Curriculum Mag Oct 2020

www.curriculum-magazine.com RNI No. UTTENG/2010/37634 Vol 10 No 12 THE INDIA EDUCATION LANDSCAPE UPDATE magazine October 16 2020 IN BRIEF Delayed 2020-21 Academic session to begin Kerala first to go on November 1, for engineering revised to Dec1 digital in public education Kerala has become the first The academic session 2020- first constituted in April this year. SOP/Guidelines for reopening State to have high-tech 21, which normally begins The committee had in view of the of schools issued classrooms and high-tech lab in July/August every year Covid-19 pandemic situation and projects in all its public for higher education in India, may government mandatory closures Coming in two parts, health & safety and academic transaction aspect, the schools. These were begin from November 1 this year prepared the first set of guidelines SOP/Guidelines for schools are advisory in nature and in accordance with implemented in the State as as per the latest UGC Guidelines on April 29, which were again school reopening option given in Unlock 5.0. Schools have been allowed part of the Public Education that were released on September revised on July 6 as per the to reopen in graded manner from Oct 15 Rejuvenation Mission. Over 22. prevalent pandemic situation. The Government (Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry 3.74 lakh digital equipments However, according to a new Though the number of infection of Education has issued SOP/Guidelines for reopening of schools on were distributed in 16,027 notification by AICTE, the new cases has not abated and are in fact October 5 after in the 'Unlock 5.0' announced on September 30, MHA had schools for the smart session for the engineering are still rising along with allowed governments may take a decision in respect of reopening of classroom project. courses will begin from fatalities, yet under the unlocks schools and coaching institutions after 15.10.2020 in a graded manner in In the first phase, 45,000 high- December 1 and the last date of announced by the Ministry of consultation with the respective schools/institutions management and tech classrooms for classes 8 to admission to first year engineer- Home Affairs of the Govt of India, based on local situation. 12 were readied in 4,752 ing courses has been extended till have steadily opened up the Based on the prevailing instructions of Ministry of Home Affairs and government and aided high November 30. economic and other activities as Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with regard to health and safety schools and higher secondary Both the higher education part of a globally evolving and protocols, the guidelines for schools reopening maybe implemented by schools. The initiative was national regulators—University followed response to disruption of adopting/adapting in accordance with the local situation in all states/UTs, launched on January 21, 2018. Grants Commission (UGC) and life. Education institutions are according to a statement released by the union ministry of Education. High-tech labs were started in All India Council for Technical among the last category being These guidelines are advisory in nature. States &UTs may use these in the 11,275 primary and upper Education (AICTE), have reopened under this response manner deemed fit to prepare their own guidelines. primary schools for classes 1 directed all universities and strategy. to 7. The programme was colleges in India to adopt and “Merit/ entrance based admis- Highlights on P3,7 kicked on July 5 last year. implement the new set of sions to the first year programmes The high-tech classroom guidelines for the first year of for the session 2020-21 be project is being implemented undergraduate courses and post- completed by the end of October by Kerala Infrastructure and graduate courses that include 2020. The last date for admissions Technology for Education completion of admission process to fill up the remaining vacant (KITE) with financial by the end of October month. It seats shall be 30.11.2020,” say the assistance from Kerala may be mentioned that India has Guidelines. As per the UGC Infrastructure and Technology the third largest higher education Guidelines, commencement of for Education (KIIFB). MP system in the world with over fresh batches (first semester/first and MLA funds besides that of 1000 universities and close to year) will begin from November 1 local self-government 52000 colleges with 37.4 million and semester exams will be held institutions were also utilised students recorded last year (2019) between March 8 and 26, 2021. for set up the classrooms, and has been closed down after The even semester will begin in expected to be a significant being disrupted by covid-19 the first week of April (2021) and milestone in the area of pandemic sinceApril this year. exams for the semester will be education. The revised “UGC Guidelines on held between August 9 & 21. The Academic Calendar for the First new academic session will begin TN reduces age limit to 40 Year of Under-Graduate and Post- by end of August. “The modes of Graduate Students of the for elementary teachers Universities for the Session 2020- teaching, conduct of examina- 21 in View of COVID-19 tions, importance of physical & In a significant development, Pandemic” are being recom- social distancing etc. shall remain the Tamil Nadu government mended by the expert committee unchanged and shall remain has reduced the age limit to 40 for direct appointment of teachers in the elementary educational service.This will be applicable for appointing WB-aided Improving School Education project STARS, block educational officers, headmasters of primary and worth Rs. 5718 Cr, approved middle school, graduate teacher, secondary grade teacher, and pre-vocational instructor. Earlier, the Implementation of the and Literacy, MOE. implementing, evaluating and of funds to these outcomes. maximum age for direct Strengthening Teaching-Learning The project covers 6 States improving interventions with direct The STARS Project has two major appointment was 56. and Results for States (STARS) namely Himachal Pradesh, linkages to improved education components: “Notwithstanding anything project with a total project cost of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya outcomes and school to work 1) At the national level, the project contained in sub-section (8) of Rs 5718 crore with the financial Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha. The transition strategies for improved envisages the following interventions Section 20 of the Tamil Nadu support of World Bank amounting identified States will be labour market outcomes. The overall which will benefit all states and UTs: Government Servants to US $ 500 million (approximately supported tor various focus and components of the STARS To strengthen MOE's national data (Conditions of Services) Act, Rs. 3700 crore) has been approved interventions for improving the project are aligned with the systems to capture robust and authentic 2016, no person shall be by the union cabinet on Oct 14. quality of education. Besides this objectives of National Education data on retention, transition and eligible for appointment by STARS project would be project, it is also envisaged to Policy (NEP) 2020 of Quality Based completion rates of students. direct recruitment to any of the implemented as a new Centrally implement a similar ADB funded Learning Outcomes. To support MOE in improving states categories specified in these Sponsored Scheme under project in 5 states namely The Project envisions improving the PGI scores by incentivizing states rules, if he has completed 40 Department of School Education Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, overall monitoring and measurement governance reform agenda through years of age, on the first July and Literacy, Ministry of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and activities in the Indian School SIG (State Incentive Grants). of the year in which the Education. (MOE) and involves Assam. All states will partner Education System through To support the strengthening of vacancy is notified,” the GO setting up and support to the with one other state for sharing interventions in selected states. The learning assessment systems. said. Accordingly, every National Assessment Centre, their experiences and best project shifts focus from the person appointed to any PARAKH as an independent and practices. provision of inputs and maintaining Contd on P3 category by direct recruitment autonomous institution under The STARS project seeks to of outputs to actual outcomes by should be from the date on Department of School Education support the states in developing, linking the receipt and disbursement

2 Curriculum October 16, 2020 News Updates NCERT textbooks to be made available shows that many schools in the Central Indian state lack basic amenities Online refresher course in sign language for students such as drinking water facility. As many as 90,912 schools are without taps and 99,776 schools have on Environmental The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) unprotected wells.About 82.86% of all such schools don't have other safe and the National Council of Educational Research and Training water source, as per the report. Science for teachers (NCERT) have signed a memorandum of understanding to make However, the report shows that progress has been made in providing NCERT textbooks available in ISL in digital format for hearing- toilet facilities in schools even though 1,208 schools are without toilets. Jamia Millia Islamia has impaired students. In 3,654 schools, there are no functional toilets for boys and none for girls launched an online refresher In a statement, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, under in 2,760 schools, the report said. course on Environmental Science which the ISLRTC functions, said Social Justice Minister The report also pointed out that half of these schools, don't have a for teachers of colleges and Thaawarchand Gehlot termed the MoU a “historic step” as hearing- separate room for principal, 1,582 schools are existing without a building universities. The programme was impaired students will be able to access educational resources in ISL. and 13,759 schools have no boundary walls. jointly run by varsity's Human “After this MoU, NCERT educational books and materials will be The infrastructural gaps also exist in the eight aspirational districts in the Resource Development Centre available in Indian Sign Language which is same all over the country. state identified by the National Institution for Transforming India (Niti) (HRDC) and Department of This means all hearing impaired students of India, whether from the Aayog. They include Barwani, Chhatarpur, Damoh, Khandwa, Rajgarh, Geography. Around 100 faculty east or the west or the north or the south, will read NCERT books in a Vidisha, Singrauli and Guna, according to a letter written to collectors of members of different colleges single language i.e. Indian Sign Language,” the statement said. these districts by commissioner, Rajya Shiksha Kendra, Lokesh Kumar and universities including Jamia NCERT textbooks, teachers handbooks and other materials for Class Jatav. are participating in the course I-XII of all subjects in Hindi and English medium would be converted Jatav, in the letter, said, “Infrastructural gaps vis-à-vis toilets (boys/girls) being organised on Google Meet. into ISL in digital format, it said. and drinking water, as reflected in U-DISE 2019-20, is a matter of Addressing the inaugural class, concern as it suggests carelessness and indifferent attitude towards the VC Najma Akhtar said, “The Rs 5,700 crore to the school education work. Please get the data updated by identifying the schools with nature of the first refresher infrastructural gaps and take action against assistant and junior engineers course on environmental sector for C19 mitigation concerned, identified for carelessness and indifferent attitude.” science/ education is The state government reduced the budget of school education department multidisciplinary. The The union government has allocated over Rs 5,700 crore to the school by Rs 1,266 crore in this financial year citing Covid-19 pandemic. interdisciplinary approach is education sector to “mitigate the effects of Covid-19”, the Ministry of understood to be a viable option Education said in recently concluded Parliament session. Odisha Govt launches Radio Pathshala left to address the contemporary While the major chunk has been allocated for composite school grants challenges faced by the society.” — meant for safe school operations, sanitisation, essentials like program for students upto class 8 alcohol sanitisers, cleaning materials and thermal screening facilities Coaching centres with 20 — the rest is meant for improving online education. In view of the prevailing pandemic, Odisha Government in Sep launched or more students need Replying to a question in Parliament on “whether sufficient budgetary Radio Pathshala program for students upto class 8. The program is registration in Delhi provision has been made in the view of Covid-19 in the current broadcast from All India Radio stations in the state for 15 minutes financial year”, the ministry said: “To mitigate the effect of Covid-19, daily.In Odisha, the School and Mass Education department has turned to The Delhi government is in the Department of School Education and Literacy have allocated Rs All India Radio as an effective medium for learning for about 60 lakh process of formulating a policy 818.17 crore to promote online learning through digital initiatives and students in the government and aided schools across the state. More than for regulation of private coaching Rs 267.86 crore for online teacher training to ensure continuous ten Akshvani Kendras in the state carry the classes between 10 to 1015 centres functioning in the capital professional development of teachers.” hours daily from Monday to Friday. and frame guidelines with respect The ministry has also allocated Rs 304.05 crore for the training of The audio of the program is available on the online DIKSHA platform to basic facilities, fee and safety members of School Management Committees/School Management for the students for whom schools have been kept out of bounds since measures, according to officials. and Development Committees to make them aware of the Covid-19 March this year. Noting that private coaching situation, and to create awareness among students and parents. centres are running a parallel Apart from this, Rs 153.68 crore has been allocated for media and Ivey Publishing accepts Astro-Vision's education system and are still out community mobilisation, Rs 51.03 crore for safety and security at of the ambit of any regulation and schools in accordance with the Covid-19 guidelines, and Rs 417.44 case study running without any statutory crore for orientation of teachers on safety and security. compliances leading to serious A major chunk of the budget — Rs 3,771.82 crore — has been Co-authored by its MD Arjun Ravindran with Arjun, Prof. Joshy Joseph hazards to students, the govern- allocated under composite school grants, which include safe school contributed to this piece as well. He is an Associate Professor, Marketing ment has asked institutes with operations and sanitisation. Management with Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode enrolment of more than 20 In this year's budget, the government had allocated a total of Rs 59,845 Astro-Vision's business case study, “Astro-Vision FutureTech: students to register themselves crore for the Department of School Education for the year 2020-21. Envisioning The Future”, co-authored by Arjun Ravindran, Managing with the Directorate of Education Director, Astro-Vision, has been accepted for publication by the (DoE). D2L eyes role in line with the National prestigious Ivey Publishing, a unit of Ivey Business School at Western The government also proposes to University, Canada. Ivey Publishing is a world leader in providing collect the data of such institutes Education Policy 2020 business case studies with a global perspective across the globe. and details of their infrastructure, Commenting on the announcement, Arjun Ravindran, Managing land area, basic facilities, fee The National Education Policy of India, that was revised and proposed Director, Astro-Vision said, “Getting our case-study accepted by Ivey structure, safety standards etc. by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July this year, recognises the Publishing is an extremely proud moment for not just me but everyone importance of leveraging the advantages of technology while associated with the company in different capacities. The case study Online classes for MBBS acknowledging its potential risks and dangers. This is where will be used in classroom teaching by leading business schools across students valid: National advanced, state-of-the-art learning management systems like D2L's the globe and it speaks volumes about the strength of our organisation Medical Commission Brightspace LMS can step in. and adds-up to our legacy. This will not only give us global While schools and colleges were forced to resort to video conferencing recognition but will enable young entrepreneurs- in-making to The online theory classes for classes and content distribution via social networking apps amidst the understand challenges while running a business.” MBBS students will continue as coronavirus pandemic, in the long run, educational institutions need The company started its operations in 1984, with a unique per National Medical more robust, cyber-safe blended learning tools that facilitate flexible combination of astrology and IT faculties operating in harmony. Commission's circular. This was teaching and learning in classrooms and drive learning outcomes. Clickastro has been the flag bearer of Vedic astrology knowledge not clarified by the National Even in the physical classroom, an LMS can offer an advantage as it just in India but around the globe. In the past three decades, Clickastro Medical Commission stating provides supplemental materials for classroom-based learning and has seen the drastic changes in technology, culture and lifestyles, and that in view of COVID-19 extra resources to teachers and students alike in a digitally secure is still adapting to maintain its coveted status in the field of digital pandemic, online classes are environment. astrology services. valid and are approved for “In line with the announcement of the National Education Policy this teaching during the current year, planning for a robust elearning platform not only helps ensure TN reduces age limit to 40 for pandemic situation. delivery of student-centric education online for the future but it also A release from National Medical enables institutions to easily scale beyond their state borders, reaching elementary teachers Commission to Dean/ Principal out to even more students without having to burden the faculty. of All Medical Furthermore, the Brightspace LMS complies 100% with the norms In a significant development, the Tamil Nadu government has reduced Colleges/Institutions stated: and parameters prescribed by the UGC for Higher Education the age limit to 40 for direct appointment of teachers in the elementary “Attention of National Medical Institutions making it one of the most reliable and trusted LMS in the educational service.This will be applicable for appointing block Commission has been drawn to Indian Subcontinent and SAARC countries,” shared Business educational officers, headmasters of primary and middle school, some media reports that online Director for SouthAsia at D2L, Dr Prem Das Maheshwari. graduate teacher, secondary grade teacher, and pre-vocational instructor. classes for teaching of MBBS Earlier, the maximum age for direct appointment was 56. curriculum were not approved MP lacks on WASH in schools “Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-section (8) of Section 20 of by erstwhile MCI. In this regard, the Tamil Nadu Government Servants (Conditions of Services) Act, it is clarified that in view of Over 90% of government primary and middle schools in Madhya 2016, no person shall be eligible for appointment by direct recruitment to Pandemic COVID-19 the Pradesh do not have drinking water taps and four out of every ten any of the categories specified in these rules, if he has completed 40 years Medical Colleges/Institutions in schools are without electricity and a hand wash facility, according to of age, on the first July of the year in which the vacancy is notified,” the India are conducting online unified district information system for education (UDISE) plus report. GO said. Accordingly, every person appointed to any category by direct theory classes for MBBS The report provides data of 99,987 schools as on July 18, 2020 and recruitment should be from the date on which he joins duty and will be on students. Online classes are probation for two years on duty. valid and were approved for Tamil Nadu Teachers' Association president P K Ilamaran said, “About teaching during the current 35,000 TET qualified teaching aspirants, who have crossed 40 years of Pandemic COVID-19 only. Such age, will be deprived of teaching jobs if it is implemented.” online theory classes are required to be supplemented by

