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-Top News PAKISTAN

Pak President Stresses Importance of Education and Healthcare

He said China focused on the health and education sectors, which helped the country lift nearly 800 million people out of poverty, adding that Pakistan should follow the same development model…reports Asian Lite News

Pakistani President Arif Alvi has called on the nation to work together to fight the challenges of poverty, malnutrition, stunting and maternal and neonatal deaths.

The President made the remarks during an event, noting that 26 million children in Pakistan remain out of school, Xinhua news agency reported.

He said China focused on the health and education sectors, which helped the country lift nearly 800 million people out of poverty, adding that Pakistan should follow the same development model.

Highlighting the role of women in the country’s growth, Alvi said that the provision of health and education facilities to them is an important element in achieving the goal of women empowerment in Pakistan.

He underscored the importance of providing a safe working environment to women in order to include them in the workforce and make them contribute to the economic growth of the South Asian country.

Alvi Sparks Controversy by Rejecting National Assembly Session Summoning

 Pakistan President Arif Alvi has rejected a summary to summon the National Assembly session, sources said, in which newly-elected MNAs will take oath, according to a media report.

The President, as per sources, said that all reserved seats should be allocated first before the summoning of the session, Geo News reported.

With only three days left in the Constitution-mandated deadline to summon the session of the National Assembly, President Alvi has come under severe criticism from the political parties, particularly the PPP and the PML-N, for resorting to ‘delaying tactics’ instead of convening the session of the lower House of the Parliament, Dawn reported.

A summary requisitioning the session of the Assembly was sent to the President by the parliamentary affairs division four days ago, but there has been no official response from Alvi, Dawn reported.

PML-N and PPP leaders criticised the President for not summoning the session, with PPP leader Shazia Marri saying the President should not abuse his Constitutional powers.

“President Alvi should not be loyal to an individual but the Constitution,” she said, adding that if the President does not summon the session within the prescribed period, he will be remembered among the violators of the Constitution, Dawn reported.

ALSO READ-Pakistan’s Persistent Economic Predicament

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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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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.

ALSO READ-Indian Republic Day celebrations by IIW– Connecting British Indian Kids to their roots

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Education India News Politics

English and Math Hurdles: ASER 2023 Distressing Reality

The report notes that 25% of the 14-18 age group cannot fluently read a class 2 level text in their regional language….reports Asian Lite News

The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, titled ‘Beyond Basics,’ paints a concerning picture of education in rural India. The survey, conducted in 28 districts across 26 states, involved 34,745 youths in the age group of 14-18 years. The findings revealed significant challenges in foundational skills, particularly in reading and arithmetic.

In rural India, 42% of children aged 14 to 18 cannot read simple English sentences, and more than half struggle with basic division problems. The study focused on one rural district in each major state, with the exception of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, where two districts were surveyed. These alarming statistics highlight a substantial gap in educational attainment among the surveyed youths.

The report notes that 25% of the 14-18 age group cannot fluently read a class 2 level text in their regional language. Additionally, over half of these youths face difficulties with division problems typically expected to be mastered in classes 3 and 4. Only 43.3% can perform such problems correctly. English proficiency is also a concern, with only 57.3% able to read sentences, and of those, 73.5% can comprehend their meanings.

Interestingly, across enrollment categories, females outperform males in reading a Class 2 level text in their regional language, while males fare better in arithmetic and English reading. The report emphasizes the need for catch-up efforts in foundational literacy and numeracy for a significant portion of the 14-18 age group.

The survey delves into practical skills as well. Approximately 45% of the students can calculate the number of hours a child has slept based on bedtime and wake-up time. However, challenges arise when applying these skills to real-world scenarios, such as measuring an object’s length with a ruler. While 85% can calculate correctly if the object is at the ‘0’ mark, less than 40% can do so when the object is moved.

The report underscores the impact of low foundational numeracy on daily tasks that require practical application of measurement, the unitary method, and financial computations. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is acknowledged for recognizing the need for ‘catch up’ programs for those who have fallen behind academically.

ASER, a citizen-led household survey initiated in 2005, provides crucial insights into the state of children’s schooling and learning in rural India

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-Top News Canada Education

Canada Plans Cap on International Students Amid Housing Crisis

The government didn’t specify the extent of reduction the government is planning on making in the immigration system.

Amid the growing unemployment and housing crisis in Canada, Immigration Minister Marc Miller on Saturday said in the next few months, he will be looking at the possibility of putting a cap on the number of international students living in the country, CTV News reported on Saturday.

The minister didn’t specify the extent of reduction the government is planning on making in the immigration system.

