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Only 6.26% of Schools Complete SQAAF Evaluation Amidst SSC-HSC Exam Rush

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Amidst the ongoing SSC and HSC board exams, only 6.26% of schools in the state have completed the School Quality Assessment and Assurance Framework (SQAAF) evaluation. The low completion rate is attributed to the heavy workload of teachers, who are engaged in exams, paper inspections, and capacity-building training. The evaluation, conducted by the State School Standards Authority Cell (SSSAC) under the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), requires schools to self-assess their performance based on 128 standards. Schools must upload comprehensive information, add photos of activities, and create individual Google links for each standard. Initially, SCERT had set a deadline of February 28 in a circular issued on February 3. However, due to teacher complaints regarding the complexity and time-consuming nature of the process, an extension was granted. As of March 17, out of 1,08,530 schools, 99,457 have begun the process, but only 6,796 have completed it. Former State Principals’ Association vice-president Mahendra Ganpule noted that teachers have been preoccupied with planning and training, which has delayed the evaluation. He suggested that scheduling SQAAF assessments at the start of the academic year would have improved completion rates. A principal, speaking anonymously, highlighted the logistical challenges, stating that schools must retrieve photos from past activities without state-provided devices or data packs. Additionally, creating 128 separate Google links has added to the workload. Attempts to reach SCERT Director Rahul Rekhawar for comments were unsuccessful. Source: punemirror

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Tripura CM Manik Saha Highlights Nursing Education Expansion, Praises Students Heading to Japan

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Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha announced that the state government will explore ways to enhance nursing education in Tripura, following the success of students securing nursing jobs in Japan under the Specified Skill Workers Scheme. Speaking at an event at TIFT, CM Saha felicitated six candidates who have been trained under the Mukhya Mantri Dakhyata Unnayan Prakalpa and will soon begin their careers in Japan’s healthcare sector. Global Opportunities for Tripura’s Nursing Graduates CM Saha emphasized that ANM, GNM, and B.Sc Nursing graduates from the state have gained international job placements through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Japan. He also highlighted that many students have already migrated to Japan and that the government will continue sending more candidates. “These students are joining the nursing profession in Japan after receiving specialized training. To work there, they must learn Japanese, for which they are sent to Noida for a nine-month language training course. More students will be given this opportunity in the future,” said CM Saha. Pride for Tripura & India Calling it a “moment of great pride”, CM Saha urged students to represent Tripura and India with excellence in Japan. “Why should we just wait for jobs here? Our students are now going abroad, which is a very happy occasion. Nursing is a service profession, and as a medical faculty myself, I believe there is no greater field than this. They will serve people and uphold India’s reputation,” he added. Future Scope & Salary Prospects CM Saha further assured that the government is working on enhancing the quality of nursing education to create more global job opportunities for students. He also stated that those working in Japan will receive salaries exceeding ₹1 lakh per month. Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, and State Government Secretary Kiran Gitte were among the dignitaries present at the event. Source: Business Standard  

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Indian Student Outflow Drops by 15% Amid Diplomatic Tensions and Visa Restrictions

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The number of Indian students going abroad for higher studies has fallen by 15%, from 892,989 in 2023 to 759,064 in 2024. This marks only the second decline since 2019, apart from the pandemic-hit 2020. Canada Sees Major Drop Amid Diplomatic Tensions One of the most significant declines has been in Indian students opting for Canada, coinciding with rising diplomatic tensions between Ottawa and Delhi. The situation worsened after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in September 2023. In response, India withdrew security protections for Canadian diplomats, prompting Canada to recall 41 diplomats. This diplomatic strain was followed by stricter student visa rules from Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), granting authorities greater power to revoke study and work permits under specific conditions. UK Visa Rules Discourage Indian Students The UK government’s new immigration policies, effective January 2024, prohibit international students (except those in postgraduate research or government-funded programs) from bringing family members. This has resulted in a 27% drop in Indian student enrollments in the UK. Rise of Alternative Study Destinations As traditional destinations impose stricter policies, new countries are emerging as preferred choices for Indian students: Germany saw an increase of 34,702 Indian students in 2024. Uzbekistan and Bangladesh recorded 9,915 and 8,864 more students, respectively. Russia experienced a 34% surge in Indian student enrollments, thanks to affordable education, relaxed visa policies, and expanding academic partnerships. With visa regulations, diplomatic relations, and economic factors influencing student migration, whether the numbers rebound in 2025 remains to be seen. Source: India Today

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Lack of Physical Education at Khalsa College, Ludhiana, Disappoints Students