Curriculum October 16, 2020 3 News Reports Contd from P1 Highlights of the Sop/Guidelines by Delayed 2020-21 Academic session from Nov/Dec... Ministry of Education mandatory in that respect, “note reopening. as a special case. To be crystal Part I: Health and safety aspects the Guidelines, which will be According to Aditya Berlia, Co- clear, the entire fees including all subjected to local regulations if founder & Pro-Chancellor, charges be refunded in totality 1. Arrange and implement for thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all any on pandemic. Apeejay Stya University, (Zero Cancellation charges) on areas, furniture, equipment, stationery, storage places, water tanks, In order to make up for the lost Gurgaon, safety of students and account of cancellation/ migration kitchens, canteen, washrooms, laboratories, libraries, etc. on school time, the guidelines have staff is of paramount importance up to 30.11.2020. Thereafter, on campus and ensure air flow in indoor space. suggested curtailing the breaks/ and cannot be compromised. cancellation/ withdrawal of vacations so that this batch of “While we welcome UGC's admissions up to 31.12.2020, the 2. Schools to form Task Teams such as, Emergency Care students would get their final guidelines on opening entire fee collected from a student Support/Response Team, General Support Team for all stakeholders, results for award of degree Universities in November, we will be refunded in full after deduction Commodity Support Team, Hygiene Inspection Team, etc. with timely. It has also told HEIs to devise a method for the continu- of not more than Rs.1000/- as earmarked responsibilities will be helpful. follow a 6-day week pattern for ous flow of learning for our processing fee.” the academic session 2020-21 students without compromising For research scholars, PhD 3. Schools may be encouraged to make their own SOPs based on the and 2021-2022 to compensate their well-being. We have been fellows, and postgraduate students guidelines issued by States/UTs for the following, keeping in view the the loss for this batch of students. running virtual full classes in science and technology streams safety and physical/social distancing norms, and ensuring that the While thinking about any college including exams as per timetable where laboratory or experimental notices/posters/messages/communication to parents in this regard are or university in India, the first since the lockdown. Once the works is required, the higher prominently displayed/disseminated. thing that comes to mind is the session begins in full swing, we education institutes can open from size of campus crowd as would decide to opt for a blended October 15 as per the latest unlock 4. Physical distancing / social distancing to be ensured while planning the typically the student enrolment teaching-learning approach and guidelines. A large section of seating plan, functions and events to be avoided, staggering of entry and runs into thousands, much more rigorous virtual classes,” he says. students are in favor of reopening exits timings and points of schools, staggered time tables. than the busiest railway station in Like most private universities and as the stress of home stay and the country. And, to maintain institutions his university had online classes are tiring and 5. All students and staff to arrive at school wearing a face cover/mask and social distancing looks a hard opened the admission process and mundane. “We college students are continue wearing it all through, especially when in class, or doing any order to follow and even if made provisional admissions and mature enough to maintain social activity in groups, such as eating in the mess, working in the laboratories sporadic infections are reported, student orientation programme for distancing, so please reopen or reading in the libraries. it will mean frequent campus this academic year. But admis- colleges and stop wasting our closures to carry out sanitization sions will be open throughout time,” said one student. 6. Display Signages and markings for enforcing physical/social and necessary quarantines. In October. With clamor and approval growing distancing and safety protocols at adequate places. States/UTs should that case, HEIs as a matter of The UGC Guidelines have also for reopening of higher education, take the consent of parents/guardians before their child/ward begins protocol will need to watch out taken a clear view of fee deposit it is certainly going to be a attending schools. Students willing to study from home with the consent and mandatorily tie up with a refunds on account of cancellation herculean task of misses and hits of the parents may be allowed to do so. medical facility for testing and and migration and as a special case for which the entire landscape of other procedures. Like this there this year made the refunds in full. “ HEIs has to prepare. In the end 7. Sensitize students, parents, teachers, community members and hostel could be many protocols and In order to avoid financial resilience, science and human staff on COVID-19 related challenges and their role to be conducted norms that will need to be in hardship being faced by the spirit has to prevail as campuses based upon guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of place when the campuses reopen. parents due to lockdown and will spring back to life. Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with all the At the same time, the 'successful' related factors, full refund of fees stakeholders. conduct of JEE/NEET and other be made on account of all (Please read the New AICTE examinations has given rise to cancellation of admissions/ Notification for actual dates. The 8. Plan for academic calendar changes for all classes, particularly in optimism and universities are migration of students, up to story was written prior to relation to breaks and exams.Ensure all students have access to preparing for the change and 30.11.2020, for this very session notification) prescribed textbooks before school reopens. Contd from P1 as Strengthening planning and 9. Ensure availability in school or at contactable distance full-time management capacities for trained health care attendant/nurse/doctor and counsellor to take care of World Bank Aided STARS project.... decentralized management by physical and mental health of the students. Regular health check-up of training of BRCs and CRCs, students and teachers may be organized. To support MOE's efforts to Learning Strengthened school management establish a National Assessment Improving Learning Assessment by training of Head Teachers and 10. Adequate information should be collected from students, parents and Center (PARAKH). Among the Systems Principals for improved education teachers upon the health status. From local administration: About the tasks of such a center would be to Strengthening classroom service delivery. State and district helplines and the nearest COVID Centre and other leverage the experiences of states instruction and remediation contact details for dealing with emergency. selected for the operation by through teacher development and collecting, curating and sharing school leadership 11. Flexible attendance and sick leave policies may be developed and these experiences with other Governance and Decentralized implemented to encourage students and staff to stay at home when sick. states through online portals (e.g. Management for Improved Shagun and DIKSHA), social and Service Delivery. 12. Actions to be as per the Protocol defined in case of detection of a other media engagement, S t r e n g t h e n i n g Vo c a t i o n a l suspected case of COVID-19. technical workshops, state visits education in schools through and conferences. mainstreaming, career guidance 13. Focus on the most vulnerable students (homeless/migrated students, Further, the STARS project and counselling, internships and students with disabilities, and students directly affected by Covid-19 includes a Contingency coverage of out of school through a family death or hospitalization) to prioritize their needs. Emergency Response children. Ensure provision of assistive devices and learning content as per the Component (CERC) under the The STARS project also aims to needs of the CwSN. National Component which focus on initiatives of PM e- would enable it to be more Vidya, Foundational Literacy and 14. To meet the nutritional requirements of children and safeguard their responsive to any natural, man- Numeracy Mission and National immunity during the COVID-19 outbreak, States / UTs were advised to made and health disasters. It will Curricular and Pedagogical provide hot cooked Mid-Day Meal or its equivalent Food Security help the government respond to Framework for Early Childhood Allowance to eligible children during closure of schools and summer situations leading to loss of Care and Education as part of the vacations. Adequate focus on food safety, health, and hygiene along with learning such as school Atmanirbhar BharatAbhiyan. physical/social distancing. closures/infrastructure damage, Some of the measurable outcomes inadequate facilities and use of the project are Increase in In pic: Students of JN AEIR College, Dimapur during their Plog Run technology for facilitating remote students achieving minimum learning etc. The CERC proficiency in grade 3 language in component would facilitate the selected states, Improvement in rapid re-categorization of secondary school completion rate, financing and the utilization of Improvement in governance streamlined financing request index scores, Strengthened procedures. learning assessment systems, 2) At the State level, the Partnerships developed to project envisages: facilitate cross-learning between Strengthening Early Childhood states, and improvement in the Education and Foundational State level service delivery such

4 Curriculum October 16, 2020 Lead News RTE Forum and other CSOs start World Mental Health Day: #BacktoSchool Campaign for girls at risk Several web platforms and mental health expert Releases a 'National Factsheet: Building Back Better: Gender- responsive strate- gies to address the impact of COVID- 19 on girls' organizations launch special services Among the Covid-19 pandemic during emergencies; Covid Pandemic makes online counseling & advice imperative. Among a affected children, round 320 number of initiatives launched on World Mental Health Day in India, we million are in India according to Hire and train more bring to you briefs on resource toolkit release from YourDost, Mann Talks UNESCO. And it is estimated from Shantilal Shanghvi Foundation and BHIS-Fortis Hospital program on that as many as 20 million female teachers to mental health. secondary school-aged girls around the world may never promote increased girls' YourDost releases Resources Toolkit on emotional wellness return to the classroom. Increased rates of poverty, enrolment and retention; YourDOST, an online counseling and emotional wellness and mental health household responsibilities, platform, on the eve of World Mental Health Day on October 10, has released child labour, and teenage Scale up and expand a mental health toolkit for Working professionals to help HR leaders and pregnancy could be the major organisations build awareness around the topic and manage employee reasons. The economic impact access to digital learning emotional wellness more effectively. The resources in the toolkit will be of this could be increase in the available without any charge for the entire month of October as it is observed risk of early dropout, as girls and other alternative as Mental HealthAwareness Month. become more vulnerable to The toolkit consists of: child marriage, child labour, education provision and Powerful posters for self-help and to end the stigma around mental health trafficking, violence or sexual Self-assessment tests to measure various aspects of one's life which impact abuse. Build gender-responsive their mental health Also, female teachers may face Ahandbook on mental health best practices to follow at work the additional burden of contingency plans for Training modules (suicide prevention, psychological first aid) childcare and managing This toolkit is available at https://yourdost.com/employee- household chores during and education. wellness/resources after the pandemic, increasing The past months have been unprecedented and challenging in many ways their chance of leaving the In the panel discussion including the fear of spread of COVID, health issues, job stress, disruptions, profession social isolation amongst others. The lockdown also caused visible layoffs, Right to Education (RTE) that followed the unbalanced work-life patterns, staying away from friends, family and living Forum along with its affiliate life in a different way. According to a recent global health survey done by the CSOs on September 22, panelists called upon International Labour Organisation (ILO), 1 in 2 youngsters are prone to discussed the impact of COVID experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, with over 17% suffering 19 on girls' education in India in government to urgently due to the consequences of COVID-19. detail in a virtual webinar and Commenting on the initiative, Richa Singh, Co-Founder, and CEO, appealed all stakeholders address the issue. “In this YourDOST said, “This initiative is a message to the masses, primarily the including the government to urban working Millennials to open up about any signs of emotional and take all necessary steps to critical situation, the mental hurdles they feel stopping them from being free and happy.” address this situation on priority basis. government must take 'Mann Talks' launched to provide free counselling “Children from marginalized Common mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety go communities, especially girls urgent call to address undiagnosed or untreated due to lack of public understanding, stigma, and the are facing an acute crisis. Most dearth of trained mental health professionals. It is estimated that 1 in 7 Indians of these girls, who have no various infrastructural suffer from poor mental health. Amidst the Covid pandemic, the situation has access to online education, are only worsened due to various intersectional factors, including forced compelled to engage not only in issues, recruitment of isolation, unemployment and inability to access previously available domestic work but are services. becoming victims of child well- trained teachers, Shantilal Shanghvi Foundation, the family foundation of Mr. Dilip Shanghvi labour, trafficking and child has started Mann Talks initiative in collaboration with Dasra, iCALL and marriage. News coming from providing separate and White Swan Foundation for mental health to help by offering free and holistic all over country indicates a very one and discuss and see how best functional toilets for boys and girls, tech-enabled mental health solutions. Mann Talks has a three-pronged bleak scenario ahead with the we can gel our energies in safe drinking water and WASH approach, a helpline, a digital portal and on-ground activations. The helpline increasing cases of mental mapping the problem areas,” he facilities. The government should (8686 139 139) will assist in free and confidential, emotional and trauma and depression. These remarked. psychological consultation through a team of trained mental health children are under threat of ensure health, hygiene and professionals. The helpline has standardized protocols in adherence to the discontinuing their education. According to the factsheet, the education taking steps at war- best practices in the sector. The digital portal will impart simplified, The number of Out of School central and state governments footing level before reopening the medically vetted knowledge on mental health in regional languages. It will children may increase mani- must: Establish systems to schools,” said Rai. also include information for care-givers to enable them to help their loved folds as more than 25 per cent of monitor girls' re-enrolment as The factsheet emphasizes the need ones. Lastly, for on-ground activations, Mann Talks will be exploring high- them may never return to mandated by the National for proactive steps by the govern- impact pilots to integrate mental health services into existing government and school,” said Ambarish Rai, Education Policy (NEP) and ment and recommends a multi- community systems. National Convener of the RTE make this data publicly available; p r o n g e d g e n d e r- r e s p o n s i v e Individuals looking for support can access 'Mann Talks' and speak to a Forum. Provide scholarships, targeted strategies: Response, Recovery and counsellor by simply calling 8686139139 between 9 am to 6 pm on all days of The civil society advocacy c a s h t r a n s f e r s a n d o t h e r Resilience. The strategies recom- the week. For further information, individuals can log on to alliance also used the occasion entitlements; Make secondary mended include developing diverse www.manntalks.org. to un veil a factsheet on Risk to education free for girls with distant learning materials, making Girls' Education in India and it immediate effect; Develop mass secondary education free through BHIS students get virtual internship programme from was released by Priyank c o m m u n i t y o u t r e a c h extension of RTE Act 2009, Fortis Kanoongo, Chairperson, programmes with civil society ensuring budget allocation for NCPCR. and youth leaders; Keep finances education reaches minimum 6% of To facilitate the holistic development through experiential and firsthand Kanoongo while welcoming the flowing into education systems GDP at the earliest, ensuring learning; Billabong High International Schools (BHIS) collaborate with initiative also appealed the and ensure it benefits girls and WASH facilities in schools, and Fortis Hospital to provide virtual internship programme to their students on alliance of CSO to give wide boys equally; Ensure education's building gender responsive mental health. publicity to its recently share of national and state contingency plans. This programme is structured for students of grade 11/AS and level 12/A with launched mental health budgets reaches 6% of GDP as R e e t a K a u s h i k , D i r e c t o r , psychology specialization. This is a 1 week internship – where children will Helpline, Samvedhna ( Toll free mandated by the NEP. Further, Samudayik Kalyan and Vikas dedicate 1 hour everyday on a virtual platform for Fortis Hospitals. Students phone facility 18001212830). the governments must: will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the internship. The NCPCR chairman also Sansthan (SKVS) discussed Key learnings that the programme intends to offer to participating expressed his eagerness to take Continue essential care services challenges of girls from Dalit Billabongers are: Psychological Interviewing, Orientation to Clinical up complaints of children and — like Iron Folic Acid and communities from Uttar Pradesh Disorders, Exposure to Applied Fields of Psychology, Health Psychology, address them and cited a few sanitary pad, psychosocial and Renuka Gupta, CEO, Pardada Experiential Understanding of the Self and a hands on Mental Health Project examples where the interven- support, and school feeding; Pardadi Educational Society shared within the hospital set up under the guidance of the Fortis Hospitals team of tion of the commission has Develop diverse distance her own experience of the covid mental health professionals. helped in easing situation for learning material — using radio, period. Rahul Despande, BHIS, CEO, said, “At BHIS, it has been our constant many children. “When we TV, SMS, printed material, peer- The development and dissemina- endeavour to help each student find their North Star by providing the right discuss on real data, we also to-peer and parent resources; tion of the factsheet is an initiative opportunities and environment that facilitates their holistic development. Our prepare for solutions. I am Ensure strong child protection of India Champions for Girls collaboration with Fortis Hospital is a step in the direction of 'Future-ready prepared to sit with you one by safety net as mandated by education represented by eleven schooling' whereby we will offer our students a real-world work-experience. Integrated Child Protection experts and leaders who are making We have always offered internship opportunities to our students and the Scheme; Ensure home visits and collective efforts to ensure that lockdown did not hold us back. This will be a virtual internship with Fortis t e l e p h o n e c o m m u n i c a t i o n gains towards girls education is not Hospital in a field that is increasingly gaining significance – Mental Health. between teachers and students; lost due to the pandemic. The goal is to provide simulation & hands on learning under expert guidance Promote alliance between local The outbreak of the coronavirus and something that will add value to our students resume as they move ahead women's groups, civil society pandemic has added to the and graduate from school.” organisations (CSOs) and infrastructural challenges being VLCPCs (Village level Child faced by the healthcare industry. Protection Committees); Create With little or no significant safe spaces for girls within the breakthrough in finding the cure to community for social and COVID-19 so far, countries across emotional wellbeing as well as the globe are finding it difficult to recreational and educational control the pandemic. activities in small groups; Resume and strengthen day care and early childhood care services Freelance work under Integrated Child Development Scheme with We need an illustrator. He or extended hours; Ensure she could be from any part functional WASH facilities in all of India. Assignment basis schools and train teachers; work for website and Incorporate comprehensive magazine edition. sexuality education into the curriculum to mitigate risks of Interested can write at rising sexual violence and abuse [email protected]