In an interview to CTV’s Question Period host Vassy Kapelos, the minister said, “This is a conversation the federal government will need to have with provincial governments “to make sure that the provinces that have not been doing their jobs actually rein in those numbers on a pure volume basis.”

“That volume is disconcerting,” Miller said, with reference to the number of international students in Canada.

“It’s really a system that has gotten out of control,” he added.

Miller said he will be looking at the possibility of setting a cap on international students to help reduce the demand for housing in both the first and second quarters of this year.

Asked why his government is only considering a cap now when the idea was floated months ago, Miller said there’s a need to sort out numbers on a federal level before looking with “a little more granularity” at what individual academic institutions are doing in different provinces, possibly profiting off bringing in more international students, CTV News reported.

“We need to be doing our jobs and making sure that we have a system that actually makes sure people have a financial capability to come to Canada, that we’re actually verifying offer letters,” Miller said, adding, “And now it’s time for us to have a conversation about volumes and the impact that is having in certain areas.”

A cap on international students would not be a “one-size-fits-all solution” to housing shortages across Canada, Miller noted.

On the number of international students coming to Canada, far outpacing the number of homes the federal government is planning to help build, Miller also said housing is only part of the calculation when it comes to immigration targets. The pressing need to bring down the average age of the workforce also needs to be taken into consideration, he said.

While not going into specifics, Miller said a cap on international students is something the federal government is considering, “and will continue to consider.”

“We have a sense of what those numbers would look like, what the reduction of those numbers look like, out of courtesy to my colleagues in the provinces, those are discussions that we’re first going to have around the negotiating table,” he said, adding that the financial needs of academic institutions is also a factor.

The federal government has faced criticism for welcoming an increasing number of immigrants–both permanent and temporary residents–while the country faces an acute housing shortage.

Meanwhile, CTV reported citing The Canadian Press, which cited the internal documents obtained through an access to information request, the federal government was warned by public servants two years ago that its ambitious immigration targets could jeopardise housing affordability.

The Liberals have set targets aiming to bring in 485,000 immigrants this year, and 500,000 in both 2025 and 2026.

Temporary residents, largely comprising international students and migrant workers, are another part of the equation, with more than 300,000 of them arriving in Canada in just the third quarter of last year. (ANI)

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Education Lite Blogs

Rising Above Challenges to Achieve Dream Job

All of them have chosen different programs of Lotus Petal Foundation. Our alumni are our pride. We have a special bond with all of them and share an encouraging journey that we have travelled together…reports Asian Lite News

In the face of adversity, marginalisaed students are emerging as catalysts for positive change within their communities. Through tireless efforts and a commitment to inclusivity, they are reshaping narratives, bridging divides, and championing causes that uplift the underprivileged.

Led by resilient spirit and unwavering determination, these students, hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds, united to create a platform for change.

Despite personal struggles and systemic hurdles, these students became beacons of hope, channelling their own experiences into empathy-driven actions.

Shilpi Jaiswal

Coming from a lower-middle-class family where her father is a driver and her mother a homemaker, Shilpi grew up with 5 siblings in a household run by her father, the sole bread earner. She completed her class 12th and was looking for courses that could give an edge to her career. She joined the Jeevika Skill Development Program when her elder sister’s friend informed her about the program focused on BFSI which was an ESSAI-certified course and the fact that the program offered a 100% job guarantee intrigued her interest. Currently, Shilpi is excelling in her first job as a Donor Servicing Trainee at the Lotus Petal Foundation, with her ace MS Excel skills, while also pursuing her graduation in B.Com (Hons) from Delhi University.

Saloni Raj

Saloni’s childhood was not the usual one. Coming from a broken family her mother, a house-help had to run away from the house with her children to save them from her abusive husband. After a life of struggles on the streets, Saloni joined the Lotus Petal Foundation when she was 14 years old in 2013. With low learning levels, her relationship with education even at the age of 14 was similar to a younger child. However, by 2014, with a customized curriculum catering to her fractured learning, Saloni’s journey to quality education started picking up and by 2018, her results significantly improved. In 2019, by the age of 20, Saloni had cleared the National Medical Entrance Examination (NEET) paving her way to kick-start her medical studies. Currently, she is in the last year of her course and soon she shall become a Doctor.

Gudiya Kumari

With her father running a small food stall and her mother being a tailor, Gudiya grew up in a difficult household. Growing up with 5 siblings, she knew from an early age that she would have to work harder for her dreams of becoming an air hostess. However, life and its challenges had other plans. Gudiya joined as a 1st-year student of the Pratishthan Learning Center- A unique Fast-Track Education Program through which out-of-school teenagers with fractured learning can complete their education in a 5-year-based learning program. She also underwent vocational hospitality training, giving her well-rounded training, enabling her to ace job interviews and finally get her first job as Executive- Software Testing at Unify Dots.

