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Friday, June 26, 2026 3:46 PM

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Meet Shantanu Dwivedi: UP CLAT Topper with AIR 8

In an outstanding academic feat, Shantanu Dwivedi, a student from City Montessori School (CMS), Aliganj Campus 1, Lucknow, has topped the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2025 in Uttar Pradesh, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 8 in the General Category. Shantanu is also preparing for his Class 12 board exams this academic session. Scoring an exceptional 99.987 percentile, Shantanu achieved 100.5 marks out of a revised total of 116, after objections led to the removal of four incorrect questions from the original 120 marks. His performance places him among the top legal aspirants nationwide. In an interview, Shantanu expressed his delight and shared his aspiration to join the prestigious National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru. He credited his success to his dedication, strategic preparation, and the support of his legal studies teacher, Shwetank Sharma, whose guidance was pivotal throughout his journey. Shantanu began preparing for the CLAT last year alongside his Class 11 studies, balancing schoolwork and coaching. His disciplined approach and commitment have made him a source of inspiration for aspiring law students. The CLAT 2025 results were announced on Saturday night, and candidates can check their scores on the official website of the Consortium of National Law Universities (consortiumofnlus.ac.in). Shantanu’s achievement not only highlights his personal determination but also sets an example of excellence for students aiming for success in competitive exams. Source: DNA India Photo Credit: DNA India

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Punjab’s Education Strategy Highlights Teacher Empowerment and Global Learning: Minister Harjot Bains at UNESCO Forum

Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains underscored the state’s transformative education strategy during the UNESCO international forum ‘Futures of Education-2024’, held at the Suwon Convention Center in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Speaking on December 3, 2024, Bains emphasized Punjab’s focus on teacher empowerment, global learning, and innovative infrastructure to create robust educational ecosystems. Highlighting education as a cornerstone for addressing global challenges like climate change, terrorism, and social inequities, Bains outlined Punjab’s multi-pronged mission to modernize its education system. The strategy includes constructing thousands of classrooms, providing student bus services, installing school-wide Wi-Fi, and ensuring safety with boundary walls and security guards. “We are creating a secure and technologically enabled learning environment for our students,” Bains said. He added that the state has prioritized comprehensive teacher training, sending educators to globally renowned institutions. Initiatives include training principals at the Singapore Principals Academy and elementary teachers in Finland, bringing cutting-edge pedagogical practices to Punjab. The minister also unveiled innovative school concepts designed to break traditional educational norms. The ‘Schools of Eminence’ focus on professional training, while ‘Schools of Applied Learning’ emphasize vocational skills. The uniquely conceptualized ‘Schools of Happiness’ promote child-psychology-based learning for joyful educational experiences. “Punjab’s approach ensures that no child is left behind, and every child has access to quality education,” Bains stated. These initiatives reflect the state’s ambition to prepare students for global challenges while empowering educators to lead the transformation. The forum marked a platform for Punjab to showcase its education reforms, aligning local initiatives with global best practices for sustainable development and innovation. Source: The Hindu Photo Credit: The Hindu

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Tripura to Fill Over 2,000 Vacancies in Education and Rural Development

The Tripura government has announced plans to fill over 2,000 vacancies across the Education and Rural Development departments, Tourism Minister and Cabinet spokesperson Sushanta Chowdhury revealed on Friday. Among the new roles, 1,566 positions have been created for undergraduate and graduate teachers under the Education Department. These include 1,099 posts for undergraduate teachers and 467 for graduate teachers in various schools statewide. The Teachers’ Recruitment Board will oversee the hiring process. In addition, 112 special educators will be appointed on a fixed-pay scale at Vidyajyoti schools to enhance inclusive education across the state. For the Rural Development Department, 198 junior engineer positions have been approved, including 105 degree-holders and 93 diploma-holders. The Tripura Public Service Commission will manage the recruitment for these technical roles. “The Cabinet is committed to addressing unemployment and strengthening critical sectors like education and rural development,” Chowdhury emphasized. These announcements are seen as a significant step in boosting employment opportunities while addressing staffing gaps in essential state services. Recruitment processes are expected to commence soon. Source: Indian express Photo Credit: Indian express

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UGC Introduces Flexible Timelines for Undergraduate Degrees