Curriculum October 16, 2020 5 Newsmaker INTERVIEW ‘I feel more responsible now.. rural schools have to improve for overall improvement of school education’ Jyoti Arora, Principal of Mount Abu Public School, Rohini, Delhi and member governing board CBSE is winner of the National Teacher Award of the year 2020 in CBSE category. She is also the National Commissioner (G) of Hindustan Scouts & Guides. Prior to this year's National Award, she has also received CBSE Principal National Award (2013, CBSE Mentor Award to the Principals (2012), State Teachers Award Government of NCT- Delhi (2008). Autar Nehru spoke with her on this national recognition. Congrats! How does it feel to be Your work on SDGs has also several initiatives and quite a few Harappa Habit Heroes the lone winner from 23000+ won a special mention? of these have attracted a lot CBSE schools? .As a proactive educationist and attention and appreciation. One Five educators chosen for their passion and commitment Thank you. This is of course a school leader, I am among those such initiative is Mount Abu to teaching matter of happiness, I feel now who have spotted the importance Touch, a signature community more responsible. I need to work of sustainability and began outreach program wherein a bus Harappa Education, online learning institution, has chosen five educators in more mature way now educating my students on the 17 has been converted into a moving as winners under its Harappa Habit Heroes contest. According to statement onwards. There is exclusive sustainable development goals 3D lab and fitted with tech devices from the platform, the five have been selected from more than 2,000 feeling I should do more for the (SDGs). My school has been including a projector. The bus nominations for the remarkable transitions they've made to online community and the larger converted into a SGs lab and goes to nearby slums every education, in the wake of the pandemic. society. At the same time, I also through a special designed Saturday and provides hands-on “Through the second edition of its digital initiative, Harappa is honoring strongly feel and advocate the Global Citizenship Curriculum, experience to poor students there teachers who've not only adapted but are leading the way with innovative quota of CBSE schools in students are undergoing who have only heard about teaching methods to help their students learn better. “ NationalAwards be increased. experiential learning of these technology but not seen or goals through community experienced it. Meet Harappa's 5 Habit Heroes: May I ask, about the citation or projects and activity based Let me share an interesting aspect ArzooRikhiya : is the youngest of our teachers with 6 years of experience. the work that won you this learning. of community with you. She teaches students of grade 3 at Shiv Nadar School, Noida. She made her prestigious award? Whenever I have received cash as online teaching as impactful as offline teaching by enabling her students to be My real citation has been a three Clean Yamuna campaign is part of the award, I have always at the forefront of the shift. In her online classroom, students led the planning decade journey and nothing has also there? donated it to relief funds (PM or and execution. They also led class discussions and became adept at making come overnight. More than Yes, though this year due to CM). But this time with Rs 1.10 interactive presentations. Most importantly, the participatory approach helped anybody else, I would thank my lockdown, we couldn't physi- lakh I received as part of the students feel responsible for their unique roles—digital citizen advisor, chat students whose inquisitive minds cally undertake any activity there award, I have decided to utilize it manager. Rikhiya's recipe for success was rethinking the needs of the new have led me to deep thinking and but yes we are very much into it. for building a community library.. environment and tailoring a solution that fit it. learning. The other component is Clean Yamuna Campaign- It is being readied on our junior of course community and society Shuchi Yamuna-wherein about wing at Shalimar Bagh and will be Sunil Bhakhare:works with tribal children, through Eklavya Model outreach. In our own reach, we 2500 students from 100 schools open in evening hours for all age Residential School, Nashik, in remote areas where technology isn't easily have undertaken things which are go to Sonia Vihar river bank site groups 8 years upwards. I feel accessible. He's taught grades 6 through 10 for more than 25 years. To ensure innovative like adaptation and and clean it up in addition to more responsible to community children without internet connection weren't left behind, Bakhare created maintenance of a monument, undertaking awareness drives is after this award and this one of my different groups of students based on their tech access. This ranged from starting engaging with fathers an important work in progress. passionate projects. students who were entirely taught online, taught via WhatsApp, taught over a cup of tea as it is only through a basic mobile without internet, and those without any device at all. mothers who are sent for PTMs Apart from academic innova- He has used multiple formats to teach across these groups—through and everything and anything to tions in teaching/learning presentations, voice notes, and video clips. do with children. At the end of it process, you have been all this gives me satisfaction and recognized for community You must very popular with Anjali Dadwal: has been teaching for more than 23 years. She now works at happiness and should I have services? many CBSE schools as you're in Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Chandigarh, and teaches preschoolers. For her, the asked for more. Yes, our school has launched third term as member in the biggest challenge was using technology for the first time in her life! She governing council. So, what is quickly became a learner herself to learn new ways to keep preschoolers special about you, if I may ask? engaged. She used kinesthetic learning techniques such as storytelling for I have a soft corner for schools in each alphabet, asking her students to match things in their rooms with the our rural areas as these need alphabets, and similar innovative methods to make things interesting. mentoring and handholding as these have limited resources. I try Shipra Bhartiya: is a primary Maths teacher for grades 4 and 5 at Shiv Nadar my best to address these concerns. School, Noida. She has been teaching for the last eight years. She faced the My emphasis has always been on challenge of keeping her learners engaged and motivated in a subject many of schools in rural areas be it during them found challenging, or boring. Her magic formula was combining several CCE workshops or inspections as simple ideas: asking students for feedback after each lesson, letting them part of CBSE, I always feel there decide how they wanted to submit their homework and helping them form is a lot of scope and need for to small groups to facilitate peer learning. uplift these schools if we want to make our schooling a real success Nisha Jain Grover: a psychologist and counselor based out of Jaipur. She in this country. To answer your has been working with children with learning disabilities, behavioral and question, may be my work and adjustment issues for 15 years. Her biggest challenge was ensuring a socio- connect with people makes me emotional connect despite the distance. Along with her team at Vatsalya popular. Legacy Preschool, she overcame this challenge by systematically helping children acclimatize to their new reality. First, they connected with children Thank you. 1-on-1 through WhatsApp calls every day. Gradually, they moved their students to new music, dance and yoga classes. Only after students became comfortable with the new routine, the team introduced academics in bite-sized formats.

6 Curriculum October 16, 2020 Careerwise “UPSC Prelims 2020 : How to release the academic stress and achieve better results without New Avtar of Current Affairs” pressure? By Manoj K Jha, Director, GS SCORE By Dr. Divyani Sharma Co-Founder and Managing Director at The Catalyst Group Current Affairs has become a B. If we analyse the current contemplating over Government buzz word in the world UPSC. Affairs of Prelims 2020 then even Schemes develop our analytical The recent survey conducted by WHO to evaluate and assess the mental Market and digital space is though Current Affairs appar- skill which helps us in making an health status globally, reports that over 72 per cent of the survivors flooded with current Affairs ently was not visible but it made intelligent and calculative guess. include children and adolescents.As for the initial times, the wide scope materials and courses. The field dyke everywhere. Penetration For example, even though of online interactions made coping with mental health issues easier with is full of a cobweb of strategies. was there in the form of influence questions were not there from Farm the students midst a pandemic. But as time dragged on and online over static questions. For Schemes as expected but having classes came into full swing, students seem to begin feeling the weight Some of the most common example, suspension of good knowledge of schemes would of new external stressors and mounting academic expectations in a questions being shots by MPLADS provided ground for have been very useful in making situation they had initially viewed as temporary. From new academic aspirants are- How to Prepare question on MPLAD and intelligent guess work in questions pressures to the struggles brought on by isolation, young aspirants are for Current? From where political noise around parliament of agriculture. struggling to cope up with the new normal. should you start preparing for session provided strong ground Current Affairs? Which is the for a question on Parliamentary E. We need to study Current Affairs Here are a few ways to relieve study stress and boost your learning best news paper? Which is session. Similarly, unequal as a complete package. For potential: better between newspapers and presence of the ruling govern- example, if news is there on the video? When to stop reading ment in Rajya Sabha led to a vaccine of COVID then nitty gritty 1.Exercise: Aerobic exercise, such as jogging, cycling or dancing, but Current? Which monthly question on Rajya Sabha. We also of all vaccines and their develop- says the specific type doesn't matter as much as just getting some magazine is best? strongly discern that so many ment becomes important. physical activity. The main way exercise helps relieve stress is by Above questions have n questions on agriculture this year increasing endorphins. Endorphins are the hormones produced numbers of forms and shapes were because of so many current F. Integration of the current and naturally by your brain to alleviate pain and reduce stress. Exercise also with n numbers of answers. happenings in the field of static part needs smart homework. ultimately decreases the levels of hormones associated with stress, However, we are interested to agriculture. Therefore the crux is If not done smartly, one might end including cortisol and adrenaline. A quick session of half an hour unveil the new avtar of Current that students should stop splitting up pilling up volumes of materials. exercise can also help in releasing the stress. Affairs amid UPSC Prelims current Affairs from the static Students should keep in mind that 2020. Paper of UPSC Prelims part. Current must not be studied the objective of integration has a 2.Avoid isolation, always talk: When you are feeling stressed, 2020 has crashed almost all in vaccum but it should be specific purpose. The purpose is to reaching out to your friends and family can help. Studies have found existing strategies for Current. studied as embedded part and read static portions with complete that people with less social support are more reactive to stress, exhibit- Government Policies and offshoot part of static portion. application of mind in such a way ing increased heart rates, blood pressure, and hormone levels, accord- Schemes, considered to be core that aspirants are in position of ing to a 2007 review published in the journal Psychiatry. Catch up with of Current appears to be missing C. Aspirants should read current applying a sluggish portion of your mates once in a while even if that is over a video call. completely. Reports and on “issue based” rather than syllabus in dynamism. For Commissions have found “time based”. For example, if example, if one is reading current 3. Reward Yourself: After the completion of any difficult task coddle virtually no space in the paper. society is beating so much around news with respect to the institution yourself with something you like. You can also include happy days in Direct appearances of some the affairs of Covid, then do not of Governor, immediately all the your schedule, like Sundays - where you can pamper yourself. This will most popular events in the wait for its analysis every month. relevant Supreme Court keep you motivated and always help you strive to work hard and recent past were also a missing But you should read it as a whole Judgements and constitutional achieve best of results. item. analytical package. Aspirants provisions should surface the mind. In such a scenario, amid a should not be bothered much Similarly, if someone is reading 4. Follow the NO COMPARISON rule: Sometimes students whirlpool of strategies, we about monthly happenings in Supreme Court Judgements or indulgein comparing themselves with their peers. Often these are not recommend the following monthly magazines but should be constitutional provisions, immedi- the signs of a healthy competition and leads to the students over burning approach which we call a new smart enough to skim and analyse ately current news around the themselves with performance pressure. Follow the no comparison rule avtaar of CurrentAffairs. happenings for a little longer institution of the Governor should – always remember that each and every individual is unique. The period on a broader level. surface the mind. ultimate goal is should be to thrive and live up to your own potential! A. Even an iota of thinking to put Current Affairs in lower D. This time the Government 5. Take enough sleep: Anyone who has ever had to function on just a priority will be a vehemently Scheme was almost invisible. few hours of shut eye knows that lack of sleep makes it harder to deal dangerous thought. Current But it doesn't mean that aspirants with anything, including stress. In fact, 21% of students report feeling Affairs need a new approach to should take it lightly. Because more stressed when they don't get enough sleep. comprehend but it doesn't need dilution. 6. Mindfulness meditation when stressed: The current scenario and the pandemic have not only taken a toll on our minds but also the body. Learning losses due to COVID19 could add up to $10 trillion: WB It is imperative for us to thus focus on ourselves when feeling anxious. Take time out for yourself. Even 10 minutes at your favourite and COVID-related school closures that we find most likely, given that earnings will fall by $872 a year, secluded spot in your house, just sit up straight. Focus. Meditate. This are forcing countries even most school systems closed in reaching a total loss of $16,000 in will help you in releasing the negative energy and increase further off-track to achieving March and, though with lifetime earnings in present value concentration.Deep breathing whenever you feel anxious, anywhere their learning goals. The exceptions, we see many countries terms. Using global data on and anytime for 30 seconds can also be helpful. students currently in school planning to reopen after the household labor incomes, we stand to lose $10 trillion in labor summer. In this scenario, we expect allow these results to vary by 7. Time management: Students often find that there is never enough earnings over their work life. to see a global loss of 0.6 learning- country. We then add up the time to get everything done. All of the responsibilities of school, work, Temporary closures in more than adjusted years of schooling country-level results for all family and friends, can be enjoyable but taken together, may begin to 180 countries have kept nearly (LAYS), making the global learners who are enrolled in feel stressful. Making To do lists and prioritizing tasks continuously for 1.6 billion students out of school, average fall from 7.9 LAYS to 7.3 primary and secondary education rather shorter time frames helpsbuild the right focus. Learning to further complicating global LAYS. Being out of school for that in the world. Combined, this manage your time is a great way to learn to balance all your responsibili- efforts to reduce Learning long means that children not only generation of students stands to ties, and helps you to reduce the stress. Poverty. While most countries stop learning, they also tend to lose an estimated $10 trillion in have made heroic efforts at forget a lot of what they have earnings over its work life. For most of us, stress is a part of our lives, but there are ways to manage putting in place remote and learned. We use the PISA global Also needed are loud re- and relieve it. Maintaining healthy habits will make you better able to remedial learning strategies, database to estimate how learning enrolment campaigns and cash respond to stressful situations. While it's important to innovate and learning losses are accumulating levels could be affected. The transfers to make sure that school evolve our outreach programs, it is always advisable seeking profes- rapidly. A recent survey from closures could result in an average systems do not lose children sional help for any clinical issues one might be undergoing because only U N I C E F - U N E S C O - Wo r l d of 16 points of lost learning in permanently. Governments and a medical expert can offer the right kind of assistance. Bank on national education terms of PISA scores for lower school leaders also need to pay responses to COVID-19 school secondary students. An estimated special attention to protecting closures shows that while the 7 million students are likely to drop vulnerable groups. Given the high response across countries and out of school. The effects on girls risks of increased disparities, regions varies, it has been and vulnerable and marginalized marginalized students must be a difficult to reach even half of all groups will likely be much worse. high priority in COVID-19 students. To gauge the long-term economic education response strategies. How do we get to $10 trillion? impacts of these learning losses, Students below and near In our intermediate scenario, we projected how they could affect minimum learning proficiency schools are closed for five future earnings. In our intermediate deserve special attention. months. These are the estimates scenario, a typical student's future

