rate reached 27.1% in early May, as nearly 122 million granular information by employee stuck at their desk or and managers will have to work Indians lost their jobs between March and April. To revive jobs and identifying relevant skilling over ringing phones, and closely together (than ever before) economies, institutions must enable widespread access to skills development requirements and employment achievement is signified by an to ensure that no one is feeling so that people can swiftly enter and return to the workforce. This requires prospects. It will provide employee arriving early before the pressured to respond to emails and understanding the state of job-relevant skills for their respective populations, employers a platform to assess rest of his/her colleagues and messages at all hours of the day. including for their countries, industries, and fields of study. Equipped with the availability of skilled insights from the report, leaders across private, public, and education sectors can shape reskilling efforts for economic revival. Microsoft to provide free access to its digital skills “Workforce recovery in a post-pandemic world relies on broad base on eSkill India portal reskilling. Institutions must lead this effort by providing people with equal access to skills needed for the jobs of the future,” said Jeff Maggioncalda, National Skill Development and cloud computing, providing Manish Kumar, CEO & MD, CEO of Coursera. “This year's Global Skills Index reveals skills trends and Corporation (NSDC) and numerous opportunities for NSDC, said, “The collaboration insights that will inspire institutions to coordinate skills development for a Microsoft today announced a people to reskill and upskill, aims at accelerating online more inclusive and advanced workforce.” strategic partnership aimed at placing roles that are in-demand learning for enhancing providing digital skills to over 1 within reach of job seekers. employability of the young SKILL MONKS launched; to house popular Skilling lakh youth in the country over the The partnership with NSDC is an workforce in a rapidly evolving next 12 months. Microsoft will extension of Microsoft's global digital environment. With focus courses by leading players at competitive prices collaborate with NSDC's eSkill skilling initiative to help 25 on new-age and advanced skills, India portal to provide free access million people worldwide acquire the initiative will meet the A 'one-stop' solution for career discovery & skilling courses for graduates, to learning resources and conduct new digital skills needed for the growing demands of our working professionals and students , a kind of integrated marketplace for digital skilling awareness drives, COVID-19 economy. economy.” EdTech solutions 'SKILL MONKS' has announced its official launch. equipping the next generation of Speaking about the partnership, The integration of Microsoft Brainchild of Rameswar Mandali, a serial entrepreneur the new online store learners with the skills they need Anant Maheshwari, President, Learn on the eSkill India platform aims to to connect customers and training partners under one roof. to thrive in a digital economy. Microsoft India, said, “The digital will provide learners with Mandal said 'During my entrepreneurial journey, I have spent a considerable As part of the partnership, transformation of India is driving customized content and resources, amount of time researching on need gaps in the skilling area and that's how Microsoft's learning resource demand for tech-enabled jobs accessible anytime, anywhere. the concept of marketplace for education was born. It took almost 2 years to center, Microsoft Learn will be across every industry and with it eSkill India and Microsoft will co- bring the concept alive and I decided to start SKILL MONKS.' integrated with the eSkill India the need for digital skills. We are host e-skilling events, webinars To begin with the focus is towards IT skills which include Fresh skills, digital platform to provide access deeply invested in creating a and virtual sessions across the Reskilling and Upskilling, Exam preparation including Govt Jobs. The to personalized learning paths and digital skills ecosystem that country to support students, platform currently has a list of courses from reputed institutions with resources that are in-demand in prepares India's workforce for training partners and higher- complete and unbiased information, which includes institute information, today's economy and are well- jobs of the future. Our partnership education trainees enrolled under course information, faculty details, fee details, student reviews, placement positioned to continue to grow in with NSDC is a strong step in that NSDC's skill training programs. information, and certifications amongst others. Aspirants can choose best the future. These learning paths direction, equipping learners with The sessions will be designed to suited courses ranging from AI, Data Science, Cyber Security, DevOps, will cover a broad range of skills, easily accessible tools and drive digital literacy and provide Digital Marketing, Multimedia, Full Stack, Python, Web Dev, Ethical from entry-level digital literacy to resources needed to succeed in a insights into technologies like AI, hacking Java and testing. Courses are also available for those preparing for advanced product-based skilling digital economy.” machine learning and cloud IBPS, SSC, Civil Services, CGL CAT, MBA, GATE, GMAT, GRE, SAT, in critical technologies likeAI Talking about the association, Dr. computing among others. IELTS and TOEFL. Business partners can enjoy integrated solutions like SaaS offering, Digital transition and MobileApp. New DGT regional offices in Leh, Imphal Directorate General of Training, ministry of MSDE started two regional offices, which were e-inaugurated, one in Leh (Ladakh) and another at in Manipur. Lt. Governor of Ladakh RK Mathur inaugurated the Leh branch.

8 Curriculum July 16, 2020 VIEWS (Edit/Guest Column...) OPINION: Need of a National Policy on Internal Migration Cancellation of Exams is the first The recent plight of migrant workers makes a strong case significant victory for children of India r Dr.Nitesh Dhawan, Public Servant and Author The cancellation of the examination for the The large scale migration of corona crisis, most of the labor face disruption of regular schooling remaining subject papers by the two largest workers during corona lockdown associations and NGOs working with causing sub-culture of poverty to national boards—CBSE and ISCE—is a rare instance across the nation has really been an the textile and garment industry have percolate. To add salt to the injury, where the voice of children has in a sense triumphed. eye opener in many ways. It has drawn restrained themselves to situation some states are in the process of Though it was only after the matter reached the attention of people towards the analysis and drafting of policy amending the existing labor laws, Supreme Court, still the message that went across is magnitude and depth of the issues guidelines and feeding along with either suspending altogether or that children as a community does matter and student pertaining to migrant laborers as one taking care of immigrant workers is increasing working hours to counter activism has entered school age group. of the biggest humanitarian crises in not on their agenda. There is no industrial crisis that has emerged due It was natural for the assessment system to find every the recent times. It has also raised reliable data of stranded migrant to extended lockdown period. This way possible to hold the remaining exams to serious questions about the purpose workers either. would dilute the labor protection laws maintain the sanctity of examination system even in that ideologies of economic growth The situation of migrant workers and infringe the basic rights of labor the gravest risk environment but at end it was serve to the cause of working class stuck during the lockdown period has class. The unbridled exploitation of categorical assertion of life over system by the who are themselves the pillars of been of great concern. About 6.3 lakh migrant laborers in terms of manipu- parental community that did the poetic justice. economic development. In one of his migrant workers were given shelter lation of work records, withholding of As a substitute the examination system to which critiques of capitalism, Marx stated in 22,567 government relief camps. wages, long working hours, abysmal unfortunately the whole learning/teaching and that human history has progressed Many lost touch with their families. working conditions etc. necessitate admission to HEIs process is oriented has to fall back through a series of stages, from Though state government took for a National Policy for Internal upon internal and prior assessments (the details ancient slave society through several initiatives like providing Migrants. unclear as of now) to appropriate grades before feudalism to capitalism. In each stage them shelter homes, food and The National Policy on Internal declaration of crucial school leaving results. The way a dominant class controlled the means medical facilities, they became Migration should focus on building CCE (comprehensive continuous evaluation) under of production and exploited the larger desperate with each passing day capacities of panchayats and urban RTE Act, 2009 was rolled out and then folded, still class of workers to its advantage. The about their uncertain future. This local bodies for maintaining a remains one of the greatest failures of school capitaltalist classes reap the benefits prompted governments to make database of migrant workers and education in India and conveniently forgotten. by paying workers a pittance for long arrangements for their migration. make provisions for inter-district and The virus pandemic among various alternatives to hours and hard work and amass During post-lockdown period, there inter-state coordination committees school closures has brought home homeschooling enormous wealth while proletariat is a possibility of massive job loss in to collaborate for institutional through virtual classes. After initial shock and falls further into poverty. In this way, informal sectors and may take arrangements for migrant workers. It excitement, this new normal is also veering towards capitalism leads to alienation besides several months to get back on track. should allow assisted migration teacher and teacher quality. Good quality teachers are inequality, poverty and false According to the 2011 census, almost through proper mechanisms in place able to navigate and better connect with their consciousness. With heart breaking 326 million or 28.5 percent of the with universal minimum social students even though scratch connectivity. But as we scenes of workers struggling to reach people are internal migrants. As per package for migrants. The central know, the system at large is bereft of good teachers. their homes in a pathetic condition the Economic Survey 2017, almost 9 government can take a leaf from The pool of vacancies is almost an ocean in itself. If during lockdown period only million people had moved annually Kerala model which is the first State Indian education faces any emergency like challenge, reiterates the point that nothing has between 2011 and 2016. The lack of to have social protection scheme for it is teachers and actually good teachers. Teacher was changed much from the Marxian employment or seasonal employ- migrant workers. Moreover, the Inter- at the core of CCE and a good teacher always evokes phase as far as dignity of labor is ment, agricultural distress and State Migrant Workmen (Regulation that ethical and professional trust that our assessment concerned. poverty are the primary reasons that of Employment and Conditions of system look for to recognize qualifications. Celebrating 1st of May as have induced migration. Service) Act, 1979 should be revised So, when the education system and its different International Labor Day every year The increasing share of cities in to include