Curriculum Mag July 2021

www.curriculum-magazine.com RNI No. UTTENG/2010/37634 Vol 11 No 9 magazine THE INDIA EDUCATION LANDSCAPE UPDATE July 16 2021 INSIDE Dharmendra Pradhan is the new union Education & A National Initiative for Skills minister; 3 MoS Education—RK Ranjan, Annpurna Devi Proficiency in Reading with and Dr Subhas Sarkar also appointed. Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN Bharat), Rajeev Chandrasekhar is the new Minister of State MSDE for ensuring that every child in the age group of 3 In the major overhaul of studied anthropology), apparent his understanding Dharmendra Pradhan to 9 years in the country union cabinet that took Pradhan is a former student of skilling issues and necessarily attains place on July 7, Dharmendra union leader, who started as challenges before the youth Rajkumar Ranjan Singh foundational literacy and Pradhan replaced Ramesh an ABVP activist and later is ample. His success will numeracy by the end of Pokhriyal 'Nishank' as the became its national secretary. directly help the BJP to Annpurna Devi Grade 3, by 2026-27 has union Education Minister He was also a president of become a strong player in been launched in the and Dr Mahendra Nath Bharatiya Janata Yuva Odisha politics where it has a Dr Subhas Sarkar Rajeev Chandrasekhar country. See pg…4 Pandey as union minister of Morcha (BJYM). He was considerable base but not the Skill Development and mentored by late Arun Jaitley winning social appeal. colleges/universities and and the trajectory that the Ministry of Education Entrepreneurship (MSDE). and has emerged as an He will be assisted in the undoing the impact of country has to take is a long releases the Guidelines for With him, Rajkumar Ranjan important leader of the BJP. Ministry of Education by pandemic must be priorities one and needs professional parent participation in Singh, Annpurna Devi and Son of former union minister, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, so that the atmosphere of leadership. with induction of home-based learning Dr Subhas Sarkar were also Dr. Debendra Pradhan, he Annpurna Devi and Dr unrest and uncertainty is not Rajeev Chandrasekhar in the during school closure and appointed as the minister of entered electoral politics as a Subhas Sarkar, each of allowed to go on. MSDE, tech skills will get beyond…on pg…5 state for Education. Rajeev member of the BJP. He was whom brings to table rich Ditto for skills. There is a lot much direction. Chandrasekhar was sworn in an MLA in Odisha from prior experience. (RK of work in skills education Children studying from as the new Minister of State 2000-2004 and then as Lok Ranjan) Rajkumar Ranjan home are facing long-term MSDE. Sabha MP from 2004-2009. Singh from an erstwhile mental and physical health Just before the cabinet Thereafter, he has failed to royal clan of Manipur is a concerns due to bad reshuffle, Ramesh Pokhriyal win an election in his home unifier and has worked for posture-- Godrej Interio along with 11 other state but has been a two-term unity among the various Survey…read on pg 5 ministers including Health Rajya Sabha MP. He was first tribes in his state. An Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, inducted into union cabinet in educationist, he knows The majority of teachers were made to resign. Dr 2017 as Minister of State working of universities well. and educators do not Mahendra Nath Pandey has (Independent Charge) of the He joined politics in 2013 believe science education been shifted to ministry of Ministry of Petroleum and and is a BJP MP from is fit for the future: OUP Heavy Industries. Natural Gas and then as 2019 Manipur. Global Survey---see pg…5 Pokhriyal, who developed Minister of Petroleum and Annpurna Devi an alumnus post-covid complications Natural Gas; and then also of Ranchi University is a Shiksha.com's Engineering and needed hospitalization given charge as MoS former minister of Admission Outlook Report is understood to have been Minister of Skill Jharkhand and has held the 2021 released, says student rested on health issues, Development and child welfare ministry of the reviews top influence for however, his handling of Entrepreneurship in April state. She has a 20 year plus choice---on pg 12 MoE, pandemic distress 2018. He piloted Ujjwala legislative experience. Dr particularly examinations Yojana meant to distribute 50 Subhas Sarkar, the 3rd MoS Divyasampark iHUB, a and track record as per million LPG connections to is a gynecologist from West section 8 company, a joint sources also contributed to women of Below Poverty Bengal and has been one of initiative of IIT Roorkee and his exit. Along with him his Line families successfully important leaders of state the Department of Science deputy (MoS Education) and got due recognition unit of BJP. and Technology (DST) and Sanjay Dhotre was also within the ruling BJP and As it appears that the current one of the 25 high-tech made to quit the cabinet. outside. cabinet reshuffle has been hubs being erected with Before this current Though in the coming weeks done with a lot of diligence, the support of the reshuffle, Dharmendra and months, how he unfolds performance appraisals and government, has been Pradhan, held the ministry essentially as a youth leader consultation, the new team at inaugurated at the Indian of Petroleum and Natural for the youth of a youthful the MoE is expected to be Institute of Technology (IIT) Gas; and Minister of Steel. nation, still going with the proactive and fastrack Roorkee—pg … An alumnus of Talcher work he has done in the reforms and NEP College and Utkal Rourkela region of Odisha implementation. Reopening University, Odisha (he and western tribal areas, it is of schools and CBSE introduces Financial Literacy subject curated by NPCI Interns/ National Payments and investments to advanced financial concepts to textbook can be accessed University Students Corporation of India (NPCI) concepts like IMPS, UPI, Banking, Security, and online on the CBSE website. and Central Board of USSD, NACH, PoS, mPoS, modes of Digital Payments Manoj Ahuja, IAS, interested in PR/Marketing Secondary Education QR Codes, and ATMs, this such as UPI, Cards, Wallets, Chairman, CBSE said “As Education Research (CBSE) have joined hands to book covers all that a child and more. It entails the origin the new education policy Journalism introduce a financial literacy might find very useful in a of banking, the transition emphasizes the need of curriculum for students of later stage in their life. from coins to paper money, nurturing a digital mindset Apply at Class VI. The Financial Building upon the context of types of banks and major among the students this book Literacy Textbook is modes of digital payments, operations and services is the first step towards [email protected] launched as part of new the book elaborates the role carried out by banks. The addressing the same. It elective 'financial literacy' of UIDAI and the impor- textbook also elucidates the focuses on the overall digital subject that will enable tance of Aadhaar, and significant role of RBI and payment system which is students to have an under- Aadhaar Enabled Payment GOI in providing an impetus new; this small module on standing of basic financial System (AePS). to the Digital Payments financial literacy is going to concepts at a preliminary The textbook covers crucial movement. educate our students on stage of their education. topics with regards to Complete with activities, finance from an early age. From core concepts like financial awareness: starting attractive illustrations, and currency, banking, savings, from teamwork and basic practice exercises, the

2 Curriculum July 16, 2021 News Updates DY Patil Agriculture and Technical allow students and researchers to communicate with the for study and migration and is trusted by more than 10,000 University, Talsande inaugurated International Space Stations as well as receive data from organisations around the world as a secure and reliable nanosatellites and other spacecraft. The centre will carry out indicator of English language proficiency. Maharashtra-based DY Patil Group has added one more awareness programs related to space research and remote One of the key benefits of this sale is that customers will education institution to its portfolio and set up the DY Patil sensing with the support of Punjab Remote Sensing Centre, see continuity of the test they know and trust. Andrew Agriculture and Technical University in Talsande, a small as well. Space station at LPU also offers an internet-to-orbit Barkla, CEO of IDP, said this agreement marks the start of a village in the Kolhapur district. The new university was gateway mission control centre, for public use. new chapter for IELTS in India. ” formally inaugurated on July 1 in a virtual event by Sharad Ashok Mittal, Chancellor, said, “Despite the challenging Kate Ewart-Biggs, Interim CEO of British Council, Pawar, former union agriculture minister and NCP President, times, we have moved towards fulfilling our dream project. It reiterated its commitment to its broader services in India. who has also served as the chief minister of the Maharashtra is the result of collaborative efforts of our researchers, “Distributing IELTS solely through IDP in India will state. The event was presided over by the former governor of scientists and staff members who have come together to simplify and improve the customer experience for IELTS Bihar, Tripura and West Bengal, Dr. DY Patil. support this mission. The facility will reduce financial and test takers. As IDP already delivers IELTS in India, the The university will begin its operations from the academic engineering barriers that hinder access to science and high-quality service provided to IELTS customers will year 2021-22. The curriculum is designed as 50% for pure engineering data from the orbit. This will provide great remain the same.” education, 30% for practical education and the remaining opportunities for our researchers and scientists to collaborate The acquisition talk has made the huge local market of 20% for experiential learning. “The education of this with other organizations, government bodies and academia IELTS training centres and immigration companies very university will not be focusing only on theoretical but also to take space engineering research to the next level.” jittery at the same time as they fear that IELTS testing in the practical knowledge. The curriculum has been decided after LPU's Centre for Space Research is closely related to Space hands of IDP only will end the prevailing competition. The considering all the future aspects and prospects,” said Dr Situational Awareness & Management (SSAM) program of owners of local coaching centres feel that the company has Sanjay Patil, president, DY Patil Group. ISRO. This area has become internationally significant due now got the monopoly and it will operate without any While one of the university's specialisation is agriculture, to the ever-growing manmade space debris and the increased market competition. They fear that the IDP, which runs there is equal emphasis on preparing students for careers in threat of collisions due to it. immigration and consultancy services too, will also get Architecture, Management, Engineering and many such The space centre at LPU engages the trainee students in highly empowered and their businesses will surely get hit domains. Importantly, the university is replete with state-of- satellite system design and system engineering; satellite by this move. the-art connectivity for global webinars and lectures which payload and sub-system design and development; satellite will allow students or teachers—local or international—to assembly, integration and testing; satellite launch, operation; Global Water and Climate communicate irrespective of their location. payload data processing, application in the area of Pawar said, “Such universities are essential to uplift and navigation, remote sensing, meteorology, and space science. Adaptation Centre launched at IIT strengthen the core of Indian economic status. New The university's goal is to infuse interest in students for space innovations and technological advancements in agriculture research, equip them with relevant data and enter the field of Madras through research in such universities will massively help the space research, including tracking and data acquisition, agriculture sector.” laser/optical lab for futuristic communication systems and Being set up by German Academic Exchange Service Satej Patil, MoS for Home, Housing, Transport, Information more. (DAAD), the Centre will develop innovative adaptation Technology, Maharashtra and Vice President, DY Patil strategies to cope with a changing climate and to protect the Group, said: “The variety that the curriculum will offer shall Ashoka University appoints Justice environment to provide a strong basis for sustainable bring out the researchers in students. And the research work development. done at the university will prove to be a boon for the farmers Madan Lokur as University IIT Madras will host the main hub with a satellite hub since much of Maharashtra is dependent on agriculture. The coming up at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), student will be given industry experience while s/he is Ombudsperson Bangkok. It was inaugurated on 30th June 2021 in a virtual learning for the same which will make the students caree- event in the presence of eminent dignitaries from IIT ready,” he added. Ashoka University on June 22 appointed Justice Madan Madras and the German Academic Exchange Service The main focus of the university will be to promote skill Lokur, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, as the (DAAD). development that will help students for national as well as University Ombudsperson. The Ombudsperson will provide This centre is being formed by German Academic Exchange international careers. While the University is physically impartial and independent guidance to the Ashoka Service (DAAD) and is being set up in collaboration with located near Kolhapur, the university is national as well as community. The appointment of Justice Lokur further the German institutes of Technical University of Dresden global with international educational tie-ups in process, strengthens the University's efforts at institutionalizing its and RWTH Aachen University. This Centre is named industry collaborations, renowned international faculty, processes and practices. 'ABCD' (Aachen-Bangkok-Chennai-Dresden). internships and projects as part of the curriculum. According to Prof. Malabika Sarkar, Vice-Chancellor, With its geographical reach of four major cities, the Centre Ashoka University, ''It is an honour for the University that represents a strategic expansion of existing networks LPU establishes Space Station for Justice Lokur has agreed to be Ashoka's first Ombudsperson. between leading German and Asian universities under a multiple satellites With his vast experience and distinguished career, he common thematic umbrella. commands the respect of the entire University community.” Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Karin Stoll, Consul General, The space station to not only act as a resource for LPU and its The Ombudsperson will make recommendations to faculty, Federal Republic of Germany, Chennai, said, “Digitization researchers but will also be a virtual lab for other educational staff and the University leadership on matters that are has advantages as this project was not delayed by the institutions in India and neighbouring countries referenced to his office. The Ombudsperson will also counsel COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 is not over yet but we Lovely Professional University (LPU), Jalandhar, has set up the complainants on avenues within and outside the have to be optimistic and make use of the opportunities. Professional Space Station for Multiple Satellite Tracking University for redressal of their issues. As an external person There are lots of opportunities in academics. From Chennai and Telemetry' at its campus. The station will function under with no conflict of interest, the Ombudsperson will provide perspective, I am very happy to note that IIT Madras is the LPU's 'Centre for Space Research' which was inaugurated counsel and guidance to Ashoka community members on a main project hub and one of the pillars of the project.” last year by Dr Sudhir Mishra distinguished scientist & confidential basis. Further, Ms. Karin Stoll said, “Indo-German academic Director General (BrahMos), DRDO, Ministry of Defence. Any member of the Ashoka faculty or staff can reach out to exchange has been very intense. Two years ago, I had the The station will not only act as a resource for LPU and its the Ombudsperson for any issue they believe is not being privilege of attending the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of researchers but will also be a virtual lab for other educational satisfactorily resolved through the University's existing IIT Madras. Passing the new climate initiative bill in the institutions in India and neighbouring countries. processes. Germany Parliament just four days back and initiating such With automatic antenna adjustment and precise digital signal The primary role of the Ombudsperson will be to ensure a Centre proves that we are in right track and this new processing, this professional station has two major modules- faculty and staff well-being, to provide a confidential and consortium will bring fruitful and benefits to many students Satellite Tracking and Amateur Radio (HAM radio), along safe space for them to be heard, and to provide a forum should across country and institutes.” with many other salient features. It can track multiple there be concerns in the realm of harassment, inappropriate The Global Water and Climate Adaptation Centre is satellites, which are presently 3000+; and, collect real time behaviour, unprofessional conduct, abuse of power, unlawful intended to work as an enabling platform that incentivizes, satellite images. It can be used for a host of functions, from termination of service or restrictions on university policy on bundles and magnifies further joint action in higher determining the position of assets like vehicles and cattle, city freedom of expression and to advise both the faculty/staff education, research, technology and knowledge transfer. planning, weather forecast as well as disaster management member and the university on the resolution of disputes The Centre is being led by Prof. S.A. Sannasiraj, regarding the same. Department of Ocean Engineering, IIT Madras. support. It is also helpful An innovative, joint global MSc. Course on 'Water Security for community connect; IDP to acquire British Council's IELTS and Global Change' is being conceptualized. In addition, a communication with Joint Doctoral Research Programme to promote inter- mobile assets including business in India, monopoly fears in disciplinary works in order to bring novel knowledge to drones; monitoring address water security under global partnering institutes has power lines and land consulting companies also been launched. slides. Delivering the introductory remarks on this Centre, Prof. The Space station would IDP and British Council, two partners of IELTS, the Dr. Jürgen Stamm, Dean Faculty for Civil Engineering and world's most popular high-stakes English language test, Chairperson for the School of Civil and Environmental recently announced that British Council will sell its IELTS Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, said, “The business in India to IDP. This means that all IELTS tests in Centre has three fundamental pillars - common teaching India will be delivered by IDP. The proceeds of the sale activities for students and experts, joint research work for will enable British Council to improve its financial PhD Projects and simulation of enhanced transfer activities. position. The activities will be supported by mobility grants to Under the terms of the agreement, IDP will acquire 100 per establish and intensify exchange and cooperation. Our cent of British Council's India IELTS business for £130 initiative builts upon existing bilteral relations. We are million on a debt free, cash free basis. The terms also going to develop a new Master's Program on Water Security outline that British Council employees working on IELTS and Global Change, which will push the boundaries of in India will become part of the IDP team. The transaction digital teaching to facilitate the participation of students is subject to customary conditions with completion across the world.” expected to occur in August. The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is the world's most popular English language test