Curriculum October16, 2020 7 Spotlight Olympiads can enhance aptitude for SOP/Guidelines for reopening of HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT schools from Oct 15 issued Amit Vig, National Head Olympiads, IIFM Limited Part II: Learning with physical/social distancing and the academic NEP 2020 aims to bring in inculcate the quality of hard work young minds, International aspects (curriculum transactions, instructional load, timetables, radical changes to the Indian in the students by pushing them Finance Olympiad proudly Education System. The aim is to prepare hard for the exam and presents Global Economics assessment, etc.) do this by holistic development improve their result. The Olympiad (GEO) that will bring of children. performance of students at under the limelight the importance 1. Making a Comprehensive Alternative Calendar of Activities for the Olympiads in a sense develop school is also improved as it of Economics. The Global Whole Year with focus on learning outcomes. Academic calendar may students holistically as it sharpens their thinking and Economics Olympiad helps tap the be realigned for the whole year in accordance with the emerging involves them competing learning process which helps potential of young minds in a more situation. Comprehensive academic plan can be prepared as per the beyond the School Curriculum. them to grasp the concepts taught optimum way and encourage the guidelines received from the concerned Directorate of Education. This Olympiads have become a in schools better. Economist in them at the school plan may follow guidelines of AlternativeAcademic Calendar prepared popular academic competition Primary Olympiad's integrity level. by the NCERT. that assists in the development and commitment towards the of competitive spirit among fulfillment of its objectives have This Olympiad is open for students 2. Reintegration of students into school may be taken on priority after school children. In the present been lauded by the team of from class 9th to 12th. Economics reopening. times when the world is totally schooling institutions across the provides us the platform to weigh pivoted on Science, country and thousands of the world on the scales of logic and 3. Teachers must polish their skills for integrating ICT in class as far as Mathematical Skills, and students have directly benefited figures. Not only is Economics possible. Training modules may be prepared for the same. Linguistic Ability, it is from its educative, informative strongly related to how the market pertinent to think and plan and evaluative programs. works, but it also is majorly about 4. Children can also be sensitized about the pandemic by integrating about the future in which the human behavior. It is the need of various concepts into the teaching of various subject areas such as EVS, children of the present shall be 2. International Finance the hour; this initiative is to make languages, science and social science, arts. the budding leaders of Olympiad (IFO) (for students the students aware of the tomorrow. Regular qualitative from classes 8th to 12th) - significance that Economics as a 5. Teachers must discuss with the students the clear roadmap of the and quantitative assessment International Institute of subject holds and the need to be curriculum, the modes of learning to be adopted (through face to face needs to be done at the Financial Markets Limited is one well-versed with a language that instruction/individual assignments or portfolios/group-based project national/international level in of the leading education transcends boundaries. work/group presentations, etc.) to be covered, the time to be taken for order to build up the skills and corporates who has been the same, dates of school based assessments, breaks, etc. talent pool. promoting financial literacy for 4. Global Olympiad on Aptitude The kids today need to develop students at school levels for more (GOA) - being sponsored by 6. Focus on the most vulnerable students (homeless/migrated students, their strategic thinking and than a decade. With the intent to Pratham Test Prep, brings the students with disabilities, and students directly affected by Covid-19 need to work on achieving make school students proverbial Students of Classes VIII to XII a through a family death or hospitalization) to prioritize their needs. holistic development. The with the art of understanding and Niche Offering with an education sector is currently managing money, the International Level Competition – 7. Divergent use of teaching resources shall have to be relied upon undergoing a major revamp. International Financial GOA. With the ever-evolving keeping physical/social distancing and other safety norms in mind. The competition among Olympiad has been conducted selection process of various Resources could include peer teaching and learning, use of workbooks students is increasing with annually for the past seven years. companies, Aptitude plays a major and worksheets, use of technology-based resources in class, every passing day. It is The International Finance and important strategic tool for empowering parents/grandparents/older sibling to teach, using the aspirational to make the Olympiad was initially launched shortlisting the candidates. So, it is services of volunteers from the community, etc. students' aptitude friendly is in alliance with National not an exaggeration when we say the need of the hour. The Commodity & Derivatives that Aptitude Building is one of the 8. PRAGYATA Guidelines on digital and online education can be used current scenario not only Exchange (NCDEX), and the most important things that a student to orient teachers and students in this regard.If the State/UT has Government exams but also International Institute of needs at this hour. Energized Textbooks, inform students and parents how to download the exams of any academic Financial Markets (IIFM). e-content behind the QR on DIKSHA, codes and use the same in offline institution ch With the diverse Olympiads mode, thereon. In the Span of 7 Years, IFO has being conducted by one Some Out of the Regular catered to more than 48000 franchise we intend to bring out the 9. Teachers, parents, and administrators need to focus on formative Olympiads for the Students students in 162 cities and 5 importance of Olympiad assessment to ensure achievement of learning goals by all learners. are: countries. Apart from having an education. These help the student Guidelines of SCERT/NCERT may be used to sensitize parents to association with over 1000 to identify capability and real improve their understanding of and appreciation for formative 1. Primary Olympiad – (for schools in India, the team has potential to put his/her best foot assessment. Young Learners from Classes I also expanded internationally by forward in today's competitive – V) - Being a perfect platform incorporating several schools world. They motivate the student to 10. Schools to ensure smooth transition of students from home-based to test a students' conceptual from Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait and achieve and to endeavor better and schooling during lockdown to formal schooling. Schools can understanding of the subject, it Sharjah. deeper understanding. These help implement re-adjusted school calendar and redesigned Annual also improves the problem- the student to develop analytical Curriculum Plan (ACP), remedial classes or conduct back to school solving ability and develops 3. Global Economics Olympiad - and problem-solving skills. campaign among other steps. analytical thinking. Providing After successfully establishing Therefore, the Olympiad sets the an exposure at the National itself in promoting the benchmark for a student to 11. The teachers, school counselor and school health workers should level, primary Olympiads knowledge of finance among the understand an area of his/her work in unison to ensure emotional safety of their students. choice. 'MANODARPAN' covers a wide range of activities to provide psychosocial support to students, teachers and families for Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing during the COVID outbreak and beyond. 12. Based on these SOP/guidelines, State / UT Governments need to develop their own Standard Operating Procedures for reopening schools and for training different stakeholders as and when the State/Union Territory Governments declare it safe for schools to operate. 13. Checklists for safe school environment which includes for different stakeholders, for building resilience and for academic planning and school operations may be used. The State/UT Education Departments may conduct awareness and capacity building programmes for DIET faculty members, School Heads, Teachers, and Parents before the opening of the schools Covid 19 revealed the glaring gap in the skills needed versus the skills already Ankit Shyamsukha, CEO, ICA Edu Skills, who managed to get 200+ placement opportunities in Accounts & Finance for his students during the pandemic, spoke to Curriculum Magazine on the current pulse in jobs: 1. What are the emerging economic activity crawling back preferred in hiring across job various e-exams. Therefore what aspirants to enrol in your trends in skilling and what is to normalcy, a significant profiles; be it an Automotive has changed is just the classroom programs and is geography a the impact of COVID 19 number are glaring at an repairman, Electrician or a Data has become digital. factor? pandemic? uncertain future. The gap in Analyst/Scientist or a Digital 3. What kind of placement The first casualty in the Job skilling was not only in the blue- Marketer. programs are run by your Anyone can simply log in to our Market during the Covid 19 collar jobs but also white-collar 2. In your portfolio of training, organizations? website www.icajobguarantee.com pandemic was the people who jobs with as many as 19 million how have you managed the We are a company that focusses and drop in an inquiry. Our career were unskilled. Covid 19 people losing employment training all these months? and specialises only in advisors will get in touch with them revealed the glaring gap in the which were otherwise Technology has become the key Vocational Programs i.e Skill and provide free assessment and skills needed versus the skills considered \"safe\". enabler with classes going Development. Therefore, all our career counselling on need basis and already adopted by the Employers are favouring digital. The pedagogy has to be 50+ programs ranging from then suggest either a course from individuals. It is estimated; \"trained\" candidates with remapped and changed Accounts, Banking, Finance, ICA or any alternate options outside more than 121 million jobs \"relevant skills\" with accordingly so as to ensure the Taxation to Hospitality, ICA. Alternatively, they can simply were affected by the first \"recognised certification\" over students were able to grasp the Automotive, Healthcare and walk-in to any of our 300+ centres month of the pandemic itself. freshers who otherwise would concepts. One of the key areas in Wellness are driven with the end spread across the country and get an Although many have regained have learnt later on the job. skilling is practice and this is also goal of placement. appointment with our career employment with the Skilled people are being shifted online with the help of 4. What is the procedure for advisor.

8 Curriculum October 16, 2020 VIEWS (Edit/Guest Column...) OPINION: Emerging technologies likely to have a major impact on Reformist or rightwing extremism teaching/learning process Closure notice' of state run Madrasas ‘in Assam By Harish Sanduja ability to master a skill. Learning on children's well-being? UNESCO reports that 50% of Himanta Biswa Sarma, education minister of the largest Analytics would allow teachers to children around the world whose northeast state of Assam (pop 3.09 cr) has created a stir with schools have closed do not have his recent announcement saying, “All State-run madrassas will keep a better track of the learning access to a computer, so of course be converted into regular schools or in certain cases teachers there is a huge digital divide. But will be transferred to state-run schools and Madrasas will be behaviours of their students. They among those who do, we see an shut down. A notification will be released in November.\" He extreme spike of cyber risks. has indicted a same fate for Sanskrit tols (schools). Ironically, can then use these facts to provide According to the Child Online Safety during British rule in India, these institutions were also the Index, around 60% of 8- to 12-year- targets of tirade of Trevelyan in that Macaulay‟s targeted improvement to courses. olds are exposed to cyber risk, recommendations of 1835 that envisaged stopping of the including cyber bullying, gaming printing of Arabic books and abolition of the Madrasas and the The impact of advancements in In the aftermath of the pandemic, the disorder, online sexual behaviour or Sanskrit pathashalas. However, today is not about a technology and tools like role of the emerging technologies is reputational risk, fake news and comparison. internet was hitherto restricted in set to expand; educators and policy others. Risk doesn't mean harm, but Closure of madrasas in principle is welcome if it is part of a it's a huge number of children having larger school education delivery reform agenda. In fact, after education; the focus was more on face makers would need to watch out for a negative experience online. the Right to Education Act, 2009 was promulgated on April 1, In today's time, it is critically 2010, the architecture of school education delivery must have to face teaching, a concept that we these trends and obtain special important to teach children holisti- moved automatically in that direction. But, instead there has cally about digital citizenship as been a steep increase in the number of minority educational have become accustomed to and is insights on how they can make the cyber risks – whether it's institutions after the Supreme Court in a 2014 judgment said, cyberbullying, gaming addiction or “In our view, if the 2009 Act is made applicable to minority taken as the norm in teaching/learning best out of their usage. As a matter of online grooming – are all intercon- schools, aided or unaided, the right of minorities under Article nected. Digital citizenship refers to 30(1) of the Constitution will be abrogated. We are thus of the e n v i r o n m e n t s . H o w e v e r, t h e fact, the pandemic situation that we the responsible use of technology by view that the majority judgement of this Court in... insofar as it anyone who uses computers, the holds that the 2009 Act is applicable to aided minority schools Coronovirus pandemic has changed find ourselves in today have opened Internet, and digital devices to engage is not correct.” The judgment provided an escape window for with society on any level. a lot of schools from the children centric law. that notion completely. our eyes to the potential of these COVID-19 is making the potential So, the issue of minority institutions has been legally settled. Emerging technologies with technologies, where the existing exposure to cyber risk greater, but it's Now if at all there is a need to explore an alternative to see the promising potential are being resorted ways of teaching and learning were not necessarily a causal effect. Causal constitutionality is not used as a means of either depriving to in a bid to ensure that the teaching notserving the 21st century purposes effects of cyber risk are lack of children opportunities of holistic education and childhood or and learning does not get hampered in of education. knowledge, lack of discipline, promotion of extremism and orthodoxy as is perceived in case the context of a forced lockdown and There are few impediments to the uncontrolled digital use.If we want of Madrassas. our children to be independent Madrasas, in fact, is an evolved system with not only a rich s h u t t i n g d o w n o f e d u c a t i o n a l adoption of technology in educa- thinkers, to discern the risks and to tradition but a history as well. A number of madrasas are better make the right decisions online, we than formal schools. Several states have madrasa boards. At institutions to keep all stakeholders tional institutions though. need to empower them with digital the same time, the widespread perception about madrasas as citizenship. the nurseries of radical Islam is a phenomenon of last a few safe. Cost: Many technologies are cost decades in Indian sub-continent after its weaponization and (Author is Member Academic monetization began in Pakistan under General Zia in 1980s and So, what are the emerging technolo- prohibitive and the schools may not Council, Saamarthya Teachers gradually hit the world. Training Academy of Research Without getting into that argument further, there is very little gies likely to have a major impact on have the resources to invest in the (STTAR), Ghaziabad.) evidence to show the madrasas in India, have been impacted by that phenomenon but it is true vested interests have at times put how teaching and learning would be same. For attention self before the children welfare. As money making social of institutions enterprises or source of employment, many children have not carried out in the foreseeable future? Lack of training: Teachers would been allowed to join formal schools wherever these are Notices Beyond 200 accessible. The government schemes and incentives too have Some of the technologies that have need proper training to harness words will be played a role. And, above this, as a vote bank, madrasa owners considered classified have been courted by all political parties regularly. been and will revolutionize the cutting-edge technology in the advertisements and Assam minister may have taken the decision with a view on therefore published only next year's Assembly elections and perhaps also at polarizing classrooms of the future are mobile education initiatives to witness against payments. the electorate, but there is merit in debating if diversity of schools is to be retained or abolished, when right based AR, VR, voice technologies, AI- positive results; adoption of new Thank you education is state responsibility. Madrasas from being as the de facto most cherished and powered education platforms. These technology would often be accompa- vibrant places of learning in good olden times to charitable schools for the poorest or orphans among Muslims in post- are tools and concepts that are nied with a steep learning curve. independent India, have a history dating hundreds of years. And, when free and compulsory education is a fundamental engaging, transformative and used to Insufficient Infrastructure: Lack of right for children (aged 6-14), then the logic of even the charitable schools seems absurd. But then, are there enough improve learning, instruction, social internet access would limit the use of public (government) schools? A sincere and committed government (states) would strive and processes, and interconnectedness technologies relying on the same and go all out to fulfill legal obligations and provide neighborhood schools everywhere. If it were then to apply a necessary amongst students and teachers. come in the way of their adoption. condition to close not only madrasas but shoddy private schools, it would make a huge affirmative shift. Their relevance increases today when Moreover, many students, from rural What should worry us as a society is that the impressionable age is what shapes future citizens. Given the world we are in, almost 90 percent of learners are areas and lower socio-economic there is a case for governments to take a close look at schools. Radicalism of any form is dangerous to the pluralistic society. sitting at home and carrying on from strata, do not have access to there. smartphones, wi-fi connectivity, and Emerging Technologies that are here internet access that are a must to to stay adopt a new style of classrooms and Augmented reality has been around pedagogy focused on mobile for some time now and is expected to learning. capture the imagination of students Policy makers would need to work and improve the learning process. towards removing these impedi- Adaptive learning, will provide ments and open up the use of customized resources to suit every technology to inspire students to students' need in a short time. think and collaborate instead of Artificial Intelligence will be memorizing as well as connect with supporting first-person perspectives peers and experts who may not be and help students in creating physically present at a particular compelling research papers and term location. The successful implemen- papers. 5G technologies would tation of technological innovations provide quick download of student would help students imbibe 21st files and resources and deliver more century skills that they would need to engaging virtual reality experiences. succeed in the modern workforce. Automation can be used to digitally Incorporation of technology would schedule lectures at specific times. It open up new avenues such as virtual would also aid in the adoption of AI in field trips, electronic textbooks, and the classrooms. valuable online resources and help Competency based education would schools save money in the long run match learning activities of students while also facilitating amazing with their abilities and help advance educational experiences for learners. the learning experience based on the Is cyber risk having a greater impact Printed, Published and Owned by: Avtar Krishen Kaul, Saraswati Editor: Autar Nehru Associate Editor: Suneel Bhan W: www.curriculum-magazine.com REACH US Colony, Smith Nagar, PO- Prem Nagar, Dehradun (Uttrakhand)- Editorial/Marketing : 248001 and Printed at Microsoft Technoprint India Private Limited, Consulting Editors: Sudha Passi, M K Bhat, Ramanathan Iyer Circulation 37 Old Cannaught Place, Dehradun (UttraKhand) and Published at [email protected] Dimple Nehru, Ganesh Saraswati Colony, Smith Nagar, PO- Prem Nagar, Dehradun Advisory Board Members: Ashok Pandey. Dehradun: A K Koul; Meerut: Uzma Rizvi (Uttrakhand)-248001, Prof. Raj Kachroo, Navin Bhatia [email protected] Patna: Manoj Kumar; Jammu: Sandeep Dhar General inquiry Editor: Avtar Nehru RNI No. UTTENG/2010/37634 Director Outreach: Farindra Pande call us at 011-28051642/22; 9868256512 Associates : Gurbinder Kaur, Akshay Sahu Business Development: Ashok Bhat, Vijay K Rajesh Kaul

