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India Showcases Educational Strength at 76th NAFSA Conference in New Orleans

Educational exchanges build crucial bridges for mutual understanding, learning, and friendships, said DC Manjunath, the Consul General of India in Houston, as he inaugurated two Indian pavilions at the 76th NAFSA 2024 Conference & Expo — the world’s largest international annual education event — in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Indian delegation, consisting of over 40 major academic institutions, both public and private, had a significant presence at the conference held from May 28-31. This participation highlighted the potential of Indian education and fostered international and India-US collaboration. The event, which promotes international education and exchange, brought together 10,000 delegates from more than 110 countries under the theme “Resilience. Renewal. Community.” It positioned NAFSA as a platform for global communities working together to foster resilience in the post-pandemic era, support education renewal, and build stronger local and global communities. Consul General Manjunath inaugurated the Study in India pavilion and the India Pavilion booths at the expo. The Study in India pavilion was hosted by Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Education, and comprised the National Book Trust and public higher education institutions. The India Pavilion, under the Education Promotion Society for India (EPSI), featured 28 reputable private higher education institutes, represented by 62 delegates led by Prof. Rajive Kumar, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) member secretary, and Dr. Prashant Bhalla, senior vice-president of EPSI. Attendees at the Study in India pavilion explored diverse academic opportunities in India and discussed academic cooperation between India and the US. Manjunath emphasized that India has a robust education system equipped with high-quality research facilities and that Indian institutions are broadening their global footprint. He noted that India has become a one-stop destination for technologies such as data science and cybersecurity. “Both Study in India and the India Pavilion are a reflection of India’s commitment to becoming a global education hub and attracting international students to pursue higher education opportunities in the country,” Manjunath said. “Educational exchanges build crucial bridges for mutual understanding, learning, and friendship, which are more important than ever,” he added. On the sidelines of the conference, the consulate, in association with the education ministry and SVVS Temple Society, New Orleans, organized “India’s Higher Education Partnership & Dialogue,” highlighting India’s economic growth, educational system development, new opportunities in universities under India’s new National Education Policy 2020, and the empowerment of women in education. The event was attended by Ministry of Education Joint Secretary Sanjog Kapoor, Ministry of Education Director Varun Bhardwaj, and EdCIL Executive Director Dr. B Chandrasekar, among others. Several other Indian universities and academic institutions also participated independently, exploring diverse educational opportunities, connecting with representatives of elite institutions, and discovering a world of educational possibilities in India. The participating institutions signed MoUs with universities in the US, Europe, Canada, Japan, with a focus on STEM and management programs. They also shared ideas for mutual academic collaboration and partnership for student exchange and faculty mobility to enhance curriculum and teaching in graduate and postgraduate programs. “NAFSA 2024 showcased their academic programs and research opportunities, fostering international collaborations and partnerships, enhancing global reputation, attracting international students, and promoting cross-cultural exchanges,” a delegate said. “Additionally, it offers opportunities for faculty and student exchange programs, collaborative research projects, and sharing of best practices in education, thereby enriching the educational experience and global perspective of Indian students and educators,” the delegate added. The Study in India delegates met with the academic leadership of the Louisiana School of Health Sciences and Tulane University to design and develop postgraduate programs in frontier areas such as climate science finance, sustainability, bioinformatics, public health, tropical medicine, and AI applications in healthcare.

Prof. Saramma Samuel, Secretary, RVS Group of Institutions emphasised on Teacher Training and Nurturing

“Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field.” Said Pradeepa Thinakaran What was your main takeaway from today’s event? Today’s event provided a vibrant platform for educators to exchange ideas and network. One significant takeaway was the acknowledgment of an uncertain future for students. We discussed the importance of preparing students to adapt and excel in uncertain situations. Can you highlight two best practices under your leadership in RV’s group of Institutions? One of our key practices is prioritizing teacher training and nurturing. We believe that well-trained educators positively impact student learning. Additionally, we have a dedicated training department focused on enhancing students’ communication skills, aptitude, and attitude to prepare them for employability. What does “New Normal” mean to you in the context of education? “New Normal” signifies resilience, adaptability, and integration of hybrid learning environments. It’s about persevering and not giving up despite challenges, embracing change, and finding innovative solutions. Could you discuss the initiatives related to skill development in your institution? We emphasize connecting students with industry practices beyond classroom teaching. Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field. Any words of encouragement for ArdorComm Media Group? I commend ArdorComm Media Group for their initiative, especially starting during the challenging period of COVID-19. Your efforts to bring together leaders and change-makers from different regions are commendable. Keep igniting the fire of innovation and leadership in all of us. Any final thoughts? It was a pleasure to participate in this event. Thank you for the opportunity, and I wish Ardorcom Media Group continued success in their endeavors.

Pradeepa Thinakaran, Founder & MD, Zing International Preschool, Chennai expressed on Child safety

“When parents trust us with their children, safety is paramount. We prioritize safety measures, such as eliminating plastic, maintaining cleanliness, and providing a safe play area.” Said Pradeepa Thinakaran Can you tell us more about your organization? I’m passionate about kindergarten education, so I founded Zing International Preschool. In the first year, we admitted nearly 200 children, and the second year saw a similar intake. Our school is eco-friendly, focusing on greenery and avoiding the use of plastics. We prioritize helping children learn to read and write using phonetic sounds. Importantly, we allow children to learn at their own pace through free play, which sets us apart from other schools. What are the primary concerns for educators regarding safety and implementation of education? When parents trust us with their children, safety is paramount. We prioritize safety measures, such as eliminating plastic, maintaining cleanliness, and providing a safe play area. Safety, discipline, and education are the top concerns for us. How do you view the growth of the preschool segment, especially with the implementation of the National Education Policy? Preschools have seen significant growth as parents appreciate the focus on early childhood education. Unlike K-12 schools, preschools concentrate solely on the kindergarten years (ages 2-6). This specialization is attracting parents, leading to the booming growth of preschools. What factors should parents consider regarding hygiene when selecting a preschool? Parents should prioritize hygiene during preschool visits. They should inspect restroom cleanliness and inquire about restroom maintenance schedules. Regular cleaning intervals, cleanliness of play areas, and sanitation practices for furniture are crucial factors to consider. What were your key learnings from today’s session? Today’s session provided valuable insights, especially regarding childcare, parenting, and environmental utilization. Learning from panelists about water conservation and parenting strategies was particularly enlightening. The event was a great source of information. How do forums like this benefit participants? Events like this provide a platform for networking and accessing technology partners. Digital tools showcased at stalls are beneficial for students from grade 8 to 12, aiding in their learning outside the classroom. Such forums facilitate the adoption of digital platforms for enhanced learning experiences. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? Congratulations on your journey of 2.5 to 3 years. The event organization and follow-up have been commendable. Keep up the good work, and I wish you continued success. Any final thoughts? It was a pleasure attending this event. Thank you for the invitation, and I wish you all the best.  

Dr. T. V. Christy, Vice Chancellor, Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Sc. & Tech. Vallam talked about four pillars of the New Education Policy (NEP)

