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WBCHSE Announces Overhaul of HS Curriculum: New Subjects and Mark Structure Changes

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News on Education 2 1 ArdorComm Media Group WBCHSE Announces Overhaul of HS Curriculum: New Subjects and Mark Structure Changes

The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has introduced significant changes to the Higher Secondary curriculum, set to be implemented from this academic year onwards. These alterations will impact students registering from the 2024-25 session. Among the key revisions are adjustments to the marks structure and the introduction of new subjects. In a bid to enhance the quality of education, the marks structure for health and physical education, music, and visual arts has been revamped. Notably, the theory component of health and family education has been augmented from 40 to 70 marks, with the practical component now accounting for 30 percent of the overall assessment. Similarly, both music and visual arts will now carry 50 marks each for theory and practical aspects. In response to changing educational trends and student preferences, certain language subjects such as Punjabi, Gujarati, and French have been discontinued due to low registration numbers. Conversely, the curriculum now incorporates vocational subjects aligned with contemporary industry demands, including banking financial services and insurance, food processing, and telecom. Furthermore, the WBCHSE has introduced new subjects to enrich the academic landscape. Applied artificial intelligence, cyber security, and the science of well-being are among the innovative additions aimed at equipping students with relevant skills for the future. Alongside these changes, the council has undertaken a restructuring of subject names and codes. For instance, home management and family resource (HMFR) will now be known as human development and resource management (HDRM), while agronomy (AGNM) has been rebranded as agriculture (AGRI). Additionally, the health and physical education subject (PHED) will retain its name but undergo a change in its designated code to HPED. The WBCHSE’s curriculum overhaul underscores its commitment to adapting to evolving educational paradigms and ensuring students are equipped with pertinent knowledge and skills. These modifications reflect a proactive approach to addressing the needs of both learners and the contemporary job market.  

Maharashtra’s Education Budget Sees 9.8% Surge Amidst Concerns Over Allocation Distribution & Scheme Cutbacks

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News on Education 7 1 1 ArdorComm Media Group Maharashtra’s Education Budget Sees 9.8% Surge Amidst Concerns Over Allocation Distribution & Scheme Cutbacks

The education sector in Maharashtra has witnessed a notable 9.8% increase in budget allocation for the interim period of 2024-25, with figures rising from Rs 87,314 crore to Rs 95,875 crore compared to the previous year. However, despite this surge, concerns have emerged over the distribution of allocations and cutbacks in flagship schemes. While both school and higher education departments have experienced a boost in funding, a significant portion of the hike is attributed to routine expenditures, particularly salaries for teachers and staff. Notably, expenditure on some key education schemes has been reduced, raising apprehensions about the state’s educational development trajectory. Of particular concern is the reduction in budgetary provisions for reimbursing private schools for admitting socio-economically disadvantaged students. This allocation has dwindled from Rs 200 crore to Rs 173 crore, aggravating grievances from schools claiming outstanding dues amounting to Rs 2,400 crore. Moreover, reductions in the state’s contributions to centrally sponsored schemes like midday meals and Samagra Shiksha have been recorded, despite recent initiatives such as introducing eggs in school meals. However, the budget does allocate Rs 81 crore towards the PM SHRI scheme aimed at upgrading schools in alignment with the New Education Policy. Finance Minister Ajit Pawar’s budget speech outlined plans for youth skill development initiatives, including the establishment of international skill development centers and various training programs. However, actual allocations for these schemes were notably absent from the budget document, raising questions about their implementation. Despite these concerns, there are pockets of positive developments, such as the increased subsidy for the Dr. Zakir Hussain Madrasa Modernization Scheme, aimed at integrating minority students into the mainstream education system. Additionally, measures to address uniformity in scholarships and fellowships for marginalized communities have been articulated, addressing previous criticisms regarding fellowship provisions for doctoral pursuits.  

