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Maharashtra Unveils ‘MAHASWAYAM’ Portal for Online Higher Education Courses

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The state government of Maharashtra is gearing up to launch ‘MAHASWAYAM,’ a dedicated portal for higher education courses. Drawing inspiration from the central government’s SWAYAM portal, ‘MAHASWAYAM’ aims to create a comprehensive platform for online courses, aligning with the evolving landscape of education. Chandrakant Patil, the Minister of Higher and Technical Education, chaired a meeting on Friday to deliberate on the effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in the state. Professor Shailendra Deolankar, the Director of Higher Education, underscored the active involvement of state universities in offering online courses. To ensure inclusivity for all students, the decision was made to launch ‘MAHASWAYAM’ as a state-centric portal. Under the NEP, students now have the flexibility to pursue online courses for minor subjects, earning valuable credits towards their final scores. Addressing concerns related to academic calendars and fees on the existing SWAYAM portal, Deolankar emphasized that ‘MAHASWAYAM’ aims to provide a holistic solution for both students and administrators. “To implement this initiative, the state government has formed a consortium comprising Yashvantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University, Savitribai Phule Pune University, University of Mumbai, and Shivaji University, Kolhapur. Over the next three months, the consortium will collaboratively design the portal, focusing on courses related to Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS),” said Deolankar. Minister Patil stressed the importance of leveraging social media for information dissemination, urging the department to comprehensively update the web portal in multiple languages. Additionally, he directed the creation of a dedicated Twitter handle for the Higher and Technical Education Department to ensure regular updates reach a wider audience. The imminent launch of ‘MAHASWAYAM’ is anticipated to reshape the higher education landscape in Maharashtra, offering students a versatile and accessible platform for online learning.  

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Ministry of Education Unveils Prerana: A Transformative Learning Initiative

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The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, has unveiled a transformative initiative, the ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning Program.’ This week-long residential program is designed to provide a meaningful and inspiring experience to selected students from class IX to XII, fostering leadership qualities and aligning with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Rooted in the Indian education system and the philosophy of value-based education, Prerana aims to integrate these principles into its curriculum. The program will take place at a Vernacular School established in 1888 in Vadnagar, Gujarat, one of India’s oldest living cities. The school, a testament to Vadnagar’s resilience against challenges like earthquakes, stands as a living heritage site with deep historical roots. Prerana’s curriculum, developed by IIT Gandhi Nagar, revolves around nine value-based themes, including Swabhiman and Vinay, Shaurya and Sahas, and Swatantrata and Kartavya. The program’s schedule includes yoga, mindfulness, and meditation sessions, experiential learning, thematic sessions, and hands-on activities. Evening activities encompass visits to ancient sites, film screenings, and talent shows, providing a holistic approach to learning. The program is open for registration through a dedicated portal, where applicants can submit details for consideration. A rigorous selection process will identify 20 participants (10 boys and 10 girls) each week from diverse regions of the country. The selected participants will benefit from mentorship by professionals from prestigious institutions. Prerana’s vision is to inspire the youth, instill respect for India’s unity in diversity, and contribute to creating a flame-holder for a developed Bharat. Upon completion of the program, participants are expected to carry the ethos of Prerana into their communities, becoming change-makers and inspiring positive transformations. The initiative underscores a commitment to empowering the youth, aligning with the ideals of the Hon’ble Prime Minister and emphasizing the program’s role in shaping the future of the nation.

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CBSE Introduces Psychological Counselling Ahead of 2024 Exams

