News
Passage to IIT for students from Chhattisgarh’s violence-hit districts.
27 students have cleared the Joint Entrance Exam JEE (Advanced) this year, thanks to the preparation received at residential schools run by the Chhattisgarh government under the Mukhyamantri Bal Bhavishya Suraksha Yojana, a scheme meant to provide better education facilities to children from distric
Published
8 years agoon
By
TeamScoonews
A quiet revolution has been set in motion in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh. Young children who had otherwise no dreams to chase or would eventually gravitate towards the Red are finding a wonderful and life changing goal to aim for – IIT. On July 19, Rishikesh Chandra Tigga, a tribal boy left his home in Naxal-affected Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh and travelled over 600 kilometres to join the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kanpur. A little over 2 years back, Tigga had not even heard of IIT.
"Not even in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would one day be studying with the best of talent," says Tigga, 18, who has joined a 4-year undergraduate course in mathematics and scientific computing. "Forget IIT, I did not have a single dream to chase. Had it not been for the Prayas residential school of the Chhattisgarh government, I would have been stuck in my village."
About 750 students have joined the 6 Prayas schools in the state this year. Tigga is one of the 27 students to clear the Joint Entrance Exam JEE (Advanced) this year, thanks to the preparation received at residential schools run by the Chhattisgarh government under the Mukhyamantri Bal Bhavishya Suraksha Yojana, a scheme meant to provide better education facilities to children from districts affected by left wing extremism.
While Tigga has been allotted IIT, some are waitlisted, while a few have been asked to attend preparatory courses in IITs that will guarantee them a seat next year, 13 are joining the National Institutes of Technology (NIT) and others engineering colleges.
Meanwhile, 750 students, trying to follow of the initial 27 have joined the 6 Prayas residential schools cum coaching institutes under the scheme for students who have passed Class X. This scheme is like the Super 30 for Naxal regions, taking students away from an environment of violence and bullets and letting them dream of elsewhere. About 50% of students here are tribal children and 30% from Scheduled Castes.
Photographs of IITs dot the walls of the classrooms of the Prayas school in Raipur. Over 80 students are doing yoga. Some are playing cricket. Many of these students return a blank look at the mention of IIT. 2 years down the line, they could well be competing for a seat there.
Tough Lessons
Chief Minister Raman Singh says: "These schools are not only building a bright future for meritorious students from Naxal-affected areas but also ensuring equal opportunities."
The challenges are different at these schools. One is to make the students understand the importance of being an IITian. Gojraj Bajia, an NIT alumnus who teaches chemistry at a Prayas school in Bastar, says: "The biggest challenge is to make them understand the fundamentals of the subjects.
English is another hurdle they have to cross: the students often learn the language here." Tigga, for instance, is finding IIT a little tough as the medium is English. He has asked the counselling centre for assistance.
Manjula Tiwari, principal of the girls' school in Raipur, says her students deal with social and parental pressures too. "Last year, 2 girls were selected for IIIT. One could not join because her parents wanted her to stay back in the village." It is a long road, for families and villages as well. But changes are happening in micro levels too.
Rajesh Toppo, commissioner, tribal welfare department, says, "Taking this scheme to the next level, the state government has decided to provide interest-free education loan to these students for their higher education in IITs. In upcoming years, our goal is that this should benefit 100-200 children."
There is a ripple effect. Tigga's younger brother Rohan, who accompanied him to IIT-Kanpur, has taken in the arc he has tracked. Rohan is just 13, but he has begun to nurture a dream — Destination IIT.
Education
Indian Edtech’s Next Chapter: Navigating the Post-Boom Era
Published
14 hours agoon
September 16, 2024
After the meteoric rise of edtech during the pandemic, 2023 was a sobering year for the sector. The pandemic-driven surge in demand for online education, which fuelled unprecedented growth and funding, has since receded as schools and institutions reopened, leading to what many refer to as a “funding winter.” With a sharp decline in investments, the Indian edtech sector has been forced to reconsider its approach, prioritising sustainable growth and profitability over unbridled expansion. As 2024 unfolds, signs of a cautious recovery are emerging, with a renewed focus on innovation, funding challenges, and evolving educational models.