Curriculum October 16, 2020 9 Focus ONLINE Education In India, virtual work environments open up new opportunities FOR INCLUSION By Rosemary Marandi S Gokulakrishnan studied used to take place in physical Raja says. improve their reading and and also (share my) assignment hard and snagged his first job classrooms, but the COVID-19 “It is best for them to get good retention capabilities seamlessly. response. I like the audio and video soon after he earned his pandemic and the accompanying practice during their training in a For persons who are blind, the (features). I can raise my hand and degree. A year later, like many lockdown changed that. The simulated work environment. It Narrator screen reader, part of the share my screen.” of us do, he took a break from company has adapted to remote helps them get used to competing Windows Ease of Access suite, As for Gokulakrishnan, he hopes work to rethink his career. learning via Microsoft Teams, or be on par with others.” helps collaborate via chat. more people with disabilities will This 26-year-old commerce leaning heavily on a range of V-shesh's 40 employees are Apart from accessibility features pursue courses beyond their comfort graduate and chartered built-in accessibility features to spread across five cities in India, and shifting their training sessions zones. “I see so many people wanting accountant (intermediate) keep operating” and work on projects in Sri Lanka into remote video meetings, to get into government jobs,” he says. from Chennai in India's south, “I got the job amid the pandemic, and Bangladesh too. Its trainers collaborating directly on Teams “I understand that getting into a is a person who is blind and he which is a great thing,” he says, mirror the diversity and inclusion without having to switch between government job is very safe but that is found re-entering the job crediting v-shesh's consistent it is seeking to promote in the multiple apps has helped both the also very competitive. I suggest market one of the biggest support. “Before the (job) workforce–40% are people with trainers and trainees get people try out new courses without challenges of his life. interview, they made sure I was disabilities, and 60% are women. comfortable with the new virtual worrying much about one's Multiple job applications and comfortable with using the One of its trainers is Vidya environment. impairment. Whatever is your a series of interviews were software the company uses. Menon, 36, a former graphic passion, follow your passion.” getting him nowhere. So, Screen sharing was a challenge. designer who left an advertising “It took a little while to get used Top image: 26-year-old S Gokulakrishnan listened to a So, we tried different solutions agency to teach English skills to to the platform, but Gokulakrishnan reached out to v- friend's advice and signed up for working in a virtual schoolchildren and youth, who Microsoft's training sessions shesh and managed to land a job with with 'v-shesh'–an environment. They ensured I like her, have hearing disabilities. helped,” says Raja. “What we see a major global investment company employment placement was proficient on all the She finds the live captioning today is we do not have to send in the middle of a pandemic. (Photo: service that specializes in platforms and guided me function in Teams particularly emails to each other as we can Munish Palaniappan) upskilling job seekers and through to the last stage.” helpful for lessons. share folders and files. It also students with disabilities. Gokulakrishnan is one of the “I like teaching children as I feel gives good visibility of the Rosemary Marandi is a freelance Most of v-shesh's training 3,000 job seekers that v-shesh more connected. I have had a lot timeline because of the journalist, author in making, and a used to take place in physical has placed in the past three years of opportunities to learn a lot of collaborative features on Teams. It research analyst. Her works have classrooms, but the COVID- alone. V-shesh does not collect things. I traveled to Sri Lanka to has reduced some anxiety around appeared on Al Jazeera, Nikkei Asian 19 pandemic and the any placement fee from work for a new school's us.” Review, AFP, Financial Times and accompanying lockdown candidates but instead delivers development. I have come to The Banker. changed that. The company paid-for services to employers know a lot about education in Sri Deepthi Ganesh, who is a has adapted to remote who embrace inclusion in spirit Lanka and India for people who person with autism, signed Girl power in Srinagar: learning via Microsoft Teams, and action. are deaf,” says Vidya. up for courses in Microsoft Office, Rubab Ali Punjabi wins cycle leaning heavily on a range of To create an ecosystem, they We talk with Vidya via a Teams communications, technology, and race built-in accessibility features work closely with companies, video with the help of her life skills to prepare herself for the many of them major multi- colleague, Anupriya P., who workforce once she graduates Rubab Ali Punjabi, a class 12 student lto keep operating. nationals, to understand their interprets through sign language. from a college in Mumbai. (Photo: of DPS from Srinagar on Oct 11 won needs, and help them devise The 27-year-old started learning Nishant Joshi) the first position in the cycle race It hopes its new virtual human resource policies, sign language while watching Using Microsoft Teams has 'Pedal for Peace' organised by Jammu working and teaching sensitizing sessions, sign people communicate with it created a remote work and Kashmir police to promote sports environments will make its language learning sessions, and outside a school for the deaf near environment for v-shesh and has talent and create sports awareness trained-up clients even more screening profiles. her college, where she had been bolstered its inclusivity work to a among the youth. She cycled a employable. V-shesh was founded in 2009 by studying commerce. higher level. distance of 24 km outflanking every V-shesh takes its name from a P. Rajasekharan (Raja) and “Once I completed college, I “We have been able to simulate other competitor. She won the first play on the words shesh and Shashaank Awasthi. With prior started as a volunteer with v- our work environment. We have position in the senior girls' category vishesh, which mean left background in banking, they shesh. I learned sign language mixed groups in different and a cash prize of Rs 25,000. More behind and unique, built v-shesh to provide services from people who are deaf,” employability programs, using than 500 cyclists participated in the respectively, in many Indian for both people with disabilities Anupriya says. “I started as a job Teams and Microsoft Office,” he event, in four categories sub-junior, languages. It trains clients to and employer organizations to coach and learned more about says. “We've also conducted junior, senior, and veteran. The event adjust to a corporate nurture an inclusive workplace. people who are deaf. My role is interviews (for candidates) on took place on the banks of Dal Lake, environment and work in a very diverse now, and I get to Teams.” Srinagar. Chairman Vijay Dhar team and manage stress. It M B A b a t c h m a t e s P. work with people of different This shift in digital training has congratulated her and said “We are also teaches specialized Rajasekharan (Raja) and disabilities.” also helped v-shesh onboard job doubly proud because the win digital and IT subjects and Shashaank Awasthi founded v- Both Vidya and Anupriya have seekers during the pandemic highlights the girl power that we other must-haves, such as shesh as an impact enterprise in had to adjust to the new shift of safely. Deepthi Ganesh, who is in especially seek to encourage at English and math skills. It 2009. Today, the organization teaching digitally. In a way, it was the final year of her undergraduate school. Heartiest congratulations to then helps them apply for provides services to train people also an opportunity for them to degree in computer application, her.” jobs, matches them with with disabilities and works with upskill. Like Vidya's use of live came on board in August. The 21- potential employers, and employer organizations to make captions, she too found features in year-old is a person with autism. guides them through for the workplaces inclusive. (Photo: Teams, like the ability to pin a She signed up for courses in interview process. Raghu/LR CINE Photos) participant during a video Microsoft Office, Lockdown restrictions came “Except for a fancy building and meeting, so everyone could see communications, technology, and into force in India soon after cafeteria, our training centers her while she taught sign life skills to prepare herself for the Gokulakrishnan started his resemble what a person should language. workforce once she graduates training. He was worried do in any standard workplace. Complementing these two from a college in Mumbai. about his chances of getting That is, come in on-time, be features are the pictorial “I am very fond of computers. I hired, but, as luck would have dressed appropriately, dictionary and immersive reader, want to do a good job in a good it, a major global investment coordinate, and participate in through which trainees with company,” Deepthi says. “It is company asked v-shesh to discussions, turn in work daily, different cognitive disabilities very interesting training. I can find someone with a finance and have someone to report to,” can follow vocabulary and share my link from the calendar. I industry background like his. can download assignments from “Most of v-shesh's training Microsoft Teams to the desktop

10 Curriculum October 16, 2020 Educators Edu UGC-NET/JRF Exam—preparation strategy is also in knowing what is tested By Dr. NiteshDhawan, (Doctorate, M.Phil & NET) National eligibility test questions related to candidate's need to keep in mind is the selection adopt both extensive and Make sure that your online system is (NET/JRF) exam conducted by subject. The questions contain of quality study material. One intensive approaches in their ready and fine National Testing Agency (NTA) topics of graduate and postgradu- should not compromise with the study methods. This means that on behalf of UGC is one of the ate level. It is recommended to standard of books, notes and other both in-depth study of the subject Don'ts most competitive exams at all revise thoroughly all the areas of content. Since there is too much of is required along with compre- Don't be selective in your approach India level. This year NET is curriculum. study material that is available both hensive knowledge about various while studying being conducted in an online The overall time allotted is 3 offline and online, therefore concepts related to their disci- Don't neglect your weak areas mode. In order to pass this hours and candidates have to students must be very cautious in pline. Don't miss your time schedule exam, aspiring teacher attempt 150 questions with choosing their content. For this, the Execution-Preparation: How to Don't get trapped in difficult ques- candidates are supposed to norestrictions to move to and fro candidates can go through the do? tions; try to complete easier ones and understand its nature and then in any of the papers. There is no advise of selected candidates and Study with a purpose and divide then attempt the remaining questions strategize accordingly. negative marking and therefore other faculty members available to the whole syllabus into specific Above all it is suggested to prepare This exam basically tests the candidates have the freedom to them. targets without being selective. yourself mentally and not to take any teaching and research aptitude, take a calculated risk. After the selection of quality study Make your own notes into two stress or burden on yourself. The logical and analytical skills, Strategizing and Planning-: What material, candidates must plan their categories – factual and concep- aspiring higher education profession- reasoning ability and general to do? schedule that includes time tual which are actually important als are supposed to be efficient in awareness. In psychological Based upon the elements and allocation to different subjects or and handy at the time of revision. managing situations rationally terms, it is conducted to assess requirements of this exam, papers. Since the NET exam Analyze your weak areas and try through their knowledge and skills. the general mental ability and candidates need to prepare includes both factual and concep- to improve upon them by regular All the best to aspirants of UGC-NET aptitude for teaching of themselves with right frame of tual multiple choice questions practice. Exam! aspirants. It comprises of two mind. They need to work upon related to their subject they can go Revise and update the self made papers which are objective in the above areas of general through the study content and make notes regularly. (Author is a Public Servant, Author & nature. awareness, reasoning ability, and their own notes. It is important to Test yourself periodically on the Educator based in Uttar Pradesh) Paper I has 50 compulsory factual as well as conceptual make diary of notes separately for same pattern and conditions that multiple choice questions questions related to their subject. factual and conceptual questions so are expected during the exam. pertaining to teaching and Among these different areas, one that it acts as a handy tool at the last Do's reasoning ability, research should analyze his strengths and moment before appearing in the Make crisp and short notes aptitude, comprehension, weaknesses and plan accord- exam. It would also gives the Cover all the topics divergent thinking, general ingly. Usually candidates have candidate a much needed clarity in Revise and update your notes awareness, data interpretation, the tendency to devote maximum attempting questions. At the same Take practice sessions and mock information, communication time to the areas they like more time it is also important to update tests on weekly basis and technology, people, and lesser time to difficult the self prepared notes with the Look out for keywords in the development , environment and portions. Now what is required recent developments in their given question to find right higher education system. on the part of candidates is to give subject. answer Paper II comprises of 100 more time to their weak areas. Since the NET exam has multiple Rectify your errors by taking compulsory multiple choice Another thing that the candidates choice questions the aspirants must guidance of faculty From a teaching culture to a learning culture – Changes in Education system Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, “True teachers are those who efforts teachers are still found creativities by the education ing received information towards Provost - HSNC University help us think for ourselves”, overwhelmed by technology. As contributors to convert classroom working as co-creators of knowl- these lines of Dr. Sarvepalli they now have to take the performance and generate academic edge, as trainers, as teachers and as Radhakrishnan yet again prove initiatives and work technically, atmosphere for both teachers and evaluators. While shifting to a more the deserved and esteemed things became difficult for the students. flexible and collaborative way, stature of teachers as the ones technologically challenged Over the last few years, India has technology allows to empower the outbreak of COVID-19 was or old school. For many of them, converted itself into a 'facts teachers' fraternities with tools like witnessed globally. Abrupt who are expert at planning and intensive community' and there has artificial intelligence, data mining shutting down of businesses, teaching in the traditional been an increasing necessity to and a range of new devices. It can educational institutes and every classrooms, they now plan for an embrace the procedure of technol- give teachers and students to access other thing that kept the world to online setting to make sure the ogy in the field of education. In this expert materials beyond books, in life led to a drastic change the students learn well. Earlier regard, the new education policy many set-ups that can link time and present generations have ever teachers believed that they had notes that one of the essential space. Technology can support new seen. Technology came as a enough trouble keeping their principles steering the education ways of teaching that focus on rescue when no other option was classrooms in command, but that structure will be the 'extensive use learners as active participants. These easily accessible for staying is nothing compared to the of technology in teaching and are exactly the learning tools that are connected while staying safe and afflictions of virtual classrooms learning, removing language necessary in this situation. It has socially distanced. as they have to keep uninvited barriers, wide access as well as changed the entire perspective of With an indefinite period for the students away from the lectures to education preparation and manage- teachers and transitioned them in a life-threatening disease to be avoid disturbance amid the ment with an idea of making brand new way virtually in reality. cured, ways of bouncing back to technical and other connectivity learning effective, reasonable, and However difficult the process of normal in a new way came to issues. available as an essential need. With adapting online learning is said, it existence. As it is rightly said that Considering the pandemic is yet the developing ways of integrated has now become a part of everyone's “Crisis and challenges often far from being non-contagious, learning via technology, a holistic life among all the adaptability in the trigger out-of-box thinking”, the the educational institutions also improvement begins in the journey wave of pandemic where teachers educational institutes along with have to make serious arrange- of securing valuable education have stood strong in learning new other fellow industry leaders ments for conducting exams during the transforming phase things before imparting the initiated efforts to restart the digitally with appropriate making students and teachers more knowledge they are experts at and so cycle of imparting knowledge. assessment. Development of new versatile. have the students. Because the show Now was the time for teachers to methods in education may open More so, technology not only can must go on. learn and then conduct a class for doors for more impartial quality change methods of teaching and students. of education for all. The major learning, but also it can uplift the In spite of all the enthusiasm and concern might give growth to new role of teachers from communicat-

Curriculum October 16, 2020 11 Campus Updates IIT- Roorkee gets new Lecture Hall results. The team exceeded their campaign goals in website traffic and FLAME University hosts social media likes, which clearly paved their way to the win. Complex, a Sewage Treatment Plant Edward D'souza, Shreya Mohta, Ishanika Sehgal, Soumya Biradar and 'The Psychology of Namitha Ravindran had enrolled for the challenge as a part of their major Union Minister for Education Ramesh Pokhiyal 'Nishank' on Sep 13 in Digital Marketing and Communications. They were mentored by Prof. Loneliness' workshop as inaugurated the new Lecture Hall Complex(LHC), Centralized Rohit Tiwari, faculty of digital marketing, FLAME University, under Heating, Ventilation, Air conditioning (HVAC) and a Sewage whose guidance the team provided handcrafted itineraries for sports part of the ongoing Treatment Plant(SPT) of the Indian Institute of Technology(IIT) events, management of athlete logistics, and touring packages including Roorkee. local cuisine and culture. The GOMAC website while congratulating the FLAME Upskill Series The construction of the Lecture Hall Complex (LHC) started in 2016 regional winners stated that the judges felt this team's approach was very and costs about INR 80.25 cores. It has a built-up area of 13,254 sq m. professional and their efforts were very much in line with the FLAME University, Pune, held With a total capacity of 4400 persons, it comprises seven classrooms organization's goals. The reports included good use of graphics and a the second workshop of the with capacity to accommodate 250 persons each, 11 classrooms with a thorough write-up. FLAME Upskill Series, “The seating capacity of 150 persons each and 24 classrooms that can Prof. Rohit Tiwari while congratulating the students said, “FLAME Psychology of Loneliness” on accommodate the strength of 24 students. University students have continued the winning streak by managing an September 26, 2020. Centralized heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) outstanding campaign that was focused on its approach and delivered The workshop was conducted by caters to three buildings viz. Lecture Hall Complex-I & II and upon its objectives. This shows the strategy that the team formulated Prof. Aparna Shankar, Faculty of Convocation Hall with Chilled Water Cooling technology. The project worked well. As a part of Digital Marketing and Communications Psychology, FLAME University cost is estimated at around INR 14.35 crores. The highlight of this specialization, the students get the opportunity to interact with top who holds a Ph.D. in Health project is the control through remote mode via the Building industry professionals and learn the best practices for advertising on Psychology from the University Management System (BMS) and its design for ensuring capacity different platforms like Google, Facebook, etc. This project-based of Leeds. She works on health optimization as well as energy efficiency through the latest learning is a good methodology where students get to execute all that they and well-being in older adults, technology. have learned by working on a real-life project and compete in a with a particular emphasis on the A sewage treatment plant with a capacity of 3 MLD is located at Solani prestigious global competition like GOMAC.” role of social relationships. Her Kunj near the C-class club at the IIT Roorkee campus. The plant has a other research interests include built-up area of 1800.00 sq.m, and its estimated construction cost is Centre for Detection of Fake News and the patterning of health INR 27.73 crores. The STP uses the Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) behaviours, the role of the process. The unique feature of IIT Roorkee STP is the additional odour Disinformation at Amity Univ, MP environment on health, and control and advanced tertiary treatment facility due to its settling in the inequalities in access to care. residential area. Amity School of Communication has established a Centre for Detection FLAME Upskill is a series of With a built-up area of 1800 sq. metres, the STP comprises a of Fake News and Disinformation(CDFND) at Amity University exclusive workshops for high Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR)for the treatment of wastewater. It is Madhya Pradesh. This Centre remains updated regarding technology for school students on equipped with PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and SCADA Detection of Fake news/videos/audios/pictures on social media/print/ interdisciplinary topics from (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition). The total cost of the STP electronic media. It also liaises with agencies like Google News various fields spanning project is approximately INR 27.73 crores. Initiative, Poynter with know-how and methodology for Detection of humanities, sciences, artificial Minister of State for Education Sanjay Dhotre also graced the Fake News. intelligence, communication, occasion. The online ceremony also witnessed the presence of Prof. The Centre majorly focuses on Open Source Fact Verifications, sports, and arts amongst others. Ajit K Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee, Prof. Manoranjan Parida, Advanced Verification of Photos and Videos on Social Media Platforms, The series has been Deputy Director, IIT Roorkee, Deans, Associate Deans, Digital Security and Safety, User Testing, Media Literacy, Crowd conceptualized as a reflection of Departments/Centres Heads, Professor in Charge, Registrar, Joint Tangles to name a few. The idea is to have good publications in quality the liberal education ethos Registrar, and Deputy Registrar in IIT Roorkee. journal apart from detecting fake news. practiced and delivered at FLAME University. The first GSB launches 7-day Free Course on Anti- Ashoka University's Economics workshop on “The special effects on Cinema before VFX” was Racism and Allyship Department shines in RePEc successfully held on 12th September 2020. Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) has announced a free The Economics Department (Ashoka Econ) of Ashoka University has The topic of the second online course on Anti-Racism and Allyship to promote life-long been ranked number 1 in India out of 239 Institutions (and 31stin Asiaout workshop, “The Psychology of learning and help learners to transform societies. The course will of 1539 institutions) according to the international database RePEc Loneliness”, was especially provide a 7-day journey for students, young professionals and (Research Papers in Economics), which covers 8198 institutions and timely and pertinent due to educational fraternity across the nations who care about racial equity 60355 registered authors worldwide. The rankings are devised based on various mental stresses and and justice. volume as well as reach of the research output of the department, since it pressures faced by societies With the overarching principle of “Learn, Reflect, Act,” the course is takes into account total publications, number of citations, and number of across the world due to the Covid- created as a journey to help learners move from understanding to downloads of research papers of registered authors. The RePEc database 19 pandemic, ensuing reflection to taking new actions. It covers racism in the US context, as forAsia has 1539 institutions with 6696 authors. lockdowns, and their impact on well as themes designed to address the issue from a global perspective. The ranking is significant forAshoka University, as the University is only families and social lives. The Stanford Graduate School of Business acknowledges topics, such as 6 years old and has been ranked ahead of decades-old Indian Institutions. advent of the “New Normal” and diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as themes related to gender, Speaking on Ashoka Econ topping the rankings in the country, Prof. adapting to it has been a challenge race and ethnicity that are complex and call for attention. Malabika Sarkar, Vice-Chancellor, Ashoka University said \"It is a for many and as loneliness makes Sarah Soule, The Morgridge Professor of Organizational Behavior and significant achievement for us at the University. Ashoka is young, and for it harder, understanding how to Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Stanford Graduate our Economics Department to have reached this level of recognition in interpret it and cope with it has School of Business, said, “As educators, we believe that change starts India in such a short span of time is a testament to our belief in excellence. become crucial. with learning. We also know that it is pertinent to internalise these We take pride in the high quality of research in the Economics Speaking about the workshop, learnings with reflection. As concerned citizens, we believe that Department and are confident that this accomplishment will inspire Prof. Aparna Shankar said: “I am education is just the first step towards tackling the effects of centuries others across the University.\" glad to be part of the second of systemic racism.” Sharing his thoughts on this ranking for Ashoka Econ, Dr. Ratul Lahkar, workshop under FLAME's The course is self-paced, with the learner required to spend 45 minutes Head of the Economics Department, Ashoka University said \"We in the Upskill Series. My session a day for either a week or up to several weeks. It will also provide Department of Economics of Ashoka University are delighted that focused on the psychology of learners with access to additional resources and tools for continuing RePEc has ranked us the number 1 Economics Department in India. This loneliness, and it was fascinating the learning journey after the completion of the course. ranking is based on the research output of the department and is a to hear about high school testament to our commitment towards excellence in research. It is students' perspectives on FLAME University Team wins Global particularly heartening to us that we have been able to secure this ranking loneliness. Keeping the current despite being a relatively young department. We remain committed to scenario in mind, it is extremely Online Marketing Academics Challenge striving for further excellence in this respect in the future.” important to acknowledge that we must remain socially for a 2nd time Jasudben ML School conducts fun informative connected while physically sessions for students on World Heart Day distant.” FLAME University, Pune has once again won the Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa Global Online Marketing Academics Challenge In an attempt to curb heart diseases that are on a steady rise in this generation, Jasudben ML School (JML), (GOMAC) for a second time in row. It had won this accolade on the Santacruz west (Mumbai) organized comprehensive educational sessions on cardiovascular healthcare for prestigious international platform in 2019 as well. students and parents to commemorate World Heart Day. The event entailed a cardio camp session and The team members, Edward D'souza, Shreya Mohta, Ishanika Sehgal, nutritionist session conducted by Founder, Director, Performance Fitness Coach & Mentor Edgar Soumya Biradar and Namitha Ravindran, all MBA (Communications Mascarenhas and renowned dietitian/nutritionist Kamna Bhandari. Management) students at FLAME University, were awarded this title On the morning of the event was a cardio camp session that involved a fun fitness workout as well as a cardio after beating stiff competition from 83 teams across 15 countries, balance challenge. This workout focused on the 7 Essential Elements of Fitness, namely, Endurance, Strength, many of which were from renowned global schools. Speed, Agility, Balance, Coordination and Flexibility. The session made for an endearing bonding session for The prestigious digital marketing competition – GOMAC – is a parents and children as they played and exercised together. The objective of the fitness session was to show showcase for digital enthusiasts coming from all over the world. them that getting physically active at home in restricted spaces is doable and fun and must be incorporated in Thousands of bright minds compete in the month-long competition daily routines especially during the lockdown. Followed by this in the evening was the nutritionist session that with the goal of not only creating the best digital marketing experience focused on reasons why heart diseases in younger people are pervasive. Some of the main reasons are genetics, for a chosen client but providing outstanding campaign results too. food & lifestyle, and stress. The team from FLAME University picked Questern Tours, a Pune- Damyanti Bhattacharya, Principal said, “It is extremely worrying to see young individuals today being prone based company, and impressed the judges with their impressive to heart diseases. These sessions were meant to be an eye-opener. While we received a great response during results. They were praised for the level of detail in their analysis and the event, we really hope that parents and students have thoroughly understood the essence of it and make the clear and logical explanations provided related to campaign amends to their lifestyles in order to safeguard their health.”

