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

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image 2024 05 30T07 18 46 662Z ArdorComm Media Group 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.

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

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image 2024 05 28T12 02 40 623Z ArdorComm Media Group 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. Gangadhar G Hugar, Director – MBA Department, Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute of Management, Valsad expressed the vision of S.N.V International School on NEP 2020

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image 2024 02 26T04 37 05 545Z ArdorComm Media Group Dr. Gangadhar G Hugar, Director – MBA Department, Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute of Management, Valsad expressed the vision of S.N.V International School on NEP 2020

“AICTE and UGC need to organize massive decentralized workshops at state, regional, and district levels to educate stakeholders on how to implement NEP policies effectively” said Dr. Gangadhar G Hugar, Director – MBA Department, Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute of Management, Valsad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. How does the new education policy actually help students become market-ready? In my view, the National Education Policy, which has been drafted by AICTE and UGC, is still not visible in the education market. As per my knowledge, only about 10 to 15% of elite higher education institutions have been able to execute NEP policy amendments and move forward. The remaining 85 to 90% of institutions, especially those in rural and tier 2 areas, are still following traditional methods of education. In my opinion, to address this, AICTE and UGC need to organize massive decentralized workshops at state, regional, and district levels to educate stakeholders on how to implement NEP policies effectively. This will ensure that the benefits of these policies reach the broader education community. How do you think implementing AI and technology in the education system will impact it in the next 5 to 10 years? While I’m not a technical expert, artificial intelligence is making waves globally, including in education and corporate sectors. However, its impact on the education system in India may not be significant in the next five to ten years. India needs to be more open to accepting new technologies like AI. Currently, traditional methods still dominate, and there is hesitancy in embracing new developments. I believe that AI implementation may only impact around 5 to 10% of the education system in India within the next decade. How is your university taking the lead in terms of addressing the mental health of students on campus? At Laxmi Vidyapeeth Institute, we have a vision to become a private university in the coming years. We aim to offer diverse courses to cater to the needs of students in our geographical area. Additionally, we prioritize creating a supportive and friendly environment on campus to alleviate stress among students. We encourage two-way communication with students, listen to their ideas, and implement feasible suggestions to enhance their experience. Moreover, we organize extracurricular activities to provide students with opportunities for relaxation and exploration outside the classroom, fostering creativity and personal growth. ArdorComm Media is now celebrating its second year of existence. Any message or suggestions you wish to share with us? I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Chandan Ji for leading ArdorComm. This event has brought together education leaders, including vice-chancellors, directors, and philanthropists, to share valuable insights. I believe that together, we can work towards converting the ideas discussed here into practical implementations for the benefit of the education community. I encourage ArdorComm to continue its efforts in facilitating such discussions and initiatives.

Archit Bhatt, Managing Director, Tripada Group of Schools & President, AOPS, Ahmedabad expressed the roadmap of NEP 2020

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image 2024 02 26T04 33 05 069Z ArdorComm Media Group Archit Bhatt, Managing Director, Tripada Group of Schools & President, AOPS, Ahmedabad expressed the roadmap of NEP 2020

