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Education

Empowering Young Women Entrepreneurs

Financial Literacy and Business Acumen: Another key suggestion is to get familiar with financial concepts like budgeting, investment strategies, and business planning…reports Asian Lite News

Gone are the days when women were limited to their households. However, the narrative has shifted nowadays as women are not just thriving in professional roles but also running some of the largest businesses in the world.

Therefore, as we progress towards a more inclusive society, empowering young women to chase that entrepreneurial dream is becoming a fundamental goal. At the same time, it is essential to acknowledge that entrepreneurship is not solely about launching a business; it encompasses a combination of skills and a mindset that comes in handy at different stages in life.

So, to begin this entrepreneurial journey from the young, transformative years, here are crucial skills outlined by Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Editor, of MBD Group & AASOKA to kickstart an aspirational dream.

Creativity and Innovation: Start by looking for opportunities that spark your creativity and problem-solving abilities, encouraging innovation. When we tap into our visionary spirit, it empowers us to confront challenges with a new outlook, paving the way for new ideas and solutions. So, dare to explore, challenge yourself, and unlock the immense potential of the creative side of your brain.

Leadership and Teamwork: Entrepreneurial aspirations often involve leading teams and collaborating with diverse individuals. However, leadership is more than simply guiding others; it involves appropriately assigning responsibilities. That’s why you should actively engage in team efforts, collaborate with others around you, and willingly step out of your comfort zone to take up significant roles. These new experiences not only shape your character but also challenge you to grow, learn, and become a reliable team player while taking on responsibilities. You must learn & understand the importance of such skills during your school years.

Financial Literacy and Business Acumen: Another key suggestion is to get familiar with financial concepts like budgeting, investment strategies, and business planning. These concepts help you to make informed decisions, handle resources wisely, and navigate the complexities of running a venture. Such proficiency sets you up for future success in entrepreneurial efforts.

Communication and Negotiation Skills: The ability to communicate persuasively and negotiate effectively is a cornerstone of entrepreneurship. So, one must emphasize developing public speaking, effective writing, and basic negotiation skills. These competencies will give you the confidence to pitch new ideas and build networks in the future.

Resilience and Adaptability: In the fast-paced business world, you’ll experience a rollercoaster ride — full of ups, downs, and unexpected turns. Hence, developing a mindset based on resilience, adaptability, and the capability to bounce back from setbacks becomes crucial. Encourage yourself to take calculated risks and remember, each mistake is a chance to learn and grow. Moreover, it is equally important to remain flexible, ready to pivot, and adapt when faced with challenges. Keep pushing yourself to step outside your comfort zone because that is where the magic happens. Take up internships, volunteer with NGOs, and go on field trips to learn practical lessons in dealing with unexpected situations. Such activities will help you learn about stress management, mindfulness, and emotional regulation.

Tech Proficiency and Digital Literacy: In today’s digital age, being proficient in technology is non-negotiable. So, you should explore new-age and tech-based hobbies, such as learning how to code, digital marketing, or trying the latest AI tools. This knowledge will help you stay ahead of the curve and compete on a global stage in the future.

ALSO READ-India’s Education Sector Embraces Digital Revolution

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Africa News Education India News

Global Student Prize Encourages Indian Students to Apply for 2024 Recognition

Both Deng and Bishnoi are calling upon Indian students to take advantage of this platform to share their stories and be recognized for their tireless efforts to address global challenges…reports Asian Lite News

The prestigious Chegg.org Global Student Prize, in collaboration with the Varkey Foundation, is set to recognize outstanding students who have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond. As applications open for the 2024 prize, past winners and finalists are urging Indian students to seize this opportunity to showcase their achievements and impact.

  • Nhial Deng, the winner of the 2023 Chegg.org Global Student Prize, has been recognized for his remarkable efforts in empowering over 20,000 refugees in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. Through initiatives focused on peacebuilding, education, and entrepreneurship, Deng has created a transformative impact, providing a safe space for young people to heal from trauma.
  • Ravinder Bishnoi, a top 10 finalist for the 2023 prize, has showcased exceptional innovation in the field of robotics during his time as an information technology student at Chandigarh Engineering College, Landran, Mohali, Punjab.