inter-district migrants, support ecosystems are shattered and looking for has become a tradition for all of us to country’ s economic growth would monitoring of unregistered contrac- alternatives, it is time for a big time rethink. recognize and acknowledge the not have been possible without the tors and establishments with other Prioritize children! Move away from examination monumental efforts of labor force in contribution of migrant workers. social security provisions. system orientation to more scientific systems. our unflinching journey towards However, in a recent study conducted Recently , the Centre has apprised to Education sector must not be looked through the development. The revolutionary labor by International Food Policy Supreme Court about various prism of employment generation or business class in Russia used this day as a Research Institute (IFPRI), it was measures taken by government for enterprise, rather it must be seen as nursery of a source for inspiration during their found that domestic migrants in a rehabilitation of migrant workers. diversity that will not only meet and sustain struggle movement. Associated with developing country experience According to it, about 700 food objectives of our national aspiration but weave a high reducing the working hours of labor, substantial decline in mental and processing and preservation units thinking order for a better India. More than 1/3rd of the International Labor Day is the fine physical health. They also face social along with infrastructure projects India's population is in the age group of 0-18 years and example of applauding labor dignity discrimination in terms of pay scales, have been sanctioned in different a potent force for building India of tomorrow. across the world. But ironically, the housing facilities etc. According to parts of the country under PM Kisan India's Atma Birbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) quest month of May has brought adversities 2014 data, migrant workers earn only Sampada Yojana which provide must begin with making education and skills sector for the migrant workers across the two-third of what is earned by non- various employment opportunities for independent, organic and child-oriented. Investment by nation. During the unprecedented migrant workers. Migrant children the migrant workers. Similarly there way of more resources has a return that probably all is Scheme of Fund for Regeneration Indians dream of—a glorious and prosperous nation to be celebrated and lapped over by academic bodies, the low priority to of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) to having overcome its challenges locally. children didn't allow it to come to national stage. enhance the marketability of products Baste Ka Bojh Kam (BKBK) project by Rajasthan must For starters, things like having building code for schools and declaring schools of artisans for sustaining employment easily be the biggest innovations of recent years in India national properties would be one as these are not only building blocks of our and providing them with mechanical but again it is not acknowledged. “In this grave crisis, democracy and development but first line of social spaces for community or electrical traditional tools. These where the plight of children was naked and stark on the shelters in disasters and other gatherings. All best models need to be are promising steps but there is a need streets, I don't remember our minister saying a documented and brought on table for scale up. Teacher recruitment policy for organized approach for abating reassuring word. Even the PM didn't in his eight needs a fresh look and it must allow seamless entry and exit for guest skilled their grievances by formulating a addresses to nation?” he added. The overburden of and professional workers as teachers. That would break the stereotyped mindset policy framework addressing all overweight school bags has been recognized as hazard of society towards teachers. issues in a holistic manner. for growth and wellbeing of children by medics and yet when something like integrated quarterly textbooks was And, the bottom-line, Children need to be told you are important. 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Curriculum July 16, 2020 9 Spotlight Budget schools ALt+Ctrl+Del scenario? Post- pandemic, unprepared Govt schools may get a student rush The big picture emerging from lockdown and Covid pandemic about am happy, we have been able to peer learning, self reflection and schools is early signs of several patterns that will potentially lead to a build a discourse around the participation has been oversimpli- mega upheaval in the school sector in the immediate future. For those, issues of pandemic and people fied to a test outcome. “The whole who were reporting a popular trend about galloping expansion of private understand. We have create a process has been changed from schools to even the remotest villages of country, may see a rapid reverse pressure and awareness to save subjectivity and reflexivity to in coming months as these private schools, essentially social enterprises Right of Children, “ he said. objectivity to make education a lose sheen and their promoters interest due to lack of money in the sys- For the past two months, RTE business activity,” she added. tem. And, a large number of children from these schools will eventually Forum has been conducting a Talking about solutions to shift to government schools. webinar series on various aspects continued closures and pandemic of pandemic and lockdown on scare, she said that the solutions In what would be probably workers back home are single and psychologically as we have children and education. will come from collective among the first studies on the males as these migrants live on been divided into education for endeavor and engagements as it is impact of pandemic on low wages from less than rich and education for poor Alternatives to school very difficult to say anything now schools in the hinterland, Prof 10,000-12000 in cities of work sections. This calls for coming but it will be to say some sort of Pushpendra Kumar Singh, and live in groups to minimize together of various associations disruption will need 'formalized informal structure'. professor and chairperson, living cost. There is a sizeable and representatives from across “This pandemic has given us an Tata Institute of Social Sciences population of students who were the social strata and sectors to collective endeavor, opportunity to adopt essentialist (TISS), Patna, chose a village in coaching in Kota and other ensure education of children in the curriculum and a rethink so that Ziradei division of Siwan district places have returned. “Except post-covid situation,” she said. engagement with all these issues that we're talking in Bihar to talk about. The region for schools and ICDS centres, Prof Disha Nawani, dean School about now will shape our students is well-known for being the much of normal life seems to of Education, TISS, Mumbai, who communities into better human beings and birthplace of India's first have returned to villages. With moderated the webinar candidly social relationships,” she said. President Dr Rajendra Prasad. this attendance based schemes admitted that people in power In the past a few years especially Prof. Smriti Sharma, Department Talking about a village cluster such as midday meal and other seldom read about research papers after the Niti Aayog associated of Elementary Education, Lady which has eight government DBT remain suspended as well. and that is how much of the good learning outcomes with quality Shri Ram College, Delhi, who schools, three of them in a single As we look into it, the patterns of advise falls through. Responding education, there is a mad policy was the other speaker spoke about building of five rooms , Prof drop outs will include many to online education, she said rush to reduce the idea of a child to how parents are pushing online Singh revealed the eye opening children moving towards child content passing or information a learner. The Covid19 pandemic because they always viewed status of other three private labor. As a matter of fact, there is delivering is viewed by many has if anything accelerated that schools as daycare centres schools within the cluster. “One no serious discussion on people as education. “What these process. In the name of digitaliza- allowing them time to go about school is owned and run by the education at any level,” he vendors do is digitize textbooks tion, marginalization is to become their work and business. “Now village sarpanch (village head), added. and pass it on as digital education. a new normal. they want their children to shift to the other by a person funded by a Saying that reverse migration Education is an active dialogue.” According to Prof. Poonam Batra, occupying screens for the same relative in a foreign country and highlighted systemic failures, Elaborating on the process of Central Institute of Education, reason,” she said. She also spoke third by another person, a tutor Gautam Bandopadhay, education Prof Singh said that Delhi University, under the about a survey of 250 children basically. People who send their Convener, Chhattisgarh RTE education was a cognitive process, digitalization (online) regime, where an overwhelming 90% said wards to these schools in rural Forum said that pandemic has which can be best achieved by both teachers as well as students they wanted the coronovirus to go areas are very clear, no schools, provided an opportunity to focus interactions including peer are likely to lose their agency and and missing on studies. no fees. So, while the headman on devising and designing learning and a stimulus available the relationship between them The activists feel the people has engaged himself in civic and structures at state level to ensure in classroom environment and will also undergo a big change. whom they are fighting against other priorities, the second has enrolment plans and other schools only. “If online meets Speaking at a webinar titled, and as per them have a hidden turned into a contractor of small packages that have been severely these conditions are an area of 'Quality Education through commercial agenda in the garb of projects and the third has taken to affected and exposed administra- research,” he added. Digital Learning?', organized by running nonprofit education tuitions,” he said. TISS, Patna tive unpreparedness. “The Speakers also expressed the view RTE Forum, she said, “The foundations, have made it to the chairman while speaking at the migrant children often face that lot of people are now bringing disaster capitalists in the name of government committees and as RTE Forum's webinar today language barriers and now it will out surveys and talking about digital learning have vulgarized such are becoming influencers of (June 26) on “Impact of COVID- become more pronounced in this them but there is a need of inequality in the society and decisions on education. And 19 on Right to Education of huge reverse migration and structured and quality research to education as a process is being therefore, it is very important to Migrant Workers, ” also chaos,” he added. establish the impact of Covid replaced by turning a child into a run a counter narrative about illustrated that the extent and According to Asha Mishra, pandemic on children, education learner and eventually a consumer dangers to national objectives of spread of digital deprivation was National vice-president, Bharat and schools. and teacher a mere facilitator in it education especially in this as much within the private school Gyan Vigyan Samiti, Bhopal, the The quality of education in after forfeiting rights of a pandemic. matrix as in the others and there is discriminatory policies of the government schools will be a teacher.” Prof Batra called upon no distinction between most government have led to more crucial area as there is so much teachers to raise their voice and For attention private schools and other schools gaps in education as people are needed to be done. According to resist for their rights and agency of institutions during closures as far as digital not the agenda of the present Ambarish Rai, National (intellectual as well as decision divide is concerned. government. “The children will Convener, RTE Forum there are making) like they do for late Notices Beyond 200 be exploited physically, mentally teacher vacancies at every level salaries as the new order if words will be Giving a perspective on the and new norms like sanitization allowed to go unchallenged will considered classified migrant worker children from and hygiene in schools will need make them subordinate to advertisements and Bihar, Prof Singh quoting official more resources. “As there are technology products and experts. therefore published only data said that a profile data of chances of more dropouts Giving a historical perspective against payments. 