Curriculum July 16, 2021 3 News Updates Uniform Junction announces will work towards promoting entrepreneurship and and analytics, all highly desirable skill sets that prepare partnership with Israel's x10ed entrepreneurial avenues in Bhutan.” them for jobs of the future. Describing the significance of an entrepreneurship center, Uniform Junction, part of the Arvind Mafatlal group and a Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General- EDII said, “ The Cygnet Infotech's CSR digital learning major uniform supplier in India, has announced its upcoming Center will not only mentor new-age initiative with Samerth Charitable Trust partnership with Israel's x10ed, a learning analytics entrepreneurs but will also facilitate growth of existing solution provider. The association will enable Uniform enterprises. In this context, EDII will undertake a Cygnet Infotech has announced its partnership with Junction bring x10ed's best in class data science feasibility study to understand the potential of setting up an Ahmedabad-based NGO Samerth Charitable Trust to methodologies. Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Bhutan, which support the underprivileged sections of society through two Gagan Jain, Co-Founder & CEO, Uniform Junction added, will help fulfil the mandate of the Royal Government of important CSR initiatives. Through this partnership, the “The partnership with Israel's x10ed will combineits world Bhutan in terms of industrial development, job creation, company is committed towards supporting the education of class learning solutions with our strong network of schools and overall economic development.” children by donating 80 new tablets. Alongside this, the across the country. More importantly it sets the tone for a company has also supported Samerth Charitable Trust by slew of other collaborations we are looking at from Israel NSDC and WhatsApp launch Digital providing one month's food ration kit to 700 vulnerable and other regions. Our vision at Uniform Junction is to own families that have been impacted due to the pandemic. own the school-tech space and be the single platform for Skill Champions Program Commenting on these initiatives, Niraj Hutheesing, teachers and students for futuristic learning”. Founder & Managing Director of Cygnet Infotech said, The partnership with x10ed marks the first in a series of The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and \"Cygnet Infotech is committed to its organizational values collaborations that Uniform Junction will enter into,to WhatsApp on June 24 announced an alliance to launch the and today we are happy to join hands with Samerth bring to and customise for India, solutions from some of Digital Skill Champions Program that aims to train India's Charitable trust with an aim to empower digital education the best edtech companies in the world. At a virtual press youth on digital skills, in order to make them employment of children and help the families affected by the pandemic. meet on July 14, the company announced an investment of ready. Through this program, school and university Together with our CSR partner, we have taken up this USD 1 million in international partnerships and is further students would be coached to imbibe digital and online project to educate children and encourage supervised tutor- strengthening it's positioning as the first and largest school skills that would culminate with WhatsApp and NSDC based learning through digital communication. Additionally, tech solutions provider, from across the globe. awarding 'Digital Skill Champions' certification. The as many families in the country are going through tough Addressing media at the meet, Priyavrata Mafatlal, Co- course is based on a module-format, is comprehensive and times, we are trying our best to help some of them by Founder & Director, Uniform Junction and MD & CEO, intensive in imparting knowledge about important aspects providing them with one month ration.” Mafatlal Industries said, “The demand for K 12 education of the online ecosystem, equipping students with technology is at an inflection point. At a time when technology-based learning on campuses across tier 3 and 4 WhiteHat Jr added as NSDC Training educational institutions are investing in deploying towns and cities throughout the country. Partner technology and digitization and are seeking newer ways to The partnership identifies two broad areas of collaboration engage young and bright minds, the demand for futuristic viz., WhatsApp Digital Skills Academy and Pradhan National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), India's and global learning solutions is on the rise. Education today Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) and WhatsApp Business apex facilitator of skill development and vocational training has truly no boundaries and students need to be groomed as App Training sessions. for India's youth, has empaneled WhiteHat Jr, a live one-on- global citizens. Our partnership strategy will hence focus WhatsApp Digital Skills Academy: As part of the Digital one online learning platform, as its training partner to on bringing in diverse and holistic learning solutions to Skill Academies, young adults from tier 3 and 4 cities will accelerate Skill India Mission. WhiteHat Jr, through this schools. We are glad that our first partnership is from the be trained on critical aspects of digital safety and online partnership, will contribute towards significantly increasing world's edtech hub Israel, and x10ed's solutions will help privacy. These digital academies will deliver safe the talent pool of qualified coders to teach coding to schools address learning from the core.” technology-based learning among the youth and train them children across the country. \"WhiteHat Jr was established Commenting on the partnership, Gil Almog, Founder & on taking charge of their safety online as they embark on with the vision of making every child a creator versus a CEO, x10ed said, “ Israel has hundreds of unique EdTech their professional journeys. The initiative will kick off with consumer of technology in the digital age. By partnering solutions that are a perfect fit for adoption to the Indian a pilot across 50 campuses in five states, namely with the esteemed NSDC, we will enable this vision to education market. This partnership will be the first step in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu come to life for every child in India through creating a long-term knowledge-sharing cooperation aimed to create and Karnataka. The program will be imparted through network of trainers in the last mile of the country,\" said impact, bring the best of education to the children and WhatsApp's project implementation partner- InfiSpark. Karan Bajaj, Founder and CEO, WhiteHat Jr. prepare children for a highly dynamic and technological PMKK and WhatsApp Business App Training: WhatsApp future.” will conduct training sessions to familiarise Pradhan Ed Tech startup SpEd@home raises $300,000 Speaking on the Israel has hundreds of unique EdTech Mantri Kaushal Kendra trainers with the WhatsApp in funding solutions that are a perfect fit for adoption to the Indian Business app. The training will cover modules on education market. This partnership will be the first step in leveraging benefits of the WhatsApp Business app and to Edtech startup SpEd@home on Friday said, it has raised long-term knowledge-sharing cooperation aimed to create make small business entrepreneurship aspirational for 300000 USD as part of its initial funding round led by impact, bring the best of education to the children and young skill seekers. The trained PMKK community cadres financial experts and advisors, from a venture capital prepare children for a highly dynamic and technological will further manage and administer the WhatsApp Business company based in Singapore and other High Net worth futurepartnership Rony Yedidia Clein, Dy. Ambassador of app training to youth aspiring to become small business Individuals. Israel in India said, “Israel has been a start-up nation for a entrepreneurs. SpEd@home is an edtech solution that augments learning couple of decades now. India is a great friend and we have Announcing the program, Dr. Manish Kumar, Managing for children with differential needs like Learning Disability, a growing partnership with India. x10ed, the partner here Director and Chief Executive Officer, National Skill ADHD and Autism. The idea for SpEd@home was today is one of the representatives of Israeli edtech which is Development Corporation (NSDC) said, “In a rapidly conceived in the year 2020 during the pandemic. It merges the leader of the start-up nation, which is the pillar of evolving digital world, NSDC aims to extend scope of technology with a systematic approach to provide a better e- strong start-up nation. We see edtech as an important part virtual learning for youth across India. It aims to empower Learning experience at home for differently abled children of what we do in general to reach new heights which is youth with new-age skills to make them employable and and to equip parents in metros as well as Tier 2 & Tier 3 possible with technology today. The tie up will help Israeli more productive in their work environment.” with skills to aid their children. After observing how company to become part of the Indian eco system and Talking about the partnership, Shivanth Thukral, Director limited access to remedial centres during the lockdown has Indian company to become part of the Israeli eco-system. I – Public Policy, WhatsApp- India said, “We are honoured hampered the learning outcomes of children with hope great things will come out of this collaboration to be a part of NSDC's mission to skill India and to take differential needs, Dr. Dhaval Mody incepted the company between the two companies”. shop floor readiness training to the last mile. As India in 2020, during the pandemic. embraces digital innovation and entrepreneurship, it is “We are currently running our pilot with children from the EDII to set up an entrepreneurship imperative that the youth today are made aware of and lower socio economic strata i.e. those with a family income educated about how they can upskill themselves and take of less than 8 lakh annually. The results of our ongoing development center in Bhutan charge of their presence online. At WhatsApp, we believe pilots have been very promising and are helping us take our that online safety and privacy are vital drivers to a conviction to the second round.” Said Dr. Dhaval Mody, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) progressive digital society. Through this partnership, we Founder & CEO of SpEd@home. “We are sure our solution will be setting up an Entrepreneurship Development center are committed to enhance the digital skills of the aspiring will change the way special education is delivered to in Bhutan. The proposed Center will be the 6th overseas entrepreneurs and empower the youth of our country to children with differential needs,” he added. entrepreneurship development center, established by EDII create a safe digital environment for all.” The startup used the raised funds to build a basic web-based with the support of Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of product to test out the hypothesis that children with India, dedicated to promoting and nurturing Zupee Skilling Academy Launched differential needs can benefit from a customized online entrepreneurship. The other countries that have seen such program. It will further use the funds to complete the pilot Centres with EDII's efforts are Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Online gaming pioneer and industry leader, Zupee, has phase, develop a mobile app, improve their web solutions, Vietnam and Uzbekistan. launched a skilling academy, which will impart employable and build a product team, sales team and an SME team. Commenting on the initiative, Bhutanese Minister of skills and promote equal opportunities in the youth of the Economic Affairs, Lyonpo Loknath Sharma said that country. Zupee Skilling Academy (ZSA) will be a first-of- GyanDhan to disburse 650 Cr in Bhutan is a country which has a beaming young population its-kind mission by a corporation, aimed at skilling, educational loans that is raring to go, and so it is important to create upskilling and educating young, disadvantaged Indians. opportunities for them. He added that in Bhutan various The idea is to prepare them for the future by getting them GyanDhan, education financing platform aims to disburse departments and agencies are oriented towards working for ready through skill training and ensuring that everyone in 650cr worth of education loans in FY22. Out of this Rs 650 the development of the youth, and urged EDII to integrate the program has equal opportunities for employment. cr, 50cr will be for domestic short-term courses offered by its efforts with theirs and create a wholesome and To kick off the mission, Zupee has joined hands with a various ed-tech players & coaching institutes. They have customised implementation plan. leading NGO, NIIT Foundation, to launch a unique CSR partnered with companies like Great learning & various Ruchira Kamboj, Ambassador of India to Bhutan, said, “I vocational skill program for the underserved youth of IAS Institutions to offer interest-free education loans to am happy that today we have started discussions on the Mumbai, enabling them to get entry-level jobs. The Zupee- prospective students wanting to pursue short-term courses. feasibility of setting up an Entrepreneurship Development NIIT Foundation program will include certification Centre in Bhutan. It is the need of the hour! I am glad that training in digital marketing. The participants will be EDII has undertaken this task. I am certain that the Center trained in important concepts like search engine optimization, running search ads, social media marketing

4 Curriculum July 16, 2021 News Reports NIPUN Bharat Programme aimed at improving Divyasampark I-Hub, foundational learning in children launched Cyber-Physical Systems A National Initiative for literacy and numeracy skills Grade II and III quality of education. Proficiency in Reading which will help them respectively from an age ŸInnovative pedagogies based Technology with Understanding and develop into better readers appropriate unknown text such as toy-based and Numeracy (NIPUN and writers. The minister with comprehension and experiential learning will Innovation Hub starts at Bharat), for ensuring that said that it covers key clarity. be used in classroom every child in the age technical aspects of The success of NIPUN transaction thereby making IIT-Roorkee group of 3 to 9 years in the foundational literacy and Bharat will primarily learning a joyful and country necessarily attains numeracy as well as the depend on teachers, so, engaging activity. Divyasampark iHUB, a section 8 company, a joint foundational literacy and administrative aspects for there will be a special ŸIntensive capacity building initiative of IIT Roorkee and the Department of Science numeracy by the end of effectively setting up an emphasis on capacity of teachers will make them and Technology (DST) and one of the 25 high-tech hubs Grade 3, by 2026-27 has implementation mechanism building of teachers. A empowered and provide being erected with the support of the government, has been been launched in the at the National, State, special package for greater autonomy for inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) country. District, Block and School foundational literacy and choosing the pedagogy. Roorkee. The National Mission level. He also informed that Numeracy under ŸHolistic development of Divyasampark I-Hub Roorkee for Devices Materials and under the aegis of the an approval of Rs 2688.18 NISHTHA is being the child by focusing on Technology Foundation is intended to serve as a cyber- centrally sponsored scheme crore has already been developed by NCERT and different domains of physical systems (CPS) technology hub and promote of Samagra Shiksha of given under Samagra around 25 lakh teachers development like physical technology innovation and entrepreneurship in the CPS MoE was launched on July Shiksha scheme to the teaching at pre-primary to and motor development, domain. Divyasampark iHUB is expected to meet and 5 envisages making the States and UTs for primary grade will be socio-emotional resolve critical challenges in inter-ministerial projects experience of learning at implementation of the trained this year on FLN. development, literacy and (including Industry 4.0; Health Care 4.0 and Smart Cities) the foundational stage various interventions for The National Education numeracy development, warranting CPS based solutions. Holistic, Integrated, Foundational Stage in 2021- Policy 2020 has laid down cognitive development, life Prof. Ajit K Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee and Inclusive, Enjoyable, and 22 that attaining foundational skills etc. which are Chairman Board of Director, Divyasampark, IIT Roorkee Engaging. This Mission Although, the overall aim is literacy and numeracy for interrelated and stated, “Divyasampark would act as a technology provider will focus on providing to achieve the desired all children must become interdependent, which will for Cyber-Physical Systems and allied technologies. It will access and retaining learning outcomes by the an immediate national be reflected in a Holistic facilitate creation of knowledge, encourage startups and children in foundational end of grade 3, however, in mission. In keeping with Progress Card. promote collaboration within IIT Roorkee as well as across years of schooling; teacher order to generate greater this, the Department has ŸChildren to achieve the country”. capacity building; awareness among the developed a comprehensive steeper learning trajectory The Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) is founded under development of high parents, community, guideline under NIPUN which may have positive the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical quality and diversified volunteers etc. the Bharat, through a series of impacts on later life Systems (NM-ICPS), and seeks to act as a unified solution Student and Teacher Lakshyashas (targets) been intensive consultations with outcomes and for nearly 356 central technologies. Financially supported Resources/Learning developed from Balvatika implementing partners, employment. by the Department of Science and Technology, Materials; and tracking the to Grade 3. The Laskhyas experts to make it flexible ŸSince almost every child Government of India (GoI), the cost of the project is progress of each child in are based on the learning and collaborative according attends early grades, estimated to be approximately INR 135 crores for the next achieving learning outcomes developed by the to MoS Dhotre. therefore, focus at that five years, INR 27.25 crores of which have been released. outcomes. NCERT and international stage will also benefit the The establishment would be eligible to receive CSR funds Addressing the participants research and ORF studies. The outcomes have been socio-economic and donations from trusts, foundations and industry. TIH minister of education For example, a child should envisaged from disadvantageous group would function as the foundation for next-generation (Ramesh Pokhriyal) said be able to read 45to 60 implementation of the thus ensuring access to digital technologies by promoting translation research in that teachers need to focus words per minute and at goals and objectives of equitable and inclusive CPS, developing prototypes/products of national on every child for least 60 words per minute NIPUN Bharat Mission quality education. importance, and developing core competencies and developing basic language; correctly by the end of are: capacities. ŸFoundational skills enable TIH focus and thrust areas would include atomic energy, to keep children in class defence research and development, electronics and thereby reducing the information technology, health research, housing and urban dropouts and improve affairs, new and renewable energy, telecommunications transition rate from and space. primary to upper primary Manish Anand, an alumnus of IIT Kanpur, holds a B.Tech and secondary stages. degree in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, and ŸActivity based learning possesses over 15 years of extensive experience in and conducive learning business development, financial planning and strategic environment will improve consultancy will be the CEO of the Company. Holder of MS degree in Material Science and Engineering E-Bike with wireless charging developed by KL Deemed Univ students from Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), South Korea and an MBA degree in Technology Students from KL Deemed to be University, have variations in the design of the bike which include and Innovation Management from Korea Advanced developed a unique e-Bike (electric bike) with Wireless incorporating the BLDC motor (Brushless DC electric Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Seoul Charging technology. The innovative prototype was motor) to gear modules through the controller. Campus, MAnand has co-founded two social ventures in developed by a team of 6 like-minded 3rdand 4thyear “We got interested in building prototypes and participating the health and education sectors. students from the Electrical and Electronics Engineering in competitions from the lab activities during our first year Prof. Sudeb Dasgupta, Project Director and Member of the Departmentof KL College of Engineering along with a few itself. The lab-based projects at the KL University provided Board of Directors of Divyasampark, IIT Roorkee said, university alumni members. The e-bike has futuristic a strong foundation on working with the components, “CPS comprises an array of modern technologies intended features including cell balancing and wireless charging measurements, machines, and power electronics. We want to meet and resolve the challenges of Industry 4.0, and which are only available in a few places around the world. to thank Dr. Jarupula Somlal,Head of the Department, and nurture an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the The team developed the initial concept and prototype the entire faculty of the department of electrical and country. The initiative will help shape the future of our utilizing their free access to state-of-the-art labs and testing electronics engineering (EEE) for supporting our energy country which would be assessable in both qualitative and facilities provided by the KL Deemed University. The team and vision by granting us these incredible opportunities and quantitative terms”. received mentorship and constant feedback from experts resources. The skill courses further added value to the core and senior academicians of the university. The university subjects, helping us learn advanced tools and technologies AESL unveils New Logo after BYJU's has also offered a grant of INR 1,40,000to the team to thereby instilling the confidence to participate in incubate this project idea as a start-up. competitions. We are proud to successfully complete this takeover The e-bike developed by the team at KLU allows people to project of wirelessly chargeable e-Bike with the team effort travel at a maximum speed of 55 Kmph with a charging and valuable mentoring from our faculty members”, added. Aakash Educational Services Limited capacity that can cover between 85 to 100 kms in standard M Satyardha Pravashik, who is a B. Tech EEE final year (AESL), now a part of BYJU'S, an conditions in a single recharge that takes 5hours. The student.” Among other team members who were part of the education technology company has charging technology is coupled with the programmable cell project were Mr. Charan Sai Tiruvuri, Mr. A Sandeep, Mr. unveiled its new logo that signifies the balancing feature that releases maximum battery potential Kireeti Polasi, Mr. S Lokesh Babu, Mr.V Sai Praveen, value addition it brings to its students, for a long-lasting charge. The team has retrofitted an students from B.Tech EEE 2017 Batch, and Mr. leveraging BYJU'S tech prowess. existing bike and modified it into a prototype for e-bikes K.Yashwanth Sai who is alumni of EEE Department. Featuring the two brand names, and a plus symbol, the with wireless charging. The team carried out several logo also symbolizes the synergy of their collaboration. Aakash Chaudhry, Managing Director, AESL said, “The seamless merger of Aakash with BYJU'S could not have come at a better time for the education sector as the hybrid model of learning has become the need of the hour both for the quality and the continuity of education. Our new logo has everything to do with 'plus', representing the sign of value addition to our respective brands as well as to our customers, who are our community of students. It also highlights our shared vision to create a new value proposition for the student community and boost the learning ecosystem.”