Both Deng and Bishnoi are calling upon Indian students to take advantage of this platform to share their stories and be recognized for their tireless efforts to address global challenges. They emphasize the importance of celebrating the achievements of talented and innovative students across India.

Heather Hatlo Porter, Head of Chegg.org and Chief Communications Officer of Chegg, Inc., encourages student changemakers worldwide to apply for the 2024 Global Student Prize. She highlights the significance of recognizing their outstanding contributions and providing a platform for them to inspire others. Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Varkey Foundation, underscores the pivotal role of education in tackling humanity’s greatest challenges and stresses its importance on policymakers’ agendas.

Application Details:

  • The prize is open to students aged 16 and above, enrolled in academic institutions or training programs, including part-time and online students.
  • Applications can be submitted at www.globalteacherprize.org, with the deadline set for April 28, 2024.
  • Criteria for assessment include academic achievement, impact on peers and community, creativity, innovation, and global citizenship.
  • The prize will be awarded to a Top 10 finalist by the Global Student Prize Academy, comprising prominent individuals.

As the world faces unprecedented challenges, the Global Student Prize serves as a beacon of hope, celebrating the achievements and contributions of students who are shaping a brighter future. Indian students are encouraged to seize this opportunity and showcase their remarkable endeavors on the global stage.

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Education Lite Blogs

Mastering the Board Exam Challenge

Create a well-structured study timetable that can help you manage your time effectively and reduce last-minute cramming. Break down your subjects into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each. Make sure to include short breaks to maintain focus…reports Asian Lite News

As board exams draw near, students frequently experience academic pressure and heightened expectations. The prospect of facing comprehensive assessments can trigger overwhelming stress and anxiety, which if left unchecked can compromise both mental health and academic performance.

Recognising the significance of managing exam-related stress is the first step towards fostering resilience and maintaining calm during this demanding period. In this listicle, we explore five effective strategies by Ajay Singh, School Principal of the Scindia School to empower students to navigate through the challenging board exam duration while ensuring their overall well-being and academic success.

Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Create a well-structured study timetable that can help you manage your time effectively and reduce last-minute cramming. Break down your subjects into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each. Make sure to include short breaks to maintain focus.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness and relaxation exercises into your daily routine to alleviate stress. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation are proven methods to calm your mind and reduce anxiety levels. Spend a few minutes each day engaging in these practices to foster a sense of peace and clarity.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, regular exercise and adequate sleep are crucial for optimal brain function and stress management. Fuel your body with nutritious foods, stay hydrated and prioritize physical activity to boost your energy levels and enhance concentration. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to recharge your body and mind.

Seek Support from Family and Friends: Never hesitate to reach out to your loved ones for emotional support during the exam season. Share your concerns and feelings with them and allow them to provide encouragement and reassurance. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can help alleviate feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging.

Practice Positive Self-Talk and Visualization: Cultivate a positive mindset by replacing negative thoughts with affirmations and encouragement. Visualize yourself succeeding in your exams and focus on your strengths and achievements. Celebrate small victories along the way and remind yourself that you are capable of overcoming challenges. By fostering a positive self-image, you can boost your confidence and resilience in the face of adversity.

Prioritize Revision and Review: Regular revisions are important for reinforcing concepts and identifying areas that require further clarification. Allocate dedicated time for reviewing your notes, practicing past papers, and seeking assistance for challenging topics. Effective revision strategies can boost your confidence and performance on exam day. During this time the focus must remain on revising concepts and strengthening understanding and recall, rather than trying to learn new concepts. Last-minute attempts at trying to learn new concepts can lead to unnecessary panic that can derail the study plan and revision schedule.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage exam stress and navigate the board exam season with confidence and resilience. Remember to prioritize self-care and maintain a balanced approach to studying, and don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Good luck!

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Education Lite Blogs

India’s Education Sector Embraces Digital Revolution

The Drivers of Digital Adoption: Several important factors are driving the rapid adoption of online learning in India…writes Aroon Kumar

India’s educational sector is experiencing a profound transformation as it shifts towards online education, a change propelled by the dual forces of technological innovation and the unprecedented challenges of the global pandemic. The prominence of Edtech’s future intensified during the COVID-19 impact on education, prompting a significant allocation of Rs. 1.12 lakh crore in the fiscal year 2023-24 budget—an impressive 8.26 percent surge compared to the previous years.

