Connect with us

News

Joyanto Mukherjee, Founder CEO, Tutored And Trained, speaks on bridging the student-teacher chasm in the virtual world

We are cool teachers. We have our certificates proving we are good educators. But even in today’s time, we are losing kids to a world which somewhere is not explanatory to us. Let’s not run away… because it’s about to get worse.

Published

on

Joyanto Mukherjee, Founder CEO, Tutored And Trained, and youngest dean at 25, on bridging the student-teacher chasm in the virtual world

Rude awakening
The distance between teachers and students is increasing in a very different way, not in the classroom but in the virtual space. How many of us have heard of this unfortunate phenomenon known as Saraha? Some of us have downloaded it, it’s a good ego boost for us, for kids to tell us, ‘Oh Ma’am you are so good… You teach so well in class…’ We tell our friends how amazing it is. But there’s another side to it. And that’s the side that I want to talk about, because I thought that being a young educator would make me a cool educator. I have trophies from my students in my classes, in my colleges, calling me the Coolest Dean, the Best Friend Ever. And on March 27 this year, you would have heard a very tragic story of a kid committing suicide on Facebook Live. He was my student.

We always feel that we are connected to our students, we always feel that there are some things we are doing well for our students. But as professors, as teachers, how many times do we actually look at their virtual life; the real life which they are leading? They have a different world of their own. I remember this particular student of mine had called me up on March 17, to wish me for my birthday. We spoke. I asked him how he was doing; he had been off the radar for four months. He said, ‘Sir, I’m just sorting things out, don’t worry. And things will be perfect in some time’. March 27, we know what happened.

Social media – their life
As teachers, as professionals, we are on social media but how many times are we reading students’ timelines? Do we see their status messages on G-Talk, on Twitter? Are we making a concerted effort to understand that part of it? And unfortunately Saraha happened in between. Students are getting pressurised today to be on Saraha, because they want that single compliment from an anonymous space. And on top of that the student says, ‘Thank you for the compliment. Can I know who this is?’ This is where the students are today. They are trying to connect in the virtual world, still wanting that love, and we are overlooking this. Can you jot down the last five things that your students put up on Facebook? Do you remember any of their status messages, their check-ins? It’s difficult, right? This is the only connect that we have with our students today. We look for counselling in school, have we ever sat with them to understand why they were socially inactive for the past 21 days? A kid who generally tweets 20 times a day, who constantly posts Facebook updates – by the way, 18-21 year-olds hate Facebook now because their parents are on it. So they have now shifted to Snapchat and Instagram – how many of us are looking at that? As knowledge-givers, we think that social media is distraction. For children, this is their life.

I know students who crib, ‘I put up a profile picture last week, why didn’t you like it?’ And there are fights over that! ‘Where were you last night? You told me you were at home but I saw you check in at a club with others’. As educators, I definitely feel that when this incident happened with me, I had let someone down. I thought I was it, because I tweet at least 50 times a day, I’m on all the social media spaces – except Saraha. If that day I had just switched on his live feed… I could have rushed there; my office is just 20 minutes away from his place. From that time on I’ve taken to platforms to speak to principals, to educators about the need for us to accept students’ social media life. Why are we dismissive of it?

Advertisement

Giving back
It is not the same as when we were in school or college. I was in college between 2003-2006; we were the original ‘Orkutyas’ if you remember Orkut at that time. At that time I could understand my teacher saying, ‘What is this?’ I could understand the deliberate attempt by them not to come on social media. Today it has become so important for us to be a part of our students’ social media life because that is where the connect is needed. Students tag us in photos, in statuses, on Teacher’s Day, thanking us and so on. We are so proud of it. Let’s give it back. Because this is the only breadcrumb trail we have to see where our student is going. Social media is what they use to communicate so many things, so many times.

Have you seen your students’ Snapchat trails? That’s investigative journalism. You see, via their trails, that they live a life. I happened to ask a student, why Snapchat? He said, ’24 hours mein sab kuch chala gaya. And my parent doesn’t know how to run Snapchat.’ This is escapism for them. And this is a dangerous time. Like Zuckerberg said, it would be hours being spent and not minutes. These are not times when students switch their phones off. Thanks to Mr. Ambani, everything is free today, and you are virtually walking in 4G.