The Funding Landscape: A Fall from the Peak
In 2023, India’s edtech sector witnessed a steep decline in funding, dropping to about $712 million, a stark contrast to the $2.9 billion raised in 2022. The number of funding rounds in the sector also plummeted, from 364 in 2021 to just 69 in 2023. The peak funding year of 2021, when Indian edtech saw an influx of $2.48 billion in just one quarter, now feels like a distant memory .
The macroeconomic conditions, coupled with the shift back to offline education, have significantly impacted the industry. While the appetite for large deals has waned, late-stage investments saw a 94 per cent drop from 2021. Early-stage and seed funding have followed a similar trajectory, with early-stage funding in 2024 so far totalling just $40.4 million, a fraction of the sector’s 2021 peak .
Yet, despite the sharp decline, there are signs of resilience. The first half of 2024 has shown an improvement, with $164 million raised, marking a 96 per cent increase from the second half of 2023. However, this recovery is tempered by caution, with investors now prioritising business models that are sustainable and profitable.
Source- Tracxn
Shifting Business Models: Adaptation for Survival
To survive this funding drought, many edtech firms have had to adapt, scaling back on rapid expansion plans, entering the brick-and-mortar space, and embracing new technologies such as generative AI. Others, like Byju’s and Unacademy, have resorted to mass layoffs as part of broader cost-cutting exercises to reduce cash burn. These adjustments highlight a sector coming to grips with its new reality – one where fiscal prudence outweighs the allure of rapid growth .
The demand for quality content, personalised learning, and upskilling remains strong, particularly in areas where traditional offline education fails to meet the needs of modern learners. As Dilip Gangaramani, Founder Director & CEO of Target Publications, notes: “I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible journey from pandemic-fueled growth to subsequent challenges. While funding has ebbed and flowed, the industry has shown remarkable resilience. We’re seeing a shift towards sustainable business models, focusing on quality content and personalized learning. The evolving policy landscape presents exciting opportunities, and innovative thinkers continue to drive the field forward. Despite the challenges, there’s a bright future for edtech. The industry’s ability to adapt and innovate will determine its enduring success.”
Navigating Policy Changes and Emerging Technologies
The policy landscape for education in India is also undergoing transformation. With the National Education Policy (NEP) pushing for more inclusive and flexible education models, the edtech sector has an opportunity to integrate innovative learning tools within the formal education system. Generative AI, in particular, is seen as a game-changer, with immense possibilities for customising education and making learning more interactive and adaptive.
Harpreet Randhawa, AGM-Education at Radius Systems Pvt Ltd, highlights how Apple’s education solutions are shaping the future of Indian classrooms: “As an education specialist for Apple Education at Radius, I see firsthand how the Indian Ed-tech sector is rebounding from pandemic-driven funding challenges, with K12 education evolving rapidly in 2024. Apple remains a key player in this transformation, offering innovative tools that empower both students and educators to excel in dynamic learning environments. With a focus on creativity, collaboration, and personalized learning, Apple equips classrooms to address the demands of an ever-changing world. By delivering adaptable, future-focused technology, we continue to support schools in overcoming funding limitations and fostering innovation, ensuring learners are prepared for success in the digital age.”
Mergers, Acquisitions, and Consolidation
The funding crisis has also led to consolidation within the sector, with mergers and acquisitions (M&As) serving as an escape route for many struggling startups. However, the number of M&As in 2023 fell drastically, with only seven acquisitions compared to 23 in 2022 . This decline suggests that while consolidation is a viable strategy for some, others are finding it increasingly difficult to attract interest from larger players or investors.
The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
Despite the challenges, there is still optimism for the sector’s future. The need for professional upskilling and reskilling remains high, particularly as the job market becomes increasingly competitive. Companies that can offer innovative, cost-effective solutions to these demands are likely to find success, even in a constrained funding environment.
Niche players, like online lending platform Avanse, which secured $120 million in 2024, and Lawsikho, which went public, demonstrate that there are still opportunities for growth within the sector. These companies are evidence that, while the days of sky-high valuations and exponential growth may be over, the future of Indian edtech remains bright for those who can adapt .
As we look ahead to 2024, the Indian edtech sector’s next chapter will be defined by careful navigation of the funding landscape, adoption of new technologies, and alignment with evolving educational policies. While the boom may have passed, the sector’s ability to innovate and meet the needs of modern learners ensures its continued relevance in the post-pandemic world.