This pivotal transition is altering not just how education is delivered—moving from traditional classroom settings to digital platforms—but also significantly expanding its scope and accessibility. It’s a shift that promises to democratize education, making it more available and inclusive for students across all backgrounds.

The Drivers of Digital Adoption: Several important factors are driving the rapid adoption of online learning in India.

Digital Connectivity Revolution Amidst Pandemic Pressure: The confluence of affordable data plans and government-led digital infrastructure initiatives has dramatically increased internet access in India, its vast and drastic penetration in India can be confirmed by India Internet Report 2023 that says now even rural India has achieved around 425 million internet users surpassing its urban counterparts, indicating a strong 30% growth. This pivotal development, amplified by the urgent demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitated a swift pivot to online learning for educational continuity. This synchronized revolution not only bridged geographical and socio-economic gaps but also accelerated the seamless integration of digital platforms into the teaching and learning process.

Technological Transformations: The surge in online learning in India is propelled by advancements in digital technologies. Breakthroughs in learning management systems, interactive platforms, and mobile applications have revolutionized the accessibility and engagement of online education, accommodating diverse learning experiences. Aligned with the NEP’s bold vision, India aims for global academic eminence by 2024. Pledging a 50 percent Gross Enrollment Ratio by 2035, the NEP 2020’s focus remains on technology as its key area. Beyond immersive realities, transformative technologies like blockchain are securing educational records and adaptive learning platforms are tailoring content to individual student strengths and weaknesses. These driving forces behind the adoption of online education in India are collectively enhancing the educational experience and making the sector huge, aligned with the needs of the digital age so much so that the Edtech sector is all set to reach the USD 4 billion mark by 2025.

Defining Features of Online Learning: Online education stands out for its learner-centric approach, which provides flexibility and customization that traditional classrooms frequently cannot. According to a report by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, 83 percent of Indian students prefer online learning platforms owing to flexibility and convenience.  Technology, particularly AI and ML, is crucial in creating personalized learning experiences that can adapt to the unique needs of each student. For instance, AI-driven platforms can analyze a student’s performance and learning habits to recommend personalized study schedules, resources, and revision strategies which is the need of the hour with the transformation in education in the digital age. A survey reveals that 62 percent of Indian employees anticipate a significant technology-driven shift in the skills required for their roles in the next five years. Interactive and immersive technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, are further enhancing online learning. These tools offer hands-on experiences and real-world simulations, providing learners with practical skills and a deeper understanding of complex subjects. An example would be medical students who can perform virtual surgeries and even history students who can explore ancient civilizations through immersive virtual tours.

Charting the Future Path: The journey towards an inclusive, technology-driven educational landscape in India is filled with opportunities and challenges. As online education expands, challenges arise in ensuring consistent and fair access to technology and internet connectivity. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for unlocking the full potential of online learning. Notably, the NEP 2020 advocates for diverse educational approaches, but the current taxation of technology and learning hardware at 18% or 28% hinders affordability. GST relief on school solutions can enhance accessibility, and transformation for affordable, high-quality education, thus mitigating the challenges, and taking a step towards a progressive future. 

With the concerted efforts of the educational community, policymakers, and industry leaders, the path forward is promising. The objective is to build an education system that is accessible, affordable, and adaptable, meeting the diverse needs of learners in the 21st century, especially since it’s the digital era.

As India forges ahead in its digital education journey, it envisions a future where learning is boundless, empowering every student with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

ALSO READ-Global Delegation Visits Gujarat’s Education Review Centre

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Global Delegation Visits Gujarat’s Education Review Centre

World Bank, participants from 21 countries visit Gujarat’s education review centre….reports Asian Lite News

A team led by Luis Benveniste, Global Director of Education, visited the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar along with participants from Mali, Guinea, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Togo, Central African Republic, Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone. About 65 people, including education ministers and dignitaries from Lyon, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mongolia, and Ghana were also present.

They were apprised of the activities that are held in this special review centre.

Vidya Samiksha Kendra is the country’s first centre for real-time, online comprehensive monitoring of school education. Vidya Review Centre, which has contributed significantly to the radical change in the education sector, has been visited by dignitaries from across the country and the world including the Prime Minister.