It is scary for educators but the fact is we can’t shake this off; it’s high time we shook hands with it. Because when we talk about counselling, what are we talking about? Students don’t want to walk up to a counsellor. But, believe me, at 2 am, because they know that you are accessible on Whatsapp, someone pings me, ‘Sir are you awake?’ And I happen to say yes. Two and a half hours we ended up chatting. Will a counsellor be available at 2 in the morning, for someone to just open up?

Be an active player
The student-teacher relationship is going a very different way and the more we run away from it, the more the distance we are creating. It’s no longer a 10 am-6 pm for a student and a teacher today. They want access to you at 9 o’clock at night, just to clear a doubt – ‘Ma’am, tomorrow there is a test. Can we solve this, I have this doubt…’ When we were young, we were scared of our teachers because at that time tech wasn’t there to support us. I couldn’t pick up the landline and call my Maths teacher at 10 at night. We wouldn’t dare do that. But today things have changed. Why are we not adapting? Why can’t we have 24×7 counselling lines in schools only online? We have these active school and college Whatsapp groups; unfortunately they happen to be active only for two things – ‘Kal lecture hai?’ and ‘Main nahin aa raha hoon’. Or then the teacher says she isn’t taking the lecture. Can we utilise these groups better? Everyday there is someone in our circle, on our timeline, trying to express to you or to the world that things are not fine in his life. We can’t expect the 19-year-old friend to pick up that clue. The onus is on us, because the parents are generally out of the picture, wondering why their kids are always online. They call it the thumb game – I call it the thumb life.

I really encourage all educators to take social media more seriously. We need to understand it. And to understand it, we need to be an active player on it. We can’t have someone else running our own Whatsapp or Facebook accounts. Because all that student of yours wants is that when he tags you, you say thanks and, believe me, the best gift you can give in return is when you tag him or her and say, ‘Proud to be with you…Proud to have you as a kid’.

We are cool teachers. We have our certificates proving we are good educators. But even in today’s time, we are losing kids to a world which somewhere is not explanatory to us. Let’s not run away… because it’s about to get worse.

Advertisement

This story appeared in the September 2017 issue of ScooNews magazine.

Education

Trump Signs Executive Order to Promote AI Integration in U.S. K-12 Education

Published

on

The U.S. pushes for AI literacy in schools amid rising competition with China, as debates grow over federal involvement in education. (Image- USA Today)

In a significant development aimed at reshaping the educational landscape in the United States, President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order to promote artificial intelligence (AI) integration in K–12 schools. The order, signed on April 23, mandates several federal agencies to prioritise AI education and training as part of the national push to prepare a future-ready workforce.

The directive instructs the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor to expand AI learning opportunities for high school students, introduce certification programmes, and work closely with states to implement AI-focused curricula. As part of this move, the Education Department has been directed to prioritise AI in discretionary grant programmes for teacher training, while the National Science Foundation will step up research on AI in education.

This executive order also establishes a White House Task Force on AI Education. Chaired by Michael Kratsios, head of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the task force will spearhead a “Presidential AI Challenge” and foster public-private partnerships to strengthen AI infrastructure in American classrooms.

The move highlights a bipartisan recognition of the urgent need to develop AI literacy among students, especially in the face of rising global competition from countries like China. However, opinions differ on how deeply the federal government should be involved in regulating and rolling out AI in educational settings.

While some argue that AI can transform learning through customised and interactive methods, others caution that its use must be carefully aligned with existing labour and antidiscrimination laws.

Advertisement

For India and other global education systems, the move presents an opportunity to observe how large-scale AI integration plays out across one of the world’s most influential education ecosystems. It underscores a shared urgency among nations to prepare learners for an AI-driven future—while also navigating the complex social, ethical, and institutional implications.

(Parts of this article are based on a story done by USA TODAY)

Continue Reading

Education

Maharashtra to Regulate Pre-Primary Education with New Law Aligned to NEP 2020

Published

on

Maharashtra government to regulate private kindergartens and anganwadis | The image is generated using AI

The Maharashtra government has announced that all private kindergartens and anganwadis in the state will soon come under a formal regulatory framework. This development aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which recommends bringing children aged three to six into the formal education system.

School Education Minister Dada Bhuse confirmed that a new legislation is currently being drafted and will soon be tabled in the state assembly. “We are working on a comprehensive law to mainstream pre-primary education. The draft has been sent to the law and judiciary department for review,” said Bhuse on Wednesday.