“The New Normal is about being student-centric. Education should focus on where graduates go after graduation, anticipating their future needs. ” said  Dr. T. V. Christy Could you tell us more about your group of institutions? I am from The Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Science and Technology, famously known as PRIST deemed to be University, recognized by the University Grants Commission. It is located in Thanjavur, and we run programs in various disciplines, including engineering, arts and science, agriculture, pharmacy, and law. When we talk about sustainability in education, what special initiatives have been taken by your institution? We have empowered our students by first making them aware of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We conduct various sessions to ensure that our students and faculty members understand the importance and significance of these SDGs. Our management is very particular about integrating these goals into our educational practices. Regarding education policy implementations, what initiatives or developments have you undertaken? The four pillars of the New Education Policy (NEP) can be summarized as AE AQ: Accessibility, Equity, Accountability, and Quality. We ensure that these principles form the basis of our NEP implementation in our campuses. If the first three (Accessibility, Equity, Accountability) are in place, Quality naturally follows. What are the leading roles of your institution in terms of the incubation center and industry engagement? One of our best practices is ensuring that every faculty member is in touch with a minimum of two industries. For example, in a department with 15 faculty members, we have connections with 30 industries. Faculty members develop relationships with industry professionals, bring them to address students, and ultimately establish memorandums of understanding. This approach brings industry-oriented skills meaningfully into our university. What does the term ‘New Normal’ mean to you in the context of education? The New Normal is about being student-centric. Education should focus on where graduates go after graduation, anticipating their future needs. The goal is to foresee the skills and knowledge they will require three to four years after graduating and adapt our educational practices accordingly. This forward-thinking approach is what I consider the New Normal. How do forums like this, which bring together representatives from schools, higher education, skill education, technical education, and tech companies, benefit the society at large? I’m really touched by the name “ARCOM.” It stands for Community, Aspiration, Reimagination, Digitalization, Opportunity, and Readiness. These are exactly what we need in today’s educational scenario. Such forums motivate students and ensure they serve the community. Bringing industry leaders and educational leaders together provides a platform for sharing best practices and learning from each other. It’s an excellent initiative that should continue. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? Continue your efforts and gather feedback from participants. Learn from any challenges or difficulties faced in conducting this program and strive to improve in future events. Bringing together industry and educational institutions on one platform is a mammoth task, and you are doing an exceptional job. Congratulations! Any final thoughts? Thank you so much for inviting me to this forum. It was a pleasure and honor to participate. Your efforts in connecting different stakeholders in education are commendable. Thank you.

Dr. P. Krishnakumar, CEO & Secretary, Nehru Group of Institutions emphasized on the future progress on Nehru Group of Institution

“We strongly believe in molding true citizens, which means not only giving an opportunity to complete graduation but also upskilling their abilities to meet industry requirements.” Said Dr. P. Krishnakumar Could you tell us more about your group of institutions? We have completed our 50 years of existence, starting in 1968 in Coimbatore. We have a presence in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala with over 24 institutions, ranging from schools to a medical college. How do you ensure sustainability in education within your diverse group of institutions? We strongly believe in molding true citizens, which means not only giving an opportunity to complete graduation but also upskilling their abilities to meet industry requirements. We emphasize training and employability. For example, we have Technology Business Incubation (TBI) funded by DST (central government) to create startups, and we also have the NewGen IEDC initiative, which central government funds up to 2.5 lakhs for students’ projects to help them move from prototype to commercialization. Could you elaborate on the skill development and teacher training programs in your institution? We believe in training our faculty frequently. We have quarterly training sessions where we invite trainers from different industries and academia. We also encourage our faculty to upskill through various online certification programs as we evolve from traditional education to digitalization. Are there any new initiatives in technology within your institution? We are one of the few institutions in Kattur with multiple multiplex theaters on campus. This allows students and teachers developing e-content to see their work in a theater setting, enhancing the learning experience by creating an entertaining yet educational environment. What about global collaborations and exposure to international universities? As an affiliated institution, our ability to collaborate with foreign universities is limited due to state and central government policies. Universities have more freedom to engage in student exchange programs and faculty development programs abroad, but affiliated institutions must follow strict guidelines. What are your thoughts on employment versus employability? Employability is more important because it’s not just about getting a qualification but about ensuring that students are absorbed by the best industries. This is crucial for an educational institution’s survival. Top institutions maintain their status by ensuring high employability for their graduates. We focus on incubation and entrepreneurship, promoting a startup culture that allows students to understand entrepreneurship and take risks while still studying. What does the term ‘New Normal’ mean to you? New Normal means introducing new changes and ways of thinking and executing programs. It involves changing the traditional system to adapt to new methods and ideas, reflecting a fresh approach to education and leadership. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? ArdorComm Media is doing an excellent job of connecting educational institutions and stakeholders. Networking and sharing knowledge are crucial in today’s world. Your role in connecting people from different age groups, experiences, and industries is invaluable. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many people from top institutions today, which is beneficial for information and networking. This positively impacts the education sector and brings about new changes. Keep up the good work. Any final thoughts? Thank you so much for inviting me to this event. It was impressive talking with you, and I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this forum. Thank you.  