Hritik Sethi

Hailing from a middle-class family, the son of a tailor & a homemaker, he wanted to pursue a course after high school that would give him an edge which is why he enrolled himself in the computer hardware and networking course under the Jeevika Skill Development Program. After rigorous training with both practical and theoretical knowledge along with exposure to industrial training, he was able to grasp the concepts fundamentally giving him a confident grasp on his subjects. Today he is successfully working at his new job while pursuing his graduation from IGNOU. Hritik Sethi is an alumnus of the Computer Hardware & Networking course under the program run by the Lotus Petal Foundation and successfully got his first job in Teleperformance as a Technical Support Engineer. Hritik has bagged the highest package per annum from the Jeevika graduates.

Rahul Saini

Rahul Saini is working as a Technical Engineer with MegaMax. He is an alumnus of the Computer Hardware and Networking course under the same program. He lost his father at an early age and was supported by his mother. Before joining this course, he had already completed his Polytechnic course however, when he got to know about the Jeevika Program’s industry-mapped courses which are ESSAI certified and offer 100% job placement with affordable tuition fees, Rahul became intrigued about the program and enrolled himself in 6 months certification course. Today, he is well-placed in his new job where he is learning the ropes of the professional world while impressing everyone with his computer skills.

All of them have chosen different programs of Lotus Petal Foundation. Our alumni are our pride. We have a special bond with all of them and share an encouraging journey that we have travelled together. They are the living example of the organization’s achievements and the values we stand for – ‘Change Lives, One Child At A Time’. The stories of our students reflect the impact of our interventions. Their stories of change inspire us to work tirelessly towards our goals and encourage us to be focused and stay true to our efforts.

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Australia Education Iraq

Australian Universities Collaborate to Build Opportunities for Refugee Education

The consortium will represent the 12 participating universities and work with the federal government, businesses and not-for-profit organisations to identify best practice models of refugee education…reports Asian Lite News

 Twelve Australian universities have established a new consortium to help build pathways to higher education for refugees, it was announced on Monday.

Led by Canberra’s Australian National University (ANU) , the Australian Refugee Welcome University Sponsorship Consortium (ARWUSC) will offer refugees in the country who were displaced by conflict the opportunity to restart their education, reports Xinhua news agency.

Bronwyn Parry, a leading global health and social medicine researcher from ANU and co-lead of ARWUSC, said in a media release that the formation of the new organisation marks the start of a new chapter in Australia’s refugee history.

“Refugees have historically made a very important contribution to modern Australia, building the successful, harmonious multicultural society we have today. They have also made significant inputs to our economy and can play a key role in driving our future prosperity and social wellbeing,” she said.

The consortium will represent the 12 participating universities and work with the federal government, businesses and not-for-profit organisations to identify best practice models of refugee education.

The government has committed to increasing Australia’s humanitarian refugee intake to 20,000 places in the financial year 2023-24, an increase of 2,125 from 2022-23.

Brian Schmidt, the Vice-Chancellor of ANU, said the consortium would deliver long-term benefits to Australia by offering opportunities to “extremely talented” young people who have had their educational journey disrupted.

“We need to do something to address this, and this team of higher education experts, led by ANU, is leading the charge with the help of the Australian government,” he said. 

ALSO READ-Australian Prime Minister Meets Xi Jinping

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-Top News Asia News Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina’s Vision for a Gender-Equitable Bangladesh

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government has taken significant strides to enhance women’s participation in politics, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of governance…reports Asian Lite News

Bangladesh, a country nestled in South Asia, has been making significant strides in the realm of women’s empowerment and gender equality, largely due to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Her relentless efforts and strategic policies have played a pivotal role in uplifting the status of women, promoting their active participation in various sectors, and fostering an environment of gender inclusivity.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has implemented a series of policies and initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers that hindered women’s progress. One such groundbreaking policy is the National Women Development Policy, which underscores the government’s commitment to gender mainstreaming and creating an enabling environment for women to thrive in all aspects of society.

Recognizing education as the cornerstone of empowerment, Prime Minister Hasina has focused on enhancing educational opportunities for girls. The ‘Girl’s Stipend Program’ and ‘Kishoree Kontha’ initiative have incentivized female education, ensuring girls can access quality education and build a strong foundation for their future.