12 Curriculum October 16, 2020 Higher Education update National Education Policy 2020: Shree Vishwakarma Skill University launches B- VOC in Public Services Courses IIMK conducts virtual awareness drive for stakeholders under 'Unnat Bharat Abhiyan' Vishwakarma Skill University (SVSU), Haryana has entered into collaboration with ALS(Alternative learning system ltd), a coaching The Indian Institute of Professor, IIM Kozhikode College, Rajagiri College of Social network to provide a graduation course for the students interested in Management Kozhikode, concluded the session with his Sciences, BCM Kottayam, MES administrative services and government jobs from the state of Haryana and conducted an awareness driven insights on 'School Education and College also participated in this the rest of India. Webinar discussion on the NEP 2020'. The three experts also virtual meet. The Initiative is to prepare the students of state and country for Union public National Education Policy 2020, responded to various queries and The current market for Lithium- services commission and state public services, commission exams, on Oct 6. The virtual session doubts regarding the ion batteries in EVs alone is administrative & other government jobs in a 3-year program termed as coordinated by the Unnat Bharat implementation of NEP 2020 pegged at US$ 44 billion that is B.Voc. This effort is to provide a graduation degree along with training and Abhiyan (UBA) Cell of IIM fielded by the virtual audience expected to grow, despite the coaching for the aspired government jobs with a focus on All India Services/ Kozhikode met with an during the Q& A round of the challenges posed by the COVID- Central/state civil services. overwhelming response as more session. 19 pandemic, at a very heathy ALS and SVSU term it as “Graduation beyond your Dreams”. ALS has than 450 enthusiastic Earlier Prof. Anubha Shekhar 22% CAGR according to an future plan to establish a VSAT center at Gurugram, Haryana and later participants were introduced and Sinha, Coordinator, UBA Cell, analysis by Technavio. The convert it into a reputed college for skill development affiliated to SVSU. briefed on the various aspects of IIM, Kozhikode welcomed the development of more sustainable Manish Gautam, Chief Executive Director, ALS said, “The Unique B-VOC NEP 2020, by an expert panel of key note speakers and shared that battery solutions is critical as more in public services course being rolled out by SVSU in association with ALS. IIMK faculty members. IIM Kozhikode has adopted five EVs hit the roads, and as electric This graduate program will also prepare the youth with skills to face the real Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) is villages viz—Mavoor, utilities seek better options for world with confidence. Continuous interaction with academia, soft skills a flagship programme of the Kuttikkattoor, Narikkuni, Puthur storing power from intermittent trainer, bureaucrats, corporate leaders, development sector professionals, Ministry of Education (Govt. of and Puthuppadi of Kozhikode renewables. The National Electric and industries at ALS and SVSU will help the students evolve and develop India) and is inspired by the district under the UBA initiative of Mobility Mission Plan 2020, with life skills..” vision of transformational Ministry of Education. She also a projection of getting 6-7 million change in rural development added that the baseline socio- electric vehicles on Indian roads Sanskriti University celebrates 10th processes by leveraging economic survey and focus group and the installation of 175 GW of knowledge institutions to help discussions (FGD) are being renewable energy by 2022 are also Foundation Program - 2020 virtually build the architecture of an carried out with the involvement potential demand drivers for new Inclusive India. IIM Kozhikode of faculties and PGP students of battery technology. The three key The Foundation Day 2020 started with a welcome message by Dr. Rana is a partner Institute for the UBA IIMK, to prepare the Village issues to address are safety, energy Singh Vice-Chancellor where he extended a warm welcome to all the new programme and has been Development Plan (VDP) for each density, and cost. students by wishing them good luck. Sachin Gupta (Chancellor) thanked actively playing a role in village. The intervention activities According to the World Economic everyone and said \"It is a matter of great pride for everyone who has been part furthering the development will be brought in action based on Forum, a circular battery value of the journey.” agenda and fortifying the VDP. chain is a major driver to meet the Arun Singh (Member of Parliament & National General Secretary of institutional capacity and giving The Webinar witnessed Paris Agreement, as batteries Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)) was the Chief Guest. Ram Kailash Gupta training relevant to national participation from a diverse set of could enable 30% of the required (Chairman), Rajesh Gupta (Pro Chancellor), Mukesh Gupta (Chairman, needs, especially those of rural stakeholders – students, faculty reductions in carbon emissions in Vision Institute of Advanced Studies), Ashok Chakradhar (Author & Poet), India. members, district and Gram the transport and power sectors. Arun (Author poet), Chirag Jain (Author poet), and Mr. Patricio from TQS The Webinar session was divided Panchayat members, educators, Dr Bimlesh Lochab is one of the Chile were also in the video conference. into three parts and began with an public servants, research scholars, first scientists in India to work in While talking about New Education Policy Arun Singh said \"Due to the 'Introduction to NEP 2020 and library professionals, the field of sustainable or waste- global pandemic of COVID 19, the world has almost come to a standstill and Higher Education' conducted by administrators and educationists – derived Lithium-Sulfur batteries. has badly impacted the various economies of the world. Slowly, we are Prof. Anandakuttan B Unnithan, from the neighboring community The research by Dr Lochab has coming out of the global menace of Corona. This year is historic; after 34 Dean, Academic Affairs & and schools around Kozhikode. been acclaimed globally and this years new national education policy is being implemented which emphasizes Development, IIM Kozhikode. Members from organizations and work is published in the not just reading but understanding and emphasizes on enhancing the skill of This was followed by a session institutes such as IIM Banglore, prestigious and specialized the students with an outcome based approach. In this policy, the emphasis has on 'Strategies & Tips for Setting IIM Kozhikode, IIT Palakkad, scientific journal, Energy Storage been on practical education / internship from class 6 which will enhance their up Virtual Learning Platform Central University of Kerala, Materials (Elsevier). Dr Bimlesh skills and will help in skills development of students.\" Designed for NEP 2020' Pondichery University, IIT ISM Lochab has been awarded the conducted by Dr. M G Dhanbad, Bharatidasan Bronze Medal for 2021 by the IIIT-Delhi 9th Convocation was a Virtual Sreekumar, Chief Librarian & University, NIMHANS, Chemical Research Society Information Officer and Adjunct PGIMER, Kerala University, Ceremony Professor, IIM Kozhikode. Prof. Calicut University, MG Ashok Thomas, Assistant University Kottayam, Farook IIIT Delhi conducted its 9th Convocation ceremony on Sep 27. The ceremony was conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. BML Munjal University conducts e-convocation Although the students' achievements could not be celebrated in the traditional manner, the Institute left no stone unturned to make sure that the BML Munjal University (BMU), Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, have been an option in the past too event was equality inspiring and memorable for the students. This ceremony Gurugram conducted its first ever Deans, Registrar, Distinguished but today it is a need of the hour was a celebration of the achievements of the students during their time at IIIT “e-convocation” (5th Board Members, Faculty and a reality. While nothing can Delhi. During the Convocation, the Institute conferred degrees upon 237 convocation) on 19th September members, and the graduating replace the power of personal B.Tech., 203 M.Tech., 2 M.Tech. dual and, 12 Ph.D. students. 2020 where 540+ students from students of BML Munjal connection, the fact of the matter This year, Raghav Sood and Shravika Mittal joined the IIIT Delhi Hall of BMU's School of Management, University through video is that despite so much disruption Fame by being awarded the Chancellor's Gold Medal, whereas Pulkit School of Engineering & conferencing. The welcome around us, we all continue to stay Madaan (B.Tech. CSAM) and Raghavv Goel (B.Tech. ECE) became a part Technology and School of address was delivered by Sunil connected. Technology is of Institute's legacy by being awarded the Best Academic Performance Economics & Commerce from Kant Munjal, Chancellor BML changing our entire ecosystem at a award. Raghavv Goel (ECE) also won the coveted All Round Performance the Gurgaon campus were Munjal University & Chairman, very fast pace, there is an Medal along with Abhishek Agarwal (CSAM) and Tanish Gupta (CSE). conferred with the graduation Hero Enterprise, this was acceleration of digitization, new M.Tech students, Aditya Khandelwal and Prateek Singh, also marked their degrees on successful completion followed by the presentation of ecosystems which are getting presence in Institute's academic history by being the recipients of the Gold of B.Tech, B.Com, BBA & MBA the annual report by the Vice created and there is accessible data Medal for ExcellentAcademic Performance. programmes Chancellor, Dr. (Prof.) Manoj K and a lot more, there are several of Professor Joachim Frank (Columbia University, USA), recipient of the 2017 A day of many firsts, September Arora, where he announced some these things that are changing and Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was the Chief Guest and delivered the 19, 2020 saw BMU's first- ever of the key milestones achieved by students should be open to these Convocation address. Prof. Frank mentioned in his address, “We have two virtual convocation ceremony, to the university in the last one year. changes and think of a way to choices: despair at the overwhelming chaos in the wake of the pandemic, or celebrate its first class of He mentioned about the School of capitalize on it. I would like to take it as an opportunity to rethink, in a radical way, the state of affairs and the graduates who completed their Management being ranked 37th in share 5 principles of my personal way things should be run. As someone who has experienced utter chaos once studies remotely at a time in NIRF 2020, BMU being the & professional life with the young before, at the beginning of his life during World War II, and then experienced history like no other. For the first digital campus for Blended minds on this very celebration and the return to civil order, decency and prosperity in Germany, my country of time 540 students marked the Learning, receiving QS I- those are “Change is the only birth, I'm biased toward the second choice”. special celebration & milestone GAUGE E-LEAD Certificate for constant”, learn the “Art of Professor Frank further added, “With your knowledge, expertise and from their homes to a brighter Academic Digitization and being collaboration”, “Never let a crisis certified credentials that you expected to receive today, the world would be future. The e - convocation was chosen as one of the Atal go to waste”, “Pursuit for wide open to you. Now, as a consequence of the pandemic, some of these graced by the chief guest, Community Innovation Centers. excellence”, “Embrace career choices have come to naught because the economy has changed, other Sandeep Patel, Managing Addressing the students and technology”. I wish all the luck to priorities have emerged that demand training in different trades, and travel Director, IBM India SouthAsia. faculty virtually, Sandeep Patel, my young friends who have restrictions may have created insurmountable barriers. Yet, on the other The ceremony was virtually said “A virtual convocation may embarked a journey towards a new hand, entirely new choices are opening up in unexpected ways. As we all attended by the Chief Guest, world.” must take the pandemic as a wakeup call for the necessity of global cooperation, you all need to realize that your choice of career is a point where you can make a difference, a point that requires careful thought about your place in the world community and your aspirations as a responsible human being.”