India Witnesses Remarkable Surge in Employable Youth, DEA Highlights Transformative Skill Development

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In a significant development, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) has reported a substantial increase in the percentage of employable youth in India. According to the January 2024 review of the economy, the employable percentage of final-year and pre-final-year students has risen from 33.9% in 2014 to an impressive 51.3% in 2024. This positive trend is attributed to the concerted efforts in mass skilling initiatives since 2014. The DEA’s report underscores the transformative journey in skill development witnessed in India over the last decade. The push for skilling has begun to yield dividends, creating ample scope to integrate skilling into the education curriculum and upskill a significant portion of the existing workforce with future-relevant skills. The report also highlights India’s notable progress in WorldSkills Competitions, moving from the 39th position in 2011 to the 11th position in 2022. This across-the-board advancement in skilling, coupled with the rising enrolment in higher education, reflects the expanding and increasingly employable young workforce in India. Noteworthy statistics from the report include India’s 50.2% of men and 41% of women with ten or more years of schooling in the 15-49 age group. The DEA sees an opportunity to leverage the education-skill continuum as a powerful tool for the Indian Miracle by focusing on the youth who can benefit from finishing schools for enhanced employability. Under the National Education Policy, 2020, the report emphasizes the special focus on vocational education and skill development. Integrating vocational education with general education and mainstreaming vocational education are identified as key reforms in the country’s education system. Despite these advancements, the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23 reveals that 72.6% of workers aged 15-59 years did not receive any formal or informal vocational or technical training. To address this gap, the report highlights the recent launch of the Skill India Digital platform, serving as the digital public infrastructure for the skilling, education, employment, and entrepreneurship ecosystem. This initiative is seen as a significant step toward enhancing the ease of acquiring skills in India.

Haryana’s Visionary Leap: ‘Mission 60,000’ Unleashes Employment Opportunities for Underprivileged Youth

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News on HR 4 ArdorComm Media Group Haryana’s Visionary Leap: ‘Mission 60,000’ Unleashes Employment Opportunities for Underprivileged Youth

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has launched ‘Mission 60,000,’ aiming to provide employment opportunities for 60,000 youngsters from families earning less than Rs 1.80 lakh annually. The announcement was made during the state-level ‘Vivekananda Youth Mahasammelan’ on Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary. Under the comprehensive initiative, Khattar outlined key components of ‘Mission 60,000.’ The government plans to engage 7,500 ‘Van Mitra’ individuals, recruit 15,000 contractual employees through the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam, and involve 7,500 ‘e-Sewa Mitra’ for Common Services Centre, among other roles. Notably, 15,000 youths with diplomas or degrees in civil engineering will undergo specialized training to become contractors. Chief Minister Khattar highlighted a crucial financial support aspect, stating, “The government will extend a loan of Rs 3 lakhs to these individuals for one year without requiring any collateral. Trained youths under this program will be exempt from providing a guarantee for work up to Rs 25 lakh.” The overarching goal is to elevate their annual income, enabling them to surpass the Below Poverty Line (BPL) threshold. Paying homage to Swami Vivekananda, Khattar considered his life an inspiration and emphasized his significant role in representing India’s perspective at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. Khattar laid the foundation stone for the Saraswati Vatika development project of the irrigation and water resources department, allocating Rs 3.68 crore for the three-phase initiative. Karnal MP Sanjay Bhatia and Printing and Stationery Minister Sandeep Singh graced the occasion with their presence.