The World Bank has adopted the Center for Education Review as a global best practice and advises other developing countries to emulate it. Additionally, in August last year, Janet Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, the US and Ajay Banga, President, of the World Bank visited the Center for Education Review.

Vidya Samiksha Kendra collects more than 500 crore data sets every year from all school education initiatives. This huge data is then meaningfully transformed using modern technologies like big data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve the norm-compliant learning outcomes of students and the state. All data sets are monitored online on a real-time basis.

Vidya Samiksha Kendra records the daily online attendance of all 1.15 crore students and all 4 lakh teachers of the state.

The centre has been very helpful in taking all policy decisions — data-based decision-making in school education. Necessary data-based inputs are provided through this Vidya Samiksha Kendra and based on this the learning outcome of the students of the state is improved and the education success graph is enhanced.

Gujarat Education Minister Praful Pansheriya said, “Gujarat has used the loan from the World Bank to make sure that education reached every village…World Bank is thinking of developing education in other countries of Africa…To understand the functioning of Vidya Samiksha Kendra, representatives of more than 20 countries visited here today…Gujarat is moving forward in terms of education…We will make sure that the New Education Policy is implemented in the country properly.” (ANI)

MEA Secy Holds Talks With Top World Bank Official

The secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Dammu Ravi, met the World Bank’s Director of Regional Integration and Engagement in South Asia, Cecile Fruman, in New Delhi on Monday.

The two leaders discussed wide-ranging issues, from the power sector to capacity building to energy security and disaster resilience as well.

In a post on social media platform X, the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, wrote, “Secy (ER) Dammu Ravi met @cfruman, Director, Regional Integration and Engagement, South Asia, @WorldBank in New Delhi today.”

“Discussions covered various activities of World Bank pertaining to regional integration. Issues related to the power sector, capacity building, energy security and disaster resilience were also discussed,” the MEA spokesperson wrote in a post.

In first week of February, Martin Raiser, a senior World Bank official lauded India for its high economic growth and modest emission, saying India’s development trajectory matters globally and its track record puts it on a much lower carbon emissions path than other major economies.

Speaking at an event here, Martin Raiser, Vice President for the South Asia Region at the World Bank, emphasised the need for climate resilience as India is among the top 10 most climate-vulnerable countries.

He also stressed the importance of more private investment along with public funding to address the climate issue.

Raiser was speaking at the World Sustainable Development Summit organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).

Emphasising that India today emits only 2.8 tons of CO2 per year, a quarter of China’s and less than half of the global average, Raiser believes the country would continue on this high growth, modest emissions path. He cited two arguments to support his argument.

“First, because it’s the remains of the economy driven by low emission services, even if demand for industrial goods is likely to increase as India organizes and builds more infrastructure to serve this fast-growing economy. Second, technological progress will allow India to increasingly comfortable energy supply from carbon emissions and has already made significant inroads in the power sector” he said.

Raiser also pointed out that India is the world’s fourth-largest renewables market and owns 3 per cent of the global manufacturing capabilities.

“India’s development trajectory matters globally. Its track record today puts it on a much lower carbon emissions path than other major economies in the form of its climate vulnerability, deep domestic capital markets and domestic innovation capacity, which may also position it as a leader in developing and funding climate smart climate,” he said. (ANI)

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Education India News Politics

PInarayi Seeks Research Standards Assessment

Chief Minister underscored the urgency of comprehensive reforms to adapt to evolving dynamics….reports Asian Lite News

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stressed the imperative of critically evaluating the state’s research standards, advocating for a shift towards global benchmarks. Addressing an event, he underscored his administration’s substantial investments in research, reframing them as strategic assets for the future rather than mere expenses.

Highlighting Kerala’s top ranking in student scholarship expenditure, Vijayan urged introspection into the state’s inability to achieve world-class research standards, emphasizing the necessity of fostering internal excellence and inviting constructive suggestions to address this shortfall.

In the realm of higher education, the Chief Minister underscored the urgency of comprehensive reforms to adapt to evolving dynamics. He discussed plans to introduce a four-year degree course aimed at enhancing efficiency and student-centricity in arts and science colleges.