Curriculum July 16, 2021 5 News Reports The majority of teachers and educators do not 22% of students took believe science education is fit for the future: online classes while OUP Global Survey seated on a bed, 14% sat The Evolution of Science and remains relevant in the in a pandemic-afflicted literate and active citizens, Education survey report future, teachers believe there world has only grown. It was opposed to 59 per cent in the on the floor: Godrej released on July 13 should be more focus on important to sense check United Kingdom and 67 per includes insights from 398 climate change as well as what science teachers felt cent in Hong Kong. Of the Interio study teachers in *22 countries tackling fake news and about how their subject 398 teachers that responded and regions—with most adapting faster to needed to evolve.” in the report, 74 were from Godrej Interio, one of India's leading furniture solutions respondents from the technological and societal COVID-19 has undoubtedly India. brand from Godrej Group, in a statement on its recent United Kingdom (44%) and change. had an impact on science Andreas Schleicher, survey says that children studying from home are facing India (19%). While there are The research was undertaken teaching in the last year, Director for Education and long-term mental and physical health concerns due to bad local nuances, there are also alongside OUP's active particularly restricting Skills, and Special Advisor posture. notable consistencies in key involvement in developing practical experimentation in on Education Policy to the The study 'Taking care of children as they learn from areas such as the science the science framework for the classroom, but the paper Secretary-General at the home' by Godrej Interio's Workplace and Ergonomics curriculum's relevance in the Programme for highlights numerous other Organisation for Economic Research Cell attempted to study the home-schooling the future and how well it International Assessment issues that have been Co-operation and behaviour of 350 school-going children of the age group of prepares pupils to navigate (PISA) 2025. Teachers were brought to light by the Development 3-15 years from across India. Parents who were a part of and address challenges the asked to recommend ways in pandemic and need to be (OECD)said,“I always this research revealed that their children used gadgets for a world will face, such as which science curricula resolved. enjoy hearing teacher's minimum of 4–6 hours a day which is 2-3 hours more than climate change and the might evolvein order to As regards India, from the views on the future of what they did before schools closed on account of the evolving role of technology. remain relevant to today's questions asked, on average education and welcome this lockdown. This upped screen time can increase the risk of world, and that of tomorrow. science teachers in India are report. The scientific physical health issues in children. The study also revealed Fewer than half of the Their recommendations more optimistic that the challenges of the past year that 52% of the children had daily online classes while respondents (46 per cent) included: current curriculum for with the pandemic and the 36% had classes four times a week and as a result, 41% who took part in The Science education should science is meeting the needs ever-growing signs of children complained of eye strain issues. Evolution of Science continue to prioritize of pupils now, and in the climate change mean that In response, Godrej Interio hosted a webinar titled 'Helping Educationsurvey by Oxford practical skills through future. 15 per cent of there has never been a more Children Adapt to Learning from Home' on June 24. The University Press believe experimentation in the respondents strongly agree important time to focus on webinar educated parents and care givers on the best ways that the science curriculum classroom. that the curriculum science, empowering to create an environment crucial for the overall wellbeing in their country prepares Content needs to be up-to- adequately prepares students to thrive in a of children as they learn from home, as the state children for the challenges date and prepare learners for students for challenges they changing world. I look governments continue to impose micro-lockdowns to arrest our world will face in the the future. will face in the world, forward to continuing this the pandemic. The webinar also highlighted the importance future. Only 31 per cent of There is a need for a greater opposed to six per cent in conversation about the of ergonomic learning spaces, the need for sensory diets teachers surveyed believe connection between the Hong Kong and five percent future of science education, and physical activity to create an environment of healthy that science education in science that is being taught in in the United Kingdom. particularly when we release learning for children. their country is fit for the the classroom and what is Furthermore, 80 per cent of the new PISA 2025 science The session was held in the presence of over 1700+ future, according to a report happening in the world respondents agree that the framework next year.” registered attendees. Participants witnessed leading published by Oxford outside. science curriculum taught in educationists and healthcare experts explore the challenges University Press, the Teachers requested a schools enables students to and the plausible solutions to support parents in the world's largest university rebalancing of exams – away become scientifically endeavour. During the one-hour insightful webinar the press. from the current focus on panellists explored and deliberated upon the subject from Teachers surveyed believe knowledge, towards multiple vantage points including home-schooling the core purpose of science assessing the application of behaviour, healthy sitting posture for children, precautions education should be science. while studying in free spaces. They also spoke about the inspiring learners to engage importance of sensory breaks and using good-old pencil with science, teaching Sivaramakrishnan and paper as well as the physical-virtual hybrid model of underpinning scientific Venkateswaran, Managing learning as online learning is likely to stay for longer than concepts, teaching skills to Director – Oxford University we predicted. Dr Reena Valecha, also shared simple ways enable effective Press India said, “The study that parents and caregivers can ensure a healthy learning experimentation, and of science helps to fuel environment for children and the long term effects of helping learners to achieve a curiosity in young minds and having incorrect posture leading to musculoskeletal range of desirable outcomes makes them think about disorders. through science. To ensure solutions to challenges in The webinar which was moderated by Lt. Col. A. Sekhar, science education evolves everyday life. Its relevance CDO, Jagran Education Foundation had an eminent panel consisting of Siddharth Rajgarhia – Director, DPS Nashik, Varanasi and LAVA Nagpur, Lina Ashar – Co-Founder, Korroboree, Chandni Bhagat – Child Psychologist, Fatema Agarkar – Founder, Agarkar Center of Excellence and Dr. Reena Valecha – Principal Ergonomist – Workplace & Ergonomics Research Cell, Godrej Interio. Ministry of Education Guidelines for parent participation in home-based learning during school closure and beyond The guidelines prepared by the emails, memos, etc. may be provided to parents. administrators etc. Department of School Education and Resources have been made available for Children with A separate chapter has been Literacy, Ministry of Education special needs which may be explored by the parents. They included in the Guidelines for provide many simple tips for parents can approach teachers for guidance in this regard. There supporting parents with low/no and others to facilitate children in are other agencies, and organizations that provide literacy. Schools, teachers and Home based learning. These guidelines facilitates Information about such avenues that could be volunteers may take the suggestive are meant not only for parents but also sought from SMCs/Gram Panchayat, school steps to provide support to low- for caregivers, other family members, literacy parents. grandparents, community members, These suggestive activities are in older siblings who all are engaged in accordance with the various stages promoting the welfare of children. of school education as per NEP The Guidelines lay significance on 2020. Age-appropriate art activities improving children's learning by have been categorized on basis of monitoring and addressing their 5+3+3+4 system viz Foundation learning gaps. Collaboration of parents Stage (Age 3-8yrs); Preparatory with teachers in documenting and Stage (Age 8-11 yrs); Middle Stage reflecting on the progress that children (Age 11-14yrs); and Secondary are making in their learning is important for both teachers Stage: From Adolescent to Adult age (Age 14-18 years). and parents. The activities are simple and suggestive, which can be The Guidelines also advise the schools to involve parents adapted and adopted to local needs and contexts. The by providing information and ideas on helping students at Guidelines appreciate the role of Art as a therapy for home with homework and other curriculum-related children under stress or trauma. activities, decisions, and planning, and involving them in school decisions. Resources like sending Newsletters,

6 Curriculum July 16, 2021 Spotlight CBSE assessment scheme for class 12 & 10 Ÿsection and were on an average one stanine (a method of for 2021-22 welcomed scaling test scores on a nine-point standard scale with a mean of five and a standard deviation of two) better than the global As per the notification of CBSE on July 5, Board exams for Class 10 and 12 students this averages. year will be held in two parts. Continuous evaluation throughout the year, creation of a ŸProblem-solving score was at par with the global averages. 'student profile' with assessment details of each student for credibility are some other key highlights. Ÿ The 2021-22 academic year has been divided into two terms what competency is being tested here? There should be The score in the Comprehension and Critical Thinking section with 50% of the syllabus to be covered in each terms with 50% numerous question paper samples provided to the students to is a reflection of the learning style of the child, predominantly of the syllabus to be covered in each term, with board exams to ready them for the exam. I feel that pandemic is not the time learn by “Rote Memorization” tend to have a low score in this be held at the end of each term. “The syllabus for the Board to conduct such experiments on them. Many of these section. Students with a high score in this section learn the examination 2021-22 will be rationalized similar to that of the students are traumatised due to the deaths of their close smart way and demonstrate the ability to understand concepts last academic session (30%),” said the notification. In 2021- relatives and also due to their own weak constitution. They and central thought when faced with new information, make 22, the board will rationalize (reduce) the syllabus, hold have become quite listless and inattentive in the virtual inferences, establish relationships, and make connections board examinations twice during the year in different formats, classroom as they are no longer able to do any vigorous between new information with existing one. and ensure continuous recording of internal assessment scores physical activities or sports. The score in the Logical thinking section measures a child's in order to have a variety of options to calculate a final score at Even if the pandemic lets up, most parents are unwilling to ability to detect the underlying conceptual relationship among the end of the year. send their children to school as they fear exposure. So, while visual objects and use reasoning to identify and apply rules. The first term exam will be held on a flexible schedule the assessment pattern proposed is a good one, the CBSE Identification and application of conceptual relationships between November-December 2021 with a flexible schedule, needs to empower both the teachers and the students to face requires inductive and quantitative reasoning, broad visual with a window period of 4-8 weeks for schools situated in the new question pattern. Also the rationalised syllabus intelligence, simultaneous processing, and abstract and different parts of the country. It will be a 90 minute paper with should be shared immediately so that the teachers do not logical thinking. multiple choice questions only, likely to be conducted in waste their time teaching the deleted portions.” The Problem-solving section assesses the “problem solving” schools with the supervision of external superintendents. ability of the child which includes the ability to define The second term exam will be held in March-April 2022 in Anshu Mittal, Principal, MRG School, Rohini: “The new problems, identify useful information, represent the problem examination centres, and is likely to be a 2-hour exam with assessment scheme shared by CBSE came against the in terms of known concepts, plan a solution and evaluate various question formats. In case the pandemic situation is not backdrop of COVID-19 pandemic which forced the whether the planned solution is moving towards solving the conducive for such a long, descriptive exam to be held, the cancellation of board exams of some subjects last year and problem or not. Students with high problem-solving second term exam will also be conducted with a multiple complete cancellation of board exams this year shows proficiency, can solve NEW problems easily, i.e., they are choice question format. immense deliberations and is completely fair to the students able to solve a problem irrespective of whether they have The CBSE will issue guidelines to make internal assessments, who study with focus consistently throughout the year. The practiced it before or not. practicals and project work more credible and valid to ensure internal assessments based assignments, projects and Amit Bansal, Founder & CEO, WizKlub, said, “Most Indian fair distribution of marks. Schools must create a student practicals which include critical thinking and collaborative parents don't even know how their children are developing work will really be appreciated by all the stakeholders extremely important skills like Logical Thinking, Critical profile for all assessment teachers, parents and students. It will also encourage and Thinking and Complex Problem Solving. Most competitive undertaken over the year and improve students attendance participation in the school exams for admissions to good universities are based on retain the evidence in digital activities thereby enhancing their skills and competencies in application of these skills and not subject knowledge. These format, with marks uploaded Scholastic and Co-scholastic domains . skills can be easily built in early years through structured onto CBSE's IT platform. Introducing the semester system is a beautiful thought, programs.” however mapping the interconnectivity of concepts and Sangeeta Hajela, Principal, topics now in the mid-session of classes X and XII where Retired weightlifter Olympian DPS Indirapuram: “The almost half of the syllabus has been already covered by the CBSE circular addresses the teachers is worrisome. The syllabus for the assessment Karnam Malleshwari is the Ist important issue of assessment scheduled to be in the month of November and December, methodology in view of the should have been shared with the schools in time.” VC of Delhi Sports Univ circumstances necessitated by the pandemic situation. In Chandrabhanu Pattajoshi, Founder, Goseeko: “This is a Retired weightlifter Karnam Malleshwari has been case this year's situation repeats itself at the time of conduct of welcome move by CBSE Board as it is an inclusive approach appointed as the first vice-chancellor of the Delhi Sports the year-end examinations, there is a clear cut plan, well towards projects, assessments which are critical to education University set up by the Delhi government last year. known to all stakeholders , circulated in advance. The systems. The Covid-19 pandemic has given us all the Karnam Malleswari, is the dependence on only ONE examination for computing the opportunity to bring about a positive shift in the processes first woman to win a medal results, has been minimised, ensuring the credibility of the where changes were needed since a long time. The division for India at the Olympics. Board's result . of academic session into two terms with 50 per cent syllabus The state cabinet in October It is a complete plan, mapping what would be done in various in each term is a good approach as it is designed in a way for 2019 passed an order setting situations arising out of conditions prevalent at that time , it to be more modular and less archaic wherein we will also up the university in Mundka hitherto unforeseen. The strengthening of the internal see effectiveness of pedagogy in the way it is assessed. This area of Delhi. The university assessments, the project work, the uploading of marks of the will also help students to learn seriously throughout the year will offer field-specific internal assessments is one more laudable move . It will surely rather than have a fragmented approach wherein they only degrees to interested encourage children to study throughout the year and not leave focus during exams. This change in approach at the school students that will be at par serious study for the final examinations. The digital profile level will definitely bring in more changes in the future of with those offered in other maintenance of each child , though challenging at the grass higher education as well.” courses at the graduate, root level , is also a more holistic tool of evaluation. post-graduate and doctoral This first ever flexible management of examinations is surely Naman Jain, Education Policy Expert and Director, levels. The University plans a welcome move amongst the academic community. We are Silverline Prestige School, Ghaziabad: “ CBSE's new to confer degrees up to the optimistic this will usher in a new era of examination-reforms assessment system is a reformist step forward in the direction PhD level, and students will in our country and open another door for all times to come .” of reducing academic burden and nurturing innovation in be conferred degrees based young minds. We must look at the pandemic as a positive on their sporting Pallavi Upadhyaya, Principal, DPS RNE Ghaziabad: event which is bringing in an ocean of reforms in the performance. The varsity “The new assessment policy education system. ” will also streamline sports facilities and bring talented has addressed all the sportspersons under their ambit to prepare them for national permutations and combinations ‘Indian students are better in Logical and international competitions. “Our purpose to establish of situations and has shown the Thinking skills than in Critical Thinking’ the Delhi Sports University is to build and create athletes in schools the best way to conduct our country who will make our nation proud,” said Sisodia the assessments in a fair manner WizKlub, an ed-tech startup in future skills for school as he announced Malleswari's appointment. whatever the prevailing children, has released key findings from their recently Sharing her vision for the university, Malleswari said conditions be. The conduct of concluded HOTS Olympiad competition—that assessed the university officials will start visiting schools as soon as they two board exams with 50 cognitive ability of children between age 6 to 16 years. reopen, to scout for talent. The university plans to use percent of the reduced syllabus The result of this 6-month long competition for Indian existing infrastructure and coaches to identify athletic is quite brilliant and will participants on three key parameters was: acumen in students. ŸPerformance in the Comprehension and Critical Thinking “Many have a keen interest in sports, but are unable to definitely ensure a more reliable result. section was below global average. pursue their athletic dream due to a lack of infrastructure. This being said, what concerns me most is the so-called ŸParticipants scored really well on the Logical Thinking We will identify students and match their athletic skills to competency based question paper. The competency based the sports they are apt for,” she said. questions we have come across in some subjects had In her sporting career, Malleswari lifted 110 kg in the questions that had parallels drawn to it. Most of these “snatch” and 130 kg in the “clean and jerk” categories for a questions are confusing even for children studying in urban total of 240 kg at the 2000 Sydney Olympics,. She won the areas and one can imagine how a child from a rural area would bronze medal and became the first Indian woman to win an fare. Their answers would be based on pure guess work. So Olympic medal. Even before her Olympic win, Malleswari was a two-time weightlifting world champion with 29 international medals, which includes 11 gold medals. Along with the national and international medals, Malleswari was also awarded with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 1999, Arjuna Award in 1994, and Padma Shri in 1999.

