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Alarming Rise in Out-of-School Children across Pakistan Sparks Concerns

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The News International reports that as of the academic year 2021-22, Pakistan is grappling with a staggering 26.2 million out-of-school children, indicating a persistent challenge in achieving universal education. The data underscores that 39 percent of children in the school-going age group are currently not enrolled, raising concerns about the nation’s educational landscape. Balochistan emerges as a cause for heightened concern, as it leads with a startling 65 percent of children out of school, while Islamabad Capital Territory reports the lowest percentage. Among the major provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa performs relatively better with a 30 percent out-of-school rate. Despite a slight decrease in the percentage of out-of-school children from 44 percent in 2016-17 to 39 percent in 2021-22, the absolute number has surged from 22.02 million to 26.21 million during the same period. This surge is primarily attributed to the population growth rate outpacing the decrease in out-of-school children. The report further reveals a disconcerting scenario at the higher secondary level, with a projected 60 percent of children expected to be out of school in the current academic year. Additionally, the analysis indicates out-of-school rates of 44 percent, 30 percent, and 36 percent at high, middle, and primary levels, respectively. Highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions, the data shows that a significant portion of the out-of-school children, totaling 10.77 million, are at the primary level. Economic disparities also play a crucial role in limiting educational access, with children from the poorest quintile facing the highest disadvantage across all education levels. This revelation underscores the need for comprehensive efforts to address these challenges and ensure education for all in Pakistan.

Alarming Rise in Out-of-School Children across Pakistan Sparks Concerns Read More »

Punjab Government Proposes ₹3,000 Crore Action Plan for Samagra Shiksha Program

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The Punjab government has presented a comprehensive ₹3,000-crore action plan under the Samagra Shiksha program. This flagship centrally sponsored initiative for school education aims to address various facets, including quality education, access and retention, and vocational education. The proposed budget spans the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26, with an annual allocation of ₹1,476 crore for each year. This marks a commendable 14% increase compared to the current year’s budget. The Samagra Shiksha program operates on a joint funding model, with the central and state governments contributing on a 60:40 sharing basis, emphasizing their commitment to transforming the education landscape. Outlined in the action plan are specific allocations for key areas of focus. An earmarked ₹503 crore is dedicated to initiatives and interventions related to quality education, emphasizing the importance of an enriched learning experience. Additionally, ₹225 crore has been allocated for measures addressing access and retention, ensuring that more students can benefit from an inclusive education system. Another significant chunk of ₹188 crore is set aside for the promotion and implementation of vocational education, equipping students with practical skills for the future. The proposed initiatives include the construction of new classrooms and toilets, improved drinking water facilities, the promotion of commerce and science education, teacher training, digital initiatives, strengthening school libraries, and the installation of solar panels. Furthermore, the plan envisions introducing vocational education in all high and senior secondary schools, reflecting a forward-looking approach to skill development. The Samagra Shiksha Project Approval Board, led by Union school education and literacy secretary Sanjay Kumar, will review the budget proposals in the upcoming month. The central government’s share of ₹886 crore, coupled with the state government’s commitment of ₹590 crore, underscores the collaborative effort to create a robust educational framework.

Punjab Government Proposes ₹3,000 Crore Action Plan for Samagra Shiksha Program Read More »

Zell Education Launches Global Career Championship, Offering Financial Education Scholarships