Vijayan emphasized the global shift towards multidisciplinary approaches in higher education, affirming his government’s commitment to preparing youth for forthcoming challenges. He envisioned Kerala as a distinguished hub for higher education both nationally and internationally.

Listing various programmes implemented by the Left government in the higher education sector, the Chief Minister said their objective was not superficial changes but thorough reforms in tune with changing time, news agency PTI reported.

With the introduction of the four-year-long degree course in the state from next academic year, the present education system at the arts and science colleges would become more efficient and student-centric, he said.

Pointing out that a multi-disciplinary approach is the focus in the higher education sector worldwide, Vijayan said his government is making effective interventions in the area with an aim to prepare the young generation for future challenges.

The event, presided over by Higher Education Minister R Bindhu, served as a platform for the Chief Minister to reaffirm the government’s dedication to catalyzing transformative changes in the education sector.

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Education Lite Blogs

Gifts That Educate and Entertain

Even in a time when kids spend more time with their devices, DIY Kits remain incredibly popular. Offering kids the opportunity to explore new activities consistently sparks curiosity…reports Asian Lite News

Getting the perfect gift for anybody, especially for kids is an art. In an era where the digital space shapes their preferences, traditional gifts are completely out of the question. Gone are the days when kids would be excited with a model train set or a collection of their favourite books. Today, even kids want gifts that are well-suited to their individual needs and ones that fit well with their personalities.

To make this experience easier for you, here’s a list of the best birthday gifts to give kids this year that might help you out:

Bringing Learning to Life

Even in a time when kids spend more time with their devices, DIY Kits remain incredibly popular. Offering kids the opportunity to explore new activities consistently sparks curiosity. Additionally, tactile experiences play a crucial role in accelerating children’s understanding and learning of various concepts. Particularly beneficial for primary and middle school kids navigating the fundamentals of diverse subjects, these DIY Kits serve as a fantastic avenue to infuse enjoyment into their learning process.

Nurturing Young Chefs

If you know a budding chef, there’s nothing better than gifting them the tools of the trade. From colourful mixing bowls and kid-friendly knives to mini-sized measuring cups and silicone baking moulds, you’ll discover a diverse range of cooking and baking tools specifically designed to be both easy and safe for kids to use. These tools make the culinary journey exciting and accessible for young chefs and can turn any kitchen into a playground of creativity. Encourage their passion for gastronomy with these thoughtful and practical gifts.

A Bedtime Wonderland

Elevate any kid’s bedtime with my Trident Juniors Collection, a whimsical blend of dreams and warmth for your child’s sanctuary. The collection comes in a variety of themes from wildlife safaris to space exploration, ensuring a delightful option for every little dreamer. Crafted from the best materials, these vibrant bed sheets, themed pillowcases, and cosy comforters guarantee a night of unparalleled comfort.

A Flavour Bonanza

The best thing about birthdays is the gifts, but wouldn’t it be great if you could get a gift even if it wasn’t your special day? There are tons of snack hamper subscriptions that you can choose from. You can go for a full year’s subscription or even choose a shorter term. Many of these subscription services also let you customise your order. So if you want to be someone’s favourite aunt or uncle, then this is probably the best gift choice for you!

Curate Art Supplies Hamper

Craft a personalised art supplies box with markers, coloured pencils, paper, and various craft items. This considerate and budget-friendly present can be effortlessly curated from nearby art supply stores or discounted shops, encouraging a world of creativity and self-expression. Spark any kid’s artistic flair with this carefully curated gift, providing endless possibilities for imaginative creations.

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-Top News Education UK News

UK Reviews International Student Admissions

Universities UK, which represents 140 universities, announced a series of measures to review international foundation programmes…reports Asian Lite News

The international student admission process in the UK is set to be reviewed after accusations of universities lowering entry standards for foreign applicants who pay far higher tuition fees.

Universities UK, which represents 140 universities, announced a series of measures to review international foundation programmes and the use of recruitment agents employed to attract foreign students, The Guardian reported.

In addition to taking a review, the universities will also update their admissions code of practice “to clearly state its applicability to international students”.