18.5 lakh migrants who have especially among girls, early about the traditional bias in returned through proper official marriages, more children pushed education towards the privileged, Thank you channels is available, of these 4% to child labor, trafficking, this is Prof Batra referred to counter are below 15 years and 1% above the time for government to take a narratives of the freedom struggle 60 years. The rest 95% are call. We'll keep reminding out against colonialism and talked bracketed in the age group of 15- Prime Minister that in all these about how education was seen as a 59 and it appears those in 15-18 months, he hasn't once spoken potent tool for emancipation, age band too have been listed as about children of this country. I equality and a just society. But workers. 84% of the migrant today you are making all effort to crystallize that exclusion. She further questioned how education as a process involv- ing the dynamics of socializa- tion, relationships, various experiences, learnings including

10 Curriculum July 16, 2020 Covid Effects Ivy league- survival guide (For the colleges) Dr. Ravi Godse, MD Medcial Practitioner and occasional filmmaker The tile is little after one batch or two. What if the For the parents who can afford it, fee. At the end of the year, the student misleading. It is not the colleges target batches of students, the hassle of college application is not able to maintain the GPA or fails guide for you to survive who are finishing junior year in and agony is over. to get a visa, the college refunds 7.5 Ivy League education, but the High School. Find bright kids, The parents save a whopping 25 millions, which, if the rupee slides to guide for the Ivy Leagues to which would have anyway got percent of the total college fee over 85 rupees per dollar, which I survive. admission to Ivy League, and offer 4 years. (The discount maybe confidently predict, it will, only be Times are tough and it is going to them a deal. much less is some colleges). 88235 dollars. So the college makes need an out of the box idea. And Based on their current GPA, SAT For the colleges who offer it. Their the interest over 100000 dollars for a whether the box turns out to be scores if any, strength of the bio class of 2121 is already taking year plus makes 11765 dollars in Pandora's, time will tell. data, they will be offered a shape. They have certain fixed currency exchange and the student So this is the idea I have to make position, if they pay for 3 years in revenues. They can invest that gets the bragging right of initial Ivy Leagues survive. It is going advance and they get the 4th year money and keep the interest, even selection to an Ivy league. to be tough for the next year or free. If the student drops out or if they have to return the money. The idea is for the colleges to open up two. Pandemic has altered doesn't finish college, the prorated They can offer the program admissions for DESERVING everything. International money is refunded but not the internationally as well. I grew up in students early, based on their ability to students are in limbo. interest. The student will get the India and know a lot of Indians, at pay upfront. Admission will be Visa/travel/practical questions admission, if they maintain the least, I think, I do. India will be an contingent upon a set of conditions. are unsettled. People are GPA through the senior year. The ideal place to do a lab test for this Whether the colleges have to offer a increasingly questioning the parents (students) will save one program. discount, will depend upon how value of college education. The entire year's payment but the People have money. People value popular the program is, they may get cost of the college is to enjoy the colleges can lock in certain seats, education. Value is a very tame away by charging all 4 years. Or have college life, meaning learn the knowing that they will be funded word. People are crazy about the to offer a deeper discount. subject and learn to live life. for 3 years. education. Crazy is a tame word Parents won't be as willing to Let us tackle the elephant in the too, if you want to know the truth. Many colleges have a lot of cough up the same dollar amount room. We are increasingly Higher middle class is completely cash on hand. They also for their kids to do the same preoccupied with being fair, at in the tank about Ivy League know that more is better. things in pajamas over zoom least trying to look fair. Is it fair for education in USA. And market This idea is definitely worth a second calls. So colleges need an the students who are not able to pay forces, research and projections look. But then, I am biased. This is my infusion of cash to sustain. They for 3 years, up front at one time? won't faze this crowd. Because idea after all. do. Most people are at least Yes. It is fair. Because, if the where you go to school is more like willing to listen to the idea that colleges survive, they will be in a a status symbol. will make them some money. position to offer scholarships, and The colleges can offer to take One thing the colleges all sorts of assistance programs. money in Indian currency and also CANNOT do is to sell seats to And if this scheme was to go into offer to help with the visa process. highest bidder. That will dilute action, there will be multiple Say the fee is 100000 USA, which their talent, kill their reputation lending companies offering the is 7.5 million Indian rupees by and they will cease to be sought required money to anyone. today's rate. The student pays the Gender- and wealth-driven disparities affect Indian children's school performance – study Poorer children in India Researchers from the University of Birmingham and University of East differences in the way household wealth affects the educational continue to experience Anglia recently published their work 'Picking winners: An empirical performance of children. Specifically, boys born into wealthier households educational analysis of the determinants of educational outcomes in India' in the British perform considerably better in maths than those from worse-off economic disadvantages compared Educational Research Journal. backgrounds. The effect of wealth on the PPVT – which measures verbal to children from The research was conducted jointly by Dr Christian Darko, a lecturer in ability and general cognitive development – is stronger for girls than it is for wealthier households, Applied Business and Labour Economics at the Birmingham Business boys. with girls being more School and Dr Nicholas Vasilakos, a lecturer in International Business in “We also find that high caregiver aspirations are positively and significantly adversely affected than the Norwich Business School. associated with better performance in math, for boys but not for girls.” boys – a new study Dr Darko said: “Our results show that family background may encourage Children from wealthier households have fewer constraints – such as the reveals girls and boys to value different aspect and subjects of education cost of books, school fees or uniforms – and no need to work for income or differently we also find that “differences in performance between boys' and perform household chores, as their less-affluent peers often must. girls' academic performance were driven by parental expectations and Additionally, children from poorer households may only have access to aspirations for children.” substandard schools and resources, and less parental support with their These findings further show that despite the success of educational policy education. They are also more susceptible to adverse economic shocks, reforms in boosting enrolment rates and improving access to education for which may in turn force parents to make choices about which child to send boys and girls in Indian households, wealth and gender differences to school – or indeed, to choose between work and an education. continue to impact educational progress of young children in India. The research highlighted the importance of early life education as a “Because changes in culture are more difficult (and slower) to achieve, determinant of later-life success. Moreover, additional policy reforms need interventions that go beyond education policy is required,” added Dr to consider gender differences in access to education as well as employment Darko. opportunities, and tackle issues related to gender bias both in schools and The project used data from the Young Lives longitudinal survey to analyse the workplace. the effect of socioeconomic conditions and gender on the educational Dr Vasilakos said: “Educational policy reforms may not be able to fully performance of young children in India. achieve their objectives, unless they are accompanied by economic policies Data was drawn from standardised scores on two cognitive tests: the that address issues of inequity and inequality. Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) and a maths test, and the “Such policies should aim to economically empower poorer households to researchers looked at results from 951 children from the regions of Andhra reap the benefits of educational reforms by making them less reliant on their Pradesh, Rayalaseema and Telangana. children's income for survival, whilst improving schooling quality, Dr Vasilakos said: “India has undergone a period of rapid modernisation especially in areas where children from poorer households are likely to be across all areas of social and economic activity – including education. over-represented. Until these changes happen, India will be limiting its Despite recent policy reforms in boosting enrolment rates and improving economic and developmental potential.” access to education, there are still substantial gender- and wealth-driven disparities affecting the educational progression of young children in India. “Our results show that children from wealthier households consistently outperform their less-affluent peers. There are also significant gender

