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Record 35% Surge in Indian Students Boosts US International Enrollment to 40-Year High

The number of Indian students attending US colleges has seen a significant 35% increase, contributing to the highest single-year growth in international student enrollment in over 40 years. A joint study by the State Department and the Institute of International Education revealed that the overall international student population in the US surged by 12% during the 2022-23 academic year, with more than 1 million students from abroad – the highest since 2019-20. CEO of the Institute of International Education, Allan E Goodman, emphasized that the US remains the preferred destination for international students worldwide. The report indicates a robust educational relationship between the US and India, with nearly 269,000 Indian students enrolled, surpassing previous records and ranking second only to China. Most of these students pursued graduate programs, particularly in science, technology, and business fields. While China still tops the list with 290,000 students, its numbers have decreased for the third consecutive year, reflecting a shift in demand. The study attributes this decline to strained international relations, competition from UK and Canadian universities, and extended travel restrictions in Asia during the pandemic. US universities have strategically focused on recruiting in India, given the predicted population growth, with students from India now outnumbering those from China in 24 states. Graduate programs in the US remained the primary attraction for international students for the second consecutive year, experiencing a 21% growth, while undergraduate numbers saw a modest 1% increase. The reversal of the previous decade’s trend, where undergraduate enrollments dominated, is credited to the popularity of math and computer science programs, witnessing a 20% surge. Engineering and business programs followed suit, collectively constituting over half of all international students in the US. This surge nearly restores international student numbers to pre-pandemic levels, reaching close to the 2018 peak of 1.1 million students. Despite comprising only 5.6% of all college students, international students play a significant role in US higher education, contributing to global exchange and providing substantial revenue through higher tuition rates. Following China and India, other nations sending the most students to the US include South Korea, Canada, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Nigeria. The study also highlights a record number of students from countries like Bangladesh, Colombia, Ghana, Italy, Nepal, Pakistan, and Spain in the previous school year. While international student numbers are on the rise, many US colleges continue to grapple with declining domestic enrollment. Overall college enrollment remains sluggish, and a separate study by the National Student Clearinghouse indicates a 3.6% decrease in freshman enrollment for fall 2023.

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I&B Ministry Proposes Comprehensive Broadcasting Bill to Modernize Regulatory Framework

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The Information & Broadcasting Ministry is proposing a new Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill to regulate broadcasting services, including DTH, OTT, and digital news platforms. The draft Bill, released for public consultation, aims to replace the outdated Cable TV Networks (Regulations) Act 1995 and other governing policies. The proposed legislation includes content evaluation committees, a more participative Broadcast Advisory Council for self-regulation, differentiated codes for programs and advertisements, and statutory penalties. Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur described the draft as a “pivotal legislation” to modernize the regulatory framework for the dynamic world of broadcasting, adapting to emerging technologies. The bill introduces contemporary definitions and extends regulatory purview to cover OTT content and digital news. It mandates self-regulation through Content Evaluation Committees and proposes a Broadcast Advisory Council with independent experts. The draft allows differentiated codes for various services, requiring self-classification of content and access control for restricted content. Statutory penalties, including advisory, warning, censure, or monetary penalties, are proposed, with provisions for imprisonment and fines for serious offenses. The bill also suggests fairness by linking monetary penalties to the entity’s investment and turnover. It includes provisions for infrastructure sharing among broadcasting network operators and carriage of platform services. Overall, the proposed unified law is seen as a positive step for business ease and appropriate regulation.