India Unveils Multi-Pronged Initiatives to Boost Economic Growth and Skill Development

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News on HR 2 ArdorComm Media Group India Unveils Multi-Pronged Initiatives to Boost Economic Growth and Skill Development

In a concerted effort to stimulate economic growth and empower the workforce, India has implemented a series of initiatives, including Mudra loans for micro and small businesses, and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes amounting to a substantial Rs 1.97 lakh crore. These endeavors aim to attract global manufacturers, fostering a conducive environment for economic expansion and generating an anticipated 60 lakh new jobs, according to a recent government statement. The Mudra loan initiative, dedicated to micro and small businesses, is geared towards providing financial support to entrepreneurs and bolstering the foundations of grassroots enterprises. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Simultaneously, the PLI schemes, with their significant financial commitment, are designed to attract international manufacturers, promoting foreign direct investment and bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities. The infusion of funds into these schemes is anticipated to catalyze innovation and technological advancement in key sectors, propelling India onto the global economic stage. Moreover, the government’s focus on skill development is underscored by initiatives such as the Prime Minister Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), a flagship program under the Skill India Mission. This program aims to provide skill-based training to the youth across the nation, with a specific emphasis on those hailing from rural areas. The training encompasses Short Term Training (STT) courses and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), effectively equipping individuals with the skills necessary for gainful employment. According to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, these initiatives collectively contribute to the overarching goal of fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce. The multifaceted approach seeks to address both economic and social dimensions, ensuring that the benefits of development are widespread and inclusive.

ArdorComm ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ to be held at Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023 #ELSAPune #ELSAMaharashtra

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blog image 1 ArdorComm Media Group ArdorComm ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ to be held at Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023 #ELSAPune #ELSAMaharashtra

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the challenges and opportunities presented by the ‘new normal’ have been nothing short of transformative. To explore and celebrate the pioneers of educational excellence, ArdorComm Media Group is delighted to announce the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023,’ scheduled to take place on the 24th of November in Pune, Maharashtra. With the summit theme of ‘New Normal: Maharashtra – Pioneering Excellence in Education, Skilling & Employability,’ this event promises to be an intellectual and visionary journey into the future of education. In this dynamic and ever-evolving era, education plays a pivotal role in not just imparting knowledge but also in shaping the skills and employability of individuals. Maharashtra, with its rich legacy of educational excellence, stands as a beacon of inspiration, leading the way in this transformative journey. This theme signifies our commitment to celebrate and explore how Maharashtra, its educators, institutions, and innovators, are spearheading initiatives that set new standards in education, skill development, and ultimately, in equipping the workforce of the future. Join us as we delve into the ‘new normal’ of education, where Maharashtra serves as a guiding light, pioneering the path to excellence. Maharashtra: The Beacon of Educational Excellence Maharashtra, a diverse and culturally rich state in India, has long been a cradle of educational excellence. Known for vibrant cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, the state has a legacy deeply rooted in academia. Its commitment to nurturing intellect and fostering academic growth has drawn students and scholars from all corners of India and beyond. Maharashtra’s educational heritage is a tapestry woven with tradition and modernity, making it a focal point for those seeking knowledge and enlightenment. Furthermore, Maharashtra’s educational landscape is a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. With a plethora of prestigious universities, research institutions, and a thriving EdTech ecosystem, the state offers a diverse range of opportunities for learners of all backgrounds. From ancient centres of learning to cutting-edge technological advancements, Maharashtra continually pushes the boundaries of education. It serves as a model for the harmonious coexistence of traditional wisdom and the transformative power of modern education, making it an ideal host for the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023.’ This event aims to celebrate and further elevate the rich educational legacy that Maharashtra has meticulously cultivated over the years. Pune: The Oxford of the East Pune’s journey towards becoming the ‘Oxford of the East’ has been a testament to its unwavering commitment to academic excellence. The city boasts a plethora of rich educational institutions, ranging from esteemed universities and colleges to research centres and specialized training institutes. This diversity has created an intellectual ecosystem that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge among its students and scholars. Moreover, Pune’s unique charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. It respects its historical significance as a centre of learning while continuously embracing cutting-edge educational technologies and practices. This synthesis of old and new creates an environment where students can connect with their roots while preparing for the challenges of the future. With its serene surroundings and a vibrant community of scholars, Pune encapsulates the essence of academic pursuit. It is the perfect backdrop for the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023,’ where education enthusiasts and visionaries will converge to chart the course for the future of education in the ever-evolving ‘new normal.’ Together, they will explore innovative approaches, discuss critical challenges, and celebrate the rich heritage that Pune represents in the educational landscape. A Legacy of Excellence The ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards (ELSA) series stands as a testament to a remarkable legacy of unwavering dedication to educational excellence. This legacy has been carefully cultivated and nurtured over eight successful events, each leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape. ArdorComm New Normal ELSA has evolved into a shining beacon of inspiration, drawing educators, policymakers, and innovators from far and wide. It has become a platform where these visionaries converge to shape the future of education. Throughout its history, each ELSA summit has consistently demonstrated the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. It has provided a fertile ground for education enthusiasts to unite, exchange profound insights, and contribute to the overall growth of the education community. New Normal ELSA’s rich legacy is a testament to its enduring impact, continually igniting the spark of innovation and excellence in the hearts of those passionate about education. The Summit: A Confluence of Visionaries The ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ is poised to be a unique gathering of forward-thinkers and change-makers in the realm of education. It extends a hearty invitation to all those who are passionate about shaping the educational landscape, from policymakers who craft the framework to educators who mould young minds, and from EdTech pioneers who leverage technology to industry experts who bridge the gap between education and employability. This diverse blend of perspectives and expertise converging under one roof will foster rich dialogues, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving educational sphere. Moreover, this summit serves as a platform for networking and knowledge exchange that transcends boundaries. It’s an opportunity to break down silos and unite in a shared vision of enhancing the quality and relevance of education. The synergy created by the collective intellect and dedication of these education enthusiasts will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the future of education, not just in Maharashtra but far beyond. It’s a gathering of visionaries who understand that education is not just a means to an end; it’s the catalyst for societal progress and transformation. The ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ promises to be an enlightening experience, where ideas are transformed into action, and the legacy of educational excellence continues to flourish. Awards for Educational Excellence The ‘ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2023’ represent a prestigious and integral component of the summit, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging …

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Dr. Bhavna Chibber, Principal, Laburnum Public School, Gurugram, Emphasizes on Skill Based Learning

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image 2023 08 18T12 27 00 319Z ArdorComm Media Group Dr. Bhavna Chibber, Principal, Laburnum Public School, Gurugram, Emphasizes on Skill Based Learning

 “Skills are unique, indigenous, and the educators, who are the curators in the classroom, must know what kind of skill to develop in each learner,” says Dr. Bhavna Chibber, Principal, Laburnum Public School, Gurugram, 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 Award? It was an awesome experience to listen to all the dignified personalities. We have learned so many things here, and the discussions were so interesting that we thought this kind of conference should be held for our leaders. These kinds of forums are essential. I’m thankful to ArdorComm Media for providing the opportunity to educators to spread their wings, learn, and take the lead. In this new normal, adaptability and flexibility are crucial skills, and now is the time when we’re preparing our learners to thrive in this world. So, thanks to ArdorComm Media for providing this platform for leaders to share, learn, collaborate, and grow. What’s your take on skill-based learning and the multi-disciplinary approach in education? There are two different things: skill-based learning and the multi-disciplinary approach. When we talk about Saksham, we follow a 5S philosophy: Saksha, Saksham, Samarth, Shodak, and Sanskar. There’s a thin line difference between Saksham and Samarth. For example, consider car driving. I drive a car, so it’s easy for me to understand how the clutch works, how to change gears, etc. But how competent am I? That’s called Saksham. Skill development is about preparing learners for the future, not just for the near future, but for the years ahead. Skills are unique, indigenous, and the educators, who are the curators in the classroom, must know what kind of skill to develop in each learner. Regarding the interdisciplinary approach, terms like interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, and transdisciplinary have been integrated. Collaborative projects are a key strategy to enhance the interdisciplinary approach on the school campus. Any message for the ArdorComm Median on its 2nd anniversary? Keep soaring high, the sky is the limit.