Until now, formal schooling in India officially began at age six. However, NEP 2020 proposes an expanded foundational stage covering ages 3 to 8. To facilitate this transition, the state has introduced two digital platforms—the Maha School GIS Mobile App and the Pre-School Registration Portal—launched virtually by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

These platforms aim to create a unified data repository of all pre-primary institutions, including anganwadis and privately-run kindergartens, offering early childhood care and education (ECCE). The move will help in mapping facilities, teacher qualifications, student enrolment, and overall infrastructure. The registration process can be accessed through the ECCE tab on the official website: education.maharashtra.gov.in.

Why This Registration Drive Matters:

Advertisement
  • Centralised data for policy planning and resource allocation.

  • Transparency for parents seeking quality ECCE centres.

  • Improved monitoring of facilities and staff qualifications.

  • Accurate workforce estimation in the pre-primary education sector.

As India moves forward with implementing NEP 2020, Maharashtra’s decision could become a model for other states. By formalising pre-primary education, the government aims to ensure equal access, quality control, and early learning preparedness.

Continue Reading

Education

Harvard University Sues Trump Administration Over $2.2 Billion Funding Freeze

Published

on

A view of Harvard University's Business School campus located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. | Photo courtesy: REUTERS

In a bold move to defend their academic freedom, Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the federal government’s freeze on over $2.2 billion (approx. ₹18,350 crore) in grants. The funding block was enacted after Harvard refused to comply with sweeping demands that included curbing student activism, overhauling leadership, and auditing campus views on diversity and inclusion.

Filed in a federal court in Boston, Harvard’s lawsuit argues that the freeze violates its First Amendment rights, as well as provisions under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Administrative Procedure Act. The university has called the move “arbitrary and capricious,” citing the significant damage it could cause to ongoing research efforts across medicine, technology, and national security.

In its filing, the university stated, “The Government has not — and cannot — identify any rational connection between antisemitism concerns and the medical, scientific, technological, and other research it has frozen.” The administration’s actions, Harvard added, threaten not just its own academic integrity but the autonomy of American universities as a whole.

The standoff began after the Trump administration issued a letter on April 11, 2025, demanding that Harvard implement stricter disciplinary measures on campus protesters, reform its admissions process, revoke recognition of certain student clubs, and audit faculty and students for political diversity. It also urged the university to screen international students for “hostility to American values.”

Harvard President Alan Garber responded firmly, refusing to compromise on the institution’s independence. “We stand for the truth that universities can fulfill their essential role in society without improper government intrusion,” he stated in a message to the Harvard community.

Advertisement

Following Harvard’s public defiance, the administration quickly enacted the funding freeze. Trump himself took to his Truth Social platform to question whether the university should lose its tax-exempt status, accusing it of promoting “political, ideological, and terrorist-inspired” views.

Support for Harvard’s legal action has come from several quarters. The American Council on Education, which represents over 1,600 higher education institutions, commended the lawsuit, calling it a necessary defence of scholarship and scientific research. “We applaud Harvard for taking this step and look forward to a clear and unambiguous statement by the court rebuking efforts to undermine academic integrity,” said council president Ted Mitchell.

Anurima Bhargava, a Harvard alumna and civil rights advocate, added, “This is a reckless and unlawful attempt at power and control. Harvard has once again stood firm against dangerous and escalating demands.”

This legal battle marks one of the most high-profile confrontations between higher education and the federal government in recent times. At its core lies the question of whether public funding can be used as leverage to reshape the ideological and governance structures of academic institutions—a precedent that could have implications far beyond Harvard.

As the case unfolds, educators and students around the world will be watching closely. In a time when the autonomy of educational institutions is increasingly under scrutiny, Harvard’s lawsuit could become a defining moment in the global conversation on academic freedom.

(This article has been generated with supporting information as reported by The Hindu)

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

CBSE Introduces Mandatory Bridge Course for Classes 6 to 12 in Chhattisgarh Under NEP 2020

Published

on

In line with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a significant curriculum reform has been rolled out in Chhattisgarh, where CBSE and NCERT have introduced a mandatory bridge course for students from Classes 6 to 12, starting from the academic session 2025–26.

This strategic change aims to strengthen conceptual understanding, sharpen skills, and enhance subject connectivity for students transitioning between academic years. The bridge course is designed as a foundational segment to reinforce key learnings from the previous class, enabling smoother adaptation to new academic content—especially in subjects like Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Languages.

What is a Bridge Course?