Curriculum July 16, 2020 11 School Leaders Venkateshwar Global School, Sec-13, Rohini (Delhi) sets an example of Perfect Blending of Tech & Textbooks Kavita Soni, Principal 2020 for Classes X and XII and cation, and etiquette are set by VGS has ensured that stress With conscious efforts, creative for the rest of the school from the teachers. buster activities like Art, Yoga, thinking and effective implementa- For many of us in self- March 30, 2020. ¬ Providing prompt Aerobics, Music and Dance tion, the VGS' teachers are ensuring isolation, it can feel like the feedback – conduct quizzes and sessions have also been added to that learners do not lose the fizz coronavirus pandemic has Some of the best practices of provide assignments on the time-table. while transitioning from the put the world on hold as we online pedagogy being Microsoft Forms, Class Life-skills and Values are being physical classroom to the online wait for release from our followed by the instructors are: Notebooks etc. to improve imparted through discussions one. temporary lockdown. ¬· Focus on 'Active and learning outcomes. during morning assembly Online teaching has evolved Blended Learning' - teachers ¬ Motivating students periods. Teachers have also as the most suitable means ensure that the lessons are mix by making a real-world incorporated stretching and eye for teaching and learning spurts of discussions, collabo- connection- connect the exercises at regular intervals into during this phase, to ensure rations etc. concepts they have learned with their classes to ensure relaxation that learning does not stop. ¬· Making the best use real life applications thereby and better focus. The Venkateshwar Global of online tools and applications enhancing their critical thinking School, Sec-13, Rohini, available- using a variety of skills. kick started its virtual applications like Microsoft ¬ Active involvement of classes through Microsoft Forms, Class Notebooks, the parent community- parents Teams, from March 16, Assignments, Sway etc. are invited in the meetings to ¬ Encouraging share their views and are given community learning- ensure regular feedbacks. that the sense of presence is ¬ Doubt clearing enhanced when everyone sessions and one to one shows their face via their personalized classes are given webcam. by teachers. ¬ Embedding digital citizenship among learners- A In these difficult times, meeting set of explicit expectations for the social-emotional needs of online participation, communi- students is also crucial.The School is a building which has 4 walls with TOMORROW INSIDE When thel SOPs are still evolving on reopening of schools in Post- COVID19, let’s prepare for its challenges Nandan Kuthiala The immortal words of Duke of Wellington “The battle of Waterloo was ability to withstand pressure and handle stressful situations in future adult Trustee won on the playing fields of Eton” bears testimony to what school is. life. Education is not filling of a Pail, but the lighting of a Fire. The years at school hone the soft skills of the students, which is of Jodhamal Public School Paramount importance in adult life. All the above skills cannot be taught to School vs Online a child On Line. At the moment the schools are hoping that the present JAMMU phase is just an Aberration, exposing growing up kids to many hours of During the lockdown lot has been written about the way children would be Computer or Digital screens is not the way ahead. taught in schools and at home in the Post-COVID19 months. But talking about a generational change on the method and practice of teaching Challenges ahead for schools in post-covid phase inschools is a in fact very tall ask, especially when the SOPs are still evolving on COVID 19 unless one is hoping that the present phase is just As and when the schools reopen the biggest challenge is going to be an aberration. SOCIAL DISTANCING of students in class rooms , fields , buses etc. The schools will have to run at 50% of the capacity with all classes divided into No doubt most of the private schools have started ON LINE classes in the Odd and Even roll number groups. Odd roll number students will attend last 2-3 months and plan to run these classes till the schools re-open. the school on Odd dates and vice versa. With 50% reduction in the number Whereas students of 9th to 12th would be having on Line classes for 5-6 of students in class rooms and buses, some semblance of SOCIAL hours a day and primary and middle classes would be limited to 1-2 hours. DISTANCING can be maintained. Naturally school assembly will be in These classes are mostly theoretical in nature and the institutions at classrooms and the mid-day break in staggered intervals. Majority of the present are using this time period to cover some of the course and are sports and Co-Curricular activities would have to be cancelled. In the era hoping to re-open sometime in coming one or two months. of Social Distancing, events like Parent teacher Meetings, Annual days, Schools play a very vital role in shaping the character of the students. sports and graduation days would not be possible. All inter school, inter Basically helping the child to try and live upto her or his Full Potential is state competitions would not be possible. In fact most of the inter class waht SCHOOLING is about. While ON LINE Education as a model can activities would not occur. perhaps be adopted successfully in Colleges and Universities, this will not All this will make JACK a very dull boy and very adversely impact the be the case for Schools. Here the age of students varies from 3 years to Psychological, Physical and Mental growth of kids. We the school sector around 18 years in K-12 schools. These are the formative years in an all over the world globe are praying that the COVID 19 Era is a temporary individual's life. Besides the Three R's, the schools play a very vital role in Aberration and will be over by Sept or Oct. shaping the Habits, Personality and ultimately the Character. As on today nearly 1.3 Billion students are missing school in 186 In schools kids are exposed to a whole lot of activities, competitions, countries, they all are praying that soon a Vaccine will be developed and sports, drills, interaction and so on, the list is endless. Spirit of COVID 19 would be a bad memory. Never say never again, COVID – 19 Comradeship, friendships, sharing and caring are an integral part of Era too shall pass. School is a building which has 4 walls with schooling. Exposing tiny toddlers to the wonders of music,dance, art TOMORROW INSIDE. &craft , hobbies , drama , debates , science etc is basically helping the child to try and live upto her or his full potential. Another integral part of growing up is discipline, time management andsense of responsibility. School days prepare an individual to have the

12 Curriculum July 16, 2020 School Buzz KPS, Nadia is emerging as a model school in online creative space as well Rekha Goswami, Headmistress (Primary) enlists some of the online activities that students of the school engaged with in the recent weeks To motivate the student School, Nadia) where our have left their foot marks in this fathers on Father's Day. everyday under enthusiastic during online classes students have participated in arena also and others are not far Even our tiny tots are also not leadership of our Principal, Dr Sankar teachers are doing their many such online activities. One behind. lagging behind. Three of our Prasad Dutta who firmly believes that best to ensure warmth, of our class IX student, Nilabhra Google Code To Learn Contest students—one from Nursery and the holistic development of a child humor and learning/teaching Guha, got the all India 8th rank in which has been adopted by the two from KG – Srijita ,Alona and does not depend only upon engagement. Teachers are the Student Innovation Ministry of Human Resource Anindita were selected in the academics. He constantly motivates preparing a lot of materials with Challenge. Like many he had Development,Government of India national level Poetry Hub the teachers and the students to do personal videos, making their submitted his project on the under the Rashtriya Avishkar Competition where Srijita Biswas something innovative and unique. own PPTs, using storytelling, themes of Space Technology, Abhiyan is another online platform came first in the Nursery level and Even during the lockdown period , our teaching the chapter supported New and Innovative Ideas and for students to show their creativity. Alona Sarkar grabbed the 5th principal is continuously arranging by links to YouTube and other Solutions for Social Distancing This platform encourages the rank in the KG section in all India different online workshops, seminars sources. This form of for COVID -19. Another two students to learn Programming and level. Our students are also and webinars for the teachers to learning/teaching is new for students – Utsav Saha of class IX Computer Science via fun tools like participating in the Quarantine enhance and upgrade their coaching most teachers but the whole and Ishita Sarkar of class X also Scratch, App Inventor and Cloud Kids Fashion Week which is also and mentoring skills. ecosystem including parents are ranked among the top 100. Their AutoML through which the an online contest platform. Our teachers are also not far behind in working together in this achievement has made all of us students can create animations, What is more satisfying is that adding feathers to the cap of KPS. endeavour wholeheartedly. proud. stories, games, Android Apps and parents are happy with the Recently the teachers of KPS took the As a secondary outcome of this Our students are also even Artificial Intelligence school's performance both in initiative to donate study materials 'new classroom' experience is a enthusiastically participating in applications without writing even academic as well as non- and content to Vidyadaan 2.0, part of stimulation to explore more in BRICSMATHS which is an one line of code. Our school is academic sphere all these 100 CBSE's Diksha portal under the union terms of online activities and international initiative for online happy as many of our students are days. We are just trying to open HRD ministry. Our teachers uploaded competitions where teachers Mathematics competition. enthusiastically submitting their the doors and windows of the more than 600 contents which is a rare again become motivators. In Students from class I to class XII projects on this platform. world to our students to broaden achievement in itself. many cases, teachers are have enrolled their names in this Our students are regular their outlook and to the values that actually guiding aspirant platform and it's really participants in the ZEE MIND will stand by them as they students in every possible praiseworthy that 252 students WARS Quiz show. Sohini Mondal negotiate this crisis. Our students manner. are regularly practising to add of class VI is the a winner of one showed their gratitude towards All of this is true for teachers of more laurels to their school. show and we are proudly of her and the doctors, nurses and other our school (Krishnagar Public Another online platform is all our achiever students. National people associated with the health Phoenix Science Club which has forum of Vidyarthi Vigyan and medical profession by writing opened the door for young Manthan (VVM) is another peoms, making greeting cards and scientists to venture into the platform where our students so on Doctors' Day (1st July). We different paradigms of Science. participated in the Online also honoured some of our parents This platform is encouraging the Competition on World who belong to this noble students to learn Astronomy Environment Day (5th June), Masti profession by requesting them to through Photography contest; Se Mastishk Tak-Mind Mapping say a few words on this occasion. Sun and Sunspot Quiz ; Moon Competition and excelled there Our school, Krishnagar Public Quiz; Astro Poetry Contest; also. Our students also participated School backed by latest modern Preparing Bird Feeder; Slogan actively in the World Yoga Day, pedagogy and methodology and Writing Contest and many more. World Music Day and they also cutting edge technology is I really feel proud to say that poured out their love for their venturing into a new horizon many of our young 'scientists' Ampersand Group to train teachers Alyss introduces 3D Need-based financial relief package for from Jammu & Kashmir Animation for increasing affected parents by VIBGYOR Ampersand Group, an end-to-end school management services attention span in online VIBGYOR Group of Schools has announced the initial list of India's first-of-its- provider has partnered with SamagraShiksha, Department of School kind need-based financial relief package through the 'VIBGYOR Edubridge Education, Government of Jammu & Kashmir to roll-out an online classes Scholarship Programme' to address the concerns of the parents financially teacher training project on Pilot basis. This is also the first time that a impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. project on this scale has been initiated by the state government with the Alyss Edusolutions, a specialist Immediately after assessing the early impact on the parents, the school announced private industry to train teachers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. company in 3D animation