Curriculum July 16, 2021 7 News U can Use ETS Announces Temporary Acceptance of and 4 incoming) – hailing from a broad range of Indian independent learning, critical thinking, academic integrity Aadhaar Card as ID for institutions like Ashoka University, Gujarat National Law and many more areas. Indian students taking TOEFL® and GRE ® tests University, India Institute of Science, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Lady Shriram College for Women, Pearson Undergraduate Entrance Exam ETS on July 1 announced that beginning July 1, 2021, the Shri Ram College of Commerce, and the University of Delhi; registration window extended to August 31st, Aadhaar Card will be temporarily considered as an have been chosen for Schwarzman Scholars. 2021 acceptable form of identification for applicants taking Every year, Schwarzman Scholars are selected through a TOEFL® and GRE ® tests in India until further notice. The rigorous and thorough selection process. Successful Pearson VUE, a global plaform in computer-based testing, has exception is applicable to the TOEFL iBT ® test, TOEFL iBT applicants must be able to demonstrate not only an excellent extended registration window for the Pearson Undergraduate ® Home Edition, TOEFL® Essentials ™ test (beginning academic record but also the capacity to understand Entrance Exam. (https://www.undergraduateexam.in) August Aug. 2021), GRE® General Test, GRE ® General Test at emerging trends, to design solutions, and to inspire others. 31st, 2021. home and GRE ® Subject Tests (beginning Oct. 2021). All qualified candidates will have completed their More than 70 universities are now accepting the Pearson ETS continues to closely follow the global public health undergraduate degrees prior to enrolment and must be highly Undergraduate Entrance Exam scores as a criterion to provide situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in proficient in English. admissions to students. Availability is currently varied and India. In light of the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and Applications are reviewed by a distinguished team of readers limited at Pearson VUE test centers due to government sporadic lockdowns imposed in various states of India, ETS's from around the world. Select candidates are invited for in- regulations. Candidates must acknowledgethat they meet Office of Testing Integrity has made this provision to assist person interviews in Beijing, Singapore, London, or New certain health requirements and that they will follow health test takers. York before international panels composed of CEOs, former and safety guidelines while testing. Alternatively, they will be Ray Nicosia, Executive Director of the Office of Testing heads of state, university presidents, non-profit executives, able to take their exam from home - via Pearson VUE's online Integrity at ETS, said, “With most cities in India facing some journalists, and other global leaders. proctoring solution, OnVUE. form of restriction due to imposed lockdowns, students are 'Future Without Speciesism' Competition by PETA, prizes up In addition to the flexibility of being able to reschedule their not able to apply for a passport or even renew their existing for grabs tests at their convenience, candidates can also retake their passports. Since the Aadhaar Card is now one of the most PETA India's US affiliate is searching for the next great exam in case they are not satisfied with their initial scores. widely accepted forms of identification in India, we are animal-friendly innovations. The group's Future Without confident that accepting this form of ID will be helpful for Speciesism Award, open to all university students, is being Sharda University to start 2 new UG Indian students who are interested in registering for TOEFL announced in India just in time for the United Nations' World and GRE tests.” Youth Skills Day (15 July), and the winning submissions Media courses Indian students will be required to furnish an original full could receive up to US$10,000 (approximately Rs 7,48,100). version of their Aadhaar Card as received in the mail, which Applicants need to identify a way in which animals are still Sharda University, Greater Noida will offer two new can be used for TOEFL and GRE tests either taken in-person being exploited and come up with a marketable animal-free undergraduate programs (BSc (Animation & VFX) and BSc from a third-party test centre, or at home. Photocopied or replacement. PETA US previously awarded students for (Gaming), integrated with apprenticeship and internship in printed documents will not be accepted, and documents creating a state-of-the-art “organ-on-a-chip” that could the disciplines of Animation and Gaming, shall be jointly cannot be presented on a mobile phone or any other electronic prevent countless animals from being used in painful offered to aspirants in this field from upcoming sesssion. This device. experiments and then killed. was said by VC of the university while he School of Media, “If you're a student with a concept that would revolutionise Film and Entertainment (SMFE) - Sharda University, entered Simplilearn Launches PGDM an animal-abusing practice or industry, we're eager to hear into a collaboration with Media and Entertainment Skill Degree Program from you,” says Puja Mahajan, associate director of Council (MESC) for establishing a Centre of Excellence & education and youth outreach for PETA India. “Our affiliate Creative Entrepreneurship for Media and Entertainment Simplilearn, an one online bootcamp for digital economy is banking on – and will help bankroll – bright young people's Sector at Sharda University's NCR campus. skills training, has announced its partnership with Jagdish ideas for stopping animals from becoming pizzas, parkas, An MoU was signed between MESC and Sharda University in Sheth School of Management (JAGSoM) and added to its pack mules, or anything else that denies them their right to be presence of Mohit Soni – CEO of MESC, Mr. Rajesh existing extensive online learning portfolio, its first-degree themselves.” Turakhiafounder of Frameboxx 2.0, VLVSS Subba Rao equivalent program- PGDM with specialization in emerging This award does not convey ownership rights to any PETA –Former Senior Economic Advisor Education of MHRD; areas like Digital Marketing, Business Analysis, Data affiliate or prevent applicants from patenting their Salim Arif – Actor, Director and Writer; and Manvendra Analytics and Operations. inventions. Students can work in teams or individually. Shukul – CEO of Lakshya Digital, among top officials from The two-year AICTE-approved PGDM program offers a Prize amounts of between US$1,000 (approximately Rs Sharda University. Y K Gupta – Pro Chancellor of Sharda blend of online self-paced videos to teach concepts and 74,810) and US$10,000 (approximately Rs 7,48,100) will be Group said such initiatives are the need of the hour. frameworks, live virtual classes to provide context and determined by PETA US based on the workability, Prof. Dr. Ritu Sood – Dean of SMFE, Sharda University industry examples, and hands-on, phase-end capstone practicality, and promise of the submissions. added that soon SMFE and MESC will also establish an projects to help learners apply their skills in context and Incubation and Innovation Lab for New Age Skills under crystallize their learnings. University of Essex launches 6-wk Media and Entertainment. In addition, the collaboration will This partnership offers the most comprehensive PGDM also strive to generate a repository for international alliances, program available, combining JAGSoM's academic university preparation programmes faculty and student exchange. Mr. Rajeev Gupta who is competence in the industry with Simplilearn's award- heading the admissions at Sharda University mentioned that winning curriculum and applied learning methodology to Students getting ready for university around the world, other than these two new programs i.e. BSc (Animation & help students gain a set of in-demand managerial abilities and including India, can now access the six-week Essex VFX) and BSc (Gaming), admission queries have already accelerate their career growth. Best suited for freshers, Preparation Programme especially designed to get them started pouring in for various programs offered by SMFE professionals, and managers without formal business ready for their university studies. The course is open to including BA(Journalism and Mass Communication), education, this comprehensive program will help learners anyone applying for undergraduate study at the University of BA(Film and TV Production) MA(Journalism and Mass develop practical knowledge in core areas of business based Essex, and if they complete the course and register to study at Communication), MA(Advertising, Public Relations & on best practices. In addition, the program learners will learn Essex for the 2021-22 academic year-they will qualify for a Corporate Communications) and PhD (Mass to use qualitative and quantitative methods for effective £250 bursary. The University is also developing an early Communication). decision making, overcome critical business challenges, and arrival programme for September to give extra help to new drive transformation and business model innovation to create students. Vidyakul expands to 10 state value from new opportunities through data and technology. The Essex Preparation Programme builds on the work the boards With over 200 hours of applied learning and interactive peer University undertook last year in response to the disruption learning through group projects and discussions, this one-of- caused by lockdown to support students who were applying Vernacular e-learning platform Vidyakul expands its a-kind program will be taught by experienced faculty. Upon to Essex. operations to 10 state boards enabling students from Tier 2, 3 completion of the program, learners will receive JAGSoM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Lorna Fox O'Mahony & 4 cities to adapt online education in native languages, alumni status and job assistance along with the PGDM said: “We know the past year and a half was so difficult for curated by locally renowned educators associated with them. Certification. this generation of school and college students so we wanted The startup is currently helping more than 1 Million students to give then a helping hand so they can bounce back in the and plans to scale up to over 5 million students in 10 boards Schwarzman Scholars scholarship next step in their lives and thrive at university. Getting back with its 1000+ course offerings over the year. on track for university study might feel a bit daunting so we India is one of the worst affected countries from Covid - 19 program for Indian students want to do everything we can to help these students to and the education system of India suffered the most due to succeed. Our academics have been working with our Skills unavailability of resources among students and rural Bharat The fully funded scholarship program awards master's degree for Success team, library team and other staff to create students were the worst affected among all. Vidyakul, an in GlobalAffairs by Tsinghua University, Beijing, China. inspiring course material which will help students reach their online school for rural students has played a very crucial role Schwarzman Scholars founded by Blackstone's CEO, potential by becoming better, more effective learners. Last of a launchpad for students in the Tier 2 and beyond cities to Stephen A. Schwarzman in 2016, is an international year, we saw how much school and college students get access to vernacular online education with the help of local postgraduate award program for students to do master's appreciated the extra help we gave them so we've used their educators associated with them. With the latest success in degree in Global Affairs by Tsinghua University, Beijing, feedback to develop even more ways to support students at adoption of vernacular education among students. Vidyakul is China. At the heart of the program are world-renowned this stage just before university.” planning to expand in 10 state boards with its new courses advisers, a rigorous and innovative study of global affairs, In the coming months the University will also launch aimed to touch over 5 Million students across India. Also, the and hands-on exploration of Chinese culture and commerce. programmes for Years 12 and 13 and Years 10 and 11. They startup makes 90% of its educational content free to use for A year spent in China provides Scholars myriad experiences are designed to be a high-quality source of information, students so they prepare better for the next term exams in the that create lifelong friendships and a valuable set of cross- advice and guidance which students can work through absence of resources. cultural leadership skills. independently or teachers can use in the classroom. Tarun Saini Co-Founder and CEO commented “Vidyakul, Schwarzman Scholar is currently recruiting in India for the Completion of the Essex Preparation Programme is optional, online school for Bharat is designed to help state board seventh cohort academic year starting August 2022 – but the University believes it will give students a great start to students to provide them educational content in their regional Applications are open for Indian students and will close by their studies. The materials are also perfect for students who language and we are happy to see students benefit from our September 2021. perhaps have taken a break from formal education for any educators' teaching. We'll try to continue the same spree and To date, 19 Indian Scholars (12 alumni, 3 current Scholars, reason. Over the six-week programme students will explore help every student in achieving their dream without any

8 Curriculum July 16, 2021 School News Young innovators from schools: Little ones say big 'Thank You' to #LetsGetVaccinated CAMPAIGN at times patients experience an invasion of their privacy, giving them control of the screening process, respecting their privacy medical professionals Silver Oaks and promoting early detection.” Sidharth further explained, “We developed a machine DPS IP's primary students Silver Oaks International Schools has been encouraging learning model, executed and deployed as a mobile app. In unveiled their creative side inoculation and urges citizens to get vaccinated in order to this, the image of the lesion is processed and fed into our Deep in 'Be Your own Doctor' overcome the crisis. Through this initiative, Silver Oaks also Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) – trained and tested activity on National Doctor's invites health partners to utilize their campuses across with 5000 images – yielding a percentage probability report of Day Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Visakhapatnam, to organize the lesion being classified as Malignant, benign or Students of classes Nursery vaccination drives. The initiative aims to help as many lives premalignant. If malignant, further classifying them within & Prep of DPS Indirapuram as they can to get vaccination at comfort. the 5 main skin cancers (Aktinik Keratosis, Squamous Cell celebrated National Doctors' Commenting on the initiation, Seetha Murthy, Director of Carcinoma, Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma and Day on July 1. Teachers, Education at Silver Oaks International School “We may Intraepidermal Carcinoma) with an accuracy of 83% on children and parents never get back into the world that we knew, but it is going to confusion matrix.” expressed their gratitude and be the power of our collective effort to immunize that will respect towards medical help us bring back the goodness. Hence, Silver Oaks has Amity Noida student wins coveted professionals for their taken up the social responsibility and urges all the citizens to Diana Award for social selfless services. Children get vaccinated.” entrepreneurship success participated in the activity 'Be your own Doctor' by making creative first aid boxes, Mumbai teens win Microsoft Imagine Satyam Mehta (16), a student of class 12th from Amity coupled with colorful stethoscopes. The students prepared International School, Noida has been given coveted Diana these first aid boxes with medical essentials under the Cup award in Junior category for World Award by the charity of the same name (Established in guidance of teachers. Towards the end of the activity, children memory of Diana, Princess of Wales) for his positive social applauded and saluted the medical fraternity for their selfless Solutions using Artificial Intelligence change initiatives and humanitarian efforts in empowering contributions. rural investment, sustainable management of E-waste, and Sangeeta Hajela, Principal outlining the significance of the Two Mumbai-based teens, Aasimm Khan and Sidharth Jain, promoting better menstrual health and hygiene management day commented, “Doctors are the real-life heroes, and it was have won the Imagine Cup Junior AI award, an initiative of among females of different age groups across all sections of vital for our young ones to understand their significance in Microsoft, for developing a non-invasive screening for skin society. society development and welfare. Medical professionals are cancer by using Artificial Intelligence. As a part of their He was selected for this award through a rigorous nomination part of a noble service, their dedication and selfless service is award, each winner received a back-pack, Trophy and a process that saw participation from students from many seldom appreciated and recognized. With our activity, the certificate. countries. These nominators had to demonstrate the little cards made by our students laud their contribution and Both Aasimm (17 years) and Sidharth (17 years) represented nominee's impact in five key areas: Vision, Social Impact, inspire students to imbibe their virtues.” OMOTEC (On My Own Technology), a city based Inspiring Others, Youth Leadership, and Service Journey, and educational and innovation centre, under the banner “Team Satyam stood with flying colors across all the five areas of Students of VIBGYOR Group of Schools GForce” to showcase their research in developing a non- measurement. invasive pressure mapping method to screen skin cancer and Satyam is the proud co-founder of 'Rural Invest', an initiative sent cards, wrote letters to express enable early detection. to solve one of the vital problems faced by Indian farmers: the Team GForce won the award in the “AI for Humanitarian lack of financial literacy. The app 'Rural Invest' gratitude to doctors Action” category for detecting Genital Skin Cancer. With this (www.ruralinvest.in) leverages the power of finance to win, OMOTEC, is now among the top 10 institutions of the empower and enable users to invest money through SIPs in To commemorate the occasion of National Doctors' Day and world to win the much coveted Microsoft Imagine Cup. It is various asset classes strategically. recognise the selflessness of healthcare professionals, the noteworthy that in December last year, Sidharth and Aasimm This young entrepreneur is relentlessly working towards students of VIBGYOR Group of Schools reached out to represented OMOTEC at the Initiative for Research and making society an empathetic place to live by solving the various doctors and other medical personnel to express their Innovation in STEM (IRIS) National Fair and won the Grand massive concerns of electronic waste. Satyam has co-founded gratitude for their relentless service to the nation. Students Award for showcasing their non-invasive screening and 'JunkGuards', an initiative for the proper management of E- from Pre-Primary to Grade 12 from all 40 VIBGYOR schools classification of skin cancer lesions in genital regions. Waste (www.junkguards.com). The initiative has collected sent heartfelt emails, letters, cards and videos to thank doctors Imagine Cup Junior AI is a competition for students aged 13 more than 700 kgs of e-waste and utilized it towards and medical staff, for their tireless efforts to save lives at the to 18 to learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sustainable reuse. cost of their own safety, during one of the most devastating engage them in understanding AI concepts and how it can be Satyam has been an advocate of inclusive growth. Technology times in recent history. Many faculty members also sent used to change the world around them. rests at the heart of every initiative or disruptive idea that messages. This is for the first time that Microsoft, the sponsor of the Satyam contemplates. Pravahkriti (www.pravahriti.com), Kavita Sahay Kerawalla, Vice Chairperson, VIBGYOR Microsoft Imagine Cup – Innovation Challenge, considered another social venture led by Satyam, promotes better Group of Schools, said, \"The value of doctors and all as the pioneer for AI-led scientific innovations, has menstrual health and hygiene management among females. healthcare workers is certainly undeniable. Their efforts are introduced the Imagine Cup for age category below 18 years. This forward-looking mindset also permeates his menstrual indeed praiseworthy and our students are also aware of the Thousands of students from nearly 160 countries across the health advocacy, engaging women and men and driving the contribution. On National Doctors' Day 2021, through our globe had participated in this competition. next evolution in period positivity. messages and videos, we salute our frontline warriors who “It is a moment of pride for us that our students have won this have left no stone unturned in their pursuit of serving the much coveted award. OMOTEC was the only private MPS Student invents an electronic nation with responsibility, grace and fortitude. We will be institute from India to have received the award,” OMOTEC forever grateful for the sacrifices they make and thank them, Co-founder Shekhar Jain device that can help implement social today and in the days to come.\" said. Giving details about the Between June 20 and June 30, VIBGYOR students visited competition, Jain said the distancing norms in public places hospitals and clinics near their homes, while adhering to all themes were about how the COVID-19 protocols, to share handmade cards and young students can deploy Hiten Gautam, a budding inventor of class VI of Modern letters. Some students emailed e-cards to the doctors and AI models in real world to Public School, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhih has made an healthcare staff, while others recorded speeches for their come out with solutions in entry-exit device to limit the number of people gathering in online class sessions. different categories of AI for public places, using just the components picked out of the Teachers also used this occasion to remind children about the Good Initiatives, AI for school'sAtal Tinkering lab. importance of staying indoors, wearing masks if and when Accessibility, AI for Earth, The nifty little device has been programmed using the stepping out of the house, and washing hands regularly to AI for Humanitarian Action Arduino Uno which is an protect themselves from COVID-19. andAI for cultural heritage. open-source “It was a challenging project microcontroller and has in terms of the project definition as well as to create an been neatly assembled on a interface of different kinds of technology for us to validate breadboard with jumper the design prototype. But at the end it all came down to cables to make the application of technical skills like 3D design, Machine electrical connections. The learning, AI and data analysis skills for these students to device is equipped with bring it all together,” OMOTEC Chief Mentor Reetu Jain Infra-Red (IR) sensors to said. detect the presence of the Speaking about their person entering or exiting journey, Aasimm said, “We the premises while the output is displayed on a 16 x 2 LCD designed a solution which screen for easy monitoring. can help early detection of An LED light mounted on the circuit board immediately skin cancer. Our glows red as the number of people allowed to pass reaches the engineering goal is to programmed limit, and only lets in more people after some screen suspicious skin have exited the premises. Currently, the demo device has been lesions non-invasively coded to let only 5 people through, but it can be re- providing detailed analysis programmed to suit the regional COVID-19 protocols as and to doctors virtually, when required. reducing the number of

