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Sudhir Shetty, Vice President – Marketing, Anthology, Discusses the Company’s Vision for Education Technology in India

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“Our USP has always been that we will bring the best-in-class solutions in whichever areas we operate,” says Sudhir Shetty, Vice President – Marketing, Anthology, in an interview with Pratik Ghosh, Content Writer, ArdorComm Media at the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ #ELSABengaluru #ELSAKarnataka How are you feeling to witness the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in Bangalore? Yeah, it was a good event as I got a lot of new learnings. There were people from public universities, private universities, corporates, so it was a really good session. Could you highlight what Anthology is offering to the K-12 as well as the higher education sector? We are globally one of the largest education technology providers for higher education. We are in 80 plus countries and work with around 8,000 plus institutions. We offer end-to-end solutions for students, from the time they take admission to the time they become alumni. We incorporate the best of Enterprise Solutions, from teaching and learning to operations to CRMs. We have it all. We have been in India for some time under different names, and we primarily promote our SIS (Student Information Systems) and our Learning Management Solutions under the Blackboard name. What is the vision and mission of Anthology? We are in the business of education, so we aim to spread education across the globe and improve from an India perspective. We want to be enablers in the gross enrolment ratios, encouraging students to go for higher education. Our global aim is to improve the lives of both educators and people who are getting educated. What’s the USP (Unique Selling Proposition) of Anthology? We build the best-in-class technology solutions, but we also work in an interoperable world. We believe that the student and learner experience should be world-class, and we build all our solutions with a focus on the learner’s perspective and promoting lifelong learning. We were the first to incorporate AI from OpenAI into an LMS solution, and we have many firsts in this field. We invented the category of learning management 30 years ago. Our USP has always been that we will bring the best-in-class solutions in whichever areas we operate. Any message or wishes for ArdorComm Media Group on recently completing its 2 years journey? I would wish them all the best of luck, and they have been a great partner to us. We’ll continue working with them as it has been really helpful in spreading our message to this market, especially in growing in this market.

Dr. Hemalatha S. Murthy, Principal Director, White Petals Group of Institutions, Shares Insights on Technology Driven Learning

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“We gain unique insights and takeaways every time we attend such events,” says Dr. Hemalatha S. Murthy, Principal Director, White Petals Group of Institutions, in an interview with Pratik Ghosh, Content Writer, ArdorComm Media at the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ #ELSABengaluru #ELSAKarnataka How are you feeling to witness the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in Bengaluru? It’s a great pleasure. I have been associated with Chandan Anand and LinkedIn for more than eight years. They have been organizing tremendous events focused on the process of learning through technology, awareness, and principles of education. These events can significantly impact the transformation of education. As you know, the theme of our event is New Normal Karnataka. What’s your take on this? My take on this theme is how technology, including chatbots and AI, can be implemented in Karnataka. The state has not only Bangalore but also many rural areas. We should strive to make Bangalore a better place using AI and ChatGPT. How are you implementing these new-age technologies in your institution? We have already started incorporating these technologies, and we’re exploring the use of chat GPT to enhance the educational materials provided to students. In forums like this, where we bring together education leaders, EdTech players, and government representatives, how do you think they benefit the education sector? These forums are not about individuals but about a group of people learning from each other. We gain unique insights and takeaways every time we attend such events. It’s about mutual learning and growth. Any message or wishes for ArdorComm Media Group on its 2nd anniversary? I would like to encourage you to keep growing. There’s a lot that needs to reach educators and students through your efforts. Continuous learning and improvement are key. Thank you.

Karnataka Establishes New Textbook Revision Committee with Three-Month Mandate for Curriculum Overhaul