Curriculum October 16, 2020 13 Useful News India Science Festival Announces 2021 Online NEWS YOU CAN USE Event—The India Science Month Online Inter-School Competition, inspiration in innovation and National Coding and Students will have the opportunity to fly postcards to space on a Blue WIZKIDS, opens for demonstrate their abilities to Origin rocket with Club for the Future, a non-profit founded by Blue registration analyse problems and come up Robotics Challenge 2020 Origin with out-of-the-box and The festival of science in India will be going online in 2021 as India WIZKIDS, an Inter-school executable solutions to solve by SP Robotic Works Science Month Online (ISMO) to bring the country face to face with Literary, Art & Cultural global issues like the current science on their smart devices. The festival seeks to simplify and Competition is back and online pandemic of Covid19, SP Robotic Works, an demystify science and technology through numerous virtual activities on Krayon app. The purpose of Biodiversity loss, Deforestation, edutainment learning platform that would lead to a grand online celebration in Jan 2021. the competition is to bring Global warming/Climate change, has announced a robotics and The focus areas for ISMO 2021 are Health, Robotics and Space along together children on one forum Desertification, Resource coding competition – National with cutting-edge technology in engineering, genetics, development in by enabling a platform to depletion, and other business Coding and Robotics Challenge science communication, science policy, etc. This month-long celebra- showcase their talent, reward problems. (NCRC) 2020. tion of science, which is expecting more than 30,000 online participants, their skills and encourage them to The top three winners of the NCRC is inviting online will feature virtual talks and interactions with something for everyone. push their limits. contest will be awarded with a registration from school Prominent speakers include roboticist Rodney Brooks (MIT), commu- Students looking for after-school scholarship between 50% – 100% students aged 7-16 years – no nity health specialist and activist Dr Abhay Bang (SEARCH), astro- programming and extracurricular for any UG programme at BMU prior coding knowledge is physicist Priyamvada Natarajan (Yale), theoretical epidemiologist activities amidst the ever- (subject to the university needed. The competition is Sunetra Gupta (Oxford), astrobiologist Dimitra Atri (NYUAD), UAVs changing COVID-19 landscape guidelines), along with a cash divided into two segments – researcher Sebastian Secherer (CMU), robot implants researcher Ritu will have a great time with prize of Rs 50K, 30K & 20K Junior NCRC (7 to 9 years) and Raman (MIT), Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Kameshwar Prasad, psychia- WIZKIDS, which will be respectively and a high end bike Senior NCRC (10 to 16 years) trist and researcher Dr. Shekhar Saxena (Harvard University) and many partnering with various creative by FireFox. with two different themes. other renowned names. and talent organizations like The students would be invited to Registration for the event costs As part of this year's festival, students will have the opportunity to fly Kommune, Rhapsody, Terence register for the contest on Rs. 3499 and Rs. 5999 for Junior postcards to space and back with Club for the Future, a non-profit Lewis Dance Academy, Dance https://www.bmu.edu.in/heroes- and Senior respectively. After founded by Blue Origin whose mission is to inspire students to pursue with Madhuri &AR. of-tomorrow2020/. The student registration, they get the online careers in STEM and help visualize the future of life in space to benefit Adds Syed Sultan Ahmed, MD & would be required to provide the Coding course worth Rs. 10000 Earth. Student participants from across the country will draw or write Chief Learner @ LXL, “Every required details such as name, for free. The participants can their answer on a postcard to the question, 'Why do you think Earth student has talent & every talent class, school, address, learn the coding and then submit needs space?' Postcards will be flown to space and back on upcoming needs a Stage. At WIKZIDS, we registration number, contact their project video online. The flights of Blue Origin's reusable New Shepard rocket and returned to looked at this opportunity to details ets during the registration deadline for the first round of each student with a 'Flown to Space' stamp. create a platform which can process. The participants also submission is 31st December ISMO will also run workshops in collaboration with Club for the Future engage children from across need to fill in a form describing 2020. and Blue Origin to educate children about the future of space exploration India and give them an the problem and innovative The project entries will be and inspire them to pursue careers in STEM. opportunity to learn and solution for it within 500 words.A judged based on public voting “In these times of uncertainty with the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic, showcase their unique talents. total of 500 entries would be via social media that is the we would like to emphasize that more than ever, this is the right time to The Krayon platform which is an shortlisted by the BMU team, number of likes received on engage with science. Therefore, to ensure continuity, we will be holding exclusive secure online platform Post which, the shortlisted entries Facebook, Instagram, and the second edition of the festival as the India Science Month Online will host WIZKIDS 2020 and would be provided with design LinkedIn, as well as the scores (ISMO) in January 2021. ISF is a point of connect for science and will enable students to learn and thinking training online for 45 given by the judges, considering society and this year our audiences will engage with us virtually through showcase themselves.” minutes each. In all four sessions the student's creativity and talks, discussions, competitions, jams and our special postcard Krayon is a video platform for would be held, twice per week, presentation of the idea. A total program.” said VarunAggarwal, founder of India Science Festival. children and comprises of three executed by the BMU team. of 100 participants will be The festival will also have science games, JAMs, drawing competitions, parts called Watch, Learn and Following the sessions, the selected for the Final Round. and flash fiction competitions to cater to a variety of interests. There are Perform. It will also empower shortlisted 500 students would The results will be announced in workshops for both children and adults on topics ranging from science students to learn various talents submit their final entries. The top January 2021 via a Live Digital illustration, building robots at home, astronomy, AI – Art, data science, through curated sessions, 15 entries will be invited to make Ceremony. The 100 Finalists science storytelling, science documentary making and more! masterclasses and skill the presentation to the panel. will be provided with the Young In addition to Club for the Future, the festival is backed by prestigious development programs. These From these presentations, 15 Tech CEO Program held at IIT organizations including Aspiring Minds, Social Alpha and Tata Institute courses will be curated by entries will be selected for the Madras Research Park and of Genetics and Society (TIGS). partners and professional National Final. The final many more awards and More details about the festival can be found at: exponents of the various art evaluation of the top 3 entries will recognitions including free http://indiasciencefest.org/ forms. be done through presentation to a ElectroBlock kit and Codey Students can register for competitions here: http://indiasciencefest.org/ Rahman's School of Music and jury consisting of eminent Robot Kit to learn further. participate Museum of Art & Photography personalities and professionals The final winner will get prizes will also see a virtual launch on from different walks of life. worth INR 5o lakh along with Australian Government's Study Australia Video various social media and video Commenting on the contest, Dr. stay at Sterling Holiday Resorts. sharing platforms. They will also Sarabjot Singh Anand, Director, Moreover, one of the winners Competition for Indian School Students is back engage their Krayon Computer Science & will be awarded a Malaysian representatives across 120 cities Engineering, BML Munjal educational trip too. In what has become an annual feature for several years now, Australian in India to create a connect with University, said, “Humbled by Trade and Investment Commission, India office has announced launch schools and parents and the success of the last two TCS IT Wiz 2020 goes all of this year's 3-minute Video Competition in association with partner introduce them to the new format. editions of Heroes Of Tomorrow, universities fromAustralia. Registration opened on Sep 21 The last date to apply for we are happy to take this digital, registration open Develop a short three minute video in English on a theme from five WIZKIDS is November 30th, competition to the next level in given themes and get nominated by the partner university in Australia. 2020 this, its third edition. This till 22nd October Students of Grades 9 – 12 with outstanding English language, analytical platform is the perfect and video production skills are invited to participate in the Study Heroes of Tomorrow- 2020' opportunity for young minds to Inter-school quiz, conducted by Australia Video Competition, which has already begun registrations expand their horizons & make Tata Consultancy Services, TCS from from September 21. The last dace for submission of competition contest for students of class truly transformative inventions. It IT Wiz is back with its 22nd video entries will be Monday, 23 November 2020. celebrates innovation and edition. The registrations are Organised by The Australian Trade and Investment Commission, 11 & 12 by BML Munjal encourages the embracing of open till 22nd October, students Australian Government, the competition is open to students in grades 9 change, while imparting can registered through- to 12 from schools across India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The University opens cognitive skills to school and https://bit.ly/3d0QTKr. Like competition is sponsored by Macquarie University, The University of college students, motivating them always, there is no entry fee to Queensland Australia, The University of Sydney, The University of BML Munjal University (BMU), to think outside the box. Our register. The participants will go Western Australia and University of Wollongong Australia, Allianz, a Hero Group initiative, has aspiration is to groom the leaders through a Mock Quiz to get their NIB Health Funds and Synapse Medical Services. announced the launch of its third of tomorrow. I wish all the game-on for the prelims. Schools can nominate maximum of 20 teams. Each team can select only edition of the “Heroes Of participants The knowledge initiative by one theme with a team composition of two students and one member of Tomorrow 2020” (HoT2020) TCS is more exciting than ever the teaching staff. Each winning team will receive a prize of three Mini contest for school students of before as it has gone totally Apple iPads (Wi-Fi + Cellular, 64GB) awarded by the partner Australian 11th & 12th grade across India. digital, enhancing its reach and university. The initiative aims to provide a hunt further for the brilliant Themes of Videos: platform for participants to seek young minds across the nation. The Study Australia Video Competition involves production of short videos by students around the themes of: Future of Work – What is your dream future job? Where the Wild Things are: How COVID-19 has impacted the ecology of wildlife Building circular cities Lockdown Blues – Design an innovative solution that improves mental health for people facing increased stress as a result of the COVID-19

14 Curriculum October16, 2020 Entrepreneurships/ India Skills James Dyson Award India Winner, runners up for 2020 2nd cohort of Prarambh, LegalTech incubator Earth Tatva, an invention by Shashank Nimkar, a student of National Institute announced of DesignAhmedabad is the winner. Law firm, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, has announced the launch of the Made under zero-waste closed-loop material that can be shortlisted basis their adherence to second cohort of India's first LegalTech incubator – Prarambh. Launched in manufacturing process, adhering incorporated in a zero-waste the submission parameters, and February 2019 as a part of Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas' focus on innovation to the principles of circular manufacturing process.” shared with the submission and technology, Prarambh is recognised for supporting the domestic talent in economy; and supports United For Earth Tatva, Shashank parameters, and shared with the developing quality LegalTech products, and significantly enhancing the Nations' Sustainable procures the pulverized form of members of Jury. interest in adoption of technology amongst the legal fraternity. Development Goal 12, Central post-industrial ceramic rejects Keeping with the times, Prarambh Cohort 2 is designed as a 10-weeks virtual Glass & Ceramic Research called 'grog', from the surrounding The Runners Up incubation programme, with focus on mentoring existing startups in the Institute (CGCRI) has reported production cluster, which forms For runners-up, there was a tie LegalTech space, to develop solutions that align with the practical Earth Tatva to be 35% stronger the major portion of the raw between the team from Indian requirements of law firms, corporate legal departments, judiciary and than traditional ceramics. material (between 60% – 70%), Institute of Technology Madras independent practitioners. Hence, the applications are invited from startups Runners up postion is a tie and virgin clay. This virgin clay (Chennai) that submitted their that are in the 'development and/or ready to scale stage' for the 10-weeks between IIT Madras and NID acts as a natural binder that helps invention Cube; and the team from virtual incubation programme. 3-4 high potential startups will be selected Ahmedabad teams, both of in giving shape to the grog.As clay National Institute of Design, basis a comprehensive evaluation process, and they will be mentored by a whom have provided solutions naturally converts to ceramics Ahmedabad for their entry Drishti. panel of leading international innovators, industry experts, and lawyers from for visually challenged after the firing process, this Cube CyrilAmarchand Mangaldas. essentially is like working with a Problem: Unfortunately, around Announcing the launch Cyril Shroff, Managing Partner, CAM, said, This year's Indian national James mono-material, which is a huge 285 million people globally and 40 “Extraordinary times call for great innovations. For businesses, this year is a Dyson Award winner is advantage while upcycling or million people in India have either story to tell, partly because how businesses have realised the need for Shashank Nimkar from the recycling a material. Using a partial; or a complete visual transformation, especially with respect to use of technology. Riding on this National Institute of Design, casting method, called 'slip- impairment. Absence of a learning is the second innings of Prarambh. The first cohort of Prarambh Ahmadabad who has attempted casting', this material can then be compact, all-in-one device for concluded on a high note and we believe second edition of Prarambh will lay to solve waste problem from mould into any shape and size. blind useful for both navigation foundation for development of LegalTech solutions for India's legal sector manufacturing process with his The high proportion of grog and faster communication (major that is set for a huge technology led transformation.” invention – Earth Tatva. means that the composition has a issues) because of low field of Earth Tatva is inspired by the quicker drying cycle increasing its view (while using a single camera) Bengaluru StartUp, Vadoo, wins Rs 50 Lakhs at BITS Pilani concept of circular economy, production yield, and also uses and slow response of current where waste is seen as a design lesser energy to fire. It matures at systems (Orcam) pushed the team Conquest flaw, and the focus is on 1120 °C where virgin materials from IIT madras to understand the developing mono-material that matures at 1220 °C. detailed requirements of the Vadoo, a Bangalore based startup providing a P2P platform to enable users to can be recycled for multiple The Central Glass & Ceramic visually challenged, and work simultaneously consume and deliver the stream, was declared as the winner production cycles under closed- Research Institute (CGCRI), a towards a solution. of the 16th edition of Conquest, BITS Pilani's student-run startup accelerator. loop zero-waste manufacturing. national research institute under Solution: CUBE is a compact It was awarded equity less cash prize of Rs 50 lakh rupees on September 27. Winning the national leg of the Council of Scientific and assistive device that fits into a After the mentoring sessions of top 50 startups, the best 15 startups were James Dyson Award will inject Industrial Research, India smartphone port to help the blind shortlisted. Sessions were conducted on topics like Growth and Fundraising £2,000 (approx. INR190,000) (Ministry of Science and self-navigate through space, by personalities like Vishal Jain, VP, and Head, Growth at Shuttl, and into the Earth Tatva project. Technology), has reported Earth recognise people and objects with Roopan Aulakh, Managing Director at Pi Ventures. Fireside chats were also The Earth Tatva is a unique Tatva to be 35% stronger than the help on an additional camera, delivered by founders of startups similar to the Top 15 startups to help them material composition that traditional ceramics; and hence as well as type, learn & read braille get the opinion of people who had already been in their shoes. reduces mining for natural doing more and better with less. with tiny refreshable braille cells. The best 10 startups were selected for the finale. Conquest set up investment resources by up to 60% through Shashank is currently working Team Members: Sundar Raman meetings for startups with Investment firms like AngelList, Arali Ventures, recycling of post-industrial fired towards converting the Earth P, Adil Mohammed, Shivam Parampara VC, NuVentures, Villgro, Prime VP, Sangam Ventures, Chiratae ceramic waste. This unique Tatva project into a start-up, and Maheshwari, Andrea Elizabeth Ventures and Rebright Partners. For the Pre Demo Day, analysts from VC material composition is made has received numerous inquiries Biju firms were called upon to fine-tune the pitches of the startups, essentially under zero-waste manufacturing from various individuals and Drishti. acting as a build-up to the main event. process, adhering to the production units about this Problem: The monetary On the Virtual Demo Day, all the founders pitched their startup ideas to a principles of circular economy; innovation. “These tableware transaction is heavily vision decorated audience with personalities like Nilesh Kothari, Co-Founder and also supporting United Nation's products are in demand with the dependent, and something that is Managing Partner, Trifecta Capital, and Vinit Bhansali, Vice President, Sustainable Development Goal environmentally-conscious often taken for granted. But for the Orios Venture Capital in attendance. Post the pitching, the Chief Guest, (SDG 12) of ensuring sustainable hospitality businesses. The visually impaired, this simple task Mohandas Pai, Padma Shri Awardee and Chairman of Manipal Global and responsible consumption businesses who want to serve their of the transaction of money is not Education and Namakal Parthasarthy, Managing Partner at Mela Ventures and production patterns. guests while operating on a low so straightforward, and which is said a few words of inspiration that invoked the entrepreneurial mindset in Shashank speaking on his win carbon footprint and the ones where the team from National everyone. It was followed by a panel discussion on 'Post Pandemic said: “I have always been serving organic food items have Institute of Design, Ahmedabad Consumerism in 2021' by Sanjay Mehta, Founder, and Partner at 100X.VC, fascinated by the idea of turning shown interest to use these tries to find a solution and allow Mahesh Murthy, Founder and Director at Exseed Space, Srikanth waste into a valuable resource. recycled ceramic wares. I am also them to perform this task with Sundarajan, General Partner at Ventureast, and Barath Subramanian, Partner While working on design in talks with designers and ease. at Accel. Regarded as the country's largest student-run startup accelerator, solutions, I often wonder what architects known for their Solution: Drishti is a product, Conquest is backed by Canbank VC,Accel Partners, and WeWork. happens to the products & sustainable and unique approach designed to empower the visually materials at their end of life. On towards their work who have challenged to identify the Indian VLCC Institute launches Online Certificate Course this project, I kept asking myself shown interest to use this material currency note on their own. how I can add shared value from for their projects,” he said. Through the combination of the in Hair Styling the inside & not just from a Previously, Shashank and Earth width of the template to the height functional or aesthetic point of Tatva has also received numerous of the template, a person can VLCC, beauty and wellness products and services provider, has launched a view. That is how the idea of a other accolades. It was recognized identify any one of the 12 notes Online Certificate Course in Hair-Styling. The 90-hour, 6-week course is universal material was conceived as circular economy pioneer by that are currently in current timely given the work-from-home trend brought on by the COVID-19 against making a product. Since Ellen MacArthur Foundation, circulation. pandemic. day one, the aim was to make a London, it has received the REX Team Members: Mrudul VLCC has introduced the course keeping in mind the need to skill Karmaveer Chakra Award, and Chilmulwar, Mani Teja Lingala individuals in a way that they can avail training at the safety of their houses was adjudicated as the winner for while adding new expertise in their resumes. Course content also includes Sustainability by Design, Indus intensive segments for hands-on practice and styling consultation skills. University. Earth Tatva was also The course covers a wide range of topics including hair cutting, hair colour one of the finalists at TIP Summit, technique, client consultation, hair product knowledge and trendy hair Abu Dhabi; and at the Green styling. The course also emphasises on the COVID-19 related safety and ProductAwards, Munich. hygiene protocols that need to be followed and preventive measures while This year, The James Dyson delivering hair services. It also comes with live demonstration classes by Awards India received 241 entries, VLCC experts and unlimited Q&Aopportunities. out of which 93 entries were Online courses for Luxury StartUps International School of Design launches short online courses for the luxury startups. The online course aims to show the grass-root level of founding a luxury business by putting the student at the heart of complex situations. The course duration is one-month. Speaking on the launch of online courses for luxury startup, Mr. Harsh Mann, Program Director, Luxury programs, said, “This is the new segment that has been added in the curriculum of INSD, which is designed in a way that will provide insight to all different business verticals. The curriculum is built on real-time trending case studies and will be taught by industry experts. Luxury