the 'VIBGYOR Edubridge Scholarship Programme' in May in order to absorb the The five-day Professional Development Program in Early Childhood technology for improving the first wave of financial impact the parents faced due to retrenchment or salary cuts Education pilot programme was conducted in last week of June. quality of science and maths owing to the pandemic. The management had urged all the parents who have been The programme aims to cover certain vitals aspects for Early education has introduced 3D impacted or distressed financially to apply for the scholarship and received Childhood of children with teachers through a tech-enabled platform Animation for the online classes to overwhelming responses. and would cover modules such as child development, special needs, make learning more captivating. Manish Rastogi, Chief Executive Officer, VIBGYOR Group of Schools said, safety practices in school, and curriculum planning among others. The The announcement was made a “The purpose of this Scholarship is to subsidise a substantial portion of the annual pilot project will be led by Dr. Reeta Sonawat, Director, Academics recent webinar hosted by the school fees for parents whose salaries or jobs have been significantly impacted by and Training, Ampersand Groupwho specialises in the Early company. During the webinar, COVID-19. Education of our children is a journey which the parents and the Childhood Education programme and has been extensively training 'Training on effective usage of 3D school are jointly responsible for; VIBGYOR is happy to do what it can, within its teachers with a primary focus on strengthening skills in the formative Animation Content in Online limited capacity, to ensure its children's academic continuity.” years of the child. Classes', Dr. Chunduri Ram Parents were selected through meticulously designed criteria to ensure the Ampersand Group has been extensively partnering the central and Mohan, founder, Alyss process is transparent and congruent to the ethos of the school and help them tide state governments across India undertaking public-private partnership Edusolutions showcased how over through the remainder of the year. The school is taking huge efforts in the projects by providing infrastructure, teacher training, content integrating teaching content with selection process as a huge number of parents have been applying for the development along with several e-learning modules in K12 schooling. 3D animation visuals will help programme. Among the recent projects is with the Government of Punjab, Ministry teachers explain the concepts The scholarship will also ensure the students' maintain continuity in learning of Women & Child Development in Nashik, Maharashtra, Municipal clearly to students. He mentioned while VIBGYOR prepares its students for blended learning through its state-of- Corporation of Greater Mumbai, Central Tibetan School that Alyss envisioned the need for the-art Virtual Learning Sessions which have been initiated at the commencement Administration among others. virtual labs 5 years before and of the academic year. The teachers who are participating in the training belong to Anantnag, developed virtual labs on few The group is expected to announce the second list of the beneficiaries of the Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, science concepts. “Virtual lab 'Edubridge Scholarship Programme' over the next few weeks. Parents who Pulwama, Shopian and Srinagar. Also, the online teacher training will experience enhances the applied for the scholarship have received benefits up to three installments of the have a direct impact on approximately 2000students and with time, it understanding of various science school fees. The magnitude of the exercise makes it the biggest in the private would have a multiplying effect. concepts by students and becomes school space that India has ever witnessed. Speaking on the initiation of the Professional Development Program almost mandatory for online in Early Childhood Education programme, classes,” he added. Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon, Principal Secretary said, “We appreciate Prof PP Chakrabarti, IIT this collaboration with Ampersand Group and request them explore Kharagpur, Dr. Biswajit Saha, possibilities for investment in the Education sector in Jammu & Director, CBSE, Prof Subhasish Kashmir..” Mitra, Stanford University, spole on 'Challenges of Adopting Online Classes for School Education,'

Curriculum July 16, 2020 15 Higher Education update IIM Ahmedabad launches Endowment Fund FLAME University launches Leadership Talk Series “Vimarśha” The Indian Institute of in the country. respectively (1993); Kuldeep Jain, An initiative of the VAJR group, the first talk in the series was given by Management, Ahmedabad today ProfErrol D'Souza, Director, Founder, Cleanmax Enviro Energy Suresh Prabh, former union minister and MP, on “Reimagining India: announced the launch of the 'IIM IIMA said, “Alumni are a source Solutions (1999); VT Bharadwaj, Reshaping the Decade” Ahmedabad Endowment Fund', of pride and strength for the Cofounder, A91 Partners (2001); FLAME University, Pune, on June 30 launched a Leadership Talk Series, with an initial commitment of Rs. Institute. While they have Peeyush Misra, Partner, Growth “Vimarśha”, an initiative of the student-led VAJR group at the university. 100 Cr from 10 founding alumni contributed in many ways to Source Financial Technologies The inaugural webinar began with “Reimagining India: Reshaping the (detailed list below).The support the Institute's priorities; (1999) and GV Ravishankar, Decade” by Suresh Prabhu, Member of Parliament. endowment aims to raise Rs. the endowment corpus will be Managing Director, Sequoia VAJR, a student venture operating from campus and mentored by Prof. 1000 Cr over a period of five very impactful as we expect it to Capital India (2004). Other Dwarika Prasad Uniyal, Dean, FLAME School of Business serves investors years.IIMA is the first emerge as an important source to significant contributors who have and growth-stage ventures with investment for raising and allocating capital management school in India to support key strategic initiatives committed to more than Rs 5 and supporting strategic decisions. come up with this first-of-its- and innovative projects. Sucha crores areArun Duggal, Chairman, And, Vimarśha is going to be a series of digital webinars delving into a range kind fund setting a benchmark critical funding support has been ICRA (1974) and SK Jain, Co- of topics by seeking the wisdom of business and public leaders on how India and inspiring other institutes. missing for most Indian Founder of WestBridge Capital can leapfrog out of the conundrum of socio-economic, geo-political, and Speaking on the occasion, educational institutions and we are and formerly Sequoia Capital environmental realities. Kumar Mangalam Birla, happy to create a benchmark.” India (2000). Prabhu, the former union minister who has handled Railways, Commerce Chairperson, IIMA Board of Under the guidance of the IIMA Prof. Rakesh Basant, Dean – and Power and currently Government Sherpa to G20 and G7 in an Governorssaid,“Endowment Board of Governors, the Alumni & External Relations, interesting engagement covered a vast canvas juxtaposing historical facts to funds help ensure financial endowment fund will be managed IIMA said that “The transparent economic wisdom and successes. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's 'India lives in health of any institute, thereby by an independent Endowment structure of the fund will help its villages' famous line, he reminded that India has always remained encouraging growth and self- Committee consisting of initial IIMA engage more actively with attractive to rest of the world because of our culture and ethos and skills sufficiency. We truly appreciate alumni contributors and the its alumni and they will be able to economy. “We cannot ignore today's world, which is driven by technology the Founder alumni for their Director and Dean (Alumni and meaningfully participate in and innovations. There are many influences. Individuals, industries and generous contributions to kick- External Relations – AER) of shaping the future of their alma institutions need to be aligned and working together, more so now, to make start the IIMAhmedabad IIMA, in their ex-officio capacity. mater. This will also help the India a world leader. If we talk about the future, we need to have a very clear Endowment Fund. These funds The initial major contributors who Institute deliver greater value thought process. Unless you have accurate vision, we won't be successful. will play a significant role in are founders of this Endowment through contemporary, high We want a much better world. Now we are mostly following trends in the realizing the long-term goals of and have committed to contribute quality teaching and research.” world and our economic progress depends on every single individual.It also the Institute and retain its more than Rs 10 crores each have “Endowments form the backbone depends on the technology we use and invent. We must accept and embrace autonomy.” come from across the batches of of all great Universities around the these advances to have technical prowess and accept the reality of Since its inception in 1961, IIMA IIM starting from Sandeep world. Endowment is the glue that tomorrow's India. There will always be challenges but we must face them as has produced over 33,000 alumni Singhal & Kavita Iyer, Co- binds the University with its we are on the threshold today. We must align our thoughts with celebrated working across India Inc., Founder of WestBridge Capital alumni. Greater the University, and successful people so as to create possibilities of new ideas and contributing significantly across and formerly co-founder of larger is the Endowment. With experiences. Use technology to guide but retain the individuality and not just corporates, fields of Sequoia Capital India; and this initiative, the management and follow other developmental models. We need to develop tomorrow's India entrepreneurship, academia, trustees Of SIFF respectively the alumni have sowed a seed for collectively.” public policy and service. With (1999); Sanjeev Bikhchandani, what will one day be a large Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor said, “I am proud of our students of one in seven CEOs with a Founder & Executive Vice endowment proportionate to the the VAJR group for starting the Leadership Series, 'Vimarśha', which aims to management degree from IIMA, Chairman, InfoEdge (1989); Deep stature of IIM Ahmedabad” said inspire students across the country to learn from the experiences and the Institute has the highest Kalra, Founder & Group CEO, Sandeep Singhal and Sanjeev thoughts of some of the eminent leaders of our times.” number of alumni in CEO/CXO- Makemytrip (1992); Ramesh Bikhchandani. Rishihood Univ signs MoU with Russian and level roles in India's top 500 Mangaleswaran & Meenakshi companies. IIM Ahmedabad R a m e s h , S e n i o r P a r t n e r , alumni have also founded some McKinsey & Company; and Co- Korean Universities of the finest business enterprises Founder of Citizen Matters Rishihood University today signed MoUs with theUral State Agrarian University, Russia and Kyungdong University, South Korea to provide an MobilityXlab launches Future Mobility Awards invaluable opportunity for students, teachers and researchers to successfully collaborate both in teaching and research. MobilityXlab collaborates with registered and promote future support startups as they perfect Rishihood University and Ural State Agrarian University, Russia have MathWorks to highlight startups mobility. Entries will be accepted their products through modelling, agreed that scientific cooperation will be carried out based on a thematic and scaleups innovating the across four key categories: simulation and virtual working program jointly approved by the respective institutions. The mobility and transportation m Sustainability engineering.” – Chris Hayhurst, association with Ural Agrarian University, Russia also aims to provide a industry. The winners will be m AI for Safety European consulting lead, platform for students, teachers and researchers to hold joint scientific awarded on October 6 at m Connectivity MathWorks. seminars and conferences; assist in the establishment of scientific Lindholmen Science Park in m Virtual Development The judging panel consists of: cooperation; render mutual aid in the increase of scientific qualifications; Gothenburg, Sweden. The winning company in each Anna Westerberg, SVP Volvo and carry out the exchange programs of students, faculty, and researchers. MobilityXlab, a collaboration category will receive prizes Group Connected Solutions, The MOU also covers a number of areas as joint publications, research platform for mobility and supported by MathWorks, Nishant Batra, CTO Veoneer, projects and exchange of publication material. transportation solutions has including a sum of US$ 2,000, and Dennis Nobelius, CEO Zenuity, The MoU with Kyungdong University, South Korea covers three areas, announced the launch of an opportunity to speak at Kiva Allgood, VP IoT Ericsson student exchange, exchange of faculty and researchers, joint research and MobilityXlab Future Mobility MathWorks Automotive och Chris Hayhurst, European resource sharing. Students have the option of opting for a transfer to Awards. Developed in Conference 2021. In addition, the Consulting Lead, MathWorks. Kyungding University in a (1+3) or a (2+2) format. Under this scheme, collaboration with MathWorks, winners will also receive Additional judges will be students can complete their first one or two years at the Rishihood Campus the U.S.