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Zell Education has unveiled the Global Career Championship, a scholarship program designed to empower students and professionals seeking to enhance their skills in finance and accounts. The initiative aims to provide a platform for individuals globally to upskill, fostering career growth in the competitive field of financial education. In a recent press release, Zell Education highlighted the program’s focus on offering opportunities for students and working professionals worldwide. The Global Career Championship invites participants to showcase their expertise and passion for finance, with the winner earning exclusive access to Zell Education’s advanced courses. The scholarship covers a spectrum of finance-related subjects, including ACCA, FRM, CFA, CMA, IFRS, and other finance and accounts courses. Notably, the winner will enjoy complimentary enrollment in these courses, with all associated global body fees and coaching fees fully covered. Pratham Barot, CEO and Co-Founder of Zell Education, expressed enthusiasm about the Global Career Championship, emphasizing its role in helping individuals acquire the necessary expertise to excel in their careers. Barot stated, “The Global Career Championship is our way of helping ambitious learners with the knowledge and resources they require to succeed.” This initiative underscores Zell Education’s commitment to fostering learning and development in the field of finance, providing a unique opportunity for individuals globally to advance their careers through top-notch educational offerings. Aspiring candidates eager to excel in finance and accounts are encouraged to participate in the Global Career Championship and leverage this scholarship program for professional growth.

Zell Education Launches Global Career Championship, Offering Financial Education Scholarships Read More »

HP Launches ‘My School-My Pride’ Campaign to Transform Govt Education System

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Himachal Pradesh has launched the ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign under the ‘Apna Vidyalay’ programme, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. The initiative aims to actively involve individuals and organizations in adopting schools and contributing to various aspects of students’ growth. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide career counseling, offer remedial teaching, coach students for examinations, and engage in community support services. Monetary contributions are also sought for infrastructure development, event sponsorship, scholarships, and support for the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme. Under the ‘Giving back to society’ initiative, retired teachers, professionals, housewives, or any member of the society are urged to join the academic support team, providing teaching services without payment. This ensures continuous academic support during teacher shortages or leaves. Non-academic teams will contribute to sports, co-curricular activities, skill training, arts, and more. Dignitaries, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and government officers are encouraged to adopt government schools as patrons, suggesting improvements and staying informed about students’ progress. The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) will launch an online portal dedicated to the Apna Vidyalaya programme, ensuring transparency, accountability, and real-time monitoring of activities. The holistic approach includes the ‘systematic adolescent management and value addition dialogue’ (SAMVAD) component, educating school-going adolescents on moral values, drug awareness, nutrition, legal knowledge, and empowerment schemes. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed, “Our government is working with the motto of Vyavastha Parivartan, and the Apna Vidyalaya programme aims to foster civic duty, strengthen school vision, and create a sustainable model for educational improvement.” This initiative offers hope for the public education system, serving over 55% of students in government schools in Himachal Pradesh. The ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign is expected to bring about a positive transformation, emphasizing community engagement and mentoring for educational enhancement.

HP Launches ‘My School-My Pride’ Campaign to Transform Govt Education System Read More »

Tamil Nadu School Education Department Joins Forces with Microsoft to Propel AI-based Education Across the State

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The School Education Department of Tamil Nadu has teamed up with Microsoft to scale up the Technology Education and Learning Support (TEALS) initiative throughout the state. Initially introduced as a pilot project in 14 schools across three districts, the program is now set to expand its reach to a commendable 100 schools. Teachers, specially trained under this initiative, are geared to impart knowledge in HTML, C++, Python, game development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This pioneering move marks the first introduction of TEALS in India, offering a significant leap in technological education for students from Class 8 to 12. Teachers in Tamil Nadu, who have undergone comprehensive training since the commencement of the academic year, are now actively engaging students with the TEALS module. Microsoft, a key player in this collaboration, is not only providing training to the educators but is also closely monitoring the implementation and progress of the initiative. Cecil M. Sundar, Director of Data and AI at Microsoft, emphasized the importance of AI-based skills in the job market, stating that there would be a substantial demand for such expertise in the next 5-10 years. Students equipped with these skills, he added, will be well-positioned to access a plethora of job opportunities. The TEALS expansion in Tamil Nadu signifies a significant stride towards integrating advanced technological education into mainstream schooling. As the state gears up to nurture the next generation of tech-savvy individuals, this collaboration stands as a testament to the commitment to providing students with cutting-edge skills and preparing them for the evolving demands of the job market.