A bridge course is essentially a learning support module that helps students revise and reinforce previous class concepts before delving into the new syllabus. By bridging the learning gap, it prepares students mentally and academically for the demands of their new grade. The initiative is particularly aimed at strengthening continuity in learning and reducing academic stress.

Teacher Training and Implementation

To ensure effective integration, teachers in CBSE-affiliated schools across Chhattisgarh are undergoing dedicated training in both online and offline formats. The training focuses on how to incorporate the bridge course within the regular curriculum and adapt pedagogy to meet individual learner needs.

Changes in NCERT Textbooks

Alongside the bridge course implementation, NCERT has revised textbooks for Classes 3 and 6. The new editions lay emphasis on activity-based learning, life skills development, and project work. In particular, the Class 6 Science and Social Science books feature innovative activities and experiential modules aimed at enhancing student engagement and practical understanding.

Advertisement

With this move, CBSE and NCERT aim to create a more inclusive and progressive academic structure, staying true to NEP 2020’s vision of competency-based learning and reduced content load. As this model takes shape in Chhattisgarh, it could serve as a blueprint for nationwide adoption in the coming years.

Continue Reading

Education

CBSE Mandates 50-Hour Annual Training for Teachers, Declares STEM as 2025 Theme

Published

on

CBSE issues new guidelines for teacher training and theme for 2025

In a significant move towards enhancing teacher capacity in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued fresh guidelines mandating 50 hours of annual training for all educators in its affiliated schools. The 2025 annual training theme has been declared as STEM Education, reflecting India’s push towards innovation-driven learning.

According to CBSE notifications TRG-2/2025 and TRG-3/2025, 25 hours of training must be delivered by CBSE or a recognised government training body, while the remaining 25 hours can be conducted in-house or at the school complex level. This framework has been structured in line with the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) and aims to ensure continuous professional development and improved student learning outcomes.

The CPD (Continuous Professional Development) hours are categorised as follows:

  • Core Values and Ethics – 12 hours

  • Knowledge and Practice – 24 hours

  • Professional Growth and Development – 14 hours

CBSE has also clarified that academic responsibilities such as assessment duties for board exams, practical examiner roles, content creation, curriculum review, and participation in CBSE-led conferences will be recognised as valid CPD hours.

The board has instructed schools to organise District Level Deliberations (DLDs) focused on STEM pedagogy. These sessions are designed to encourage peer discussions, sharing of best practices, and localisation of innovative teaching strategies.

Advertisement

Heads of institutions have been called upon to act as leaders of change, ensuring the effective implementation of this framework within their schools and nurturing a culture of continuous learning.

With this move, CBSE reaffirms its commitment to building a future-ready teaching workforce, equipped to deliver education that is both engaging and globally relevant.

🔗 More details here

Continue Reading

Education

China Embarks on Ambitious AI-Driven Education Reform to Build a ‘Strong Education Nation’ by 2035

Published

on

China plans on building strong education system by 2035

China has unveiled a comprehensive education reform strategy aiming to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) across all levels of its education system. This initiative is a cornerstone of the nation’s broader “Strong Education Nation” plan, targeting significant advancements in educational quality and innovation by 2035.

The Ministry of Education announced plans to embed AI applications into teaching methodologies, textbooks, and curricula spanning primary, secondary, and higher education. This move is designed to cultivate essential skills such as independent thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration among students and educators. By fostering these competencies, China aims to enhance the core competitiveness of its innovative talent pool (Reuters).

This AI integration aligns with China’s broader educational blueprint, jointly issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council. The plan outlines a two-phased objective: establishing a high-quality educational system by 2027 and achieving global leadership in education by 2035. Key goals include expanding free education, increasing enrollment in high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and addressing regional disparities in educational access.

To support this vision, Chinese universities are expanding AI-related courses and enrollment. Institutions like Peking University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have announced plans to increase undergraduate spots in fields such as information science, engineering, and AI. This expansion is closely linked to the national strategy of developing a robust digital-era talent pool (Reuters Education Expansion).

Moreover, the Ministry of Education has mandated that primary and secondary schools intensify their science education to drive scientific and technological innovation. Schools are required to implement comprehensive science curricula, enhance teaching capabilities, and integrate science education resources effectively. 