Furthermore, initiatives like ‘Skills for Employment Investment Program’ and ‘Women in IT’ programs have been instrumental in imparting skill development, enabling women to participate actively in the workforce and entrepreneurial ventures.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government has taken significant strides to enhance women’s participation in politics, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of governance. The reserved seats for women in the parliament and local government bodies have boosted their representation, thus amplifying their role in shaping the nation’s policies and strategies.

Bangladesh has seen a substantial increase in women’s participation in the workforce across various sectors. The government’s efforts to promote women entrepreneurs through easier access to loans, training, and market linkages have empowered countless women to establish their businesses and contribute to the nation’s economy.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also prioritized addressing violence against women and ensuring their safety. The establishment of Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunals and the National Helpline for Violence against Women and Children showcase the government’s commitment to creating a safe environment for women.

In essence, Bangladesh, under the steadfast leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has witnessed a paradigm shift in promoting gender equality and empowering women. The strides made in education, political representation, economic participation, and safety initiatives have set a positive trajectory, demonstrating the power of visionary leadership and commitment to fostering an egalitarian society. With continued dedication and focused efforts, Bangladesh is poised to elevate its position on the global stage as a beacon of gender equality and empowerment.

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Education Europe India News

Planning for a Successful Study Abroad Experience?

Most leading banks and financial institutions offer educational loans against certain interest rates, guarantees, and payment terms…reports Asian Lite News

Studying abroad is a transformative decision, catapulting a student’s education and career graph many notches higher. It’s no surprise that many youngsters today consider overseas education for higher studies. According to the Union Ministry of Education, 7.5 Lakh Indian students traveled overseas for higher education in 2022. Associated data sets show that Indian students formed the biggest group of immigrant students in Canada, and the second biggest group in Germany and the United Kingdom last year.

The benefits of global education range from exposure to new-age courses, participating in the latest research and innovation; and enhanced job prospects. While all this makes sense, many crucial steps need to be taken in advance to make this experience worthwhile. Study abroad counselors from MSM Unify – a leading global higher education platform offering 50,000+ courses from 1,400 institutes over 20 countries – shared the top five aspects that every student must consider when planning international education. Here they are:

Step 1 – Research about the course, country, and culture

These three C’s define the success of your study abroad experience. The checklist should begin with:
– Understanding your academic inclination
– Finding an appropriate course in your chosen field
– Selecting an appropriate top-rate institute
– Choosing the Country for Higher Study
– Understanding the host country’s geo-political situation and culture at large

Each of these steps has multiple checklists. While a student’s career may not be limited to his area of study, choosing a course in alignment with academic interest offers the necessary kickstart for jobs. When choosing the courses, consider the present job prospects and a future outlook too. For example, jobs related to automation, data, and analytics will continue to be in demand even after five years, as per industry estimates.

When selecting an institute, it’s important to directly speak to institute representatives and clear all doubts in advance. For example, at MSM Unify students can directly interact with institute representatives. It’s important to have all the details about effective fee structures, scholarship options (if applicable), yearly academic roster, department lecturers, placement support, and academy-industry connections. All such queries determine how worthwhile the study abroad experience can be.

When choosing a host country, it’s important to consider its geopolitical standing. Additionally, take the time to learn about the popular customs, traditions, and cultural norms of the country to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 2 – Understand visa and immigration requirements

Make sure you understand the visa and immigration requirements for studying in your chosen country. Familiarize yourself with the application process, required documents, and any restrictions or limitations that may apply. Seek guidance from our experts. Applying for a visa can be challenging, but well-established consultants such as MSM Unify use their wide network within partner countries to simplify the process for you! Following are the generic documents required for a student visa, more documents can be required as per host country specifications:
– Passport with at least two blank pages and an expiry date beyond 180 days
– A formal admission letter from the university
– A printout of your online application
– Evidence of language certification (if needed)
– Evidence of financial means
– Passport size photographs
– Previous education record
– Vaccination results (if required, it varies by the country)


Step 3 – Plan Your finances in advance – Education loans, scholarships, and more to explore

Studying abroad is an expensive affair, hence resistance from many students. When considering to study abroad, start with making a budget. Consider all expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation charges, living expenses, travel costs, medical insurance, insurance for your devices (laptop/mobile phone, photography equipment), and any additional expenses that may arise.

Most leading banks and financial institutions offer educational loans against certain interest rates, guarantees, and payment terms. Again, well-established study abroad consultants such as MSM Unify provide multiple options to explore financial options. The firm offers multiple financing options from leading providers such as ICICI iSMART education loans, MPower Financing, and other international partners to make it easy for students to choose from the most competitive offerings.
If you plan on applying for an educational loan, you should begin the student visa application process 6 months before the start of your first semester. So, you would have enough time to manage your finances and education loans.