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The Karnataka government has taken steps to form a fresh textbook revision committee aimed at revising the state’s educational curriculum. This initiative will focus on first and second language Kannada textbooks for classes 1 to 10, third language Kannada textbooks for classes 9 and 10, as well as social science textbooks for classes 6 to 10. In an official order issued on September 25, the government appointed Dr. Manjunath Hegde, a retired history professor, as the chief coordinator of this committee. The panel, comprising 37 members including education experts and academicians, has been granted a maximum of three months to complete the revision of textbooks. The goal is to implement the updated curriculum in the academic year 2024-25. It’s worth noting that the previous textbook revision, conducted when the BJP was in power, faced criticism due to concerns of ideological bias. At that time, Rohit Chakrathirtha, a right-wing ideologue, was appointed as the chairman of the revision committee. The opposition, led by the Congress, accused the government of injecting a right-wing perspective into the textbooks by including content related to RSS founder KB Hedgewar, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, and works by right-wing activists like Chakravarthy Sulibele. The primary responsibility of the 37-member committee is to provide educational guidance and recommendations to the government regarding the revision of textbooks in the specified subjects and classes. Additionally, the order suggests that the chief coordinator and other committee members receive a monthly honorarium and other facilities during the three-month period. Dr. Manjunath Hegde, hailing from Uttara Kannada district, will lead the committee, overseeing five subject-specific textbook revision committees: Dr. Anjanappa, a Kannada professor at Tunga Mahavidyalaya in Shivamogga, will head the first language Kannada textbook revision committee, consisting of 10 members. Dr. HS Sathyanarayan, a Kannada lecturer at Government Girls PU College in Chikkamagaluru, will preside over the second language Kannada textbook revision committee, also comprising 10 members. Dr. Manjanna, a lecturer at Government Women’s First Degree College in Davangere, will lead the third language Kannada textbook revision committee, which includes four members. Dr. Kiran M, an assistant professor at the Central University of Gulbarga, will serve as the president of the social science textbook revision committee for classes 6 and 7, comprising seven members. Dr. Ashwathnarayan, a retired history professor of Bangalore University, will head the social science textbook revision committee for classes 8, 9, and 10, with 10 members. One noteworthy change this year is the inclusion of minority representation in the committee, addressing a criticism faced by the BJP last year. The Congress government has appointed three Muslims to the committee, including Waseem Anwar, an assistant teacher at Karnataka Public School in Tumkur, who is a member of the social science textbook revision committee for classes 6 and 7. Tabbasum Fathima, an assistant teacher at Government Urdu High School in Ramanagara, and Shaheena Alampura, an assistant teacher at Government High School in Bengaluru Rural, are members of the social science textbook revision committee for classes 8, 9, and 10. Earlier this year, the Congress government had initiated 18 changes in the Kannada and Social Science subjects for classes 6 to 10. These changes involved the removal of a class 10 lesson on Hedgewar, “Who Should Be an Ideal Man,” and its replacement with “Story of Sukumara Swami” authored by Shivakotacharya in Kannada language. Additionally, the Congress reintroduced “Letters from a Father to His Daughter” by Jawaharlal Nehru, translated into Kannada by Siddanahalli Krishna Sharma, in class 8, reversing the BJP’s previous decision to exclude it and introduce “BhooKailasa” by Parampalli Narasimha Aithal, which has now been removed.

Indian Government Launches Skill India Digital: Transforming Skill Development, Education, and Employment Landscape

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The Indian government, under the leadership of Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, unveiled Skill India Digital (SID), a digital platform with the goal of revolutionizing the education, skill development, employment, and entrepreneurship landscape in India. SID serves as the digital public infrastructure (DPI) for India’s skill development, education, employment, and entrepreneurship ecosystem, aiming to make skill enhancement more innovative, accessible, and personalized, particularly focusing on digital technology and industry 4.0 skills. Its primary objectives are to facilitate the hiring of skilled talent, support lifelong learning, and promote career advancement. Furthermore, SID will serve as a comprehensive information hub for all government initiatives related to skill development and entrepreneurship. Minister Pradhan expressed that the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has established an open-source platform to cater to the diverse skilling needs of India’s population. Skill India Digital represents a significant step towards leveraging India’s demographic advantage and positioning the country as a global skills hub. This digital initiative is set to revolutionize the learning and skill development landscape, making skilling accessible to everyone, anytime and anywhere. SID offers support in multiple Indian languages and ensures secure access through Aadhaar-based eKYC verification to ensure genuine participation. The platform adopts a mobile-first approach, enabling uninterrupted learning on handheld devices. One of its standout features is the use of Digitally Verified Credentials, which allows users to present their qualifications, experiences, and certifications in a digital format with built-in authenticity. Through personalized QR codes, potential employers and partners can easily access a candidate’s portfolio, showcasing their skills, qualifications, experiences, and accomplishments. The platform is designed to encompass all training programs initiated by both central and state governments, as well as various departments. This centralized hub for skill development initiatives aims to provide learners with improved accessibility, personalized learning experiences, streamlined verification processes, and enhanced career guidance. Ultimately, Skill India Digital seeks to empower individuals to acquire relevant skills, stay updated with industry trends, and contribute effectively to the country’s workforce development.