Advertisement

China’s commitment to integrating AI into education reflects its broader ambition to become a global leader in technological innovation and education. By embedding AI into the fabric of its educational system, China aims to prepare its citizens for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Continue Reading

Education

Delhi Government Cracks Down on Dummy Schooling; Over 600 Schools Inspected, 10 Issued Notices

Published

on

“It is completely unacceptable for any school to mentally harass parents or students"- Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

In a sweeping inspection drive aimed at curbing malpractice in private educational institutions, the Delhi Government has inspected over 600 schools across the national capital, issuing show-cause notices to more than 10 schools and initiating the process of derecognition in serious cases. The crackdown follows mounting complaints from parents about arbitrary fee hikes, dummy admissions, and neglect of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) students.

The Directorate of Education (DoE) formed district-level committees—headed by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and comprising deputy directors of education, accounts officers, and principals of government schools—to investigate complaints on a priority basis. These inspections are being closely monitored, with more schools likely to be reviewed in the coming days.

The inspection drive also revealed that 20 schools were allegedly engaging in dummy admissions—a practice where students are enrolled only on paper while attending private coaching institutes instead of regular classes. In such cases, the government has invoked provisions under the Delhi School Education Act and Rules (DSEAR), 1973, and has begun derecognition procedures.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, responding to concerns raised during a Jan Samvaad public hearing, stated, “It is completely unacceptable for any school to mentally harass parents or students, threaten expulsion, or raise fees without due process.” She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and ensuring access to quality education for every child.

The DoE confirmed that some schools have also failed to submit mandatory financial disclosures and fee statements as per Section 17(3) and Section 180(3) of DSEAR, which will invite legal action. Schools violating EWS guidelines—such as failing to provide free textbooks, uniforms, and writing materials under Rule 8 of the Delhi RTE Rules—are also under scrutiny.

Advertisement

The crackdown also comes after Queen Mary School in Model Town was accused of fee-related misconduct and expulsion threats. The Chief Minister had instructed the education department to take immediate action against such institutions, promising a “zero-tolerance” approach.

Delhi’s education authorities have reiterated that private schools must adhere strictly to rules governing fee regulation, student welfare, and inclusive access. Institutions found guilty of flouting these norms will face stringent penalties, including derecognition and possible takeover of management.

Continue Reading

Education

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Warns Private Schools Against Arbitrary Fee Hikes and Student Harassment

Published

on

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta (Photo Source: PTI)

Amid growing parental concerns about rising school fees and student expulsions, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has issued a stern warning to private schools across the capital. Emphasising a “zero tolerance” approach, the CM stated that any institution found violating rules—whether by imposing arbitrary fee hikes or harassing students and parents—will face strict action.

Addressing media following a public dialogue programme on Tuesday, Gupta shared that her office had received multiple complaints from concerned parents alleging wrongful fee practices and threats of expulsion. One such case involved Queen Mary School in Model Town, where families accused the school of unjust fee collection and punitive action against students.

“No school has the authority to harass parents or children, threaten expulsion, or hike fees arbitrarily,” said Gupta in a statement to ANI. “There are rules and laws in place. Compliance is not optional—it’s mandatory.”

The Chief Minister confirmed that notices have already been issued to several schools named in formal complaints. She further stated that relevant officials have been directed to conduct immediate investigations and take necessary legal and disciplinary action.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gupta reiterated the Delhi Government’s stand on education, writing,

Advertisement

“The Delhi Government is fully committed to transparency, equal opportunity, and the protection of children’s rights in education. A zero-tolerance policy has been adopted towards any kind of injustice, exploitation, or irregularity—no laxity will be tolerated in this. Our resolve is clear—every child should have access to justice, respect, and quality education.”

The Chief Minister’s response signals a growing shift toward regulatory vigilance in private education, especially around affordability and student welfare. As rising school fees become a point of national concern, particularly after a recent survey reported a 50–80% hike across schools in three years, Delhi’s move to crack down on irregularities could serve as a template for other states to follow.

Continue Reading

Education

MAHAJYOTI’s Book Distribution Scheme to Empower 7,000 OBC Students Preparing for JEE/NEET & MHT-CET

Published

on

15 April 2025: In a step to move towards equitable education, the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Research & Training Institute (MAHAJYOTI), an autonomous body under the Government of Maharashtra, is set to distribute free study materials to over 7,000 students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) under its Pustak Sanch Watap Yojana. The initiative aims to aid students in preparing for competitive exams such as JEE, NEET, and MHT-CET.