-based developer of exclusive coaching sessions from announced later on. and take a credit transfer to Kyungdong to complete the remainder program. software for scientists and the MobilityXlab's industry Applications for MobilityXlab Students who take a transfer will be provided a scholarship of 70 per cent of engineers, the award is aimed at partners. The award ceremony Future Mobility Awards will be the tuitions during the first semester, based on performance in the subsequent recognizing startups and scaleups will be held on October 6 at closed on August 21. The award year. Students can also pursue part-time jobs, subject to South Korea working towards transforming Lindholmen, Gothenburg. There ceremony will be held on October government and university regulations. In the area of faculty exchange, the mobility and transportation will also be possibilities to attend 6 at Lindholmen Science Park, promoting academic excellence, knowledge exchange and joint research industry. The award is now open the event online. Gothenburg. Read more about collaboration will be of primary focus. for submissions from global By applying, all startups and criteria and how to apply: Targeting the commencement of its first batch of students in September startups and scaleups with a scaleups will have their entries www.thefuturemobilityawards.co 2020, Rishihood University will launch the School of Creativity, School of deadline ofAugust 21. reviewed by leaders from leading m. Education, School of Entrepreneurship and School of Healthcare. The “MobilityXlab Future Mobility global brands in the transport admission process for the first batch of students looking to apply for UG & Awards highlights startups and industry: CEVT, Ericsson, PG Programs has already been initiated. s c a l e u p s , c o m p a n i e s t h a t Veoneer, Volvo Cars, Volvo IIHMR University announces 21 Scholarships for MBA in Rural innovate and transform the Group, Zenuity and MathWorks, Management Course mobility and transportation and get the opportunity to connect industry. They deserve to be with leaders and innovators in IIHMR University, Jaipur has opened the application for 'Late Shri PD Agarwal Scholarship' for recognized for trying to improve these organizations. students enrolling for its 2-year MBA in Rural Management course. The university is offering 21 the future for all of us!” – “Startup and scaleup companies scholarships in two categories. Katarina Brud, Director are now driving much of the The first category of scholarships will cover 20 percent of the total tuition fee on a first-come-first- MobilityXlab. innovation in mobility and MobilityXlab Future Mobility transportation industry and serve basis. This is available to the first 20 students with 50% and above marks in graduation. The Awards is global, and MathWorks is excited to find, second category of the scholarship will cover 50 percent of the total tuition fee and is only for one submissions are welcome from recognize and reward true student with 50% and above in CAT/XAT. The tuition fee for the 2-year course is Rs. 5, 25,000/-. startups and scaleups anywhere in innovation from these companies. The amount of scholarship will be adjusted in the fee and will not be disbursed directly to the the world. To qualify for It is exciting to collaborate with student. application the company has to be MobilityXlab and their partners to

14 Curriculum July 16, 2020 Campus Shivaji College Delhi virtually celebrated the COVID-19 Lockdown. A total of 216 students were given their PIET holds Vrtual management and doctorate degrees during e-convocation, where 8 its 59th Annual Day students were awarded gold and silver medals. Among them, 4 girls Conclave were given a gold medal, while 3 girls and 1 boy were awarded a silver Sanjeev Roy, noted Erasmus Mundus scholar and founder of Roy medal. Panipat Institute of Engineering and Foundation, was the chief guest. Besides, former principal of Shivaji Dr. Raghu Sharma, Minister of Medical and Health, Medical Education, Technology (PIET), Panipat (Haryana) college, Dr Shashi Nijhawan, principals of several other colleges, Ayurveda and DIPR, Rajasthan, while e-Convocation ceremony as the on June 30 held the Edu Leaders 4.0 members of governing bodies, teachers and around 300 students of the Chief Guest announced the investment of over Rs. 800cr (MLA Fund of Virtual Conclave education experts Shivaji College attended the event. 2years) to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in the state. discussed changing paradigms of On 29thJune 2020, Shivaji College, one of Delhi's most respected Presiding the convocation, Dr. S. D. Gupta, Chairman, IIHMR education in India in the face of colleges, celebrated its 59th Annual Day virtually on Zoom due to University, addressed the students- \"You should be mindful to prepare COVID-19 driven disruption. Covid 19 pandemic and official social distancing guidelines. and conduct yourself to the healthcare industry's professional world. This meet was part of the series of The event started with the National Anthem. Acting Principal Dr. Shiv Remember, the first job is significant; it should be an opportunity that Education 4.0 Virtual Conclaves, which Kumar Sehdev inaugurated the event by lighting a lamp and welcomed would open the door for future success as a professional. Employers PIET has been organizing during the all the guests. He spoke at length on the importance of adaptability look for high personal and professional integrity, and commitment to lockdown, to brainstorm on how to with the changing times in the context of the current pandemic work. Your behaviour would matter a lot for the organization. You must improve our education ecosystem. One situation and congratulated all the toppers and award wining students hone up your inter-personal relationship skills and behaviour. When you of the major topics of discussion was for their sincerity, hard work and perseverance. College's annual report have a problem, think of a solution as well. While you work for the Education 4.0, it is an academic was also released on this occasion. growth of the organization, you choose, think of your personal growth to narrative PIET has adapted and The main highlight for this annual function remained the coveted develop yourself as a future leader. He further encouraged the students activated with a lot of fervor and 'Student of the Year' Award which was awarded to Vidya Shriwastva, to publish papers in reputed Journals, which will help them position as success. Despite the current challenges, Nishtha Sethi and Tushar Joshi from the Science, Commerce and specialists in the area of interest. He urged the students to master the data with COVID-19 and the lockdown, Humanities streams respectively, for their impeccable academic and analytic skills and to use information in decision making and problem- deep adoption of Education 4.0 norms all round performance. solving as well\". helped institution to keep moving ahead The chief guest for the event was noted Erasmus Mundus scholar and Students of IIHMR University, Jaipur were awarded their due degrees with uninterrupted education, training, the founder of Roy Foundation, Sanjeev Roy who enthusiastically of MBA in Hospital Management, Pharmaceutical Management, and and pedagogy. interacted with the students. In the manner of a motivational speaker, Rural Management, along with the doctorate degrees. Dr. P R Sodani, Speaking about the conclave, Rakesh he brought everyone's spirits up by urging the students to look at the Dean, Institute of Health Management Research, Dr. Saurabh Kumar, Tayal, Vice Chairman said “Edu pandemic not as a tragic event but also as an historic event with an Dean, School of Pharmaceutical Management, Mr. Rahul Ghai, Dean, Leaders 4.0 Virtual Conclave is a great opportunity for brainstorming innovative ideas and tapping the School of Development Studies, shared the memories of their platform to map industry's potential for immense transformation and ideas to recreate the present association with students and congratulated them for their achievement. requirements and assess where we, as world a new. He emphasized on need of developing not just one's IQ educationists, are in terms of making but also 'AQ' which he defined as 'the ability to face and tackle Shiv Nadar University hosts Graduation the student meet those requirements. It adversity efficiently'. Referring to the current pandemic situation, he is also an opportunity to brainstorm motivated the students to transform the adversity of the pandemic and Ceremony on web possible outcomes and measures borne this sense of historic rupture as an opportunity to change and reimagine out of COVID induced scenarios and the workings of the world as the world right now is highly malleable Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida (ranked at 56 in the 'University' challenges.” and desperately needs innovators and young leaders. category in India Rankings 2020) celebrated its sixth graduation The panelists who joined the conclave Distinguished alumnus Senior Advocate at the Delhi High Court, N. ceremony virtually on July 15, owing to the ongoing COVID-19 besides Tayal included Dr. Ameeta Hariharan was honored with the 'Alumni of the Year award'. While pandemic. It was hosted on the University's social media channels – Mulla Wattal, Principal, Springdales delivering his speech, Mr. Hariharan went down the memory lane and Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. School Pusa Road and Kirti Nagar, recounted his college days 37 years ago when he was a student in University awarded degrees to 601 graduating students, including 24 Ashok Pandey, Director of Ahlcon Shivaji College. He marveled at the metamorphosis of Shivaji College PhDs, from various streams of Engineering, Natural Sciences, Schools, Delhi, Aditi Mishra, Principal, from a small institute with limited means 37 years to the institute it has Humanities & Social Sciences, FineArts, as well as Management. DPS Sector 45, Gurugram, Sudhanshu transformed into now, using the analogy of a seed transforming into a Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Executive Director and CEO of HCL Mittal, Head – CoE Gurugram & grand banyan tree. He gave the credit for such a transformation to the Corporation and Trustee, Shiv Nadar Foundation, and Shikhar Director – Technical Solutions” with grit and hard work of its teachers.Addressing the students, he urged the