PM Modi Highlights India’s Inclusive Tech Initiatives and Global Impact

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In an interview with a news agency, Prime Minister Modi discussed how India’s digital public infrastructure is promoting social inclusion and democratizing technology. He emphasized that India’s efforts have gained global recognition and are paving the way for a broader global movement. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the success of the CoWIN initiative, which facilitated the world’s largest vaccine drive, providing over 200 crore free doses. The platform, CoWIN, was even made open source for other countries to adopt. Referring to the UPI initiative, Modi noted that digital transactions are empowering businesses of all sizes, from street vendors to major banks, and contributing to financial inclusion. He praised India’s Digital Public Infrastructure for its role in delivering public services during the pandemic, citing the Jan Dhan-Aadhar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity’s effectiveness in ensuring financial inclusion and benefit transfers. Modi also mentioned the ONDC e-commerce initiative, which is seen as a significant step in democratizing digital platforms and creating a level playing field. He discussed the adoption of India’s digital public infrastructure by the G20 forum, which has established principles for a secure digital economy and laid the foundation for the One Future Alliance to coordinate global efforts in this regard. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission’s impact on healthcare service delivery and India’s commitment to global health through the G20’s Global Digital Health Initiative. He stressed India’s approach of using technology to promote inclusion and equality, turning it into a force for good. Modi also addressed the government’s efforts to enhance cybersecurity, acknowledging the challenges posed by technology in combating illicit financial activities and terrorism. The Prime Minister celebrated India’s achievements across various domains, including the space sector, startups, sports, and education, expressing optimism about India’s economic prospects in the near future. This interview provides valuable insights into India’s efforts to leverage technology for social inclusion and global cooperation. Interview link: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/ptis-exclusive-interview-with-prime-minister-narendra-modi/

NCERT Granted Deemed University Status

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In a significant development, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has been granted the prestigious status of a deemed university, as announced by the Union Minister for Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan. This announcement was made during the commemoration of NCERT’s 63rd foundation day in the national capital. Over the years, NCERT has played a pivotal role in educational research and has actively influenced various aspects of school education, teacher training, and adult literacy. With this new status as a research university, NCERT will have the opportunity to engage in global collaborations and contribute to the international educational landscape. Minister Pradhan also highlighted the significance of “Jadui Pitara,” an innovative play-based learning-teaching material designed for children aged 3 to 8 years, which has the potential to positively impact 10 crore children across the country. During his address, Minister Pradhan stressed the importance of creating educational content in native languages. He proposed the establishment of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Artificial Intelligence labs in all seven regional NCERT centres to foster research and innovation in India. These centres should be equipped with state-of-the-art technologies from around the world and have infrastructure ready for the future. He also urged NCERT to standardize teacher training curricula in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). Recognizing the significance of the fourth industrial revolution, Minister Pradhan suggested the creation of concise booklets covering various subjects, including recent developments like India’s Covid-19 management and Chandrayaan 3. He emphasized the importance of imparting knowledge about the latest advancements alongside Indian values and traditions to the new generation. During the event, students from the Regional Institute of Education in Bhopal performed a skit and song in 22 languages, showcasing the educational impact of “Jadui Pitara.” Additionally, a short film highlighted several noteworthy initiatives and achievements of NCERT. Minister Pradhan also inaugurated a new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory at the Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET) as part of the celebrations. NCERT, established in 1961 under the Society Act, has been instrumental in advising and assisting the government in matters related to school education. This recent recognition as a deemed university marks a significant milestone in its educational journey.

Major General (Dr.) Mandip Singh, SM, VSM, President Strategic Alliances, DroneAcharya, Shares the USP of the Company