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The students of Gujranwala Guru Nanak (GGN) Khalsa College for Boys, Ludhiana, have expressed disappointment over the absence of physical education as an academic subject, highlighting a critical gap in the curriculum. With an enrolment of over 1,400 students, the aided institute does not offer physical education in its undergraduate courses, leaving students with no choice but to opt for alternative subjects. Key Concerns: Sanctioned post for a physical education teacher remains vacant Lack of structured sports training affects students’ participation Some students choose other colleges where physical education is offered A student, speaking anonymously, said, “The absence of a qualified instructor has hindered sports activities. We are deprived of proper training and opportunities to excel.” A faculty member revealed that in the absence of a physical education teacher, sports activities are overseen by teachers from other subjects. While the college still has athletics and a cricket team competing in inter-college tournaments, other sports teams have declined due to a lack of proper guidance. Many students, passionate about sports, have chosen different colleges where physical education is available as a subject. “Without proper guidance or a formal course, students are left with limited opportunities,” said another student. College’s Stand: College Principal Arvinder Singh Bhalla acknowledged the issue, confirming that the college does not plan to introduce physical education in the next session. However, he did not elaborate on the reasons for this decision. With sports playing a crucial role in holistic education, students remain hopeful that the institution will address the gap and restore structured sports training and academic options in physical education. Source: Hindustan Times

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Women’s University Enrolment in India Surges 26% in 2024: Report

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India is witnessing a significant rise in women’s participation in higher education, with female enrolment in universities increasing by 26% year-on-year in 2024, according to a recent report by TeamLease Edtech. In contrast, men’s enrolment grew by 3.6% during the same period. This surge contributed to an overall 12% increase in total student enrolment from 2023 to 2024. Notably, women’s enrolment in work-linked, work-integrated, and direct admission (DA) programmes more than doubled, marking a remarkable 124% growth, while men’s participation in these programs increased by 66%. Shantanu Rooj, Founder & CEO of TeamLease Edtech, emphasized the long-term impact of this trend, stating: “The rise in female applicants across university and work-integrated programs reflects the evolving aspirations of women today. Beyond higher education, we must invest in accessible, industry-aligned education pathways to empower more women in the workforce of tomorrow.” This upward trajectory highlights a positive shift toward gender equity in education and employment, reinforcing the need for continued investment in inclusive learning opportunities. Source: India Today

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Delhi High Court Stays Suspension of Jamia Students, Forms Committee to Ease Tensions

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The Delhi High Court has directed the formation of a committee to de-escalate tensions at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) following student protests over the university’s ban on demonstrations without prior permission. The committee, to be supervised by the Vice Chancellor, will include university officials and student representatives. Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma also stayed the suspension of 17 students, who were penalized for allegedly protesting without approval and defacing public property, until the next hearing. The students had challenged the suspension, arguing that the university’s actions were disproportionate. Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves, representing the petitioners, contended that the students had a clean record and were peacefully protesting outside the canteen. He criticized the university for siding with the Delhi Police, leading to the students’ detention. Advocate Abhik Chimni further noted that, per university regulations, suspensions cannot exceed two weeks. Jamia’s counsel, Advocate Amit Sahni, defended the university’s decision, stating that the students had been given opportunities to comply and that their protest was unrelated to academics. He added that no arrests occurred on campus, and the detained students were later released. The Court, while refraining from commenting on the reasons behind the protest, observed that the demonstration appeared peaceful. It emphasized that student participation in such movements is part of their civic training. Urging the university administration to take remedial steps, the Court ordered the committee’s formation and requested a report from the university. Until the next hearing, the Court has suspended the operation of Jamia’s February 12 suspension order. However, it clarified that this ruling does not impact any criminal cases filed against the students.

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Marg Vidhyalaya Chennai Creates History with Three Elite World Records

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Marg Vidhyalaya Senior Secondary School has once again showcased its excellence on a global scale, setting three prestigious world records on February 14, 2025. Recognized by Elite World Records, Asian Records Academy, India Records Academy, and Tamilan Book of Records, this remarkable achievement highlights the school’s commitment to holistic student development. The students displayed extraordinary teamwork and coordination by setting a world record for the Most Human Pyramids Formed by a Team in 30 Minutes. A total of 133 human pyramids were successfully built by 290 participants, demonstrating exceptional agility, balance, and discipline. The second record, Longest Readathon Relay by a Team, saw 319 students engage in a reading marathon lasting 12 hours and 2 minutes in English, Tamil, and Hindi. This feat reflects the school’s dedication to fostering literacy and a strong reading culture. The third record, Most Participants Presenting Mathematics Concepts, Definitions, and Formulae in 3 Hours (Single Venue), featured 167 participants, with 165 successfully completing the challenge. This achievement underscores the institution’s focus on mathematical excellence and logical reasoning. Senior adjudicators praised the students’ dedication and perseverance. R. Rakshitha, Senior Adjudicator, Elite World Records, commended their talent, while P.G. Prathiba, Adjudicator, Asian Records Academy, lauded their enthusiasm. U. Nagajothi, Records Manager, Tamilan Book of Records, called it a historic moment for the school. Principal Smt. Geetha expressed immense pride, emphasizing the students’ hard work and commitment. Ganesh, Correspondent of Marg Vidhyalaya, highlighted the school’s focus on nurturing students beyond academics, fostering teamwork, endurance, and problem-solving skills. Students and parents also shared their excitement, calling the achievement an unforgettable experience that instilled confidence, resilience, and a spirit of perseverance. Marg Vidhyalaya’s outstanding success continues to set new benchmarks in education, inspiring students to aim higher in both academics and extracurricular pursuits. Source: Tribune