Curriculum July 16, 2021 9 Careerwise 5 Investment Tips for Youngsters, College Students P.C. Chhabra Catch them young is going students are young seriously while you're still in Investing such as stocks, risk options: when it comes a phrase which and dynamic and college is college. Mutual Funds NSE, Equity to investment often, we said Executive Director means that good actually one of the best and BSE, others. Helping calculation is the key to Sanskriti University habits be inculcated at a opportunities to get started Elucidate basic difference with these basic concepts of success. For young or young age so that they last in the world of Investing. between savings and different variations will college -goers' investors is To help youngsters long. Apart from Idea of The Hardest part of starting investing: It is important empower them with more quite beneficiary for them to who aspire to invest practical knowledge for to invest is beginning to for students to understand new options and choices. invest in stocks and mutual but lack the students it is good to start think of yourself as an that while saving is the safe funds, low-risk options knowledge, here are investing early and for a investor because due to lack way to go which offers Keep an Eye on should be considered so they a few tips to help longer duration would help of knowledge many people lower returns, investing in background research: don't end up losing more them make good them manage their finances belive that investment small increments allows the following background money because stock market use of their pocket better, in future. Early options are only open to the money to grow itself and research is one of most involve risk. Planning before money and stipends Investing also allows them to working class, and Wealthy offers potential to get high important guidelines that investing in any stock market wisely. take small and calculated Society. But in reality, Return. college-goers and young is must to get a descent risks without fear of especially college-goers, investors need to learn. There return. According to experts' affecting their livelihoods can be the best investors Hold on to money: As we are reasonable risks involved youngsters need to go for and future planning. College because they have several all knowyoungsters have a in managing investments, long-term investment. advantages. craze to spend all their before diving in to invest one While most youngsters in money, considering they must do their own Never get carried away: India are hesitating from have a constant supply of background research. For While stepping in the world investing, considering that cash. But if students are beginners and youngsters of Stock Market you must they have no other financial willing to make an effort to need to check how the understand that it's a burden, investment is a save up a portion of their company in which they plan vulnerable yet addictive handy option to get richer at money and invest, all they to invest has performed on a place. You should never get a later stage. In the investing need to do is open a yearly and quarterly basis. carried away after brief world even a little bit of cash brokerage account for stock Companies' past success. Brokers often end can be used to begin build a investments and day trading. performances can't dictate up with requests but you portfolio. It can actually be After Investing you will not future results but provide an have to remember that the an advantage because in the reap the benefits instantly, overview of the firm's future final authority lies with you initial stage you'll be investing in shares of a curve. You can even watch to invest in any scheme. learning how to invest and company is a good way to out almost all top business deal without the risk of aim for long-term returns. news channels which provide losing a large sum of money. Explicate basic concepts: the brief of new market After studies make sure you Investing allows a diverse Trends. start your life on the right financial portfolio. So it is financial foot by treating necessary to teach students Go for low-risk investment your financial future the basic concepts of options: Try to Invest in low- Teacher as a Relationship Manager Every teacher needs to build good relationships with their students, their students' parents, and the fellow staff members. Dr. Sankar Prasad Dutta, The three critical relationships that can make relationship with your students. That does not mean that Principal. KPS Nadia (WB) teaching a less stressful experience: you have to be a push-over. It does mean you have to be fair, impartial, and willing to listen to them. Take with a There is something that you cannot avoid by 1. Peer Teachers grain of salt anything anyone says badly about your being a teacher, and that is forming student before you even met a student. A lot of teachers relationships. It is whether these relationships It is such a good idea to try to be cordial with peer (and parents) want to sometimes \"warn\" you about are good or bad that can determine how teachers. They are great alliances. They can act as certain children. You would not like to be judged by much stress will come with the job. There are shoulders to lean on when times get tough and perfect what other think of you before getting to know you. three vital relationships to take into people to vent frustrations to. Another great person to Never, ever do that to a child. consideration when being a teacher. Every have on your side is the school counselor. Not only teacher needs to build good relationships with are they there for the students, but a great school Great parent/student relationships also have a set of their students, their students' parents, and counselor will even take time to lend advice to the boundaries. Let children know that you mean what you the fellow staff members. teachers. say and say what you mean. This goes for everything. If you tell a child that if he gets out of his seat one more 2. Students' Parents/Guardians time without permission or he will practice asking permission to leave his seat during his recess, you better Forming relationships with your students' be prepared to follow up on it. In the same light, if you parents/guardians is also crucial. Most parents only tell a student that you will give “A” grade or stars for hear from their child's teacher when their child is good work done by students, you better give it. Doing failing or misbehaving. Make sure to call parents what you say you will do builds both boundaries and every now and then when their child has done trust. This is critical in the relationship between teacher something well. With some kids that is sometimes and students. challenging, but it is those parents who you want on your side anyway. Brag about anything positive that Get to know your students as well. A lot of teachers give happens, like turning in homework consistently, interest surveys in the beginning of the school year. Use sharing a ppt, making even the slightest those to gain an insight of your students in the world improvements behaviorally or academically. If the outside the classroom. Use that in conversation with parents know that you see something, anything your students. Ask them about what game they love to positive in their child, they will be more apt to listen play. If they mention having a pet, ask them all about the to you when inevitable problems do arise. pet. Let them know that you are interested in them as a person. This lets them know you care and that makes all 3. The Students the difference in the world. Lastly, yet most importantly, form a solid, loving

10 Curriculum July 16, 2021 Opinion/Perspective What does the New Team of ministers Top four reasons why it is crucial at the Ministry of Education tell us to invest about India's education reading? in teachers and their learning The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) and its Surabhi Goel, CEO, Aditya Birla Education Academy ideological mentor, RSS, have been very clear in their minds about importance of education and The COVID-19 by training, specializing in can help them to be able to school must invest in its role in shaping of the society. However, unlike in pandemic academics, and attaining effectively teach in an online upskilling and re-skilling its NDA I under AB Vajpayee when the Ministry of completely numerous degrees, while a class. Schools can also help teaching staff as learning is Education (then HRD) was given to a heavyweight, transformed the education major portion of it is teachers understand that an ongoing process and this Murli Manohar Joshi, in 2014, the BJP experimented sector with virtual classes developed with experience digital content can be goes with or without the with a novice 'short-tempered' Smriti Irani. Obviously becoming the only option and practice. Let's take a distributed through platforms pandemic in question. she didn't last long, but again for rest of the term in for imparting education. The look at the top four reasons like Google Classroom, Schools must conduct Prakash Javadekar, the party again shied away from initial days were tough as why it is crucial to invest in Microsoft Flipgrid and help various training sessions putting a heavyweight in charge of the ministry. many teachers across the teachers and their learning. them get comfortable using such as Professional In Modi 2.0 in 2019, the ministry was given to Ramesh country were not quite 1. Teachers are the video conferencing sites like Development Programme Pokhriyal 'Nishank'. Again his credentials to head MoE equipped with the required catalysts of change: To Zoom, Google Meet, or which are aimed at giving the weren't great or in sync with changing landscape of know-how of using develop 'learning', we have WebEx. teachers an opportunity to education. And now in the latest reshuffle of the union technology to conduct to develop teachers as they 3. Need to learn and learn and investigate, cabinet on July 7, four ministers have been entrusted online classes. This situation have become a primary unlearn: Unlearning is a role examine personal practices with the job of handling the ministry. What is the became more of an eye- catalyst in bringing about of effective teaching. Indian and become better educators thought behind the current composition and strengthen opener for the educators social changes in the society. teachers need to focus on with wider horizons. Such is still anybody's guess, but the signals it sends out are which brought in a It is their wisdom and continuously upskilling and initiatives by schools that the work in the ministry is being closely scrutinized realization that it is intellect which play an training themselves to stay provide teachers the and division of labor has come up as a necessity. important to be a life-long important role to shape abreast of the current trends opportunity to attend In the hindsight, the matrix of ideological push and need learner and undertake every child's future, thereby and technology. In the current training programmes which of modern governance and understanding, seem to have various courses that will developing leaders of times, there is a need for are not only subject-specific found some equilibrium. Probably NEP 2020 has done help them stay relevant and tomorrow who will play a teachers to study the e- but also those that aim at that needful and the ministry has been freed from not make them obsolete over vital role in changing the classroom culture, and for professional and personal clutches of wanted change. a period of time. fate of the country. Teachers that, it is important to unlearn development which Skill development has been one of Prime Minister In today's time, the are mentors and learning and learn. Teachers should contribute to a better Modi's personal favorites and it won't be wrong to say profession of teaching facilitators who essentially learn how assessments can be performance by the faculty in he is one of the best motivators and brand ambassadors demands sophisticated help in the early-stage carried out virtually, study the his/her role at school. for restoring primacy to skills in India. During his chief technical skills, personal development of every assessment structure in the 'Teaching is the profession ministerial years in Gujarat, he developed a lot of and social skills, and a range student. Training institutes new normal, and also deep- that teaches all other affinity for skills. of personal qualities such as can help teachers impart dive into the annual results of professions' – This statement Now the next logic question is about choice of open-mindedness and various skills that can help every class. Continuous truly emphasizes how vital Dharmendra Pradhan as the new Education Minister and resourcefulness. As teachers them become acquainted professional development teachers are for the overall importantly also as the new union skills minister. The are responsible for the with the latest developments programmes will help development of students and synergy and interlinking of the two ministries with a overall development of in the industry. teachers to be well prepared society as whole. Thus, common boss is indeed a bold experiment and may lay students such as skill 2. Learn using Digital to respond to challenging investing in teachers can basis for an integrated policy approach. If lines between enhancement, knowledge, Tools: The current times online classroom conditions. truly transform the education skill education and mainstream education are blurred and understanding, have made it mandatory for 4. Need of development sector and will be crucial for and two diffuse, it will be a welcome change and make educators must use a wide educators to imbibe programmes by schools: the effective learning skills socially more acceptable. In terms of productivity, range of approaches to technical know-how to be Schools must be committed outcomes in a post COVID- it will be like best of the two worlds. Having said that, it facilitate 'active learning'. able to conduct online to the professional growth of 19 world. is still a long way to go and with the kind of tech These extraordinary sessions successfully. its staff as it acknowledges disruptions and new business models, even setting goals teaching skills are achieved Teachers must get a hands- the reality that teachers are would be outdated. on understanding of using the most valuable asset of the Pradhan has already a working stint as the junior skills Google apps like Mail school community and act as minister and therefore is quite familiar with skilling merge, Google slides, the torchbearers of change. It system, he has also a youth leader and therefore has a Google sheets etc. which is thus crucial that every natural connect with the youth issues. In Prof Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Annpurna Devi and Dr Subhas Sarkar as Human waste contaminating urban water leads to 'superbug' spread – study junior ministers, he has got enough hands to keep a microscopic look at all segments of education, which Contamination of urban consistent with reports of “Interventions aimed at globally, but the clinical looks a better order. Another advantage Pradhan may lakes, rivers and surface such bacteria in rivers across improving access to clean issues, including significant have is his disciplined image and more of party man water by human waste is Asia. water, sanitation and morbidity and mortality, than an ambitious politician. So, unlike in times of creating pools of 'superbugs' Lead author Willem van sewerage infrastructure may posed by these bacteria are Kapil Sibal as HRD minister, where MoS Daggubati in Low- and Middle-Income Schaik, Professor of thus be important to reduce particularly alarming in Purandareswari publicly signaled then secretary for Countries (LMIC) – but Microbiology and Infection the risk of antimicrobial LMICs. The prevalence ignoring her, the three junior ministers are likely to get improving access to clean at the University of resistance spreading in multidrug-resistant E. coli enough work. water, sanitation and Birmingham, commented: Bangladesh and other LMICs. among healthy humans is Whereas education is not in good health in the country, sewerage infrastructure “The rivers and lakes of While levels of antibiotic relatively high in Bangladesh, the current challenges owing to pandemic have added to could help to protect people's Dhaka are surrounded by resistance genes are as it is in other LMICs. the worries. So, a clear leadership with vision for health, a new study reveals. highly-populated slums in considerably lower in rural Antibiotic-resistant bacteria achieving national objectives of education, is a hope of Researchers studied bodies which human waste is than in urban settings, we that colonize the human gut every Indian. of water in urban and rural directly released into the found that antibiotics are can be passed into rivers, sites in three areas of water. The presence of commonly used in fish lakes and coastal areas Bangladesh – Mymensingh, human gut bacteria links to farming and further policies through the release of Shariatpur and Dhaka. They high levels of antibiotic need to be developed to untreated wastewater, the found more antibiotic resistance genes, suggesting reduce their use.” overflow of pit latrines resistant faecal coliforms in that such contamination is The prevalence of antibiotic- during monsoon season or by urban surface water driving the presence of these resistant bacteria causing practices such as open compared to rural settings, 'superbugs' in surface water. infections is increasing defecation. 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, 37 Consulting Editors: Sudha Passi, M K Bhat, Ramanathan Iyer Circulation 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 9868256512 Associates : Gurbinder Kaur, Akshay Sahu Business Development: Ashok Bhat, Vijay K Rajesh Kaul