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Apple Agrees to $25 Million Settlement Over Alleged Discriminatory Hiring Practices in 2018-2019

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Apple has agreed to pay $25 million to settle allegations that it engaged in discriminatory hiring practices from 2018 to 2019. The settlement follows a lengthy investigation by the Department of Justice, which concluded that Apple violated the Immigration and Nationality Act by favouring immigrant workers over U.S. candidates for certain positions. The probe also found instances where Apple discriminated against non-U.S. residents. Despite vehemently denying any wrongdoing, Apple acknowledged a failure to adhere to DOJ standards and opted for a settlement to address concerns. In response to the settlement, Apple defended its hiring record, emphasizing its employment of over 90,000 people in the United States and significant nationwide investments. The $25 million settlement, a relatively modest sum for Apple, will be divided into $18.25 million allocated to a fund compensating victims of alleged discrimination, while the remainder covers fines related to Apple’s hiring practices during the specified timeframe. This comes as Apple reported $383 billion in revenue for its last fiscal year ending on September 30.

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UGC Unveils Regulations Allowing Top Global Universities to Establish Campuses in India

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The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently released regulations allowing foreign universities ranked among the top 500 globally to establish branch campuses in India. This comes shortly after Australia’s Western Sydney University announced plans for an independent campus in Bangalore. The new regulations empower these foreign institutions to determine their admission processes, fee structures, and facilitate the repatriation of funds to their parent campuses. The guidelines stipulate that two or more foreign universities can collaborate to establish campuses in India, provided each institution individually meets the eligibility criteria. Additionally, a foreign university is permitted to set up multiple campuses in India, with a separate application required for each proposed location. The final regulations, released after a 10-month period of public feedback on the draft, include several modifications. Notably, foreign universities must ensure that international faculty members appointed to teach at Indian campuses stay in the country for at least one semester. The processing time for applications by the standing committee has been extended from 45 to 60 days, and recommendations must be presented to the UGC within 60 days. The regulations also specify that foreign universities cannot establish learning centers, study centers, or franchises that act as representative offices for promotional activities in India or any other jurisdiction outside the country without prior approval from the UGC. Moreover, the regulations prohibit the offering of programs online or in open and distance learning modes, except for online lectures, which should not exceed 10% of the program requirements. Foreign institutions are exempt from annual fees to the UGC, only requiring a one-time application fee. They are expected to use their own infrastructure, land, and resources to establish campuses. Additionally, foreign universities may offer full or partial merit-based or need-based scholarships and fee concessions to Indian students on their campuses. While these regulations align with the National Education Policy of 2020, which aims to create a legislative framework for top global universities in India, previous attempts, including those by the UPA government, faced opposition from parties such as the BJP and the Left when they were in the opposition.

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AI Predicted to Propel Medical Devices Industry to $1.2 Billion by 2027, Indicates GlobalData Report

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According to a report from GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, the medical devices industry is anticipated to reach $1.2 billion by 2027, primarily fueled by the healthcare sector’s need to streamline processes, cut costs, and enhance accuracy in diagnosing an increasing number of patients with intricate medical profiles. Brian Hicks, Senior Analyst of Medical Devices at GlobalData, highlighted the widespread use of AI in healthcare, particularly in diagnostic settings, where AI algorithms expedite the identification of challenging image abnormalities that might be overlooked by the human eye. This advancement allows for a more comprehensive review of patient profiles while minimizing the risk of misdiagnoses. The report emphasizes that the driving force behind this surge is the adoption of computer vision technology, which finds applications in diagnostics across various medical specialties. Notably, AI’s contribution to reducing error rates in cancer detection has been well-documented, with studies indicating a significant decrease in pathologists’ error rates, from 3.4% to 0.5%, when AI was incorporated in identifying cancer-positive lymph nodes as far back as 2016. Hicks emphasized the accelerated pace at which AI can identify potential positive cases, allowing for a more rapid review of numerous patient profiles without compromising accuracy. The research reveals a notable concentration of AI-related investments in the medical imaging and diagnostic sectors, with many companies specializing in leveraging deep learning technology. Traditional MedTech companies, primarily focused on hardware and surgical instruments, have limited opportunities to integrate such advanced technologies into their products. Hicks underscored the critical role of AI in early detection, asserting that its ability to analyze challenging tissue abnormalities, symptoms, and intricate patient profiles will lead to earlier interventions and improved patient outcomes.