Swapnil Omprakash Mandhana, Director – Learning and Development, Teachmint expressed on upcoming mission of Teachmint

“We believe in refreshing learning. We aim to create a solid platform for educational institutions worldwide by implementing robust curriculums and the right policies” said Swapnil Omprakash Mandhana Can you tell me more about Teachmint? Absolutely! At Teachmint, we believe in refreshing learning. We aim to create a solid platform for educational institutions worldwide by implementing robust curriculums and the right policies. Our vision is to seamlessly enable academic learning by providing specific classroom devices integrated with our proprietary learning management system. These devices offer high-end specifications to ensure holistic utilization, making teaching and learning processes easy, comprehensive, purposeful, and visible, while also incorporating data-driven AI. What has been your success story so far, and how has the industry responded to your initiatives? Initially, we thought of Teachmint as merely providing devices. However, after engaging with schools and colleges, we received amazing reflections. This empowered us to delve deeper into the problem statement. We realized that while there is existing infrastructure, implementation was challenging due to teachers not being equipped. Our devices, integrated with our management system, have provided visibility to management, teachers, and parents, enhancing communication and transparency in the learning process. What sets Teach apart from other institutions that already have learning management systems (LMS) in place? Teachmint’s unique proposition lies in driving the LMS towards the end learning outcome comprehensively. We go beyond merely compartmentalizing resources; our focus is on purposeful learning by enabling teachers to plan lessons, share resources, create tests, and generate analytical reports seamlessly. Our system ensures that the LMS is not just a repository for materials but a tool for scalable, measurable, and visible learning outcomes. How do forums like this one, involving educators and academicians, contribute to society at large? I believe forums like this are invaluable. They gather passionate educators who are driven by the desire to learn and improve education. Participants come with a purpose, making it easier to share knowledge and align efforts towards common goals, such as achieving excellence in education and enhancing digital infrastructure in schools. Such focused platforms facilitate effective communication and the dissemination of key messages. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? ArdorComm Media Group is doing an excellent job in organizing forums that bring together schools and institutes. The sessions have been purposeful, fostering meaningful discussions and queries about our brand value. I encourage ArdorComm Media Group to continue their efforts in connecting schools and promoting insightful dialogue. Thank you for your support and association. Good luck with your endeavors!

Dr. Shaleesha A. Stanley, Pro Chancellor, Jeppiaar University, Chennai expressed the future prospect of JPR University

“We prioritize their upskilling by sending them for faculty development programs and sponsoring their participation in conferences” said Dr. Shaleesha A. Stanley Can you tell us more about JPR University and its initiatives in digital transformation and student development? JPR University, a state private university operational for the past two years, prioritizes initiatives such as AI-powered learning management systems and digital transformation. We focus on incorporating ability enhancement courses and promoting English as a second language, considering them as crucial aspects for student development. We are grateful to Arcom for providing us with a platform to share our views and experiences, and we look forward to collaborating with them in the future. How does your institution prioritize teacher training and upskilling? At JPR University, we believe that teachers are pivotal in the education sector. Hence, we prioritize their upskilling by sending them for faculty development programs and sponsoring their participation in conferences. We ensure that they play a vital role in education and maintain their happiness, as they are integral to our educational endeavors. What does the term “New Normal” mean to you in the context of education? For me, “New Normal” signifies a continuous process of renewal, refreshing, and reliving the path of education. It emphasizes adapting to changing circumstances and embracing innovative approaches to education to meet evolving needs effectively. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group, considering their role in education forums like this one? ArdorComm Media Group has been truly fantastic and fabulous in its endeavors. Despite being relatively young, they have maintained quality, consistency, and played a vital role in various education stakeholders’ businesses, including students and faculty. I wholeheartedly support and stand by their efforts, and I believe they will continue to excel in their contributions to the education sector. Thank you for hosting this forum and providing a platform for meaningful discussions.