Beneficiaries—spread across all 36 districts of Maharashtra—have registered under MAHAJYOTI’s training programmes and will receive comprehensive preparation books for their respective entrance examinations. The Jalgaon region saw the highest number of registrations, followed by Amravati, Dhule, Buldhana, and Ahmednagar.

This large-scale effort underscores MAHAJYOTI’s ongoing mission to empower students from OBC, Deprived Castes-Nomadic Tribes, and Special Backward Classes by ensuring they are not left behind in the pursuit of higher education due to economic constraints.

Voices from the Government and Ground

Honourable Minister Atul Save, from the Other Backward and Bahujan Welfare Department, commended the scale of the scheme, stating,

Advertisement

“It is inspiring to witness the tremendous response from students. Our commitment to providing such opportunities for OBC students remains steadfast. We strongly encourage them to leverage these important government initiatives designed for their progress.”

Echoing his sentiments, Shri Prashant Wawge, Managing Director of MAHAJYOTI, remarked,

“This overwhelming response reinforces our mission. We urge every eligible OBC student to take full advantage of this scheme. We wish these bright young minds success in their entrance examinations.”

Changing Lives One Book at a Time

Families of beneficiaries have also expressed heartfelt gratitude. Kiran Nimje, mother of Aaryan from Nagpur, shared,

“Purchasing expensive JEE books was beyond our means. This scheme has been a lifeline. My son, who scored 94% in SSC, can now prepare for engineering with confidence.”

Similarly, Sheetal Nagargoje from Amravati, whose son Aditya also benefited, added,

“We are incredibly thankful. This support came to us at the right time and will help my son, who scored 80% in SSC, get closer to his dream.”

As education costs continue to rise, especially in the realm of competitive exam preparation, government-supported initiatives like MAHAJYOTI’s book distribution scheme play a pivotal role in bridging the opportunity gap for students from marginalised communities. With a robust outreach and strong public response, this programme is a timely reminder that access to quality education must remain a priority.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Education

Harvard Stands Its Ground: Harvard Faces ₹18,400 Crore Funding Freeze After Rejecting Trump Administration’s Demands

Published

on

Protesters gather at Cambridge Common on April 12, 2025, urging Harvard University to uphold its autonomy and resist federal intervention in campus affairs. (REUTERS)

In response to Harvard’s refusal to implement federal directives on campus reforms, the Trump administration has escalated the standoff by freezing $2.2 billion (approximately ₹18,400 crore) in multi-year federal grants and placing an additional $60 million (₹500 crore) in government contracts on hold. This latest move by the Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism underscores the growing pressure on educational institutions to align with the administration’s ideological agenda—an act Harvard deems incompatible with its constitutional rights and academic independence.

At the heart of the issue lies the Trump administration’s crackdown on elite American universities, particularly those perceived to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or tolerate anti-establishment student protests. The administration’s sweeping ultimatum to Harvard included banning face masks on campus, altering hiring and admission practices to favour so-called “merit-based” criteria, and conducting an audit of students and faculty based on their ideological leanings.

“No Government Should Dictate What Universities Teach”

In a strongly-worded letter to the Harvard community, President Alan Garber reaffirmed the university’s constitutional rights, asserting that “no government—regardless of which party is in power—should dictate what private universities can teach, whom they can admit and hire, and which areas of study and inquiry they can pursue.”

He called the demands unconstitutional and a breach of the First Amendment, stating they “exceed the statutory limits of the government’s authority under Title VI.” Harvard, he emphasised, would not “surrender its independence or relinquish its constitutional rights.”

This decision has not been made lightly. With $9 billion (₹75,060 crore) in federal support hanging in the balance—including student financial aid and research grants—the refusal signals the university’s unwavering commitment to preserving academic integrity, even in the face of substantial financial risk.

What’s At Stake for Students and Global Academia?

Harvard’s resistance is more than a domestic headline—it’s a global signal. With Indian students being among the top international communities at Harvard and other elite US institutions, the outcome of this standoff could have ripple effects far beyond American borders.

Advertisement

According to The Hindu, the Trump administration has already frozen approximately $2.3 billion (₹19,182 crore) in funding to institutions like Princeton, Cornell, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania. The latter’s funding was slashed over allowing a transgender athlete to compete—a move many have labelled discriminatory and ideologically driven.