“We need to understand the previous national education policy of 1986 and the Indian knowledge system” said Archit Bhatt, Managing Director, Tripada Group of Schools & President, AOPS, Ahmedabad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. How can educators align with the government to uplift the Indian education system for the upcoming years? The government has indeed provided a new policy, and it’s the role of educators to work on implementing it. We need to understand the previous national education policy of 1986 and the Indian knowledge system. Educators should start by understanding the new policy, unlearn old methods, and adapt to the necessities of the new era. It will take about four to five years to implement the new policy comprehensively, both in rural and urban areas. It’s essential for educators to actively participate in policy discussions, provide feedback, and collaborate with government bodies to ensure effective implementation. By aligning with the government’s vision and actively contributing to policy development, educators can play a significant role in uplifting the Indian education system for the upcoming years. What steps do you suggest to improve school infrastructure for all educators? Infrastructure needs to be inclusive, accommodating learning and physically disabled students into mainstream schooling. From upgrading washrooms to staircases, every aspect needs to ensure equality. The divide between regular and special schools should be eliminated. Also, teacher training infrastructure needs upgrading to align with the new policy’s requirements. Providing accessible and modern facilities not only enhances the learning environment but also fosters inclusivity and equality among students. Additionally, investing in continuous professional development programs for teachers is crucial to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. How is the new education policy targeting the rote learning process and promoting experiential learning? The focus is on developing skills rather than rote or experiential learning. From grade five onwards, the emphasis is on skill development for better employability, considering the uncertain job market due to technological advancements like AI. The new education policy aims to shift the focus from memorization to understanding and application of concepts. By incorporating experiential learning methods such as project-based learning, internships, and hands-on activities, students can develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills essential for success in the modern world. The policy encourages educators to adopt innovative teaching methodologies that engage students actively in the learning process, fostering creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning skills. What’s your overall takeaway from this event? More open forums and discussions are needed for societal progress. Media organizations should spread awareness, involving parents as major stakeholders. Bridging the gap between traditional entrance exams and the skills-focused new policy is crucial, and platforms like ArdorComm can facilitate this. The event provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in education and emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving positive change. As educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, we must continue to work together to create a more inclusive, equitable, and future-ready education system for all learners. As we’re celebrating our second anniversary, any message you’d like to share with us? I believe open forums and panel discussions should involve parents more, as they’re crucial stakeholders. Platforms like yours play a significant role in bridging the gap between traditional and skill-based education.

Kamal Mangal, Founder, Anand Niketan Group of Schools, Ahmedabad expressed his thought on the roadmap of NEP 2020

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image 2024 02 26T04 19 18 237Z ArdorComm Media Group Kamal Mangal, Founder, Anand Niketan Group of Schools, Ahmedabad expressed his thought on the roadmap of NEP 2020

“We are focusing on using technology to make children familiar with it” said Kamal Mangal, Founder, Anand Niketan Group of Schools, Ahmedabad at ArdorComm Media Group hosted ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024’ on 10th February 2024 at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. What are you doing in your school for the implementation of the NEP? Shed some light on it. Implementing NEP is a nice thing if done properly. For that, we are developing theme-based curriculum and focusing on providing practical vocational experiences to children after sixth grade. We are working extensively on this aspect, including AI, carpentry, and pottery. We are striving to provide proper education in schools. How important do you consider digital learning in proper education, and what role does teacher training play in your school? Well, although COVID has done a lot, there is still much work left. We are focusing on using technology to make children familiar with it. We are also working on how to match the technology with our products, so that the burden on teachers is reduced, management is streamlined, and children are motivated. What initiatives should schools take in skill development, and what initiatives have you taken in your schools? There’s still a lot of work left. We have done more work on soft skills than hard skills. Besides hard skills, we are now thinking of working on live skills and development in soft skills too. What do you learn from such events where so many academic educators come together, and what do you gain from ArdorComm Media’s events? Firstly, there is an exchange of views, and communication continues even after the event. Secondly, there is much opportunity for development in mindset. We haven’t changed our mindset yet, how the learning of new schools changes, we will work extensively on that. I extend my good wishes for ArdorComm Media Group.

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

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News on Education 5 1 ArdorComm Media Group Punjab Government Proposes ₹3,000 Crore Action Plan for Samagra Shiksha Program

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.

Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro Chancellor, Alliance University, Highlights Significance of Skill Development and Technology Integration in Education

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image 2023 10 16T11 59 33 170Z ArdorComm Media Group Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro Chancellor, Alliance University, Highlights Significance of Skill Development and Technology Integration in Education