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New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 #ELS2023 #ELSChennai #EducationLeadershipSymposium

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“ArdorComm – Education Leadership Symposium” Wednesday, 13th Dec’23 | Chennai #ELS2023 #ELSChennai #EducationLeadershipSymposium Empowering Learning : Promoting Active Engagement and Student Participation with Technology-Enabled Solutions Active learning and student engagement are cornerstones of effective education. In today’s digital age, harnessing technology-enabled solutions to promote active participation is a priority for educators and institutions. This roundtable (RT) will bring together experts, edtech professionals, and educators to explore innovative ways to foster active learning and student engagement using technology. KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Active Learning Strategies: Share proven techniques and strategies for promoting active learning, including problem-based learning, collaborative projects, and flipped classrooms. Gamification in Education: Discuss the benefits and challenges of using gamification to create engaging learning experiences and motivate students. Hybrid Learning Environments: Examine how blended learning approaches, combining in-person and online elements, can encourage active participation and engagement. Assessment and Feedback: Discuss methods for assessing and providing timely feedback to students, reinforcing their active participation and continuous improvement. Teacher Training: Address the importance of training educators to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices, ensuring active learning opportunities. Measuring Engagement: Examine tools and methods for assessing student engagement and participation in technology-enabled learning environments. Who Should Attend Academicians Educators Founders Trustees Chancellors CEOs Vice-Chancellors Directors Principals Eminent Speakers AGENDA Time Topic 4:00 PM – 4:15 PM Registration & High-Tea 4:15 PM – 4:25 PM Welcome Note: ArdorComm Media Group 4:25 PM – 4:35 PM Keynote Address: D2L 4:35 PM – 6:00 PM Roundtable Session 6:00 PM – 6:10 PM Keynote Address: D2L 6:10 PM – 6:30 PM Closing Remark & Felicitation 7:00 PM Onwards Networking Cocktails followed by Dinner VENUE Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road City Centre, Near Boat Club, &, Anna Salai, Nandanam Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600035

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Disney+ Hotstar to Offer Free Streaming of Pro Kabaddi League on Mobiles

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Disney+ Hotstar, a prominent broadcasting platform, has unveiled plans to offer free streaming of the upcoming season of the Pro Kabaddi League to mobile users in India, beginning on December 2, 2023. This decision is driven by the sport’s popularity, ranking second only to cricket in India. Sajith Sivanandan, the Head of Disney+ Hotstar India, expressed the goal of making Kabaddi accessible to a broader Indian audience, fostering stronger fan engagement. This move follows the success of their free mobile streaming during events like the Asia Cup 2023 and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The Pro Kabaddi League’s tenth season will feature 12 competing teams in a 12-city caravan format, aiming to replicate the success of cricket tournaments that drew record viewership. Hotstar achieved a peak concurrency of 44 million viewers during the India-South Africa match, and expects similar success as the Pro Kabaddi League approaches its conclusion.

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Capgemini Witnesses a Sharp Decline in Offshore Headcount, India Heavily Impacted

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French IT company Capgemini has seen a significant reduction in its offshore workforce, with a decline of 14,600 employees in the September quarter. This reduction has notably affected its operations in India, where it had 185,000 employees, accounting for less than half of its total workforce of 342,700. It is estimated that Capgemini’s headcount in India may have decreased by nearly 7,000 employees during this period, following the addition of 35,000 people in the previous fiscal year. The offshore headcount of Capgemini has decreased by 7% to 196,000 employees in the September quarter, while its onshore workforce decreased by 1,100 employees. Capgemini’s CFO, Carole Ferrand, emphasized the company’s focus on efficiency and optimizing its talent base, especially in offshore locations, after a period of intensive hiring and high attrition. She mentioned that attrition rates have now cooled down to 18.6% over the last 12 months, aligning with the company’s nominal operating ranges. When contacted for a statement, Capgemini’s spokesperson explained that the company had adopted a stable hiring approach due to the challenging economic environment. They highlighted a focus on investing in new skills, fostering innovation, and expanding the portfolio. Capgemini, however, did not disclose its current headcount in India following the reduction in offshore employees. Capgemini’s CEO, Aiman Ezzat, mentioned the company’s plans to expand its workforce in data and AI, business, and technology talent, aiming to double the team to 50,000 people in the next three years. The company also intends to train over 100,000 employees in genAI-specific tools within the next 12 months. In terms of financial performance, Capgemini reported a 2.3% year-on-year revenue increase in constant currency for the September quarter. However, revenue in the North America region declined by 4%, attributed to the challenging economic environment and a gradual deceleration scenario for 2023. Ezzat emphasized the importance of the transition to a digital and sustainable economy for Capgemini’s clients and highlighted the increasing demand for generative AI. The company’s genAI campus has been launched to provide training for employees, aligning with its 2 billion euros investment plan to strengthen its presence in this field.