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CBSE Approves Draft Norms for Conducting Class 10 Board Exams Twice a Year

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has approved draft norms for conducting Class 10 board exams twice a year starting in 2026. The draft guidelines will be open for public feedback until March 9, after which the policy will be finalized. Exam Schedule and Key Guidelines According to the proposed norms, the exams will be conducted in two phases: First Phase: February 17 to March 6 Second Phase: May 5 to 20 Both exams will cover the full syllabus, and students will be allotted the same examination centers for both attempts. The exam fees will be increased and collected at the time of application filing. Supplementary Exams and Policy Implications A senior board official clarified that these biannual exams will also serve as supplementary exams, meaning no separate supplementary exams will be conducted. This move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) recommendation, which aims to reduce the “high-stakes” pressure of board exams by allowing students two opportunities in a single academic year. The policy is expected to provide flexibility to students while ensuring they have another chance to improve their scores without waiting for an entire year. Source: Business Standard

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CBSE Plans Biannual Board Exams from 2026, Global Curriculum for Foreign Schools

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a biannual board examination system starting from the 2026 academic session. The Ministry of Education, in a high-level meeting chaired by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, discussed the proposal and stated that it aims to create a stress-free learning environment for students. The detailed framework for this reform will soon be placed for public consultation. Currently, CBSE conducts Class 10 and 12 board exams in February-March. The board is considering three models: conducting exams in a semester system with the first board in January-February and the second in March-April, or scheduling a second set of exams in June alongside supplementary and improvement exams. A similar two-term board exam structure was temporarily implemented during the Covid pandemic, but the system reverted to the traditional single-exam format the following year. Additionally, CBSE has been directed to launch a Global Curriculum for Foreign Schools in the academic year 2026-27. The initiative, discussed in the presence of officials from CBSE, NCERT, KVS, NVS, and representatives of global schools, aims to align CBSE education standards with international curricula. The board has been tasked with preparing a comprehensive action plan for its implementation. With these major changes on the horizon, CBSE aims to modernize the education system and provide greater flexibility to students while enhancing the global reach of its curriculum Source: Hindustan

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Tamil Nadu-Centre Tussle Over NEP and Education Funds Escalates

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The debate over the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has intensified, with Tamil Nadu strongly opposing the Centre’s insistence on implementing the policy in its entirety. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently stated that unless Tamil Nadu fully accepts the NEP, funds under the Samagra Shiksha scheme—amounting to over ₹2,158 crore—will not be released. This remark, made at the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi, has triggered sharp reactions from Tamil Nadu’s political leadership. Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Poyyamozhi responded by accusing the BJP-led central government of “paving the way for another language war.” He questioned why Tamil Nadu, which has successfully followed a two-language policy for decades, should be forced to adopt the three-language formula. Citing former Chief Minister CN Annadurai, he asserted that the demand for Tamil Nadu’s rightful share of funds was not a request for alms but a constitutional entitlement. The state government highlighted that over 4 million students and 32,000 teachers rely on these funds, with Tamil Nadu itself spending ₹76 crore per month on teacher salaries and ₹400 crore annually on the Right to Education (RTE) scheme. Several schemes for girl child education have also been affected due to funding delays. The Tamil Nadu government has argued that withholding funds to push NEP implementation suppresses dissent and reignites the decades-old language debate in India. Chief Minister MK Stalin strongly criticized the Centre, calling Pradhan’s stance “rash blackmail” and warning that Delhi must be prepared to face Tamil Nadu’s resistance. Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu also questioned the conditional nature of central funds, pointing out that Tamil Nadu contributes 9% to India’s GDP without any such stipulations. Anbumani Ramadoss, president of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), took a more balanced approach, stating that the Centre is duty-bound to disburse these funds irrespective of NEP compliance. He emphasized that NEP implementation and financial allocations should remain separate matters. The Centre’s rigid stance on enforcing NEP, particularly through financial coercion, has been widely criticized as an overreach that disregards federal principles. The debate is now at the heart of a larger battle over education policy, language rights, and state autonomy in India. Source: Hindustan

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