The move comes after Higher Education Minister, Robert Halfon said in the House of Commons that he was “very disturbed” by a Sunday Times report that “clearly showed bad practice in the use of agents and that’s not acceptable”.

“While I am a strong supporter of international students, I want a level playing field for all domestic students as well,” Halfon said while taking up questions from the MPs last week.

After Halfon’s remarks, Vice Chancellors said they would work with the government to review the use of agents and make changes to “improve resilience and identify bad practice”.

According to the Times report, the University of York has told staff to be “more flexible” in admitting international students with lower-than-expected grades.

The Times investigation also recorded agents acting for universities such as Durham and Exeter claiming that international students with poor grades could easily gain entry via international foundation courses.

Denying the accusations, Durham University said in a statement that “entry requirements for international students who have completed international foundation years are benchmarked to ensure they are equivalent to those for home students entering with A-levels”.

Indians form a large chunk of international students coming to the UK with the Home Office reporting a substantial 54 per cent increase in the number of sponsored study visas granted to Indian students in 2023 compared to 2022.

It is anticipated that the number of Indian students enrolling in UK universities will cross three lakhs in the upcoming academic session. According to local media reports, the number of Indian students at Durham University, which was mentioned in the Sunday Times report, has grown by more than 200 per cent to 340 in the last four years.

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-Top News Education India News

Budget 2024: Education Sector Anticipates Higher Allocation

Education experts also opine that a strategic fiscal approach is the need of the hour to foster a conducive learning environment that aligns with the objectives of the NEP 2020 and Industry 4.0….reports Asian Lite News

With the Union Budget 2024 just around the corner, India Inc. is expecting significant announcements, including tax cuts, incentives and fiscal stimulus to drive the country’s economic growth. The budget will be tabled by the Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, on February 01, 2024.

In this regard, the education sector holds high hopes for a higher budget allocation and a significant push for digital infrastructure, pedagogy transformation, and teacher development.

”As the country moves to restructure its education system, the reaffirmation of the teacher as a critical member in this journey gains greater emphasis. In this context, effective and ongoing professional development to upskill and equip teachers becomes vital. If education is to be transformative in nature, then teachers should be able to model the skills and competencies that we expect students to possess. Therefore, it becomes imperative for schools to develop a culture of learning to support teachers to improve their teaching practice; helping develop a culture of learning where at all levels people learn and develop their skills as a community,” says Nandini Ghatak, Principal of Modern High School International in Kolkata.

Education experts also opine that a strategic fiscal approach is the need of the hour to foster a conducive learning environment that aligns with the objectives of the NEP 2020 and Industry 4.0.

”This requires budgetary allocation since this implies a major shift in the way schools across the country operate. Building teacher networks where exchange of knowledge and skills can be facilitated and devising clear pathways for teacher development and support will go a long way in building schools as learning organisations,” adds Ghatak.

Echoing her opinion, Kim Menzes, Vice Chancellor of GD Goenka University, states that enhanced public funding will pave the way for technology integration and equitable access to education.

”The Indian Education sector stands at a critical juncture and allocation of resources is important to bridge the current gaps, improve accessibility, and elevate the quality of education, all of which are visionary targets set by the NEP 2020. There has been a persistent demand for enhanced public funding, revision of curricula to meet industry needs, and improvement of digital infrastructure to ensure equitable access to education. The higher education sector in India therefore expects significant financial measures from the Interim Budget 2024-25 that will enable academic growth and innovation. Specifically, the sector anticipates increased budgetary allocation for research and development, lower rates of interest for student loans, and less tax burden for universities,” says Menzes.

The sector is also zeroing in on advancing research and innovation within educational institutions and anticipates a supportive regulatory framework and adequate government funding to accomplish the same.

”In the education sector, the upcoming budget is likely to focus on strengthening and deepening the New Education Policy 2020 (NEP) initiatives. First focus will be Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) which is targeted to reach 50 per cent by 2035. It is a big take and the budget is expected to allocate appropriate funds in the form of investment and capacity creation. Emphasis on vocational education is expected to be another focus as the NEP has kept a target of 50 per cent learners to have vocational exposure. The use of AI in education and further promotion of digital learning is expected to be the highlight of the upcoming budget. A well designed teachers training module will be the need of the hour in this regard and we expect that the budget will take cognizance of this aspect,” says Prabhat Pankaj, Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management.