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“We want to train any youth who wants to fly a drone,” says Major General (Dr.) Mandip Singh, SM, VSM, President Strategic Alliances, DroneAcharya, in an Interview with Pratik Ghosh, Content Writer, ArdorComm Media Group at the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ #ELSANewDelhi #ELSAGurugram How are you feeling to witness the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in Delhi? It’s truly amazing. In fact, I am so glad that we got an opportunity to come here. It’s something that I think the idea has come, and I’m so glad that the new education policy, which is focusing so much on skills, is being actually talked about at length in this seminar and gathering, both at the university level and at the school level. As far as we are concerned at Dronacharya, we are basically a company that is into training and services, and our view is that we must inculcate the idea of aviation and drone technology at the school level, starting from class six. So I am here to propagate this idea. You must be aware that the Prime Minister has a mission and vision that India must be the global hub of drones by 2030. So, we would like to actively contribute to that vision. What’s the USP of Dronacharya? Dronacharya is a training company, it’s derived from guru ‘Dronacharya’ in the Mahabharata who was the guru of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. We picked up from there, and that’s how we are into training. We want to train any youth who wants to fly a drone. Today, it’s very simple. If you want to drive a car or a scooter, you need a license. Similarly, if you want to fly a drone, you need a license. We are a qualified RPTO (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator), and we provide DGCA-certified training. Once you complete the course, you get a qualified DGCA certificate and a license to fly a drone for 10 years. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group on its 2nd anniversary? More power to ArdorComm Media! If this is the second anniversary, let’s hope that every year it only improves and gets better. Thank you so much for inviting me; it’s been a pleasure to interact with you.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils New Curriculum Framework: Board Exams Twice a Year, Best Scores to Count

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Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, has unveiled the finalized curriculum framework in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Under this new framework, textbooks corresponding to these changes will be created and introduced for the academic session starting in 2024. According to the NCF, board exams will now be held twice a year, allowing students to retain their best scores. This adjustment aims to provide students with ample time and opportunities to excel academically. It empowers students to choose when to sit for board exams in subjects they feel confident about. The focus of these board exams will shift towards assessing students’ understanding and competency rather than encouraging rote learning and memorization. Another significant change is that students in classes 11 and 12 will be required to study two languages, with at least one being an Indian language. The traditional limitations on subject choices based on academic streams will also be eliminated, granting students more flexibility. Moreover, there are plans for school boards to eventually offer ‘on-demand’ exams. Additionally, those involved in designing and evaluating board exams will need to complete university-certified courses to enhance their skills in this area. Furthermore, the new framework discourages the practice of covering textbooks in classrooms, emphasizing the need to optimize textbook costs. These changes signal a comprehensive transformation in the education system, with a focus on holistic learning and flexibility.

IIT Kanpur to Host Udghosh 2023 Sports Festival, Featuring National School Quiz

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IIT Kanpur is preparing for its annual sports festival, Udghosh 2023, and to make it more accessible to school students, the institute has introduced the Udghosh National Open School Quiz (UNOSQ) for students in grades 5 to 12. The competition consists of two phases, where participants will need to demonstrate their logical thinking, problem-solving skills, general knowledge, and sports acumen. The quiz is segmented into four categories to cater to different age groups: Pool A for younger students (grades 5 and 6), Pool B for emerging talents (grades 7 and 8), Pool C for champions (grades 9 and 10), and Pool D for pioneers (grades 11 and 12). In the first phase, participants will engage in intellectual challenges, featuring a mix of logic, aptitude, problem-solving, general awareness, and sports knowledge. It promises to be a mental adventure that sharpens thinking skills. The first phase is scheduled for August 27. The second phase, set for September 3, is exclusively for the top 100 students. It will present even more demanding questions to test participants’ mettle and knowledge. The UNOSQ will conclude on September 7, with the final winners announced on that day. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend interactive sessions with industry experts and thought leaders. A felicitation ceremony is planned at IIT Kanpur on October 8 as part of the closing celebrations for Udghosh 2023. Winners will receive prizes worth over Rs 50,000, along with various merchandise and goodies.

Wipro Collaborates with IIT Delhi to Establish Centre of Excellence in Generative AI

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 Wipro, a prominent IT company, has unveiled a centre of excellence centred around generative artificial intelligence (AI) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi). The newly established centre is situated within the Yardi School of Artificial Intelligence at IIT Delhi and is intended to foster applied research in the realm of generative AI. According to an official statement, the primary objective of this Centre of Excellence (CoE) is to foster and enhance research and development capabilities in emerging domains like generative AI, while also facilitating connections between candidates and a pool of talented individuals. Wipro’s Chief Technology Officer, Subha Tatavarti, emphasized the aim of this initiative. Working collaboratively, Wipro’s CoE teams will engage in the creation of inventive solutions employing AI, Machine Learning (ML), and other cutting-edge technologies, as stated by the company. Experts suggest that this centre of excellence will offer students the opportunity to gain practical insight into industry-specific problems, thereby equipping them with both understanding and solutions. Professor Mausam, the Head of the Yardi School of AI at IIT Delhi, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it will provide valuable learning and growth prospects for students. This collaboration is anticipated to yield mutual benefits and significantly contribute to India’s progress in these pivotal new technology domains.