Curriculum July 16, 2021 11 Spotlight A chemistry teacher is on a mission to support 2021 children whose lives are devastated by C19 Pandemic Picture this. In a lower mother too couldn't escape farmer in a village of Ballia the message. Any school there is a need of acceptance In some cases, revised income family in a the infection and she became (Uttar Pradesh), did student belonging to lower and distribution of funds, estimate to their needs. But at remote place of seriously ill. At this point everything possible to income group or my partner NGO will step in the same time, there are also Assam, three siblings (all Singh was moved by deluge educate him. He did B Tech economically weaker family and also offer tax rebates as some people who would like girls) who aren't even adult and devastation all around from College of having either lost a parent of per law,” he adds. to fake it, so we are quite lose both parents (daily and his thoughts went Engineering, Roorkee. “I both to pandemic or those Asked how he identifies diligent,” he says. wagers) to covid and they beyond teaching for the good know the irreplaceable place families where the earning genuine beneficiaries, he School fee is not only item on have only an old fragile of society. father has in ones your life. member has been lost or says his group has put a his menu. As a teacher in test grandmother left as the It was the time to give back. So, losing him or mother crippled, can get support of scrutiny process. In most prep, he knows a lot of guardian, have no source of As news about children early is a personal tragedy upto Rs 25,000 under cases, the fees is paid students can't afford to sustenance. In absence of being orphaned, abandoned which you can't overcome in Singh's initiative. He has directly to the schools after prepare in coaching institutes any financial support, all and losing guardians lifetime. Therefore, in my also tied with a Lucknow- ascertaining record. Bank or otherwise. So, he is three will have to give up appeared from everywhere, own way, I want to fill voids based Educational Trust to statements and supporting helping with books, advise studies and God knows, Singh floated an idea to his to some extent,” he adds. channel individual documents are looked at to and resources so that their how they will be exploited family and friends of Singh has already supported contributions. “Though vet process if paid directly to dream is not crushed. “I am to survive in the real world? financially helping more than 100 children and there are many friends and the family. “I must confess using my contacts with As one of the students of 2021children to continue students under this mission. my ex-students, who are that there is no dearth of publishers and others and Shashi Prakash Singh their education. “In my He is using his former keen to donate to this honest people in our assuring student that they can shared this status of poor whole life, I haven't seen students, social media and initiative but I have kept country. People have told us do it without much girls with him, he without such a magnitude of any other platforms to send out them on hold. Whenever, if the school has waived fee. investment. My help is there losing a day decided to disaster. Mass dropouts and for every genuine student, support their education. discontinuation of education who is feeling the pinch and This support in nick of time, is a challenge. So, in my own helplessness in anyway,” he saved their dreams. way and capability, I adds. Shashi Prakash Singh, a embarked upon a mission of Shashi Prakash Singh hopes chemistry teacher of 14 reaching out to such children he will meet his target sooner years has been employed in and support them. As the than later and perhaps coaching industry and year 2021 is really ugly and motivate a few others to give before signing up with one that we would like to back. “Not doing for any online education platform, erase its bad memories, as a ambition, recognition but Unacademy, he was a revenge I set a target of purely a call of my regular teacher in Kota with helping 2021 children under consciousness and society a leading coaching institute this mission,” he says. duty,” he signs off. for JEE/NEET preparation. Shashi Prakash Singh, who As the second wave of covid himself has seen poverty in visited harshly almost every his childhood and also how hold in Delhi NCR, his his own father, a small time School girl creates online platform, raises funds to overcome digital divide to continue her teaching passion for poor children ARSHYA GAUR, a 17-old computers and wifi teen pressure, physicality, also discovered her passion technology platform, her has expressed interest in my humanities student of class connections. So far 65 such nicknaming of chhotu and for teaching English next challenge was to get project.” 12 at Delhi's Vasant Valley children have received Motu, all took a toll on my language to nearby children visitors and intended target Though she is planning to go School is getting attention devices from her. mental health. I was in the slum area of her children. For this she to the US for her career and as her edtech platform, The content and platform she depressed and had school. After one year, the contacted several schools work as author and policy Read Together, a multi- created is being used by anorexia.” This journey of covid pandemic outbreak and digged out EWS data related matters there, still she media learning content aid hundred others as they are overcoming mental health actually put brakes on this from them. To bridge the gap feels her platform can to enhance the experience of finding it useful for their illness aided by professional passion and she spent most of no access due to lack of potentially diversify to cover children who struggle with children. Bollywood star, therapy and family cum of 2020 summer break in devices and connectivity, topics that are left out in reading or have learning Kareena Kapoor Khan, who teachers support lasted figuring out how to she went to Ketto,org school curricula such as disabilities in English is also mother of two kids, in about two years. “All this reconnect with those crowdfunding platform hygiene health, basic general language is impressing fact gave an instagram while, I felt better by writing children and deliver raised money (Rs 11 lakh so knowledge and other aspects. more and more people. shoutout to the site. as it came naturally to me. learning aid to them using far) to buy devices for these “I would love to see where it The web platform to impart Arshya, came into limelight So, I started writing poems technology. “I was stuck and children. In this campaign goes, it needs hard work and video lessons to pre- for going public with her about my own journey but wanted to continue through she has found a lot of support who knows it may even turn schoolers was created by battle with anorexia and there was no intention of digital mode and thus the and says, “Vijay Shekhar another 'Byju's' one day!” her last year in response to depression and her poetry publishing them. Then two idea and project of Read Sharma, the CEO of Paytm her own teaching class that book,' How to Open a years, later I compiled them Together came about,” she she was passionately Parachute' on this journey and realized these are worth says. offering to nearby slum last year. She was invited to publishing and thus the book The site contains English children since a student of 'India Today Conclave' in was born,” she adds. She is rhymes and similar content class X being disrupted by 2019 and then to Jaipur confined to poetry alone but based on NCERT Covid pandemic. However, Literature Festival last year. as a debater and writer on recommendations for small creating the platform and She has also has won the issues of children and children. According to her content wasn't enough as Gold Award in the Queen's children she contributed pre-primary and primary her target children were Commonwealth Essay articles to The DailyO, and students are neglected all mostly without access to Writing Competition. also has her own blog, over the world and often left devices or connectivity. To Speaking about the turning 'Phoenix Fantasies' where out mainstream help them get connected, moment in her life, when she she posts her other writing conversation. “So, my focus she raised more than Rs 11 was aged 13, Arshya says, pieces. is on this segment,” she lakh and bought tablets, “The growing up and usual As she was in class X, she adds. Having created the

12 Curriculum July 16, 2021 Student Choice Engineering Admission Outlook Report 2021 , student reviews top influence Similar to the trend in exams dropped by 10% in Pune, Nagpur, Surat, and location, work experience most trusted points of colleges resorted to search 2019, Computer 2020 in North and Central Ahmedabad, among while studying, practical contact for doubt resolutions engines and college websites, Science Engineering India, it remained unaltered students from West India to classes, quality students, among aspirants. while over 64% preferred (CSE), Electronics and in East and West India. study Engineering in. Those and advanced infrastructure, Vivek Jain, Chief Business college listing/ranking sites Communications Contrary to previous years, from the East have portrayed have significantly become Officer, Shiksha.com across the country. Engineering (ECE), and there has been a surge in a rising positive sentiment popular among Engineering commented, “Engineering Vivek Jain, in this context, Information Technology adoption and preference for for cities like Mumbai, aspirants. On the other hand, as a stream is one of the most opined, “The growing share continued to be in the top Engineering entrance exams, Delhi, and Hyderabad in parameters like certification sought-after career choices of online platforms against list of preferred like KIITEE and MET, 2020 as opposed to their programs, budget for among young Indian the traditional counterparts in specialisations among among young applicants. regular preference for startups, and more online- students. The diversity of 2020 signified changing Engineering aspirants in Overall preference for MET Engineering institutions based visual classes retained specialisation, growing consumer behaviour and 2020. However, despite the by Manipal University and located in south of India. similar grounds as the demand for evolved impact of the external low numbers, alternative KIITEE by Kalinga While for students from previous year. Engineering roles, and environment. This showed Engineering specialisations University increased by up to Central India, Indore has The Engineering Outlook availability of quality that students rely on these are expected to hold a 20% in 2020 when compared emerged as the new hub to Report 2021 also revealed institutions, together have online platforms for credible promising future in the to 2019. study Engineering, that student reviews, made it retain its popularity information. The COVID-19 imminent years. The usual When it comes to the choice replacing Bhopal. placement matrices, and among students. The fact outbreak and extended Mechanical and Civil of college location, a large Bengaluru, Mumbai, and financial aids accounted for that students are willing to nationwide lockdown also Engineering specialisations share of the students (42% on Pune, the usual sweet spots the key decision-making move across cities to gain significantly added to the lost their places to Electrical average) prefers metro cities, for aspirants from Central elements when it came to the best of education is a ripple effect among the tech- and IT. like Delhi, Bengaluru, India witnessed a negative researching and choosing positive note that our savvy Indian population.” InfoEdge (India) Ltd.'s Mumbai, and large cities in lift. Students from South Engineering colleges in country is treading towards Shiksha.com, a leading their home states. However, India continue to prefer 2020, as opposed to the the right path when it comes online platform for college a considerable mass of studying in colleges in their earlier trend of choosing to higher education.” selection in India, has students from East (32%) region, showcasing a colleges on the basis of mere The year 2020 reflected a released its annual and Central India (31%) are positive attitude towards rankings. This was closely growing adoption and Engineering Admission happy to join a college colleges located in followed by a stronger need switching to online sources Outlook Report 2021. The anywhere in India provided Coimbatore and Mumbai. of the right programmes and of information ranging from report reveals that a their requirements are met. For students in North India, industrial search engines like Google majority (over 50%) One of the most interesting Delhi-NCR continues to be training/internship to online college selection Engineering aspirants revelations of the the top choice for pursuing opportunities offered by the and review portals like appear for more than two Shiksha.com report is that Engineering. institutions. Student Shiksha.com and others as entrance exams for a higher top metro cities, such as The report revealed that ambassadors, interactive opposed to traditional success probability. While Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, value-adds, like skill sessions by the institutions sources. Over 80% of the average count of and Hyderabad, are now development infrastructure, and faculty, and trained students and parents Engineering entrance losing to Tier-II cities like experienced faculty, counsellors surfaced as the researching for Engineering How to become a successful Entrepreneur? Dr Nitesh Dhawan, Public Servant, Author and Educator The employment generation has been the key concern and external hurdles and delve deep to understand the pre- instill qualities in budding entrepreneurs which help them to- one of the top most priorities for the government, and more so requisites for being a successful entrepreneur. The key in the backdrop of economic crisis due to prolonged competencies desirable in a successful entrepreneur are – · Identify opportunities pandemic havoc in the recent times. India being the second · Formulate projects most populous nation also takes pride in having rich There could be different types of entrepreneurs like · Analyse the environment demographic dividend. There is a serious population- founder or pure entrepreneurs, second generation · Acquire the managerial skills resource imbalance which makes it a herculean task for the operators of family owned business, franchisees and owner · Understand the process and procedure of setting up government to create adequate employment opportunities. - managers.It is important for potential entrepreneurs to With economy not so in good shape, the job scarcity looms identify their areas of interest, skill set and available of enterprise large both in government and private sectors. The solution resources. After this, they should gather necessary · Enable to communicate and clearly and effectively lies in encouraging job creators instead of job seekers. This information and technical knowledge through various · Develop a broad vision about the business necessitates for promoting entrepreneurship development in government sources and institutions. The established · Take decisions and solve problems methodically the country in rural as well as urban areas. There are lot of entrepreneurs could play a mentoring role for the new impediments in starting a new enterprise. These exist at ones. One can also join various short term courses in There are specific schemes of central and state governments personal and systemic or environmental levels. esteemed organisations offering several programs. The which are aimed at providing financial assistance at entrepreneurship development programs are designed to subsidized rate, skill development, raw material, technology PERSONAL BARRIERS up-gradation, quality improvement, marketing development assistance and social security. Prime Minister Employment • Lack of confidence Generation Programme (PMEGP), Cluster Development • Lack of achievement motivation Programme (CDP) and Prime Minister Mudra Yojana are • Lack of knowledge about various programmes and worth mentioning in this regard catalysing micro, small and medium enterprises. To encourage rural entrepreneurship, the clarity in goals Khadi and Village Industries Commission(KVIC) is • Unwillingness to invest money extending hand holding support to khadi institutions, mineral • Inability to think something new based industries, agro based and food processing industries, • Inability to take risk polymer and chemical based industries, forest based industries, hand made paper and fibre industries, rural Environmental Barriers engineering and bio-technology industries and service industries. As nearly half of the country's national domestic • Lack of funds product comes from the rural sector and 48.6 percent of non- • Lack of infrastructure agricultural employment is also rural based, there is a vast • Non-avaiability of raw materials scope in harnessing the potential of rural workforce. The • Non-availability of skilled workforce Udyami online app is a welcome initiative to guide young • Lack of business friendly policies entrepreneurs. It is high time that youth searching for job • Unsuitable Locations opportunities should explore new ventures, take advantage of various government initiatives and become job providers However, the enterprising behavior could be developed themselves. through effective training and guidance. For this to happen, the budding entrepreneurs must overcome the internal and