“We must create an environment that fosters skill absorption and includes innovative assessments that cannot be manipulated,” says Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro Chancellor, Alliance University, 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 this New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in Bengaluru? I think this is a much-called-for event, and many such events must happen in today’s day and age, especially in Bangalore. Calling it the “new normal” in Bangalore may not be entirely accurate, as Bangalore is in the lap of Silicon Valley in the East. Increasingly, technological developments are happening here, with tech and fintech firms and great educational institutions in the K12 and higher education sectors. The adoption of technology and the harmonious marriage of physical and digital is very apparent in Bangalore, making it an example for creative initiatives by schools, universities, and colleges in the educational ecosystem. So, this event is much called for, and I’m eager to listen to the other panellists. Could you highlight some initiatives that you are taking under your leadership at your university? At Alliance University we have begun this marriage between physical and digital much before and of course came the advent of covid 19, the pandemic in a way forced every stakeholder to sort of adopt into this environment more rapidly having said that use of technology is not new to our university. Just to give you an example quoting covid for example, we were recognized globally as one of the most engaging universities in collaboration with a leading online skill-based course provider. We competed with international universities and set this as a new normal. Our ecosystem, from student registration to classes and collaboration, heavily involves technology. What’s your take on skill development for students? In today’s world, skilling and upskilling are constant needs. Skills come in various forms, from domain-specific skills to interpersonal and industry-specific skills. Students learn skills at their own pace, anywhere, and at any time. However, we must create an environment that fosters skill absorption and includes innovative assessments that cannot be manipulated. Skills are evolving rapidly, and students must adapt to this constant change. In forums like this, where education leaders, EdTech players, and government representatives come together, how do these forums benefit the education sector at large? These forums serve as platforms for ideation, bringing together thought leaders from government, industry, and enablers. They also attract students who can benefit from these discussions. These forums allow for engaging, pertinent discussions, highlighting challenges and opportunities. Collaboration and networking are key outcomes of such events. ArdorComm Media Group has recently completed 2 years of its existence, any wishes or message for us? I wish that more such companies come, I wish for your company to grow many folds because this is an area where collaborators have to play a very important role and these bridges that are created need to be fostered so all the best.

Dr. Kiran Reddy, Founder of AIMS Institutes, Discusses the Role of Digitalization and Skill Development in Education

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image 2023 10 14T12 25 35 498Z ArdorComm Media Group Dr. Kiran Reddy, Founder of AIMS Institutes, Discusses the Role of Digitalization and Skill Development in Education

“Companies are looking for multi-disciplinary skills in students, and the skills we develop in them are critical,” says Dr. Kiran Reddy, Founder of AIMS Institutes 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? I feel that this is a wonderful event wherein you have touched upon the very relevant topic that we need to concentrate on. The higher education space is changing critically, and there is a drastic change where we need to think about digitalization and taking the help of technology to make students ready for it. The topics revolve around this, and the way you’ve chosen the topics and the panellists are excellent. The outcomes of these panel discussions will help the institutions to think over and go back with a lot of takeaways on how we can move towards digitalization. Companies like Anthology and the digital providers have presented well on how they can help us in creating institutions that embrace digitalization. What’s your take on skill development and the multi-disciplinary approach in education? Skill development and a multi-disciplinary approach are something we cannot do away with, especially in the post-pandemic era. Companies are looking for multi-disciplinary skills in students, and the skills we develop in them are critical. Employability is a key focus, and skill development is crucial. Multi-disciplinary education is also important because students need diverse skills that are not limited to a single discipline. For instance, skills like AI (Artificial Intelligence) should be available to not just computer science students but also management graduates who can use them in both their professional and personal lives. So, multi-disciplinarity is essential. How are you implementing technology in your institution? We have developed our own modules for admissions and have transitioned to a paperless administration. We use various apps and platforms to connect with students, share assignments, and distribute documents such as certificates and results. We conduct assessments using MCQs, where questions are automatically generated for each student. We are also exploring more integrated solutions, and your event has helped us in understanding who the right partners are for this. ArdorComm Media Group has recently completed its two-year journey. Any message or wishes for us? Since its inception, ArdorComm Media Group has been moving in the right direction. Their involvement in the education sector and the way they bring together allied service providers to these events is an excellent initiative. We know that they are one of the best in bringing up these conclaves, summits and events. I wish them all the best and look forward to many more events from them.