For students—especially those pursuing higher education abroad—this moment marks a sobering reminder that education can no longer be viewed as an apolitical space. If universities are pressured to reshape their curriculums, hiring practices, or student bodies based on political whims, the very essence of critical thinking, academic exploration, and diversity is endangered.

The administration’s justification for defunding Harvard cites that many DEI initiatives are “divisive” or “discriminatory”—a claim widely rejected by educators, human rights groups, and civil society organisations across the globe.

The truth is: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are not trends or PR jargon—they are the moral and pedagogical backbone of an equitable education system. To see these stripped down as ideological threats marks a dangerous precedent not just for the U.S., but for any democracy flirting with majoritarian education policies.

The Bigger Picture

By refusing to accept the U.S. government’s conditions, Harvard has taken a stance to defend its institutional autonomy. While this may lead to financial strain, the university has signalled that it will not compromise on its core governance principles.

As Indian universities navigate reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP), this development also serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safeguarding academic spaces from excessive external influence. Educational institutions function best when given the space to operate independently and uphold their academic mandates without undue interference.

Advertisement

Decisions about what constitutes academic freedom or institutional policy should ideally be made within the education system—not defined by political narratives.

Rather than setting a precedent for others to replicate, this moment should prompt global institutions and governments to reflect carefully on the balance between public accountability and institutional independence.

Continue Reading

Newsletter

Advertisement
Education10 hours ago

Trump Signs Executive Order to Promote AI Integration in U.S. K-12 Education

Education11 hours ago

Maharashtra to Regulate Pre-Primary Education with New Law Aligned to NEP 2020

Education2 days ago

Harvard University Sues Trump Administration Over $2.2 Billion Funding Freeze

Education3 days ago

Education Alone Won’t Feed Minds: Why Teachers Must Be Trained in Nutrition Too

Education3 days ago

CBSE Introduces Mandatory Bridge Course for Classes 6 to 12 in Chhattisgarh Under NEP 2020

Education6 days ago

CBSE Mandates 50-Hour Annual Training for Teachers, Declares STEM as 2025 Theme

Education1 week ago

China Embarks on Ambitious AI-Driven Education Reform to Build a ‘Strong Education Nation’ by 2035

Education1 week ago

Delhi Government Cracks Down on Dummy Schooling; Over 600 Schools Inspected, 10 Issued Notices

Education1 week ago

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Warns Private Schools Against Arbitrary Fee Hikes and Student Harassment

Education1 week ago

MAHAJYOTI’s Book Distribution Scheme to Empower 7,000 OBC Students Preparing for JEE/NEET & MHT-CET

Education1 week ago

Harvard Stands Its Ground: Harvard Faces ₹18,400 Crore Funding Freeze After Rejecting Trump Administration’s Demands

Education1 week ago

Is Your School Following These Mandatory CBSE Committees?

Education1 week ago

Rewriting Ambedkar: Why Students Must Know the Man Beyond the Constitution

Education2 weeks ago

Delhi Schools Act Swiftly to Protect Students as IMD Issues Heatwave Alert

Education2 weeks ago

Punjab Launches ₹2,000 Crore ‘Sikhiya Kranti’ Campaign to Upgrade Government Schools

Education2 weeks ago

This World Health Day, Let’s Prioritise Mental Wellness for Teachers and Students Alike

Education2 weeks ago

In a Shocking Move, US Supreme Court Backs Trump’s Cuts to Teacher Training Grants

Education2 weeks ago

Private School Fees Surge by 50–80% in Three Years, National Survey Finds

Education3 weeks ago

Mahindra University Symposium Explores Harappan Legacy and Its Quiet Influence on Modern Education

Education3 weeks ago

Madhya Pradesh Renames CM Rise Schools as ‘Sandipani Vidyalaya’ to Honour Lord Krishna’s Guru

Education3 weeks ago

On Paper vs On the Playground: The Stark Reality of Inclusion for Children with Autism in India

News3 weeks ago

Supreme Court Flags Basic Needs as Priority Over Libraries in Rural India

News3 weeks ago

Postgrad Interest in US Falls by 40% in 2025: Are Students Finally Prioritising Skills Over Degrees?