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced new regulations allowing undergraduate students to complete their degrees at an accelerated pace or over an extended timeline. The initiative, unveiled by UGC Chief M. Jagadesh Kumar, marks a pivotal move toward a student-centric education model, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Outlined in the newly published Compendium of UGC Regulations, the policy introduces two pathways: the Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and the Extended Degree Programme (EDP). The ADP enables high-achieving students or those earning additional credits to graduate faster, while the EDP supports students needing extra time due to personal, financial, or academic challenges, without penalties. “Degrees completed earlier or later will hold the same value as standard-duration degrees,” Kumar affirmed, ensuring parity for employment and further studies. The framework provides flexibility for students pursuing interdisciplinary or professional courses or those balancing education with work or other responsibilities. Institutions will establish eligibility committees to oversee implementation, ensuring the same credit requirements are met as in traditional programs. This initiative aligns with global trends promoting adaptive learning paths and the NEP 2020’s emphasis on skill development and inclusive education. Institutions will have the autonomy to adopt these measures based on their infrastructure and resources. Experts and educators view the move as a step toward modernising India’s higher education system. It is expected to empower students to tailor their academic journeys to their unique goals and circumstances, fostering greater inclusivity while upholding academic standards. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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Manipur Halts Reopening of Schools and Colleges Amid Violence in Imphal Valley

The Manipur government has withdrawn its decision to reopen schools and colleges in the Imphal Valley and Jiribam, citing ongoing violence and safety concerns in the region. The reversal was confirmed through a late-night directive issued by the Directorate of Education – Schools, emphasizing the continued closure of educational institutions. The notification read, “The school reopening order dated November 24 regarding resumption of normal classes for all schools of the state—government, government-aided, private, and central schools—is hereby cancelled. All schools in the valley districts will remain closed on November 25 and 26.” A parallel order was issued for colleges in the affected areas. Educational institutions in regions such as Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kakching, and Jiribam have already been closed for over a week due to prohibitory orders. These measures were enforced following fresh violence in the area, with authorities prioritizing public safety and minimizing risks to students and staff. Although prohibitory orders have been partially relaxed, allowing residents to procure essential supplies between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., the volatile situation has necessitated the continued shutdown of schools and colleges. Officials underline that the decision reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens, especially students. The ongoing unrest in Manipur has disrupted normalcy in the region, affecting education and daily life. Authorities remain vigilant, closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety and security of the community. Source: India Today Photo Credit: India Today

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ICAI and CBSE Partner to Revolutionize Skill-Based Accounting Education

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has joined hands with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to introduce specialized skill-based courses aimed at bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. This landmark partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), seeks to revolutionize commerce education across CBSE-affiliated schools in India. The initiative focuses on developing skills aligned with the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector, ensuring that students are equipped with industry-relevant knowledge. ICAI President CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal emphasized the importance of the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a significant step in enhancing the skill development ecosystem. By aligning commerce education with professional requirements, we aim to open new career avenues for students in accountancy and finance.” Key features of the collaboration include: Awareness Programs: ICAI and CBSE will organize sessions for school principals, teachers, and management teams to promote commerce-based skill courses. Teacher Training: CBSE will conduct capacity-building initiatives to equip educators with the skills needed to teach specialized courses effectively. Content Development: ICAI will contribute expertise in syllabus design, study materials, and training modules while offering career guidance resources. Enrichment Activities: Joint workshops, training sessions, and student awareness campaigns will highlight career opportunities in the BFSI sector and accountancy. This initiative underscores the shared commitment of ICAI and CBSE to enhance employability and prepare students for future challenges. By integrating skill-based learning with traditional education, the partnership aims to create a robust foundation for students aspiring to excel in commerce-related professions. The MoU is expected to set a precedent for innovative educational practices and provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market.

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Elon Musk Launches Ad Astra Preschool: A $100M Vision to Redefine Early Education

Tech mogul Elon Musk is venturing into education with the launch of Ad Astra, a preschool designed to revolutionize early learning. Located in Bastrop County, Texas, near Musk’s company facilities, the school aims to blend exploration-based learning with a STEM-focused curriculum. Backed by Musk’s X Foundation, Ad Astra is the first phase of a $100 million plan to expand into K-12 education and establish a university in Texas. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission recently granted the school its state permit, enabling operations to begin for up to 24 children aged three to six. The preschool, whose name translates to “to the stars,” reflects Musk’s ambition to foster curiosity and foundational skills in young learners through innovative methods. The curriculum draws inspiration from Montessori principles and the psychological theories of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, emphasizing responsibility, respect, and resourcefulness. Activities range from hands-on STEM projects to geography lessons, alongside outdoor amenities like a basketball court and tricycles. According to permit documents, the school’s mission is to cultivate curiosity and life skills from an early age. “We’re creating an environment where exploration and critical thinking are at the forefront,” said an official close to the project. Musk’s X Foundation has allocated nearly $100 million to this initiative, with plans to scale Ad Astra into a statewide K-12 network and eventually a university. If successful, the program could set new standards for how education systems approach early childhood development and STEM readiness. For now, the school operates out of a white farmhouse in Bastrop County, marking the beginning of Musk’s ambitious journey to redefine the future of education. Source: mint Photo Credit: Reuters