”I am also expecting that the ‘Study in India’ program and raising the image of Indian Universities through international ranking of higher educational institutions must also draw attention of the government in this budget. Private institutions are also looking up to a better and fair deal in terms of regulatory ease and government funding for research,” adds Pankaj.

The Union Budget 2024 presents an opportunity for a significant shift in this narrative. It’s time to envision hospitality education as a skill-based vocational course and a comprehensive, multidisciplinary educational stream critical to the nation’s growth. The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes a more holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary approach to education and offers the perfect framework for this integration.

As India strides towards its goal of a USD 5000 per capita economy, the hospitality sector can be a driving force. To realize this potential, hospitality education must be recognized as a foundational pillar from the early stages of education. It requires a paradigm shift and regulatory oversight akin to professional degrees overseen by bodies like ICAI, BCI, Council of Architecture, and NMC Said Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Indian School of Hospitality.

With all eyes on Budget 2024, the education sector remains optimistic about key reforms that align with the directives of the NEP 2020 and empower our students to navigate the intricacies of the changing business landscape.

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-Top News Education UAE News

Hamdan Launches Dh1.1B Scholarship Programme

The Hamdan bin Mohammed Academic Scholarship Programme allocated AED1.1 billion to support the higher education of meritorious Emirati school graduates…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has launched a scholarship programme to support outstanding Emirati graduates from public and private schools in Dubai.

The Hamdan bin Mohammed Academic Scholarship Programme allocated AED1.1 billion to support the higher education of meritorious Emirati school graduates. The programme, which will fund 100 students annually, will start accepting applications in April 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year. Students can apply through the DubaiNow platform powered by the Dubai Digital Authority using the ‘Emarati’ icon.

The selection criteria will be subject to the terms and conditions set by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The application window will be aligned with the announcement of high school results taking into account timeframes for different curricula.

The initiative comes as part of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The programme’s objective is to support Dubai’s best-performing Emirati students by offering them higher education opportunities at leading academic institutions. The aim is to contribute to empowering Dubai’s human capital through diverse higher education platforms, thus helping prepare a futuristic workforce while ensuring that Dubai’s promising students receive the most advanced education and occupational training.

His Highness said: “Investing in Emiratis’ higher education and equipping our youth with knowledge is fundamental for building and sustaining a knowledgeable society. Dubai’s Government has an unwavering commitment to provide the resources needed to empower top achievers, nurturing them to become competent and influential future leaders armed with advanced skills to enrich sectors in the emirate and write new chapters in Dubai’s development journey. This initiative recognises students pursuing academic achievements and personal aspirations, helping them achieve their goals.”

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the important role of high-achieving and ambitious students in the Dubai Social Agenda 33’s mission, expressing confidence in their ability to shape Dubai’s future. His Highness has been recognising the top 25 high school students from Dubai for the past two academic years. Students accorded the recognition have been selected from among a diverse range of schools and curricula in Dubai, including the Ministry of Education, British and American curricula, as well the International Baccalaureate. The new programme will top up the scholarships already in place by offering 75 additional scholarships, benefiting 100 outstanding students annually.

Aligned with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, the Hamdan bin Mohammed Academic Scholarship Programme contributes to achieving two main strategic objectives. It firstly aspires to position Dubai among the top 10 cities in terms of education quality globally by 2033. The strategically designed programme will contribute significantly to Dubai’s future knowledge-based economy by cultivating exceptional future leaders driving innovation across a range of sectors.

Additionally, the programme is designed to provide students scholarships to prestigious international universities for specialised studies that are compatible with the needs of Dubai’s economy. This makes the scholarships aligned with the priorities of future development across various sectors. It consequently boosts the economic participation of citizens and supports fulfilment of targets of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which is to increase the number of citizens working in the private sector to thrice the current number.

Combining financial support with a strategic vision, the Hamdan bin Mohammed Academic Scholarship Programme seeks to nurture talents, celebrate innovators, and cultivate exceptional leaders. This initiative marks a significant step towards building students’ leadership skills while further enhancing the knowledge ecosystem in Dubai at the same time as fostering innovation, stimulating creativity, and creating opportunities for progress.

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