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Scientists Concerned About New COVID Variant ‘JN.1’ with Increased Infectiousness and Potential Vaccine Immunity Evasion

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Scientists are expressing concern about the latest COVID-19 variant, named ‘JN.1’, as it appears to be more infectious and potentially capable of evading vaccine immunity. This variant was first identified in Luxembourg on August 25, 2023, and has since been detected in several countries, including England, Iceland, France, and the United States. What particularly worries scientists is the significant number of genetic differences in JN.1 compared to other prominent COVID strains like XBB.1.5 and HV.1. XBB.1.5 is the primary target of the latest vaccine boosters in the United States, and most new variants are descendants of this strain, indicating that existing vaccines are effective against them. HV.1, while somewhat different from XBB.1.5, shares similarities with its parent strain. However, JN.1 stands out due to its substantial divergence. In comparison to XBB.1.5, HV.1 has ten additional unique mutations, but JN.1 boasts a striking 41 additional unique mutations. A significant portion of these mutations is found in the spike protein of the virus, which is associated with increased infectivity and potential immune evasion. This raise concerns that current vaccines may not be as effective against this variant. Dr. Thomas Russo, the chief of infectious diseases at the University of Buffalo in New York, stated that JN.1’s spike protein mutation makes it particularly adept at evading the immune response, which could lead to a higher risk of infections. Moreover, there is some evidence suggesting that JN.1’s parent variant, BA.2.86, may be more transmissible than earlier versions of the virus. This high degree of variability in the spike protein, which was first observed in the alpha and beta versions of SARS-CoV-2 in 2021, is a noteworthy aspect of JN.1’s genetic makeup. While these developments raise concerns, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that initial data suggests updated COVID vaccines should still provide protection against JN.1. They also stated that treatments and testing measures are expected to remain effective against this variant, based on an analysis from the federal government’s SARS-CoV-2 Interagency Group.

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Reliance Foundation Offers Postgraduate Scholarships for 2023-24: Apply by December 17, 2023

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Reliance Foundation is currently accepting applications for postgraduate scholarships for the academic year 2023-24. These scholarships are available to first-year postgraduate students in nine specific fields of study, and the application deadline is set for December 17, 2023. You can find all the necessary information, including eligibility criteria and registration details, on the official website at scholarships.reliancefoundation.org. The Reliance Foundation scholarships are open to first-year postgraduate students pursuing full-time courses in India. The eligible fields of study include computer science, artificial intelligence, mathematics and computing, electrical or electronics engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, renewable and new energy, material science and engineering, and life sciences. If you’re selected for this scholarship, you can receive a grant of up to Rs 6 lakh for the entire duration of your postgraduate studies. Additionally, the scholarship program offers a holistic development initiative that involves interactions with experts, exposure to industry, and volunteering opportunities. The selection process for these scholarships is quite rigorous and involves evaluating applications, conducting aptitude tests, and holding interviews. The goal of the Reliance Foundation postgraduate scholarships is to identify students who exhibit qualities such as excellence, leadership potential, integrity, community commitment, a growth mindset, and courage.

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