ISB Ranks Number One in India, 26 Globally in FT Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has been ranked first in India and 26th globally in the Financial Times (FT) Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024. The institution also secured the second spot in Asia. Among the other institutions featured in the ranking are EMLyon Business School, York University, IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad, and IIM Indore. These institutions were evaluated based on parameters such as Program Design, Value for Money, Future Use, and Preparation. ISB particularly excelled in the Future Use parameter, achieving the top spot globally. Indian Institutions in FT Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024: Name Program Design Value For Money Future Use Preparation Indian School of Business 28 15 1 27 EMLyon Business School 33 40 75 36 York University: Schulich 38 38 42 39 IIM Bangalore 44 37 29 41 IIM Ahmedabad 74 58 34 71 IIM Indore 86 86 80 73 ISB issued a press release celebrating this achievement, highlighting its extensive range of programs for enterprises and public sector organizations across various domains and leadership levels. ISB’s association with central and state government entities involves capacity-building measures, customized learning solutions, skill development at scale, and research and impact assessments that inform policymaking. Deepa Mani, Deputy Dean and Professor of Information Systems at ISB, remarked that the FT Ranking reflects ISB Executive Education’s dedication to equipping learners with essential knowledge and behaviors for transformative change in global businesses and society. Mani emphasized ISB’s commitment to integrating advanced learning pedagogies, leveraging world-class faculty expertise, and utilizing cutting-edge research and comprehensive market insights to achieve learner-focused outcomes. Sujatha Kumaraswamy, Executive Director of Executive Education and Digital Learning at ISB, noted that over 60,000 learners globally have benefited from ISB’s 1,300+ programs in 260 Indian and global entities. Kumaraswamy stated that ISB aims to create a broader impact by continuing to provide innovative offerings backed by cutting-edge research and industry-relevant outcomes for India and other emerging economies.  

Previewing the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 to be held on 3rd May 2024 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