Tamil Nadu School Education Department Joins Forces with Microsoft to Propel AI-based Education Across the State Read More »

Government proposes ‘one nation, one student ID’ and online school admissions to revolutionize education system

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In a major step towards making education more accessible and efficient, the Union government has proposed the integration of education records of all school students into its ‘one nation, one student ID’ initiative. This move, along with the switch to online school admissions, aims to streamline the education system and bring it in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to an official government document, the ‘one nation, one student ID’ initiative will be implemented by 2026-27, with the goal of providing students with an Aadhaar-verified ID called Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR). This ID will serve as a universal student identifier from pre-primary to PhD, and will also act as a gateway to students’ academic bank of credit (ABC). The document, presented by the Union Ministry of Education at the third national conference of chief secretaries, also proposes that all government and government-aided schools switch to an online admission system in the next three years. This will not only make the admission process easier and more efficient, but also reduce barriers and minimize dropouts. The integration of education records into the ‘one nation, one student ID’ initiative will not only help monitor the lifelong learning journey of students, but also build a digital repository of education records. This will make it easier for students to store and access their records, and also enable the integration of interstate student records. The document also highlights the role of Aadhaar linkage in building trust in digital records and empowering stakeholders to access diverse educational services. The ministry has already launched the ‘one nation, one student ID’ initiative in higher education institutions, covering nearly 22 million students. The proposal to extend it to schools is a step towards ensuring seamless integration between the two levels of education. To facilitate the creation of APAAR IDs, the document suggests that Anganwadi or schools can assist students during the time of admissions. The ministry can also organize workshops and training sessions for states and union territories to help them create the IDs and integrate admission portals and applications into a unified platform. The document also sets a deadline of 2026-27 for 100% integration of education records through the ID. While it is not mandatory for states to adopt this initiative, it is a step towards promoting good governance and making education more accessible.

Government proposes ‘one nation, one student ID’ and online school admissions to revolutionize education system Read More »

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates Kala Utsav 2023, Emphasizes NEP 2020 Integration

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Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the much-anticipated Kala Utsav 2023, a cultural extravaganza organized by the School Education and Literacy Department in collaboration with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The event, hosted at the National Bal Bhavan and the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in New Delhi, spans four days from January 9 to 12. At the inaugural ceremony, Minister Pradhan served as the chief guest and encouraged the ministry to expand the Kala Utsav’s reach to every school in the country, advocating for the inclusion of children’s participation in the credit framework. He expressed his vision of a developed India, stating, “A developed India can be built only by giving a broad platform to every child of India according to his interest and talent.” Approximately 700 students from 36 states and union territories, along with participants from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, are engaging in 10 diverse events. These events include vocal music (classical and traditional folk), instrumental music (percussive and melodic), dance (classical and folk), visual arts (two-dimensional and three-dimensional), indigenous toys and games, and drama (solo acting). In addition to inaugurating the event, Minister Pradhan administered the ‘Panch Pran’ pledge to the audience. The valedictory function, scheduled for January 12, will honor prize-winning students with trophies. During his address, Minister Pradhan underscored the significance of the Kala Utsav in connecting the cultural diversity of the nation, fostering the creative and artistic talents of students. Linking the event to the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020, Pradhan emphasized the policy’s role in mainstreaming play-based learning, sports, arts, crafts, and other creative endeavors. “This initiative will hone the talents, skills, and overall development of the children, preparing them to become leaders of the 21st century,” he remarked, reminding students of their responsibilities in the upcoming 25 years during the Amrit Kaal, where their contributions will shape the development of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates Kala Utsav 2023, Emphasizes NEP 2020 Integration Read More »

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.  

Maharashtra Unveils ‘MAHASWAYAM’ Portal for Online Higher Education Courses Read More »

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.

Ministry of Education Unveils Prerana: A Transformative Learning Initiative Read More »

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.

CBSE Introduces Psychological Counselling Ahead of 2024 Exams Read More »