Curriculum October16, 2020 15 News Updates Ed-Tech start-up EduGorilla raises programme as teachers gain academically through relevant courses. 90% of parents believe The objective of the program was to provide sustainable quality training that pandemic stress has funding from Auxano Entrepreneur for capacity building of teachers and continuous professional develop- not affected their child's ment through technology enabled solution. The office of Additional immunity: RIGI survey Fund Commissioner, Thane Division, Tribal Development Department, Government of Maharashtra selected a heterogeneous mix of 28 A national survey of 14000 Lucknow-based ed-tech start-up EduGorilla has raised funding to the experienced and new Primary, Secondary and Higher Secondary parents by Ryan International tune of approximately INR 5.3 crores (USD 726,000) from SEBI – Cat teachers from neighboring Ashram Schools situated in Themba, Group of Institutions that 1 Angel Fund - Auxano Entrepreneur Fund and group of angels led by Susarwadi, Shenva, Madh, Dahagaon, Ambivali and many small villages captures their child nutrition Venture Garage – SucSEED Venture Partners, Pune Angels, Hem around Thane to participate in the programme.The duration of the mapping and management Angels and VG Angels. EduGorilla plans to utilize the funding for programme was 60 hours and was delivered in Marathi language. Each methods amidst the pandemic intensification of its marketing and sales functions for an array of its course was divided into modules for better and effective understanding says that 66% of parents believe offerings. It is currently teams in five cities - New Delhi, Jaipur, of the subject. in homemade immunity-boosting Indore,Ahmedabad and Lucknow. Before the onset of the programme, a survey was conducted across 10 recipes while 33.97% of parents Commenting on the development, Rohit Manglik, Founder & CEO, schools with nearly 60 teachers and 10 principals to assess the challenges rely on immunity-boosting EduGorilla, said: The funding strengthens our resolve to be a faced by the teachers and devise solutions to create a training curriculum supplements and 81.35% of formidable pillar of support to students through our top-notch content for the teachers. A Training programme including six courses and six parents have proactively worked and leveraging of cutting-edge technology. It will be deployed to step modules was designed including 21st century approaches to learning, towards further boosting their up our marketing and sales efforts to cater to the recent surge in users. pedagogy & evaluation, Fundamentals of child development, spectrum child's immunity as the schools Over 7.5 crores applicants appear for state-level competitive examina- of special needs, basics in safety practices in school, basics in health and prepare to reopen. tions in India every year that is an untapped opportunity for us. nutrition and professional skills.The objective was to improve the Approximately 93% of our target audience hails from rural India and pedagogical skills with relevant subjects through technology. Adetailed An informative nationwide barely knows English.” pre and post assessment was conducted and the average score amongst survey on children's nutrition and the teachers was compared. In the post assessment teachers' score immunity-boosting diet was the Foxhog Ventures Raises 4.6 Million from improved to an average of 24/30 as compared to 16/30 in the pre- final leg of the social media assessment. campaign that surveyed close to Angel Network for Portable Teacher RustomKerawalla, Chairman, Ampersand Group said, “The objective of 14000 parents of children from the program was to provide sustainable quality solution for the capacity the age group of 3 to 18 years. Foxhog Ventures has raised 4.6 Million from angel Network for their building of teachers based on their needs and their continuous profes- Majority of the parents have One of the Innovative Products Called Foxhog Portable Teacher in sional development through technology enabled solution. The training included fruits and protein-rich association with Electrokriti Labs India. will help teachers from the tribal dominated areas to upskill themselves food in their child's diet and Company has been continuously raising funds for most of their with modern methods of teaching and help them address the needs of the considerably reduced junk food Innovation in India After their 1st quarter results and aims to boost the students in a scientific manner.” from their children's diet amidst IndianEdTech Industry by various products and services. The school teachers noted that the online teacher training platform has the pandemic scenario. Foxhog Portable Techer is capable to teach the students anywhere any been a game-changer as most of the concepts taught during the formative Parents point out that seasonal time for any subjects, The tutor will be loaded with all tech based years as a teacher are revisited in the courses. The training has certainly ailments are the major indicators gadgets, like Portable White bord, ElectricitySupply, Course Content empowered them to create rote learning free classrooms and compelled of their child's immunity system. and more, with qualified teachers for every course. Portable Techer them to think out of the box. Shonali Sabherwal, India's claims it's availability 24x7 at any place specially in remote areas. leading macrobiotic nutritionist The Program will be run by Foxhog'sEducational Wing Foxhog VIDEOMEET app for online classes ties up also commented, “While parents academy in association with Electrokriti Labs India, which is are smarter in strengthening their Specially active in the field of Electronics Manufacturing, with Jaipur college child's immunity in the current Researchand Development run by 2 Delhi based scenario, extra attention must be EntrepreneurAnukritiand Kartik. VideoMeet, a Made in India Video conferencing application has paid to examine the quality of Company is planning to deploy Foxhog Portable Teacher specially in launched features to enable schools and colleges for online classes. It has foods in terms of 'nutritional remote areas of the country and planning to on board more than 2000 tied up with S.S Jain Subodh P.G. College, one of the most prestigious quotient' and 'nutritional value' to tutors for various courses in the year of 2020. colleges of Jaipur, to offer their services to organize online classes of increase immunity. Children are “ I Thought to start this unique Program to help those Students , for more than 60 courses in undergraduate, postgraduate, Ph.D. and also coming out of the pandemic them Education is not reachable due to lack of various circumstances professional programmes. being sheltered and will get more and specially in COVID. Portable Teacher is Inspired by an idea by With its features such as HD viewing to LD viewing available, data exposed to each other, and this Electrokriti Lab's CEO Anukriti“ SaysFoxhog's Managing Partner compression technology, specific room code and customization, means a greater chance of Tarun Kumar. VideoMeet can allow Lacs of participants in a single video conference. something affecting them.” VideoMeet also hosted the Annual General Meeting for the college's Venture Catalysts invests in 7Classes governing council Subodh Shiksha Samiti. The virtual meeting setup is Virtual Run on Stonehill equipped with features such as Attendance, recording of audio/video, Venture Catalysts, an integrated incubator and accelerator platform, ease of QnA exchange, and branded virtual room. It also offers speakers, School Founder's Day has invested an undisclosed amount in 7 Classes –e-learning platform panellist participants and distinctive identification of attendees. The for aspiring IIT JEE, engineering, medical and Olympiads students to college is also using the Townhall feature integrated with VideoMeet for The Stonehill School Bangalore's learn and prepare for Competitive exams. The company is focusing arranging a live address of the Principal. celebrated its Fo initially on students of standards 9th to 12th in India, Dubai and the under's Day by a 'Virtual Run' US. IIT Roorkee @World Space Week organised by Raadiant Sports on Founded by a team of IIT-B, NIT & Super30 alumni -Anup Raaj (IITB Sep 27 with over 400 people alumnus, ex-CTO PSTakeCare acquired by K. Ganesh's Portea and a Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee commemorated World participated in different student of Super30 Fame Anand Kumar),Arun Kumar Gupta, Ranjan Space Week 2020 through a week-long series of webinars with eminent categories including a half Kumar Soni (NIT JSR Alumnus) and Arvind Patel(IITB Alumnus) - luminaries as speakers. The various sessions shared strategic insights on marathon, 10K and 5K. The 7Classes has built an innovative educational framework by continuous space technology and the working of the Indian Space Research Founder's Day Virtual Run was innovation such as only 7 students in one batch, reverse interaction by Organization(ISRO). The objective of the event was to commemorate the aimed to provide an event like the teacher, 2 teacher model of teaching, confidence diagnosis driven contribution of science and technology to the betterment of human lives. experience in the absence of on- learning etc. This system is designed to solve the menace of crowded Space technology is playing a critical role in our country's growth, from ground events. It was planned to classes and low confidence issues of students. helping education to disaster mitigation and management. ISRO is now a facilitate and encourage people to Speaking on the fund raise, Anup Raaj, said, “Our current fundraise symbol of our national pride and attracts the attention of the youth of the stay active and keep up with their will allow us to reach out to the grassroots of the country. This year our country who wish to pursue science and technology as a career. Dr. fitness goals. goal is to ensure we are a known educational brand in Indian and Dubai Bhanu Pant, Shri Kali Shanker, Dr. RajashreeVinodBothale and Dr. D. As it was a virtual event, there market. Fund will be spent on building the confidence diagnosis, Ram Rajak of ISRO gave informative lectures during the week. was wide spread participation teacher empowerment tech in 12-15 languages to make it reachable Announced by the United Nations General Assembly on December 6, from individuals across and accessible to almost every parent.” 1999, World Space Week is an annual event celebrated between October Karnataka and the world! Speaking on the investment, Apoorv Ranjan Sharma, President and 4 and 10. The choice of dates coincides with two significant milestones in Individuals and corporates came Co-founder, Venture Catalysts, said,“We were really impressed with space history: the launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik together in this non-competitive the concept of 7Classes, which aims to address the fundamental 1, on October 4, 1957, and the signing of the Outer Space Treaty on event and enjoyed the experience. problems that disrupt the education of children. The founding team is October 10, 1967. World Space Week is the largest annual space event in Some of the participating well qualified and experienced to guide students as and when they face the world. companies were Wells Fargo, any difficulties. We are confident that their unique teaching model will Prof M. Parida. Deputy Director IIT Roorkee mentioned in his Intel and DB Engineering & receive a positive response from both students and parents across concluding remarks, “On the concluding day ceremony of World Space Consulting GmbH.The virtual India, Dubai and the US.” Week Lecture series, I am very happy to share that IIT Roorkee has long race allowed runners to choose been associated with ISRO through various projects and collaborations Pilot tech training project helps teach- that have resulted in a long-term engagement with ISRO through the recently set up ISRO IIT R Space Technology Cell. The STC is now the ers' scores improve single contact point for reaching out to ISRO for attracting more funds. Our in-house expertise in various areas of Space Technology will greatly An integrated pilot project for training school teachers across Ashram augment the research output in the related areas. Celebration of World schools in Thane, Maharashtra by Eduspark International Pvt. Space Week for the past three years including the challenging time in this Limited, part of Ampersand Group, has shown a remarkable 8 point year's pandemic certainly reflects the interest of IIT Roorkee to get more rise in the Average Post Assessment Score indicates the success of the involved in space technology programs.”

16 Curriculum October 16, 2020 NewsPlus Tech-savvy teens a generation of its own, Intel and CBSE Set New Guinness World but still stuck in old payments way Records™ Title; FamPay, a digital payments nearly 80 percent of teens building years, where one can Deliver Virtual Lesson on Artificial Intelligence to solution company, in a recent spending time on it, followed by acquire money skills and even survey with 1200 teenagers Yo u Tu be an d Wh ats A p p. afford to make mistakes while 13,000 Students in 24 Hours (GenZ) to understand their Watching content is what 66 learning since the stakes are payment and spending habits, percent of teens do most on social lower. It is crucial to form good Intel and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has achieved a lifestyle choices and platforms, followed by habits during these years from new Guinness World Records™ title for the most users to take an online aspirations has come up with consuming news, and being in financial skills to decision artificial intelligence (AI) lesson in 24 hours. The record was set after interesting findings. The touch with friends, in that order. making,.”, said Kush Taneja, Co- delivering a virtual lesson focused on demystifying the impact of AI and survey was conducted in Today's teenagers are socially Founder, FamPay. key considerations around its use to 13,000 students from class 8 and above August in Delhi-NCR, aware and not shy of voicing their The survey reveals that 84 percent between October 13th and 14th. The training was part of the ongoingAI For Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, opinion. The survey confirms that of Indian's teens love to shop Youth Virtual Symposium organized by Intel and CBSE. Pune, Hyderabad, Pune and they are vocal about issues. A online, a trend that has accelerated Dr. Biswajit Saha, Director, Trainings and Skill Education, CBSE, said,“I Kolkata. 68% were male and majority 55 percent are passionate since the lockdown. Despite the congratulate CBSE and Intel on their commitment to nurturing the right AI- 32% were female. about “Made in India”, 40 percent Digital India trend, 67 percent of related skillset and mindset among school students under the AI For Youth India's teens spend money on support the women empowerment teens continue to pay in cash and program, and setting a world record along the way.” Governments food, clothes and gadgets in agenda, 28 percent support Black 52 percent of teens pay through worldwide are working on creating comprehensive national AI strategies to that order. While spends on Lives Matter and 19 percent their parent's debit/credit card, create sustainable, inclusive and positive impact on citizens, industries and food is the highest among both support the LTBTQ cause. thereby continuing to be outside overall societies; the AI skill crisis is recognized as the biggest barrier for boys and girls, 64 percent of Teens cite mutual respect and trust the digital financial ecosystem. wider adoption and growth.Intel and CBSEhave been working together to boys spend more on gadgets as as being important aspects of their Using their parent's app or help close this gap by increasing the pace of AI integration in India's compared to 21 percent of girls. relationship with parents. Nearly debit/credit card is not without its education system. Teen girls, 66 percent of them 36 percent say that they would risks. In recent instances, a teen Shweta Khurana, Director – APJ, Global Partnerships and Initiatives at prefer to spend more on clothes like their decisions to be respected inadvertently made a transaction Intel said, “The enthusiastic response to the virtual AI lesson from students compared to 49 percent of more while 34 percent said that of Rs. 6,000 on their parent's app across the country that helped set a record with Guinness World Records boys. Teens have strong they would like their parents to while in another instance, a shows India's youth is engaged and eager to explore and innovate.” preferences when it comes to not stress so much over their teenager having access to his brands. Apple, Nike, H&M and studies. Interestingly, more teen parent's bank accounts used it to LPU engineering student wins NSS Award, Netflix emerged as the most girls would like their parents to upgrade his online game account popular brands among this trust their decisions, while not making a spend of Rs. 16 lacs. The receives it from the President cohort in their respective stressing about their studies was teenager reportedly made in-app categories. highlighted more by teen boys. 20 purchases for his teammates as Gourav Singhal, a final year B.Tech student of the School of Computer The survey reveals that teens percent of teenagers said that they well, which the parent realised Science and Engineering at Lovely Professional University, and NSS get money on demand from would like their parents to spend only after the transaction was volunteer, has been conferred with the prestigious NSS Award 2018-19 their parents. Nearly 50% more time with them. completed. (National Service Scheme Award 2018-19) for his contribution towards percent of all teens confirmed The lockdown has disrupted “Digital payments have become society by Shri Ram Nath Kovind, the honourable President of India. that they get money when they routines for teens, just like the 'new normal' for 300M adults, Gourav's work has also been praised by Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of ask for it. Only 23 percent everyone else. 20 percent teens but not for 250M teenagers, YouthAffairs & Sports GOI. receive pocket money and 25 miss eating out, 11 percent said making them totally dependent on Gaurav, who hails from Rohtak, Haryana has contributed to society in the percent said that they typically they missed going to school, while cash or their parents' cards for the field of health & wellness and girls' education. He conducted over 150 yoga receive money on their an overwhelming 50 percent cite last mile of completing a and spirituality camps as well as street plays to make people aware of the birthdays or from visiting missing their friends the most transaction. Today's teens are tech “Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao” campaign in Rohtak and Jhajjar districts of relatives during festivals. during this time. savvy and it's only logical that Haryana. He also worked extensively with other NSS volunteers for Surprisingly, only 4 percent “From our interaction with teens, they be involved users in the Swachh Bharat Mission. Gourav has been selected for the award out of 32 teens receive money for chores. we know that parents don't talk digital payment ecosystem,” said lakh NSS volunteers in 298 universities, 42 school councils and vocational When it comes to their social about money as much as they do Sambhav Jain, Co-Founder, institutions of the country. Gourav is the youngest one from the North Zone media behaviour, Instagram is about education with them. The FamPay. who won the accolades. the most popular channel with teenage years are foundation Commenting on his achievement,Ashok Mittal, Chancellor LPU said, “We are extremely proud of Gourav's achievement. It is not common to have such dedication and commitment for public service at his age. We salute his efforts and will provide him all the necessary help to continue his mission of creating awareness towards social initiatives.” IIT-Bhubaneswar Students develop a WE INVITE YOU TO BECOME PART OF first-of-its-kind helmet-like ventilation INDIA'S EDUCATION STORY! device 'SWASNER' You can advertise in curriculum magazine or and also put an advertorial highlighting your company/services/campus/ products etc. Given the surge in the number of COVID-19 cases, the demand for This will greatly support your marketing effort and enhance your ventilators has hit an all-time high, with governments and hospitals visibility and recall value with your current and potential clients struggling to meet the demand. There is a dire need for quick and effective respiratory ventilators given the acute shortage accentuated OUR FOCUS by the pandemic. To address this shortage, a group of engineering students from IIIT – — We cover latest news, product launches, current events and trends Bhubaneswar have developed SWASNER, a first-of-its-kind helmet- — News features, Guest Articles, Expert columns like ventilation device for patients suffering from Acute Respiratory — Career counselling, Skill India, Entrepreneurships Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Unlike regular devices, SWASNER can — School/College /university events be used without a ventilator by directly plugging into available oxygen — Achievements by students, faculty, institutions ports at hospitals and thereby help reserve the existing ventilators for — Education Technology — Study Abroad the critical patients. In fact, according to research conducted by — Institution/people profiles University of Chicago Medicine, patients demonstrate a better recovery rate by wearing helmet-shaped ventilator masks than regular ventilator support. Further, the team has conducted trials at a hospital in Cuttack, and has also applied for a patent for the design and technology. SWASNER Factsheet: SWASNER is a state of the art, modified hyperbaric chamber which can help the patient breathe better than CPAP/BiPAP face masks. SWASNER can be used without a ventilator by directly plugging in to available oxygen ports at hospitals and thereby help reserve the existing ventilators for the more critical patients. When not being used in lieu of a ventilator, the device can also be used to make a PPE-kit, by connecting to an air pump instead of an oxygen supply point.