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In a move aimed at supporting the mental well-being of students appearing for the upcoming Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) examinations, the Board has announced the commencement of psychological counselling facilities from January 1, 2024. This initiative coincides with the beginning of the exam schedule for practical and theory papers scheduled for January 1 and February 15, 2024, respectively. According to a press note released by the CBSE, the psychological counselling facilities will be available through various channels. One of the key features is the Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS), which will be accessible 24×7 free of cost. Students and parents can dial the Board’s toll-free number 1800-11-8004 to receive information and suggestions on stress-free exam preparation, time and stress management, FAQs, and important CBSE contact details in both Hindi and English. Additionally, the CBSE is introducing bilingual podcasts on its official website (www.cbse.gov.in) covering relevant subjects. These podcasts aim to provide valuable insights and tips to students gearing up for their examinations. Another noteworthy feature is the Tele-counselling service, a voluntary and free-of-cost service available from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Saturday. A total of 65 trained counsellors, including principals, special educators, and psychologists from CBSE-affiliated schools, will provide this service. Notably, 52 of these counsellors are based in India, while the remaining 13 are spread across international locations such as Kuwait, Nepal, Japan, Doha-Qatar, Oman (Muscat), and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, Ras-al-Khaimah). The CBSE has a rich history of providing psychological counselling for 26 years, beginning in 1998. This initiative, offered in two phases—before the examination and after the result—aims to alleviate stress among Class X and XII students of CBSE-affiliated schools. The Board has consistently adopted innovative approaches, such as toll-free tele-counselling and information dissemination through IVRS, to reach out to students. Additionally, social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram have been actively utilized to share important messages and engage with students effectively.

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Assam Announces Massive Recruitment Drive with Over 10,000 Vacancies in Education Department

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Assam government has announced the availability of more than 10,000 job opportunities in the education department. The notification, issued by the Directorate of Secondary Education and Directorate of Elementary Education, covers a wide array of teaching positions, including Post Graduate Teachers, Graduate Teachers (Arts and Science), and Assistant Teachers for both LP and UP Schools. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a tweet, expressed confidence in surpassing the commitment made by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the 2021 Assembly polls. “We will not only deliver but exceed our promise of creating more than 1 lakh government jobs in the most transparent manner in Assam’s history,” he stated. The BJP, securing victory for the second consecutive term, had pledged to generate over 1 lakh government jobs in Assam. The current initiative by the state government, led by Chief Minister Sarma, marks a significant stride toward realizing this commitment. Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu provided details on the various positions available, stating that the Directorate of Secondary Education is recruiting 1424 Post Graduate Teachers and 7249 Graduate Teachers for Arts, Science, Hindi, and Sanskrit in Provincialised Secondary Schools. Simultaneously, the Directorate of Elementary Education is advertising for 3800 Assistant Teacher positions in LP Schools and 1750 positions for Assistant Teachers, Science Teachers, and Hindi Teachers in UP Schools. Senior Minister Pijush Hazarika also acknowledged the importance of this recruitment drive, particularly for the teaching community. In his statement, he said, “Good news for the teaching community! The Govt of Assam has released vacancies over 10,000 teaching posts. The dream of HCM Dr. @himantabiswa will be fulfilled, and our Govt will create a history of job recruitment in a fair manner.” The move is expected to not only address the employment concerns of the state but also contribute to the improvement of the education sector by ensuring an adequate number of qualified teachers across various disciplines.

Assam Announces Massive Recruitment Drive with Over 10,000 Vacancies in Education Department Read More »

India Grapples with Soaring Student Suicides, Advocates Call for Education Reform

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India is witnessing an alarming surge in student suicides, prompting urgent calls for a comprehensive overhaul of the education system. The prevailing mental health crisis has cast a spotlight on the need for a paradigm shift in educational approaches, emphasizing holistic development over the current marks-centric system. According to data from the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), a staggering 59,239 student suicides were reported between 2018 and 2022, underscoring a pressing need for immediate intervention. In 2018 alone, 10,299 student suicides were recorded, constituting 7.6% of the total reported cases. The gravity of the situation escalated in 2022, with 12,990 student suicides accounting for a similar percentage. Responding to the escalating crisis, the Union Ministry of Education (MoE) has unveiled draft UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop) guidelines with a core belief in ‘Every Child Matters.’ These guidelines propose the establishment of School Wellness Teams (SWT) tasked with identifying vulnerable students displaying warning signs and providing essential support. Protective measures outlined include fostering positive self-esteem, encouraging peer support, and enhancing students’ life skills to navigate conflicts, failures, and rejection. In an effort to address the issue comprehensively, the MoE has introduced the ‘Manodarpan’ initiative under the ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan.’ This initiative aims to provide psychosocial support to students, families, and teachers, prioritizing mental health and overall well-being. Education reform advocates stress the importance of collaboration among schools, parents, and communities to eliminate harmful notions and reduce the social stigma associated with suicidal behavior. Notably, Member of Parliament Annpurna Devi has highlighted ongoing efforts to make expert professional help accessible through ‘Manodarpan.’