Step 4 – Find accommodation options

Research the various accommodation options available in your host country. Consider factors such as cost of accommodation, proximity to your educational institution, safety, and amenities provided. The usual options include university dormitories, shared apartments, homestays, or private flats, depending on your preferences and budget. If you decide to live in an apartment, you will also need to pay for tenant’s insurance as well as additional utility costs like power, internet, and water use. Confused about finding accommodation? MSM Unify’s partners such as University Living, Housemates Unilodgers, Casita, Gobritanya, and others offer a variety of options to choose from.

Step 5 – Transit services

Make sure to reserve your airline tickets in advance. To track price changes and buy at the cheapest prices, consider looking at the alternatives with plenty of time to spare. Also, familiarize yourself with the transit services available in the host country. Research public transportation options such as buses, trains, and subways, their popular routes, schedules, and fares. Additionally, look into student discounts or passes that may be available to help you save money on transportation costs.

Remember, studying abroad offers multi-dimensional experiences. The only way to make this worthwhile is by being prepared in advance. Speak to other students who also plan to study abroad or others who have had this experience helps in adding more perspectives.

ALSO READ-Global Destinations for Indian Students Pursuing Education Abroad

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Education Lite Blogs

Global Destinations for Indian Students Pursuing Education Abroad

Singapore has emerged as a hub for business and technology, offering a range of programs for Indian students. The country’s strategic location in Asia makes it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the region’s business world…reports Asian Lite News

 In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the number of Indian students seeking education abroad. This trend is driven by a desire for high-quality education, global exposure, and enhanced career prospects. However, choosing the right destination is a crucial decision that can shape one’s academic and professional journey.

In this article, Shalini Lambah the Country Head India of Migrate World shares with IANSlife the optimal immigration destinations for Indian students, considering factors such as educational opportunities, post-graduation prospects, and quality of life.

The United States:

The United States has long been a preferred destination for Indian students. With its world-renowned universities and diverse range of programs, the U.S. offers an array of educational opportunities. Institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford are renowned globally, making the U.S. an attractive destination for those pursuing higher education in fields like technology, engineering, business, and more.Moreover, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students to gain valuable work experience in their field of study for up to three years after graduation. This provides a pathway to H-1B visa sponsorship and, potentially, permanent residency.

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Canada:

Canada has become increasingly popular among Indian students due to its welcoming immigration policies and quality education system. Institutions like the University of Toronto and McGill University consistently rank among the top globally. The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) enables students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, enhancing their chances of permanent residency.Additionally, Canada’s reputation for multiculturalism and safety makes it an attractive destination for international students seeking a diverse and inclusive environment. 

Australia:

Australia is known for its excellent universities, such as the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne, and its favorable post-study work visa program. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows international students to work in Australia for up to four years after graduation, depending on the level of study completed.The Australian job market is robust, particularly in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and information technology. This, coupled with the country’s high quality of life and stunning natural landscapes, makes Australia an appealing destination. 

United Kingdom:

The United Kingdom boasts a rich academic heritage, and institutions like the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are globally renowned. While the UK’s post-study work opportunities were somewhat limited in the past, recent changes have made it more attractive.The reintroduction of the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, known as the “Graduate Route,” allows international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing their degree (or three years for Ph.D. graduates). This has significantly improved the UK’s appeal to Indian students. 

Germany:

Germany offers a unique combination of high-quality education and affordability, particularly at the undergraduate level. Institutions like the Technical University of Munich and the University of Heidelberg are renowned for their engineering and technical programs. While language proficiency is crucial for certain courses, many programs are offered in English, making it accessible to international students. Germany also provides post-study work opportunities and a pathway to permanent residency for graduates.

Five must take road trips in Australia.(photo:IANSLIFE)

New Zealand:

New Zealand is known for its welcoming environment and high-quality education system. The Post-Study Work Visa allows international students to stay in the country for up to three years after graduation, and the country’s strong economy and low crime rate make it an attractive destination. New Zealand is particularly popular for courses in agriculture, environmental sciences, and tourism management, owing to its stunning natural landscapes.

Singapore:

Singapore has emerged as a hub for business and technology, offering a range of programs for Indian students. The country’s strategic location in Asia makes it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the region’s business world. Singapore’s education system is highly regarded, and various scholarships are available for international students. Additionally, the country provides a potential pathway to permanent residency for skilled professionals.

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