UGC Draft Guidelines Propose Mandatory Internships for Undergraduate Students to Enhance Employability and Research Skills

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News on Edu 13th Oct 2023 ArdorComm Media Group UGC Draft Guidelines Propose Mandatory Internships for Undergraduate Students to Enhance Employability and Research Skills

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released preliminary guidelines suggesting mandatory internships for undergraduate students as a means to enhance their employability and foster an understanding of research while earning academic credits. These draft guidelines, titled “Guidelines for Internship/Research Internship for Undergraduate Students,” are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the integration of internships and research opportunities into undergraduate curricula. The UGC made these guidelines available to the public for feedback and suggestions. The UGC has recognized that many graduates struggle to enter the workforce due to their lack of practical skills, knowledge, and experience, which employers typically seek. Internships are considered a crucial tool for improving these employability skills and can equip students with competency, professionalism, expertise, and confidence, as well as kindle their interest in research. Currently, internships are not obligatory for all undergraduate programs and are primarily restricted to technical and professional courses. UGC Chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar believes that hands-on experience through internships will bridge the gap between academic learning and the real world, enhancing students’ grasp of concepts. He emphasizes the importance of students acquiring a broad range of skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These internships, as outlined in the UGC guidelines, are designed to help students gain valuable soft and technical skills highly valued by employers and establish professional connections with potential mentors. The draft guidelines propose two types of undergraduate internships: those focused on employability and those designed to cultivate a passion for research. For students pursuing a three-year undergraduate degree, a mandatory internship of 60 to 120 hours will occur after the fourth semester. Those opting for a four-year degree will participate in a research internship during the eighth semester. These internships can earn students up to 12 academic credits. The guidelines also recommend the appointment of a coordinator or the establishment of a well-defined mechanism for the smooth coordination and execution of internships across diverse disciplines within each higher education institution’s research and development (R&D) cell. Furthermore, the guidelines propose evaluating students during their internships. Evaluation methods may include assessments by the research internship supervisor based on the students’ efforts and research output or through seminar presentations and viva-voce at the higher education institution (HEI).

Dr. A. M. Surendra Kumar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Presidency University, Shares Insights on Skill Development

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image 2023 10 05T12 16 57 157Z ArdorComm Media Group Dr. A. M. Surendra Kumar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Presidency University, Shares Insights on Skill Development

“We incorporate skill development courses into the curriculum, including life skills and soft skills,” says Dr. A. M. Surendra Kumar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Presidency University, 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? I frequently attend this type of education summit, especially in Bangalore, which is an education hub. There are a lot of opportunities, and these events help in understanding the concept of education. They provide a platform to discuss how we can move forward and address concerns with other educators. I’m coming from an emerging University especially in Bangalore where we have more than 16,000 students are there are lot of opportunities which we can discuss with. So, you are making a platform to take care about all our concerns, to discuss with the other educators, so you are doing a wonderful job. As you know, the theme of our event is “New Normal Karnataka.” What’s your take on this? Since Karnataka is an education hub, especially in Bangalore, there are many opportunities. The government has recently allowed five private universities, which adds to the opportunities. This platform provides a great idea about the education landscape, especially in the Karnataka region. How are you implementing new-age technologies in your university? We have incorporated technology-enabled platforms, especially in engineering and computer science. Emerging technology programs like AI, machine learning, and others are already part of our curriculum. We are continuously updating the curriculum to stay current with new age technologies. What’s your take on skill development, and how should students emphasize on skill development? We emphasize skill development from the beginning of our programs. We incorporate skill development courses into the curriculum, including life skills and soft skills. In today’s competitive environment, industry looks beyond just CGPA and values other qualities. So, we mould our students from the beginning to be well-prepared for placements. In forums like this, where we bring together education leaders, EdTech players, and government representatives, how do you think they benefit the education sector? Such forums are beneficial as they incorporate industry and technology trends. I’ve seen discussions on ERP systems, which can introduce us to new features that can be incorporated into our education systems for the benefit of both students and the education community. Any message for ArdorComm Media on its 2nd Anniversary? You are providing a great platform for educators to come together and conduct such events. Your efforts, along with the presenters, are helpful in advancing the field of education, especially in higher education and to meet several good educators also.