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Trump Nominates Linda McMahon as Education Secretary, Vows to Abolish Department

Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Education, an agency he has vowed to eliminate during his upcoming term. Announcing her appointment on Tuesday, Trump described McMahon as a “fierce advocate for Parents’ Rights” and reiterated his plan to return control of education to the states. “We will send Education BACK TO THE STATES, and Linda will spearhead that effort,” Trump stated. McMahon, who served as CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment before entering politics, has a two-year tenure on the Connecticut Board of Education and 16 years as a trustee at Sacred Heart University. Her selection aligns with Trump’s agenda of reducing federal oversight in education. A longtime ally and donor to Trump, McMahon has chaired the Center for the American Worker at the America First Policy Institute since 2021. She also previously served as the head of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term, where she supported millions of small businesses across the country. Trump’s ties to McMahon date back to her WWE days, where they famously staged a wrestling ring altercation during a live event. McMahon, in turn, praised Trump during the Republican convention, calling him “a colleague, a boss, and a friend.” During the 2024 campaign, Trump repeatedly emphasized his intent to dismantle the Department of Education, stating that eliminating the federal agency is crucial to empowering parents and local communities. McMahon’s nomination highlights Trump’s continued reliance on business leaders to drive his administrative agenda, as he prepares to return to the White House in January. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: NDTV

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Johns Hopkins University Explores Setting Up Campus in India: Discussions with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

In a significant step towards the internationalisation of education in India, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan engaged in discussions with officials from Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Maryland, USA, regarding the establishment of the university’s campus in India. The meeting, held on Sunday, also explored academic and research collaborations, including dual and joint degree programs and partnerships in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and futuristic technologies. A senior official from the Ministry of Education expressed optimism, stating, “Given the keen interest shown by the high-level delegation, the government is hopeful of a positive outcome very soon.” The delegation, led by JHU President Ronald J. Daniels, included 12 representatives—the largest from JHU to visit India. Members also included officials from the Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), which focuses on fostering research, education, and policy collaborations between JHU and Indian partners. During the meeting, Minister Pradhan highlighted the transformative potential of India’s National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) in fostering global partnerships and expanding academic opportunities. JHU, consistently ranked among the top global universities for its excellence in research, medicine, and education, currently operates 10 campuses, including two international hubs in Bologna, Italy, and Nanjing, China. The proposed campus in India would represent another milestone in its mission to advance education and research on a global scale. As part of their India visit, the delegation will tour various Indian university campuses and meet with key stakeholders, including government officials and academic leaders. These engagements aim to strengthen JHU’s presence in India and contribute to India’s growing role in global higher education. Source: Times of India Photo Credit: Times of India

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IIT Delhi Surpasses IIT Bombay in QS World Rankings 2025, Becoming India’s Top University

In a notable shift in the QS World University Rankings 2025, IIT Delhi has overtaken IIT Bombay to become India’s highest-ranking university. This year’s rankings underscore the remarkable progress of India’s higher education system within Asia, with two Indian institutions in the top 50 and seven in the top 100. IIT Delhi rose to the 44th position, an improvement from last year’s 46th, bolstered by an employer reputation score of 99%. IIT Bombay follows closely at 48th, achieving an impressive employer reputation score of 99.5% and an academic reputation score of 96.6%. One of the most significant leaps was made by the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), which climbed 70 spots to secure 148th, marking the biggest improvement among Indian institutions. Additionally, five Indian institutions—namely, IIT Madras (56), IIT Kharagpur (60), Indian Institute of Science (62), IIT Kanpur (67), and the University of Delhi (81)—secured places within the top 100. The University of Delhi advanced significantly from 94th to 81st place, receiving a score of 96.4% in the International Research Network indicator. Meanwhile, Anna University achieved a perfect 100 in the Papers Per Faculty indicator, highlighting India’s strength in academic research. Further achievements include North Eastern Hill University and the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, both attaining perfect scores in the faculty-student indicator, showcasing top-tier academic environments. The high standards across Indian universities were further evidenced by 15 institutions scoring above 99% in the staff with PhD indicator, reflecting the country’s emphasis on advanced teaching and research. The upward trajectory of Indian universities in the QS rankings is a testament to the country’s commitment to strengthening its educational and research foundations on a global scale. Source: ABP Live Photo Credit: ABP Live

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