Education3 weeks ago

SC-Appointed Task Force Holds First Meeting to Address Student Suicides in Educational Institutions

Education3 weeks ago

CBSE Revises Class 10, 12 Curriculum: Biannual Exams, New Subjects and Flexible Passing Criteria Introduced

Education1 month ago

Sudha Murty Advocates Mandatory Training and Exams for Teachers Every Three Years

Education2 months ago

Hello Kids Expands to 1,000 Centres, Aims for 2,000 by 2028

Education3 months ago

India Marks 10 Years of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao with Nationwide Celebrations

Education2 months ago

Maharashtra to Mandate Registration of Pre-Primary Schools from 2025 for Better Regulation

Education3 months ago

National Startup Day: A New Era for Education and Entrepreneurship

Education3 months ago

Union Budget 2025-26: A New Dawn for India’s Education Sector

Education2 months ago

Saudi Teacher Mansour bin Abdullah Al-Mansour Wins $1 Million Global Teacher Prize

Education2 months ago

Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti

Education3 months ago

Union Budget 2025-26: An Opportunity to Revolutionise India’s Education and Skilling Landscape

Education4 weeks ago

“Be the Change in a Changing World”: Anita Karwal and Anju Chazot Reflect on NEP 2020

Education3 months ago

2025: A Wake-Up Call for Cybersecurity in Education After the US PowerSchool Breach

News4 weeks ago

CBSE Warns Dummy School Students May Be Barred from Board Exams

Education3 months ago

AI Creating Personalised Learning Pathways for Students

Education1 month ago

Sunbeam Indiranagar Shines in Academics, Arts, and Sports, Cementing Its Legacy of Holistic Education

Education2 months ago

Nurturing Creative Confidence: The Power of ‘Yes’ and ‘Yet’

Education1 month ago

IIT Guwahati Developing VR Metaverse for PM SHRI Schools—But is the Metaverse Still the Future?

Education4 weeks ago

‘Baalpan ki Kavita’ Initiative Launched to Restore Indian Rhymes for Young Learners

Education2 months ago

PM Modi Leads ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ with Deepika Padukone & Sadhguru

Education2 months ago

The Scindia School Students Launch Three Groundbreaking Startups in Record Time

Education2 months ago

Rajasthan Cabinet Approves Bill to Regulate Coaching Centres Amid Rising Student Suicides

Education1 month ago

Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): Sustainable Practices in CBSE Schools

Education2 months ago

Kerala to Introduce Anti-Ragging Cells in Schools to Tackle Bullying

Education2 months ago

Kala Ka Karawaan Empowers Mumbai Govt School Students via Arts & Media Education

Education2 months ago

Stonehill International School Students Shine in Spectacular Performance of In the Heights

Education3 months ago

Sunbeam Suncity’s Year of Achievements and Global Engagement

Education1 year ago

SGEF2023 | Special Address by Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, Jaipur

Education1 year ago

ScooNews | After Movie | ScooNews Global Educators Fest 2023

Knowledge2 years ago

Aftermovie | NIES2 UP Chapter | 21 Jan 2023

Knowledge2 years ago

WEBINAR | Gamification in Education: How Digital Badges Can Boost Student Motivation and Engagement

Knowledge2 years ago

ScooNews | WEBINAR| Importance of Physical Activity for Children at School | Plaeto

Knowledge2 years ago

SCOONEWS | WEBINAR | WHY DIGITIZING YOUR SCHOOL IS A MUST | TEACHMINT

Knowledge3 years ago

Keynote Address | Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar

Knowledge3 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, CBSE at SGEF2022

Inspiration3 years ago

How schools can nurture every student’s genius

Knowledge3 years ago

Aftermovie | SGEF2022 | Jaipur

Knowledge3 years ago

Li Andersson | Minister of Education | Finland

Knowledge3 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) discusses NEP2020

Knowledge6 years ago

ScooNews | Early Ed Asia 2019 | Aftermovie

News6 years ago

#PodarECEconf : Pursuing quality ECE

News7 years ago

#CBSE Class XII #Results #Highlights

Education8 years ago

The interesting story of India’s educational system | Adhitya Iyer

Inspiration8 years ago

A young scientist’s quest for clean water

Inspiration8 years ago

The Danger of Silence: Clint Smith

Knowledge8 years ago

National Digital Library of India is an initiative by HRD Ministry

Inspiration8 years ago

Remembering Kalpana Chawla on her birthday!

Inspiration8 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration8 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration8 years ago

The Untapped Genius That Could Change Science for the Better

Education8 years ago

Eddy Zhong: How school makes kids less intelligent TEDxYouth@Beacon

Education8 years ago

#TEDxCanberra : What if every child had access to music education…

Trending