Malhotra, Pro-Chancellor, Shiv Nadar University, addressed and NASSCOM Center of Excellence – IoT students to inculcate integrity and honesty as young adults. Invoking a congratulated the graduating students. & AI, Arindam Bhattacharya, Ex- phrase from Mahabharat 'Yatho dharma, tathojaya',he motivated the Dr. Rupamanjari Ghosh, VC, said, “This graduation ceremony is Regional Head IMS Learning Resource students to follow their calling in life and do their duty with integrity historic because it celebrates the culmination of the academic life at Pvt. LTD & alumnus of NMIMS, and honesty. SNU of over 600 students after a very unusual semester, with the Mumbai. The E-newsletter of the college placement cell was also released on challenges of this pandemic forever uniting them as a Class. As they this occasion. In keeping with the tradition of the annual day event, the move out, the capabilities of critical and creative thinking, the training Advertise names of all the extraordinary students were announced and awarded and experience here of cross-connecting of ideas will give them a clear with us scholarships for obtaining highest marks in each course. In addition to edge in this fast-changing and uncertain world.” awarding the promising students in academics, awards and prizes were Apart from over 600 students, the virtual graduation ceremony, also given to students excelling in the field of sports, politics and other showered with affectionate wishes from the faculty members, extra curricular and co-curricular activities. Acknowledging the Department Heads and School Directors, was attended by their proud importance and valuable contribution of the non- teaching staff, a parents, friends and Shiv Nadar University's mentors and staff. special 'Employee of the Year' award was given to Afroz Khan for his tireless and efficient work. National Moot Court Competition A glimpse of college's year round active participation in and organization of curricular, extra curricular and co-curricular activities Organized at IMS Law College email at and events was showcased through vibrant power point presentations. curriculum.mag College's commitment towards shaping a just and gender sensitive IMS Law College Noida organized a four-day national moot court @gmail.com world was reflected through the various events and activities competition. Students of 34 reputed institutes across the country organized throughout the year by college's various organizations and participated in this online national competition. Director of the Indian call at societies like Women Development Cell, Equal Opportunity Cell, Law Institute, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha, Justice Sangeeta 8076071802 TEDx and SPADE to name a few. Dhingra Sehgal and Dean of Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Law Prof. (Dr.) Anjili Mittal was present along with IMS President Rajeev IIHMR University hosted its first E- Kumar Gupta, Director Dr. Kulneet Suri, Academic Dean Dr. Manju Gupta, and Dean Law Dr. KS Bhati. Convocation, Girls dominated the medals Dr. Manoj Kumar Sinha said that IMS Law College is one of prestigious law institutes that have given special benefit to this disaster time of tally COVID-19 to teachers, students and researchers from all over the The 6th convocation of IIHMR University goes online this year amidst

Curriculum July 16, 2020 15 Useful News VG Learning Destination launches US NEWS YOU CAN USE CPA course Registrations now open includes theory, practice, Entrepreneurship, where we VG Learning Destination, in partnership with Grant Thornton India research, policy and planning in currently generate employment LLP&Becker Professional Education has started course in US for CBSE and Facebook's Sports and related disciplines. for over 600 youth, through out Certified Public Accounting (US CPA). The qualification is one of the They will be equipped to take up of home MAGGI hotspots or highest and most valued accounting qualifications in the United States Digital Safety & Online roles such as Sports Program NESCAFÉ Corners”. of America accounting body, American Institute of Chartered Associates/Managers, School Nesternship will also offer a Accountant (AICPA) administers the US-CPA examination. Well-being and Sports Leaders, Researchers etc. platform for developing the soft The course comes with huge opportunities, both at the national and Admission process and dates: skills of the interns through pre- the international level. The programme is well-respected in India. Augmented Reality (AR) Students can apply online on the recorded learning sessions. In Professionals with US CPA qualification are hired by firms such as ASSRM website (assrm.edu.in). addition to the Nesternship, and the big four (Deloitte, KPMG, EY, PWC), other audit firms (BDO, Curriculum Applicants will be shortlisted soft skills training, Nestlé India Grant Thornton), USCPA firms (Citrin Cooperman, Eisner Amper), based on merit. The final date to is also committed to running a US-based multinational corporations(MNCs) (PepsiCo, Genpact, Log on to apply would be announced as CV Clinic for the interns to help Accenture) and Indian MNCs, who have presence in the US (Tata http://www.cbseacademic.nic.in/ soon as UGC Guidelines are them enhance their Motors) . fb/training.html to register now; released forAdmissions 2020-21. employability. Talking about the CPA course, Vinod Gupta, Founder – VG Learning, registrations for AR closes on 20 said, “A certification in USCPA Programme opens a wide array of July 2020 Nestlé India launches 1000 LSAT—India announces an opportunities in Assurance Services, Forensic Accounting, The Central Board of Secondary “Nesternship”, an additional online test date International Accounting, Internal and External Auditing, Tax and Education (CBSE), and internship program of 26 July Financial Planning, Consulting Services, and Forensic Accounting. Facebook have launched a With worldwide recognition, a USCPA professional can attract the curriculum on Digital Safety & The registrations for the Reopens registration from 07 best opportunity in any big MNC with an average salary that is 30- Online Well-being and internship programme will begin July to 10 July to allow law 40% more than any other accounting and finance professionals. The Augmented Reality (AR) for on 8 July 2020 and will be aspirants to sign up scope for USCPA is increasing with a heavy influx of foreign secondary school students. communicated through various L S AT — I n d i a w o u l d b e companies coming to India and Indian companies going abroad. This The Augmented Reality social media channels such as administered on an additional has opened up avenues especially for those with knowledge of foreign curriculum will be open to LinkedIn, Facebook and day – July 26 as well, for the accounting principles and standards.” teachers affiliated to CBSE board Instagram as well as Internshala candidates impacted by the in the pilot phase and will be website. The registrations will postponement or cancellation of Caltech CTME and Simplilearn announce available to students in the remain open for 3 days and any various law entrance exams in online Post Graduate Program in Cloud succeeding phase. In the first student irrespective of their the country. The registration Computing phase, the AR curriculum will be field/stream can apply for the date has also been reopened available to 10,000 teachers and internship. The shortlisting will from 7 July 12:00 noon to 11.59 Caltech CTME (Center for Technology and Management Education) 30,000 students in the second be carried, keeping in mind pm on 10 July to provide announced its collaboration with Simplilearn, to offer a specialized phase. As seats are limited, various parameters, including students another opportunity to Post Graduate Program (PGP) in Cloud Computing. The learning teachers are urged to register high school marks, graduation sign up for the first online program, which comprises 300+ hours of study, prepares early. score, and other elements such as LSAT—India test. professionals for a career as a Cloud Architect, Cloud Consultant, or Building healthy digital habits: previous experience/ internships, The online LSAT—India exam Cloud Engineer. Upon successful completion of the program, learners The curriculum on Digital Safety if applicable. will still be administered will receive a Caltech CTME Post Graduate certificate. This program and Online Well-being will Nestlé India has launched a starting 19 July, using the follows our recently launched and already popular Post Graduate include the following virtual internship programme, remote proctored online test Program in DevOps. These programs offer learners around the globe components. “Nesternship”. The programme delivery system to allow access to world-class trainers and the work-ready tools and methods · Facebook's Get Digital addresses applications from candidates to test from the safety needed in today's professional world. program designed to provide tips Graduates in the Final Year of any and comfort of their homes. The The program enables learners to master the software architecture, and resources to address mental discipline and Post-Graduates delivery will now be in 3 slots design, and implementation principles required for cloud computing. health challenges during physical and will focus on upskilling and over 5 days, with an additional During the 12-month program, learners will build the core skill sets isolation with dedicated sections enabling the interns to thrive in day of 26 July added for new law needed for designing, planning, and scaling cloud implementation on on Youth, Parents & Caregivers workplaces, that they join, at a aspirants. the three top cloud platform providers. and Educators. later date. · Facebook's digital The interested applicants will be Registrations for StartNXT Ramaiah in association with SGU Grenada to offer literacy and citizenship program able to apply through Internshala, Ideathon will open from dual medical qualifications, facilitate international – We Think Digital designed to India's largest internship and July 6 till August 31, 2020 mobility for enrolling physicians support teachers, parents and online training platform. students to make better use of Alternatively, the applicant can Bengaluru-based startup Ken42, Bengaluru-based Ramaiah Group of Institutions under a partnership online tools while staying safe in also refer to social media handles an edtech platform, has with St George's University Grenada (SGU) is offering medical the online space of Nestlé India and send their announced the launch of their aspirants in India an educational pathway to practice medicine in · Instagram Toolkit for applications. The programme annual StartNXT Ideathon India, the US, or UK. Teens and Parents, developed in will roll out virtual internship programme for college and Ramaiah will permit the candidates to begin their journey closer home collaboration with The Jed opportunities to 1000 young university students across the at its campus where they can build strong relationships with other Foundation and YLAC (Young talents across diverse functions country. Backed by Turbostart, students in their cohort before transferring abroad collectively as a Leaders for Active Citizenship), and education backgrounds over Ken42 has kickstarted this near-knit institution inside the 2nd year (12 months.) To facilitate the to encourage youth to be mindful the next four months. The programme to facilitate aspirants' transition to studying abroad, SGU will provide some of the of how time spent online impacts programme will go live on 1st innovation and entrepreneurship visitor lectures at Ramaiah all through the first 12 months. emotional wellbeing August 2020 and will continue in India, where the Top 3 The new pathway offers a good possibility for aspiring physicians to The program for CBSE would be for four months, with upskilling winners will receive funding go into a global medical profession with MD diploma beginning in implemented in partnership with 250 interns every month till end upto INR 2 crores each, along September 2020. S V. C O D i g i t a l L e a r n i n g of November. with internship opportunities The new pathway provides 10+2 graduates the opportunity to obtain a Platform Private Limited. The Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and with leading startups and firms. Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree that is recognized by the Medical curriculum has been designed to Managing Director, Nestlé India Candidates will also receive Council of India, through a 5-year pathway. take beginners with no prior said, “Through this internship, we one-on-one mentorship by Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree awarded by SGU with successful knowledge of coding or AR would be offering youngsters an industry stalwarts. completion of the course and a Bachelor's degree in Medical Sciences through a learning path that helps opportunity to develop their skills Through the Ideathon with Honors from Northumbria University on successfully them develop their first AR and they will be paid a stipend and programme, Ken42 aims to completing their third year and meeting all eligibility criteria, and a effect. To drive engagement, each awarded a certificate on provide a solid impetus to all Certificate in Higher Education in Medical Sciences from Ramaiah module also has an 'Ask Me successful completion of the students- the company has University of Applied Sciences Anything' session hosted by project. We will also have young announced that it will be giving Facebook team or industry mentors for our interns within the away up to INR 10 lakh each in COMED K and UniGAUGE Exam 2020 experts to resolve queries. organisation to ensure a smooth prize money to the runners-up as rescheduled, will be held on July 25 Admissions to B.Sc. (Hons.) experience and genuine learning. well. Sports Science Program 2020-21 This initiative is a part of our The Ideathon will be conducted COMEDK and Uni-GAUGE exam for engineering admissions has Academy of Sports Sciences Global Youth Initiative, 'Nestlé in association with the been rescheduled. The exam will now be held on Saturday, the 25th of Research & Management Needs Youth', where we have Federation of Indian Chambers July 2020.The exam will be held in 2 shifts: Shift 1 from 9:00 AM to (ASSRM)—A Constituent been focusing on three areas: of Commerce and Industry 12 Noon and Shift 2 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The candidates are Institute of Delhi Pharmaceutical Employment & Employability, (FICCI) with support from required to refer to the COMEDK website www.comedk.org and Sciences Research & where we have reached over multiple corporate giants. UniGAUGE website www.unigauge.com for all updates. Management) is inviting 30,000 youth in India these past 4 The first leg of the programme applications from students who years through various begins with identifying problem are keen to contribute in the programmes; Agripreneurship, statements and goes on to enable Sports sector. The three year full- where we have trained and candidates to deliver integrated time Under-Graduate enabled many young dairy business plans to achieve Programme, B.Sc. (Hons.) farmers and coffee farmers; tangible outcomes by applying Sports Science aims to address innovation in ways that add the significant talent gap in the Sports sector. This unique broad- based programme of study

16 Curriculum July 16, 2020 Offbeat MBD Group celebrates 75th birth anniversary of its HEIs need to keep fulfillment of SDGs, founder, Ashok Malhotra role of teachers in mind in delivery rethink post covid pandemic: UGC Ashok Kumar Malhotra. the MBD Group family and its pandemic, medical insurance has founder of the MBD Group, Vice-Chairmanpromoters. This year, it's the 75th been almost doubled for them. We one of the biggest school birth anniversary of their also implemented the work-from- Asserting that future education will be a blended education where institutes education book publishers in Founding Father and the most home strategy to safeguard the will be focused on delivering content with quality, Dr. Bhushan the country will remain an awaited annual event to celebrate workforce during this pandemic,” Patwardhan, Vice-Chairman, UGC, has called upon these HEIs to also inspiring story for generations the vision and values of the said Smt. Satish Bala Malhotra, focus on achieving sustainable goals which is important for our existence. together. His indomitable spirit Group's Founder has gone virtual Chairperson MBD Group. He was speaking during a webinar organized by IIHMR University, Jaipur in face of adversity made him owing to the Corona Virus The Group started with in association with Heartfulness Institute, India (HFI) and UN Global grow his entrepreneurial pandemic. Like him, displaying publishing and have diversified Compact Network India (UNGCN) on 'Heartful Leadership: Transforming venture from a single book- the indomitable spirit and never- into E-Learning, M-Learning, Education and Supporting Sustainability' on June 22. selling unit to one of India's say-die attitude MBDians came Skill Development, Eco-friendly Dr. Patwardhan referred to ancient system of education and said that the largest edutainment together online to commemorate Notebooks, Paper visionaries had identified the ways of transforming education way back. conglomerates. the MBD Group Founder's Day. Manufacturing, ICT “Due to CVID-19, people are in adaptive mode of change. The education Honoured with the “Publishing “Malhotra Ji was a visionary who Infrastructure, Hospitality, Real system in India has adopted and accepted the webinars so fast, which is Icon Award” at International always believed in making Estate and Mall Development and remarkable but we should not make our education system automatic as Publishers Congress 2018 difference in the lives of the Management. technology cannot replace teachers,” he added. amongst other innumerable people by bringing positive Brave is not the one who does not Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU speaking on the occasion recognitions, every year July changes. Keeping in mind the experience fear. Courageous is 10 (his birth anniversary) welfare of MBDians during the the one who acts selflessly in spite said, “COVID -19 enabled us to face the practical aspects of education remains a special ocassion for of the risks involved. MBD Group applauded the recipients of MBD system in India.” She expressed optimism that within coming two months, Braveheart awards and acknowledged the extraordinary Higher education institutes in India would be ready with technical courage displayed by them. infrastructure, capacity building of teachers and faculty staff, evaluate cost effective online platforms where education can be imparted, assessment and evaluation system should be streamlined, placement and internship opportunities should be identified, national and international collaboration Throwing light on the success of should be made for students and counseling and mental health session the Group, Monica Malhotra should be organized to culturally engage students. Katha releases book 'The Tale of Kandhari, Managing Director Dr. Pankaj Gupta, President, IIHMR University, Jaipur in his comments Makkhilal' on houseflies for children said, “Team work has played an observed , “We need to restrategize our existing education system and look important role in all our of more adaptive way of educating the future generation. The new online successful endeavours. 'MBD system has increased the screen time of students and faculties both, which Bravehearts' awards is presented might hamper their mental health in near future. So I am suggesting we to MBDians who displayed should think of a way of adopting heartful leadership to treat students as we extraordinary courage in the line treat our son or daughter. This will help students to get better guidance for of duty.” their future.” The beautiful thing about Several Indian and International thought leaders, academicians, scholars, education is that no one can take it and media professionals attended the webinar. Among those who partici- away from you. And the more you pated include Dr. H. Chaturvedi, Director, Birla Institute (BIMTECH) and share it, the more you have of it, Alternate President, EPSI, Dr. D.P. Goyal, Director, IIM, Shillong, Dr. the MBD Group, taking forward Sandeep Sancheti, Vice Chancellor, SRM Institute, Chennai, Dr. this tradition instituted by Group's Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli, Dr. Elizabeth, Editor in Founder, “We truly believe in Chief, Trainer & Curriculum Development, Heartfulness Institute,Mr. effecting change through Kamal Singh, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network, India. Given the very high incidence of diseases including diarrhoea education and empowerment. Under AtmaNirbhar Bharat, for PM E- because of poor hygiene particularly the easy spread of infections This year we presented by houseflies, educating about the whole issue and creating scholarships to over 100 students Vidya,NCERT is also expected to prepare content awareness on simple remedies makes a lot of sense for India where encouraging them in their pursuit for Class 1 – 12 for SWAYAM PRABHA channels an estimated 300 children die from diarrhoea alone every day.And, of academic excellence.” said (1 class 1 channel) and start the channels by August even if it finds a mention in school curriculum, it is either rare or Sonica Malhotra Kandhari, Joint this year. peripheral. Katha, a Delhi-based non-profit, which is majorly in Managing Director MBD Group. publication of children literature, has on its own made an attempt to close this gap and published an illustrated poem book by the title of 'The Tale of Makkhilal' to encourage young readers to think about hygiene, role models, the power of one and a lot more. WE INVITE YOU TO BECOME PART OF The poem, written by Geeta Dharmarajan, noted author and founder of Katha, talks about common mistakes in maintaining hygiene and its hazardous consequences along with simple INDIA'S EDUCATION STORY! remedies in the form of a poem. The illustrations Charbak Dipta, add to poetic delight and generating excitement among the kids to read on. What happens when a fly becomes the god of a village? Terrible things, you'd imagine. But one person in the village sees through the fly's wicked ploy. Would she be able to save the village? You can advertise in curriculum magazine or and also put an With focus on a housefly, which is an active agent of the spread of advertorial highlighting your company/services/campus/ products etc. many diseases and health problems among people in India, the This will greatly support your marketing effort and enhance your book comes with additional information regarding houseflies and visibility and recall value with your current and potential clients the diseases spread by them as well as suggestions on how one can take care of themselves against the diseases. Like every Katha book, it has a special section containing TADAA; some interest- ing, reflective exercises that encourage the kids to think, ask, discuss, act, and achieve. Geeta Dharmarajan while talking about the need of book said, OUR FOCUS “This book is a call to action for students,teachers, parents, and everyone else, who cares about the fact that so many children lose their lives to a disease that can be prevented. It talks about ways to safeguard children from fly-borne diseases which is not difficult. This book gives some simple and easy tips to make cleanliness a — We cover latest news, product launches, current events and trends habit.” — News features, Guest Articles, Expert columns — Career counselling, Skill India, Entrepreneurships — School/College /university events Priced at Rs 195 'The Tale of Makkhilal' is available in English at — Achievements by students, faculty, institutions (https://books.katha.org/product/the-tale-of-makkhilal/) and — Education Technology — Study Abroad Hindi (https://books.katha.org/product/makkhilal-ki-mahima/ ). An e-version of the title can also be purchased on Amazon — Institution/people profiles Kindle(Rs. 99).