In a world constantly evolving, education stands as the cornerstone of progress, shaping minds, and molding futures. As we navigate through the complexities of the 21st century, the need for innovative, forward-thinking education has never been more pressing. Embracing this spirit of change and advancement, ArdorComm Media Group proudly presents the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024, set to take place in the vibrant city of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, on May 3rd, 2024. Pioneering Education in Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, emerges as a beacon of educational excellence within India. With Coimbatore, a bustling educational hub in South India, as its backdrop, the summit promises to be a melting pot of ideas, innovations, and insights. Students flock to Coimbatore from every corner of the nation, drawn by its esteemed educational institutions and unwavering commitment to quality education. A Convergence of Minds The summit serves as a Knowledge Forum, bringing together luminaries from various spheres of the education ecosystem. Academicians, educators, edupreneurs, innovators, industry experts, and government dignitaries will converge to share their experiences, expertise, and accomplishments. With over 50 speakers, representing a diverse range of perspectives, the event promises enriching discussions and thought-provoking insights. Our Sponsors and Partners The 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 is proud to announce its esteemed partners, each contributing to the event’s success and impact. LinkedIn, as the Presenting Partner, brings its unparalleled networking platform to foster connections and collaboration. Samsung, the Powered By Partner, infuses the summit with cutting-edge technology and innovation. D2L, the EdTech Partner, provides expertise in learning management systems, driving continuous improvement in education. Intercell, the Mentoring Partner, offers guidance and support to empower future leaders. Teachmint, the Connected Classroom Technology Partner, facilitates seamless integration of technology into the learning experience. DigitalEd India and SAS, as Associate Partners, bring their respective expertise to enrich discussions and insights. Finally, Kalorex, the School Partner, represents excellence in education, embodying the summit’s mission to pioneer educational advancements. Together, these partners form a formidable alliance dedicated to shaping the future of education. Celebrating Excellence Central to the summit is the ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024, a testament to the tireless dedication and innovation driving the education community forward. This prestigious accolade honors individuals, educational institutions, EdTech pioneers, and startups whose unwavering commitment has propelled the sector to new heights. Through recognition and celebration, the awards aim to inspire further excellence and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the education landscape. The ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024 will recognize excellence across six segments, including Higher Education, School Education, Preschools, Skills & Training, Corporate, and Startups. By honoring the trendsetters, innovators, and education leaders of today, the awards aim to inspire future generations and catalyze positive change within the sector. Exploring the Key Discussion Points The summit will delve into a myriad of key discussion points, addressing the evolving needs of the 21st-century learner. Innovation in Teaching and Learning: Leveraging technology and innovative teaching methods to enhance student engagement and outcomes. Skills for the Future Workforce: Strategies for integrating employability skills and career readiness into educational programs. Sustainable Education Practices: Integrating sustainability education into the curriculum to foster responsible citizenship. Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity in Education: Building digital literacy skills among educators and students to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly. Global Collaboration and Partnerships in Education: Harnessing the power of international collaboration and partnerships to enrich teaching and learning experiences. The summit will also witness two insightful Leadership Talk Sessions Samsung Sponsored: Leadership Talk Session – A Roundtable Discussion  Topic: Experience unlimited learning possibilities with Samsung: Future trends and  innovations in technology to ensure education institutions represent the future of classrooms. D2L Sponsored –  Leadership Talk Session – A Roundtable Discussion Topic: Adapting to Change: Future-Proofing Education with Innovative Technologies and Continuous Improvement in Learning Management Systems A Call to Action As we stand on the cusp of a new era in education, the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 serves as a rallying cry for progress and transformation. Together, let us unlock the boundless potential of education, shaping a future where every learner has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Join us tomorrow, 3rd May’24 in Coimbatore as we embark on this transformative journey, charting a course towards a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. Stay tuned for live updates and highlights from the summit. For more details, visit https://ardorcomm-media.com/elsacoimbatore/ Follow #ELSATamilNadu #ELSACoimbatore #ArdorComm #NewNormal for the latest updates and insights.

Kota Coaching Institutes Witness Surge in Admissions, Catering to Diverse Fields

Kota, renowned as the coaching hub of India, is experiencing a significant uptick in admissions, with over 85,000 students flocking to its institutes. This surge reflects a growing demand for coaching across various fields, including engineering, medicine, and commerce, drawing students and parents from all corners of the nation. Traditionally known for engineering and medical coaching, Kota’s tutoring sector is expanding to accommodate students pursuing commerce studies, signaling a shift in educational priorities. The city’s coaching institutes are witnessing heightened interest, aligning with national trends as millions of students register for medical and engineering entrance exams. Last year, Kota welcomed over 2 lakh students for coaching, with admissions surpassing 85,000 this year. The influx continues as students enroll post-exams, with ongoing entrance tests for 2024 attracting aspirants to the city. Kota’s strategic infrastructure ensures convenience for students and parents, with essential amenities located within close proximity to coaching centres. Moreover, Kota’s coaching prowess extends beyond national boundaries, with students securing admissions to prestigious universities worldwide, including MIT, Cambridge, and Oxford. Over the past three years, Kota-based students have gained entry to numerous foreign institutions, highlighting the city’s global academic influence. As Kota remains a beacon for academic excellence, its role in shaping students’ careers and facilitating admissions to esteemed educational institutions underscores its significance in the educational landscape. With its continued allure, Kota stands as a symbol of aspiration and achievement for students and parents embarking on their academic journeys.