Curriculum July 16, 2021 13 Higher Edu Updates Justice (retd) J.R. Midha Joins for “Outstanding Contribution to Education” and several offer CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) other laurels. With her sound technical background in certification to its students. Galgotias University technology, she will be at the forefront of driving innovation IMA®'s CMA certification program is an advanced-level at The NorthCap University and facilitate its transformation assessment for accounting and finance professionals in Justice J.R. Midha who demitted office as Judge of Delhi to a digital-first university matching global standards. business covering financial planning, performance and High Court on 7th July 2021, after an illustrious career of over Prof. (Dr.) Nupur Prakash said, “I am excited to be associated analytics, and strategic financial management. As part of a 13 years has joined Galgotias University, as an with an acclaimed institution which has a long tradition of two-year partnership, IMA® and Marian College will provide Advisor/Professor. academic excellence. I look forward to working with the holistic learning and education opportunities to students to Prior to his elevation, Justice Midha was practising for over talented and dedicated faculty and staff at The NorthCap pursue globally relevant professional qualifications to 26 years from 1982 to 2008. From 1989 to 1992, Justice University to steer the university towards greater enhance their career prospects. Midha was also teaching at Campus Law Centre, Faculty of excellence.” Hanadi Khalife, senior director of MEA & India operations at Law, Delhi University. He taught various subjects including IMA®, said, “The finance and accounting profession is Code of Civil Procedure, Indian Evidence Act, Transfer of Amrita School of Biotechnology enters into undergoing a huge transformation driven by an Property Act, Delhi Rent Control Act, Limitation Act, partnership with the University of Arizona unprecedented adoption of technology across all industries Arbitration Act, Motor Vehicles Act, Court Fees Act, Suit and sectors. Finance and accounting professionals are at the Valuation Act, Indian Registration Act and Indian Stamp Act. The partnership will provide enrolled students the forefront of these changes that are also transforming the Justice Midha also compiled the synopsis and case material opportunity to receive two degrees - M.Sc. Biotechnology, finance function and the skills required to succeed in today's on the subjects of \"Pleading and Conveyancing\" and \"Motor Microbiology or Bioinformatics from Amrita Vishwa volatile marketplace. Today, more than ever, professionals are Accident Compensation\" for the Campus Law Centre. While Vidyapeetham and MS Cellular and Molecular Medicine expected to upskill to manage the changing needs of the teaching, Justice Midha organized a Lok Adalat on Motor from the University ofArizona. businesses they serve. We strongly believe that empowering Accident Compensation in Campus Law Centre in 1991 in In a unique step, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University's professionals starts at the grassroots and that through our which the compensation was computed by the Law students Amrita School of Biotechnology has entered into a dual partnership with Marian College, we will provide students under his guidance and the computation was given to the Lok degree partnership with the Department of Cellular and with the opportunity to pursue globally-relevant and current Adalat Judges in advance to ensure that the claimants get fair Molecular Medicine at the University ofArizona. professional qualifications to enhance their future career and uniform compensation. Justice Midha has written books According to Dr. Bipin Nair, Professor, Amrita School of prospects.” on Motor Accident Claims Compensation and Amendments Biotechnology and Dean, Faculty of Science, this is a to the Code of Civil Procedure. strategic merger of the strengths of the two well established ‘IITM Research Initiatives Justice Midha has had a great passion for teaching law and units of the two universities, both in terms of academic has the vision to transform the legal education in our country, fervour and research excellence, providing aspiring students Spotlight' (IRIS) webinar series so that a law graduate is an accomplished lawyer upon the excellent opportunity to tap into the expertise of the completing his law degree. Aradhana Galgotia, Director renowned and internationally recognised Biomedical from July 1 to Oct Operations presented a sapling to Justice Midha and said, Sciences faculty at the University of Arizona, while at the “Galgotias University takes immense pride in welcoming same time being able to harness the rich experience of the webinars will showcase several research projects belonging to Justice J.R. Midha as an Advisor/Professor to their law school Masters programs in Biotechnology, Microbiology and 21 identified technology clusters and are privileged to have an impeccable Judge, a scholar Bioinformatics at the Amrita School of Biotechnology. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIM) is launching a professor and a man of values to guide them in academics.” Besides being given the unique opportunity to receive two new initiative to showcase its research to the broad scientific degrees - M.Sc. Biotechnology, Microbiology or community and policymakers. It will highlight the major New VC appointed to Amity Bioinformatics from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and MS research initiatives being pursued in emerging areas of global Cellular and Molecular Medicine, the students enrolling for interest. University Rajasthan this spectacular Dual Degree program would benefit While the first webinar under the 'IITM Research Initiatives tremendously from this innovative approach of flexible one Spotlight' (IRIS) is scheduled to be conducted on 1st July Prof. (Dr) Rakesh Bhatnagar, an eminent educationist and a of its kind modular courses offered by the Cellular and 2021 on the topic of 'Advanced Materials', the first edition of profound administrator has been appointed as new President Molecular Medicine Department at the University ofArizona the series will conclude in October 2021. (Vice-Chancellor) of Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur. He as well as to conduct research within the University of The webinars will showcase several research projects will be in charge of strengthening the research, technology, Arizona laboratories. belonging to 21 identified technology clusters that have been and holistic development of the University. Carol C. Gregorio, PhD, University of Arizona, Head of the initiated with support from the Government of India as an With over 35 years of experience in education, Professor Department, Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Assistant 'Institute of Eminence' (IoE) scheme. Bhatnagar has served as a Vice Chancellor of Banaras Hindu Vice Provost of Global Health Sciences, said about the Speaking about this initiative, Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi, University, Kumaun University, Nainital and the Jawaharlal program- \"We are honored to have entered this dual degree Director, IIT Madras, said, “Research is the centrepiece of Nehru University at various important positions like partnership with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham new initiatives launched at IIT Madras as an 'Institute of Chairperson, Director and Dean. University—one of the top research institutions in India. This Eminence.' More than 300 faculty members have formed Recognized with extraordinary contribution in the field of opportunity allows us to push the boundaries in our own multi-disciplinary teams and identified cutting-edge research and innovation, Dr. Rakesh has been awarded with university by tapping expertise of our renowned and challenges to explore over the next few years.” many prestigious awards and recognition such as President's internationally recognized faculty. This exciting opportunity The outcomes envisaged from IRIS include: Award for Best Innovation by President of India, ICMR is part of our larger mission to expand access to Arizona § Create awareness in the scientific community Award for Outstanding research work in the field of Health Sciences education within the U.S. and around the regarding the research landscape at IIT Madras Immunology by ICMR, GoI. world.” § Outreach to the broader public to explain research An alumnus of National Sugar Institute, Kanpur, Prof. themes of national and international relevance Bhatnagar is an elected fellow of all three major Science Tata Electronics and SASTRA University § Attract bright students to pursue graduate research Academies of India namely Indian National Science at IIT Madras Academy, New Delhi, Indian Academy of Science, collaboration in electronics, design for § Deepen international engagement and participation Bangalore and NationalAcademy of Science,Allahabad. in IIT Madras research activities With his profound knowledge and colossal experiences, PG program Highlighting the objectives behind launching the IRIS Amity University aims to march towards the pinnacle of webinar series, Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean academic excellence and success, proffering an opportunity Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) has entered into a (Global Engagement), IIT Madras, said, “IIT Madras is to shape a collective vision of building a mindset for research Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SASTRA reaching out to the international as well as the Indian scientific and technology. deemed-to-be University to develop deep domain expertise community and the public to engage with them and describe that will further enhance the skill of the workforce in the field to them major research initiatives that have been launched by Prof. (Dr.) Nupur Prakash appointed as of electronics design and manufacturing in collaboration the Institute. Research outcomes from these projects have the withAsia University and Yuan Ze University. potential to catapult IIT Madras to the next level of academic Vice-Chancellor of The NorthCap According to this agreement, students admitted to the two- excellence, thereby becoming an institute on par with the best year M.Tech degree in Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) universities in the world.” University design will complete one year of the course at SASTRA Prof. T. Pradeep, Padma Shri Awardee, and Institute campus in Thanjavur and the second year in either Asia Professor, Department of Chemistry, IIT Madras, will speak The NorthCap University has announced the appointment of University or Yuan Ze University in Taiwan. The second- during the inaugural lecture of the IRIS Initiative on 1st July Prof. (Dr.) Nupur Prakash as its Vice-Chancellor. In her role, year curriculum will include practical experience in major 2021 about research initiatives on 'Molecular Materials and she will head all academic schools and departments and chair lab facilities, a six-month industry internship in Taiwan's Functions,' being undertaken to create a globally recognized the Board of Management, the Academic Council, and all advanced semiconductor manufacturing industry and basic centre focusing on synthesis and study of molecular materials. other statutory bodies. Chinese language skills. TEPL will work closely with In addition, Dr. Madivala G. Basavaraj, Associate Professor, Prior to joining The NorthCap University, she served as the SASTRA University to co-create the course curriculum and Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Madras, will also Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University will provide financial support for overseas education and speak about the research centre working on soft and biological for Women, Principal of Indira Gandhi Institute of training of these students. “This two-year comprehensive matter, which will focus on structure and rheology. Technology, Dean, School of Engineering and Technology course in electronics shall develop talent and deep domain The IRIS series will provide an opportunity to engage in and Dean, School of IT, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha expertise which is necessary for India's growing semi- conversations with eminent faculty from IIT Madras and University. conductor industry,” said Dr. S. Vaidhyasubramaniam, Vice- other international researchers, and identify opportunities for She earned her Bachelor's in Electronics and Communication Chancellor of SASTRA. collaborations in those research areas. Engineering and Master's in Computer Science and Technology from IIT Roorkee, where she received the Marian College signs MOU with Some of the research areas that will be showcased in the IRIS Chancellor's Medal. She did her Ph.D. in artificial Series include: intelligence from Punjab University. She has published and IMA® Quantum science and technology presented more than 100 research papers and articles in AI and Data Science national and international journals and conferences. She has IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) and Marian Renewable energy and materials for energy been a strong propagator of STEM education for girls and has College Kuttikkanam have signed a MoU in an effort to Autonomous systems won many accolades including the “Inspiring Women Edu- further academic, educational, and professional initiatives leader” in 2014, 22nd Devang Mehta Business School Award for students. As part of the partnership, Marian College will

14 Curriculum July 16, 2021 Conference Reports Faculty of Journalism and Creative Studies, JLU hosts ICMCD 2021 Jagran Lakecity University and its warm welcome and research results and share University), Dr.Melissa Maharashtra Open evolution of media, (JLU), Bhopal, organised inclusive approach towards their experiences about Fitch ( Arizona State University, Prof. communication and design in the two-day International researchers, scholars and various aspects related to University, USA), Prof. K.V.Nagaraj, Professor, defining the current and Conference on Media, delegates alike. Offering a Media, Communication & Daniel Alonso Martinéz ( Mizoram Central University future scenarios.” Communication & Design platform for exploring and Design. Universidad Camilo José Tanhril, Aizawl In addition to the well-known (ICMCD) on June 25-26, evaluating ideas drawn from Cela, Spain), Dr.Prabhat Prof. (Dr.) Sandeep Shastri, keynote speakers, around 24 2021. Organized by Faculty a wide range of cultural, The leading keynote Ranjan, Vice Chancellor, D Vice Chancellor Jagran senior Professors and media of Journalism and Creative economic, social and digital speakers included Prof. K G Y Patil University, Dr.Pilar Lakecity University said, educators chaired and co- Studies at Jagran Lakecity perspectives, ICMCD 2021 Suresh (Vice Chancellor, Guerrieri, Italy, Prof. Maria “We are excited to be hosting chaired multiple research University in collaboration saw leading global Makhanlal Chaturvedi Gabriela Ortega ( this forum with speakers of technical sessions. with the London College of academics and researchers National University of Universidad Camilo José global repute. The Prof. Diwakar Shukla, Dean, Communication, from across 5 countries Journalism and Cela, Spain), Prof Simon Conference explored the Faculty of Journalism and University of the Arts converging to to meet and Communication, Bhopal), Hinda, London College of cognitive, emotional, and Creative Studies, Jagran London and Universidad exchange ideas and views on Shri Abhishek Mohan Gupta Communication, UK, social processes involved in Lakecity University, said Camilo José Cela, Spain the an international forum, ( pro Chancellor, Jagran Dr.Mrinal Chatterjee, communication and, in “The world we live in is Conference was an thereby stimulating Lakecity University), Prof Regional Director, Indian particular, in the social mediated by symbols, interdisciplinary & respectful dialogue. Sandeep Shastri (Vice Institute of Mass communication area. It was languages, technologies, and intercultural platform for Over 200 research scholars Chancellor, JLU, Bhopal), Communication, Prof, fascinating to hear and see media. The perception of researchers, practitioners, participated in the Prof Biswajit Das,( Jamia Sudhir Gavhane, Former expert voices on the reality is not objectively and educators to engage on conference on the back of Milia Islamia), Prof Sunil Vi c e C h a n c e l l o r Y. C contribution of dynamic mirrored by our cognitive recent innovations, trends around 185 plus abstracts Kant Behera ( Tezpur processes and artefacts, but it and opportunities as well as and almost 100 presentations is a negotiation among reality discuss challenges and across multiple parallel and languages. This is why solutions in the fields of tracks and themes such as communication is so crucial media, journalism, social media, issues, impact in all aspects of our lives. communication, films and & future; changing ICMCD 2021 deep dived into design. landscape of streaming various aspects of The Conference brought media; gender identity and communication and design, together leading communication; and was highly successful in academicians, researchers representation in cinema; initiating a wide-ranging and scholars to deliberate, and new digital dialogue.” discuss and analyze all narratives.The high of the aspects of media, technical sessions were communication and design. student researcher The conference received presentations which saw wide reputation and students from three countries appreciation for presenting their research disseminating the evolving papers and projects. contemporary media The conference provided an research and perspectives opportunity to interchange 2nd Edition of the Event Education Festival hosted by WWI Hosted by Whistling Woods International (WWI) School of Tomorrow' featuring Suresh Venkat, Anil the WWI umbrella. The day started on a empowering note Event Management, the biggest virtual education festival Singh & Girish Bhat and 'Crypto & NFTs in with Rahul Puri, Head – Academics, WWI, sharing an offered 3 days of uninterrupted learning and knowledge Entertainment & Creative Arts' featuring 'Overview of the Media & Entertainment Industry'. sharing by the best of the experts from the event Chaitanya Chinchlikar & Pareen Lathia. Following his keynote address, WWI School of Animation & management, experiential marketing, media & With the same level of zeal continuing, the Game Design featured Vivek Nag, Jaydev Dhakan, Rounak entertainment, and creative arts industry. second day of the Event Education Festival Magoo, Mohammad Khalikh & Yohan Kashyap in an Scheduled from July 1-3, 2021, the theme for this year' started with a fascinated panel discussion on intriguing conversation about 'The Realtime Adventure – edition of the Event Education Festival revolved around 'Behind the Scenes with #OffTheComms' Advances in the Virtual World'. WWI School of Media & 'Curating an Eventful Tomorrow'. Featuring 90+ eminent featuring Meghaa Ghosh, Anshu Kothari, Communication hosted the panel on 'Future of Media & speakers, the festival offered the attendees the opportunity to Apaar Bhandari & Sony Advani Parikh. The Entertainment' featuring Rahul Puri, Chetan Asher, Raj Nair participate in 30+ expert-led panel discussions, case study following panels for the day included – & Ajay Mehta. WWI School of Design hosted Milindo Taid, sessions, and much more. Kunal Khambhati, Shoven Shah, Jatin Nupur Bhargava, Vivek Sheth & Jigna Shah Oza for a session The first day of the Event Education Festival unfolded with Varma, Chaitanya Mathur & Cyrus Gorimar on 'Contemporary Design Practice – Challenges & immense enthusiasm with the opening segment on 'Building in discussion regarding 'IPs – Changing the Opportunities'. The following session on 'How Virtual Tomorrow's Education Paradigms in Live Entertainment, Game of Sponsorship'; 'Preparing for a Production is Enabling Filmmakers to Reimagine the Media & Creative Arts', featuring Meghna Ghai Puri, and Comeback?', featuring Jateen Rajput, Ravi Mehta, Filmmaking Process' featured Chaitanya Chinchlikar, Priyan Jateen Rajput, HOD, WWI School of Event Management. Shaheen Jehani, Raj Mutreja & Khushboo Balwani Rawal; Parab & Vivek Reddy. WWI School of Fashion presented a The subsequent panel featured Roshan Abbas in discussion a special session by Vivek Bhargava about 'Happiness is a panel on 'Fashion – Treading Smart & Wise' featuring with Gokul Krishnamoorthy. Discussing the 'Industry Muscle'; 'Opportunities & Growth in the Experiential Jewellyn Alvares, Nelson Jaffrey & Deepit Chugh. Featuring Overview – Event Management & Experiential Marketing', Space', featuring Suresh Kurapaty, Mayank Lalpuria, D. Wood & Mahesh Raghavan, the final session of the 3-day the session highlighted how the industry has undergone Abhijit Das, Deepansh Bhargava & Tarun Mehra; 'Content Event Education Festival, hosted by WWI School of Music changes and is evolving with time, especially in terms of – the New Currency', featuring Punita Parekh, Anant not only highlighted 'What's New in Music Production & training, talents, and the increased demand for events. Kamal, Kanika Mohan Saxena, Nanditta S Mahadevia & Technology' but also offered a live musical performance. The remaining sessions for the day covered diverse topics Pooja Jauhari; 'Venue & the Way Forward', featuring Pooja related to the event management industry. While Parthip Gulati in conversation with Lydia Buthello; Akshay Basrur Thyagarajan, Prateek Tandon, Megha R Israni & Ninad & Tenzing Niyogi sharing their thoughts about 'Sports Nerkar discussed 'How are Weddings Going to Lead the League in India' and 'Artist Management – The Art Behind Event Industry?'; Bhavna Pani and Ashvin D Gidwani shared the Artist', featuring Vaibhav Mota, Alaap Gosher, Kinjal their views on 'The New Normal – A Theatrical Phenomena'. Bhattacharya & Vivek Machetti. The second day came to a Other sessions that followed through the course of the day lively end with a special panel discussion featuring the were – 'Commencing the Entrepreneurial Journey', featuring Meet Bros duo – Manmeet Singh & Harmeet Singh in Dinesh Kumar, Nishit Shah, Amit Gupta, Harshal Kothari & discussion with Deepak Choudhary about the 'Business of Manish Tandon; 'Virtual & Hybrid Events – Way To Future', Music'. featuring Vijay Sabhlok, Hariom Seth & Shiva Sureka; Through the course of two days, several intriguing topics 'Evolving Brand Solutions', featuring Sachin V Kumbhar, were explored such as New-Age Technological Sunny Vohra, Mansi Negi & Gautam Jain; 'Vocal For Local' Innovations, Event Entrepreneurship, Existing Scenarios featuring Monica Murthy in discussion with Jai Mundra, in Event Management, Impact of Digital Space on Shashank Gupta, Rahul Soni & Dipti Shah; 'Future of Experiential Marketing and many more. Production' featuring Shane Dsouza; Ali Safdar Zaidi; The final day of the Event Education Festival included Murali Rao & Parth Shah; 'Leader' Perspective – My World thought-provoking expert panels by various schools under