India Grapples with Soaring Student Suicides, Advocates Call for Education Reform Read More »

India Strives for Global Academic Excellence as President Murmu Addresses Education Disparities

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In a poignant address during the 69th convocation of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the noticeable absence of any Indian educational institution within the coveted top 50 globally. Despite India’s rich knowledge tradition, President Murmu urged a critical examination of the nation’s standing in international education rankings. Highlighting the importance of quality education over mere rankings, President Murmu acknowledged that a higher position on global lists not only attracts international students and faculty but also enhances the country’s overall academic reputation. The President urged the academic community to strive for excellence and foster an environment conducive to cutting-edge research and innovation. “India’s ancient knowledge heritage is unparalleled, and it is disheartening to see the absence of our educational institutions in the top global rankings. While quality should be our primary focus, we cannot ignore the fact that rankings play a role in attracting global talent and building a positive perception of our academic prowess,” remarked President Murmu. The President’s address prompted introspection within the academic community, leading to discussions on potential strategies to elevate the global standing of Indian educational institutions. Experts argue that a multi-faceted approach, including increased investment in research and development, international collaborations, and enhancements in infrastructure, is essential to bridge the existing gaps. President Murmu concluded her address by urging educational leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to collectively work towards elevating India’s academic profile on the global stage. As the nation grapples with the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of higher education, there is a renewed commitment to ensuring that India’s institutions not only reflect its rich heritage but also stand tall among the world’s best.

India Strives for Global Academic Excellence as President Murmu Addresses Education Disparities Read More »

Haryana Sets Ambitious Target for Full Adoption of New Education Policy by 2025

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Haryana’s Higher Education Minister, Moolchand Sharma, announced the state’s ambitious plan to fully adopt the National Education Policy 2020 by 2025, accelerating the timeline from the initially projected 2030 deadline. This bold initiative was spotlighted during the State Level Implementation Committee meeting on the policy, where Minister Sharma underscored its transformative objectives aimed at positioning India as a global educational powerhouse. Acknowledging the instrumental role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in shaping the policy, Sharma commended Chief Minister Manohar Lal’s accelerated agenda. The commitment to achieving the vision by 2025 reflects the state’s dedication to shaping India’s educational landscape for the 21st century. Minister Sharma highlighted the forward-looking approach of the policy, integrating cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, 3-D printing, data analysis, and biotechnology into higher education. The emphasis is on cultivating adept professionals and enhancing youth employability to meet the evolving demands of the job market. Expressing optimism about the progress, Sharma stated, “We aspire to exceed a 50 percent gross enrollment ratio of girls in higher education by 2030.” Haryana has already achieved a commendable 32 percent enrollment ratio among girls, positioning itself strongly to reach the 50 percent milestone well before the 2030 target. Envisioning a transformative future, Minister Sharma sees the effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 as a mechanism propelling India to become a ‘Vishwa Guru’ once again, joining the league of leading global educational frontrunners.

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Uttar Pradesh Government Issues Guidelines for Education Service Selection Commission

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The recruitment process for teachers and instructors in the state, the Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has issued a comprehensive notification outlining the rules for the Uttar Pradesh Education Service Selection Commission (UPESSC). According to an official release, the guidelines stipulate that candidates invited for interviews, following the written examination, must be awarded a minimum of 40% marks. However, the maximum marks permissible for the interview stage are capped at 90%. The UPESSC will oversee the recruitment of instructors in basic, secondary, and higher education, as well as vocational education, and teachers in aided minority colleges across the state. The Examination Committee will determine the number of candidates to be interviewed in a day and the overall number of boards to be conducted daily, based on the needs of the recruitment process. Moreover, the number of candidates called for interviews will range from 3 to 5 times the number of vacancies, as deemed appropriate by the Commission. For positions requiring interviews, a merit list will be released by combining the marks obtained in the written examination and the interview. In cases where only a written exam is conducted, a merit list will be prepared based on the written exam marks alone. In instances where candidates have equal merits, preference will be given to the marks obtained in the written exam, followed by interview scores. If parity persists, eligibility percentages such as JRF, NET, PhD, and postgraduate scores will be considered. Additionally, in the event of identical scores across all criteria, priority will be given to the candidate with higher age. The release also outlines a meticulous process for candidate replacements, should the initially selected candidate be unable to assume the post. The selected candidate, upon explaining the reasons for non-acceptance, will submit their application to the Director, who will then recommend an adjustment to the Commission. The Commission will subsequently hold the institution or appointing authority accountable for any discrepancies in the requisition process. This move by the Uttar Pradesh government is anticipated to bring transparency and efficiency to the teacher and instructor recruitment process, ensuring that the most qualified and suitable candidates are selected for these crucial roles in the education sector.

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CBSE Board Exam Date Sheet 2024 Unveiled: Classes 10th and 12th Exams Begin on February 15

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially released the date sheets for the upcoming Class 10 and Class 12 board exams scheduled for 2024. The announcement comes approximately 55 days ahead of the commencement of the exams, providing students with ample time to formulate effective study strategies. The date sheets are available online on the official CBSE website, cbse.gov.in. In a departure from the 2023 schedule, where the date sheets were released in December, the Class 10 and 12 exams for 2024 are set to kick off on February 15. The last day of exams for Class 10 is slated for March 11, while Class 12 exams will conclude on April 2. Exam timings remain consistent with the previous year, with papers being conducted in a single shift from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. For Class 12, the first day of exams features four subjects: Kokborok, capital market operations, physical activity trainer, and entrepreneurship. Key subjects in the Class 12 timetable include Hindi, English, Chemistry, Geography, Physics, Mathematics, and others, with the final exam scheduled for April 2. Class 10 students will begin their exams on February 21 with Hindi and conclude on March 11 with Mathematics. The timetable includes English, Science, Social Science, and Mathematics, providing a comprehensive assessment of the students’ knowledge. Students are advised to strictly adhere to the date sheets that have been distributed. The CBSE date sheets provide a structured plan for preparation, allowing students to effectively organize their study schedules. Further updates and important exam information can be found on the official CBSE website.

CBSE Board Exam Date Sheet 2024 Unveiled: Classes 10th and 12th Exams Begin on February 15 Read More »

Tamil Nadu Half-Yearly Exams 2023 Postponed; New Schedule Announced

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In response to the aftermath of Cyclone ‘Michaung,’ the Tamil Nadu government has officially declared the postponement of the half-yearly examinations for state-run and government-aided schools. Initially slated to commence on December 11, Chief Minister M K Stalin directed the deferment across the state to accommodate the recent challenges faced by educational institutions. The School Education Department swiftly formulated a revised timetable, rescheduling the half-yearly exams for classes 6 to 12 to take place from December 13 to 22. This adjustment aims to provide students and schools with sufficient time to recover from the disruptions caused by the cyclonic weather conditions. In the wake of Cyclone ‘Michaung,’ schools in Chennai, Chengelpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts had been closed from December 4 to 9. The government allocated a fund of ₹1.90 crore to address the aftermath, focusing on activities such as cleaning school premises affected by heavy rains and flooding in the aforementioned districts. With schools set to reopen on December 11, the government has scheduled the distribution of textbooks and notebooks on December 12. This initiative is specifically aimed at assisting students who may have lost or damaged their study materials during the adverse weather conditions. A key factor influencing the decision to postpone the exams is the realization that students cannot adequately prepare without their study materials. Consequently, a collective decision was made to reschedule exams uniformly across all districts, maintaining a common question paper throughout Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu Half-Yearly Exams 2023 Postponed; New Schedule Announced Read More »