Curriculum July 16, 2021 15 Higher Edu Updates 1st batch of International Joint M.Tech. disciplines. IIM Sambalpur conducts 4th & 5th Candidates with a very high GATE score joined the program Students from India & Japan graduate in 2019 at IIT Guwahati. A similar selection process exists at annual convocation Gifu University for the Japanese students. from IIT Guwahati The mutual academic timetables and credit systems have IIM Sambalpur concluded after successful academic year been respected and this ensured the greater confidence of all with the 4th (2018-2020) & 5th (2019-2021) conducted Started in 2019, this program is the only participating faculty and administrative setup of the annual convocation in the virtual mode for these batches. The such degree in India that enables an respective institutes. The culture and values of both India and convocation was graced by Chief guest Sajjan Jindal, enrolled student to receive an International Japan have been duly accommodated and respected to impart Chairman and Managing Director of JSW Group, CS M.Tech. degree with a mutually participating integrity and research ethics in the admitted students. Nagendra D Rao President, Institute of Company Secretaries curriculum of India (ICSI), Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairman, Board, IIIT Bangalore hosts its second e- IIM Sambalpur and former Chairperson of the State Bank of The first batch of students to take the International Joint India and Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur M.Tech. Degree in Food Science and Technology (IMDFST) convocation to confer degrees to along with the faculty, staff and students, media journalists, at IIT Guwahati are graduating this year. guests from the Govt of India, Govt of Orissa and other The International Joint M.Tech. degree is a joint academic the class of 2021 distinguished guests. exercise of IIT Guwahati' Departments of Chemical A total of 187 students were felicitated in the convocation Engineering, Bio-sciences and Bio-engineering, Chemistry The International Institute of Information Technology, with the 5th Batch having highest gender diversity across all and the School of Agro and Rural Technology with the United Bangalore (IIITB), on July 4 hosted its 21st annual IIMs with 46 female students in a batch strength of 95. Graduate School of Agricultural Science of Gifu University, convocation through an e-ceremony, amidst the ongoing While reading the Director's report of last year, Prof Mahadeo Japan. pandemic. Professor Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT Jaiswal reiterated the highlights of the academic year that A total of eight students - four students each from IIT Bombay was the Chief Guest and Umang Bedi, Co-founder, included several milestones for IIM Sambalpur like Highest Guwahati and Gifu University - comprise the first batch of Dailyhunt was the Guest of Honour. The Ceremony was gender diversity among IIMs, Introduction of the concept of graduates of this course. The IIT Guwahati students will presided over by the Chairman of the IIITB Governing Body Flipped classrooms, first ever TEDXIIM Sambalpur, Laying receive their degrees during the upcoming Convocation. Mr Kris Gopalakrishnan, Professor S Sadagopan as Director of the foundation stone of the permanent campus of IIM Started in 2019, the IMDFST program at IIT Guwahati is only and the Dr. Debabrata Das as Director Designate of IIITB. Sambalpur by Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, Signing of such degree in India that enables an enrolled student to The event culminated with the formal ceremony of Prof. several MoUs with International universities and B schools receive an International M.Tech. degree with a mutually Sadagopan handing over of the charge of Director to Prof and with the Office of the Collector cum District Magistrate to participating curriculum. Debabrata Das. address the COVID calamity in Sambalpur which received The 'participatory curriculum' of this course provides equal The past academic year has been particularly trying for praise from Hon'ble Education Minister Shri Ramesh credit-based learning of both theory and research students due to the prolonged virtual learning atmosphere. Pokhriyal, Introduction of Executive MBA degree program components, enabling an Indian student to earn both Indian With remote learning continuing, its final year students have and many more. credits and Japanese credits based on independently and had to work on their research projects without physical IIM Sambalpur with its core values of Innovation, Integrity jointly designed and taught courses by both IIT Guwahati and access to labs and other facilities at the campus. Even then, and Inclusiveness is focused on nation-building and is Gifu University. Similar participatory curriculum is also the students have surpassed expectations with 322 committed in their goal of contributing towards the applicable for Japanese students. individuals graduating with the following degrees: 5 PhD development of the country. The institute thrives to impart The interdisciplinary course academic theme of Food degrees, 8 Master of Science by Research degrees, 163 these values in their students to raise responsible leaders with Science and Technology provides a fine balance between M.Tech. degrees, 16 M.Sc. degrees, 102 dual degrees, and 28 an entrepreneurial mindset who will work towards the sciences (chemistry and bio-science) and engineering students with sponsored M.Tech. degrees. As tradition goes, betterment of their country. The 5th graduating batch of IIM (chemical engineering and bio-technology) disciplines. 10 exceptional graduating students in academics and extra- Sambalpur have achieved 100% placement despite the Since inception, the Department of Chemical Engineering, curricular activities were also bestowed with medals and pandemic with multi fold increase in recruiters across sectors. IIT Guwahati has been coordinating the IMDFST curriculum recognitions. In addition, two alumni were awarded, till date. respectively, for outstanding doctoral thesis and XIM University, Bhubaneswar Highlighting the unique aspects of this program, IMDFST entrepreneurial success through IoT driven products. Course Coordinator Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud, Professor, Chief guest of the ceremony, Professor Subhasis Chaudhuri, commences new session Department of Chemical Engineering said, “The IMDFST in his address to the students said, “As you are ready to pursue program strives to remain forever as an academic beacon and your careers in various fields, I want you to always look for XIM University which has recently undergone a name change flagship program of IIT Guwahati under the aegis of the ways to create opportunities for our younger generation, for upholding its legacy and brand building, successfully held Chemical Engineering Department. A pragmatic curriculum create more wealth for the nation and contribute towards its inauguration and orientation programme for Executive design oversaw the smooth transition to a translational providing better education to the students who might not be MBA (Batch of 2021-2022), MBA- Business Management, research-based paradigm in the rapid advances associated to as privileged as you are. As proud alumni of this wonderful MBA – Human Resource Management and MBA – Rural the Food Science and Technology.” Institution, you have the responsibility to contribute to your Management, Batch of 2021-2023 along with the Doctoral Further, Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud said, “The Japanese higher alma mater and the society.” Programs of Xavier Institute of Management, School of education emphasizes upon laboratory coupled engagement Guest of Honour, Mr Umang Bedi in his address said, Human Resource Management, School of Rural Management in the instructed theory and quicker transmission of subject- “Reflecting back on my own journey, I want to remind you all on 5th July 2021 . related principles into the practical framework. The Indian that the biggest transformations start with the smallest of The inaugural ceremony was chaired by Vice Chancellor, Fr. higher education system emphasizes sound fundamentals ideas. The digital age today gives you the opportunity to Antony R. Uvari, S.J., along with the Registrar, Fr. E.A. followed by research emphasis towards the highest levels of solve unsolved problems and build products that could uplift Augustine, S.J. and the Deans of the respective schools under research excellence. Thus, the admitted students have been the nation. As vibrant young minds, have faith in your the University. The Associate Dean, Admissions Prof. Bikram exposed to both systems of learning and would have their capacity and create a fulfilling future for yourself, your Kumar Bahinipati presented the student profile of the batches realizations for their integration for a smarter engagement families and the nation.” followed by the inaugural address by the Vice Chancellor, Fr. and enrichment of research pedagogies.” This year the ceremony also marks another milestone in the Antony R. Uvari, S.J. and finally the faculty introductions by The curriculum spans for a duration of four semesters in IIITB's legacy as Professor Sadagopan completed his term as the Dean, Xavier Institute of Management, Prof. Shridhar which an Indian student would carry out a semester course Director of the Institute after more than 20 years of glorious Kumar Dash, Prof. Andrew Dutta, Dean, School of Human work at IIT Guwahati followed by an incubation trimester of service. Since its inception, Professor Sadagopan has been at Resource Management and Prof. Niraj Kumar from School of research activity. the helm and instrumental in leading the Institute towards Rural Management. The inauguration ended with the vote of Thereafter, the student would get enrolled in the Gifu excellence. His tenure with IIITB marks an entwining legacy thanks by Fr. E.A.Augustine, S.J., Registrar, XIM University. University and would complete a semester of course work at that is inseparable from each other. Today, Professor The disruption in continuity of education due to the COVID Gifu University after which the students would return back to Sadagopan handed over his duties to the Director Designate 19 pandemic has presented, among teachers and students, a IIT Guwahati to carry out research for two semesters. Thus, of IIITB, Prof. Debabrata Das. As the new Director of IIITB, very natural concern for the future. This is a crisis like no other all enrolled students will learn the research cultures of both Professor Das is primed to lead the Institute to achieve and despite the uncertainty, we can and have to chart a path top-notch institutions of India and Japan. greater excellence in academics and innovations in science forward. This adversity has helped the University to The course pedagogy advocates high-end research through and technology. reimagine education system, restructure pedagogy and re- the practical application of basic and applied principles of “Today is a special day. The graduation ceremony is the equip technology with state-of-the art equipment. The food science and technology. The curriculum imparts most-awaited and celebrated occasion at IIITB and the University since the past year has tried to suitably adapt to the practical skills associated with research methodology and faculty members and our graduating students pay high regard digital platform in their ecosystem of education and make use design thinking, global internship for the smarter evolution of to it. I took charge as the first director of IIITB on June 3, of it, to transform teaching and learning methodologies in localized food technologies for Global markets and outreach 1999 and have addressed 20 convocations on the same response to the COVID 19 pandemic. The University is up for and understanding the research culture par excellence in the podium since then. I heartily congratulate all outgoing this challenge and are equipped with the essential modes of IT internationally acclaimed institutions of India and Japan. students and wish them success in their chosen fields”, said enabled platform to deliver quality education to their students Other notable features of the joint degree are (a) Joint Professor S. Sadagopan speaking about the Institute's 21st across the country. The Vice Chancellor in his speech supervision of both Indian and Japanese Professors and (b) convocation. addressed the students and requested them to tap all the Jointly designed and taught courses involving practical Prof. Debabrata Das, Director of IIITB recalled the legacy opportunities offered in the University, enhance their mindset, exercises in Food Science and Technology and Global that Professor Sadagopan has created during his many years and nurture one's own development as they grow within XIM Internship. of service at the Institute and said, “IIITB as an institute has University's learning environment and become the pride and At IIT Guwahati, the admission process involves the flourished under the leadership of Professor Sadagopan and joy of their parents, teachers, university, and the country as a selection of candidates based on (a) GATE score (b) this also reflects how our students and alumni have whole. Statement of Purpose and a Presentation on a research topic performed in life. On this day, I congratulate our graduating “Readiness is all, and ready we are!”: Fr. Antony R. Uvari, choice and (c) an Interview. Due to its highest academic and batch of 2021 and wish them motivation and success to S.J., Vice Chancellor, XIM University. research standards, the IMDFST program received innovate and contribute toward technologies that will shape significant attention from undergraduate students in the the future.” Agricultural Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Food Technology disciplines and allied

16 Curriculum July 16, 2021 Potpouri/Extra News Modern Public School, Shalimar Bagh GIIS-Shekhar Ravjiani School celebrates its 50th anniversary of Music turns one Modern Public School, educational curriculum, its Pattanayak inspired and Paper Bag Day The GIIS-Shekhar Ravjiani School of Music, a collaboration Shalimar Bagh in north emphasis on extra-curricular motivated the students with between India's leading composer Shekhar Ravjiani and Delhi, celebrated its Golden and co-curricular activities his words and encouraged Paper Bag Day was Singapore-based Global Indian International School started Jubilee on 1st week of July and its experiments with them to dream big. Citing celebrated at DPS Rajnagar last year celebrated its successful completion of one year 2021. 600 delegates from 32 creative learning methods his own example of starting Extension in which children recently. The two came together to provide mentorship to the countries joined in to that adds a new flavor to his career with Modern UN were made aware about the talented students among a pool of 16,000 using the school's witness the celebrations live teaching and learning. (MUN) in 2012, he harmful effect of plastic bags state-of-the-art infrastructure and futuristic technology. from over 70 cities across Madam Principal, Mrs. Alka emphasized the importance on the environment. The Commenting on the project, Ravjiani said, “For me, the last the world. Kapur also released the of facing personal fears and students from classes III- V year has been a dream come true. I wanted to give back to the The virtual event was School Anthem created by taking the path less trodden participated in this event community via my music, and the best way to do it was to graced by the Guest of their very own music to achieve great things. with full zeal and mentor fresh and developing talent. I am extremely delighted Honour, Ashutosh teachers and students. The The students were as much a enthusiasm. The little ones with the partnership with Global Indian International School Pattanayak – Spokesperson Managing Director, Mr. Ajay part of the celebrations as made newspaper bags in to create our music school. I am glad that this adventure is for United Nations Kapur, launched the School the dignitaries themselves as different designs with leading us along the path of success that I had envisioned in Secretary-General website depicting the 50- they beautifully presented a biodegradable materials. collaboration with GIIS.” Candidate and Policy year journey of MPS. Mrs. poetic composition The slogan of 'Say No to In the one year of the programme at GIIS-Shekhar Ravjiani Advisor to the Conservative Kapur also proudly highlighting the various plastic bags' was encouraged School of Music, selected students got a chance to be Party of Canada. Among the recognised the stellar academic as well social as a messaging on these mentored one-on-one by the multi-talented Shekhar - the key dignitaries present at achievements of some of the initiatives taken by the bags. Apart from this, famed musician, singer and actor - who believes in giving a the e-conclave were K. L. students of MPS, one of school towards the different creative slogans chance to upcoming talent in society. As many as 14 students Sobti, Chairman of the which was the selection of upliftment of the were given to promote for - from Singapore, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, India school, Ajay Kapur, the class XI student Kashish surrounding communities. less use of plastic. and Japan - graduated from the school in its first year, of Managing Director, AP Lakra who has been selected The celebrations witnessed At the same time, the school which 6 have made it to Level 2 of the programme and Sharma, Academic Director for the 2021 Paralympics at an atmosphere of great teacher made the students entered their second year of training. and Advisor and School Tokyo. pride, joy, and a sense of aware about the perilous Ravjiani has made more avenues available to these six Principal,Alka Kapur. Ambassador Ashutosh belongingness towards their impact plastic has on the students to excel, by starting a collaboration with InstruMen, alma mater that is MPS. environment and living a prominent Acapella band from India, for an exciting project The Founder Director Sh.A. beings. which will give them tremendous exposure, under his L. Kapur in his address guidance. fondly remembered the In its second year, the SRSOM has received a large number of founder Principal Late Mrs. entries from aspirants, which is a 5-fold jump from its Malka Kapur, and rightly original batch of graduates. The selection process for 2021 is said “The tiny seed under close to completion and students from their worldwide her benevolent care has campuses have an exciting opportunity to be a part of the grown into a mighty oak 2021 batch. tree.” The dignitaries not only reminisced the days First undergraduates receive degrees at during which the school was still young but also University of Birmingham Dubai expressed their pride at the major strides that MPS had The first undergraduate students at the University of made in the 50 years since Birmingham's campus in Dubai have 'received' their degrees its inception. in a special online ceremony.Attending the virtual event gave MPS has grown by leaps the successful students the opportunity to mark their and bounds in the last 5 academic success as their names were read out. decades of its existence University of Birmingham Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir through its innovative David Eastwood gave a video welcome address to open the proceedings. The students graduated in Business Management, Economics and Mechanical Engineering, receiving Bachelor of Engineering degrees and Bachelor of Science degrees. AI chat-bot platform for teenagers WE INVITE YOU TO BECOME PART OF to discuss their mental health INDIA'S EDUCATION STORY! issues by class 11 students of SNS You can advertise in curriculum magazine or and also put an advertorial highlighting your company/services/campus/ products etc. This will greatly Realizing the need to provide mental health support support your marketing effort and encheantnrce efoyr oouner vyeiasrib-il2i0t2y1-a22ndwirthecoanlgloivnaglusuepport. for young individuals, a group of Grade 11 students with your current and potential clientRsegular assessment and training of the students will be from Shiv Nadar School (a not-for-profit initiative of the Shiv Nadar Foundation in K-12 private conducted to ensure that they are given the best education) has developed an AI chat-bot that treatment. provides a platform to teenagers to discuss their Tracing FICCI Flo Kolkata's association with Samaritan mental health issues, while also providing them non- Help Mission, Mrs Chamaria, said, “Our association with clinical support to deal with stress and anxiety like Samaritan Help Mission began last year when we had an suggesting music playlists etc that can help alleviate the stress. This chat-bot is available on OUR FOCUSopportunity to help provide entrepreneurial training to www.sparkthespirit.in (a portal designed by the some ladies from the local community. The work, the student group) and it monitors the mood of users, vision, and the passion with which Mr. Mamoon Akhtar helps them express their thoughts and emotions (founder of Samaritan Mission School) has gone about through therapeutic conversations. For individuals this landmark transformation, touching hundreds of lives who may be open to the human connection, the portal also connects them with people facing similar — We cover latest news, producatnldauhenlpchbueislt,acbuertrteernctomevmeunittsy, atonudchterdeunsd, asnd we issues basis the profiling done through the — News features, Guest Articles,tdhEeacxtidpheederitstodchooeilnlpgu.smtIrtennissgtthoetnhahtisenhdantdhsatinthteheocncoubpleatwioonrakl conversation with the chat-bot. — Career counselling, Skill Indiath,eEranptyrecpernetrneeuforrshsippescially-abled children was Research studies prior to the pandemic suggested — School/College /university evevnistusalised.” that 14.5% of adolescents in India were found to be — Achievements by students, faculty, institutions suffering from anxiety disorders. 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