Sources- The Hindu Business Line, Business Standard, Tracxn Feed Geo Report: Edtech India 2024
Shomie Das, a renowned figure in Indian education, passed away at 10:30 pm last night in a Hyderabad hospital. Das had been in a coma following brain surgery and ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Shomie Das, an eminent figure in Indian education, has a distinguished academic and professional background. He graduated from St. Xavier’s College at the University of Calcutta and subsequently from the University of Cambridge. Early in his career, Das taught at Gordonstoun School, where his students included Prince Charles. He served as the principal of Mayo College from 1969 to 1974, before taking on the role of headmaster at the Lawrence School, Sanawar, a position he held until 1988. He then became the headmaster of The Doon School, where he left a significant mark on the educational landscape. His tenure in education was marked by a commitment to fostering curiosity, self-discovery, and critical thinking. Notably, Mr. Das’s grandfather, SR Das, was the founder of The Doon School, linking him to a deep legacy in educational excellence.
Shomie Das’s association with Naga Prasad Tumalla of People Combine led to the establishment of Oakridge International School, which was eventually acquired by Nord Anglia Education. Just two weeks ago, Mr. Das attended the launch of a book titled ‘Shomie Das – The Man Who Saw Tomorrow.’ Authored by Naga Tumalla, the book delves into how their collaboration founded a school that encourages students to think beyond traditional educational boundaries.
As we mourn the loss of Mr. Das, we celebrate the legacy of a visionary who viewed education as a transformational journey rather than a transactional process. His profound impact on education will continue to influence countless lives, instilling a passion for genuine learning. We are profoundly grateful for his commitment and the indelible mark he has left on Indian education. His presence will be missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Thank you, Mr. Shomie Das, for your unwavering dedication to the transformative power of education.
Education
CBSE Mandates ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in Schools to Enhance Skill-Based Education
Published
2 weeks agoon
September 3, 2024
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a directive requiring all affiliated schools to establish ‘Composite Skill Labs’ to strengthen skill-based education in line with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE). These labs are intended to provide students with practical learning opportunities, better equipping them for various career paths and entrepreneurial ventures.
As per the directive, schools must set up either a single Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq ft for classes 6-12 or two separate labs of 400 sq ft each—one dedicated to classes 6-10 and the other to classes 11-12. This facility is now a compulsory requirement for schools seeking new CBSE affiliation or renewing their existing affiliation. Schools that are already affiliated with CBSE must comply with this mandate and establish these labs within three years.
The NCF-SE underscores the importance of offering students hands-on learning experiences and projects that align with their chosen skills. The development of well-equipped skill labs and vocational training centres is crucial to fostering an environment that supports practical learning and the development of essential skills.
Image Source- www.cbse.gov.in
CBSE’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the quality of education and ensuring that students are well-prepared for the diverse opportunities that lie ahead. The establishment of these Composite Skill Labs is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving these educational goals.
Education
University of Southampton Receives Licence to Establish Campus in India
Published
2 weeks agoon
September 2, 2024
The University of Southampton has been granted a licence by the Indian government to establish a comprehensive campus in India, marking a significant milestone in the internationalisation of education. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved the university’s plans to offer high-quality education, research, knowledge exchange, and enterprise within the country.
This forthcoming campus aims to produce world-class, work-ready graduates equipped with both specialised and transferable skills. It will engage in research and knowledge exchange in collaboration with local universities, industries, and government bodies, applying these insights to generate tangible social and economic benefits. The university’s focus is on fostering an entrepreneurial and innovative spirit in India, as highlighted in their official press release.
Mark E. Smith, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southampton, commented, “In the 21st century, no university can truly be global without engaging with India. Our goal is to establish a campus that contributes to both India and the University of Southampton by merging our world-class expertise in education, research, and knowledge exchange with the immense talent of this rising global superpower.”
Professor Andrew Atherton, Vice-President International and Engagement, added, “University of Southampton Delhi NCR will be the first comprehensive international campus in India. It will promote academic collaboration and introduce an international perspective to the Indian higher education system, offering students the opportunity to earn a top 100 global degree within the country.”
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The new University of Southampton campus will be a hub of world-class education and innovation. This collaboration will not only enhance educational excellence but also allow more British students to experience living and studying in India, further strengthening the unique bond between our two nations.”
Alison Barrett MBE, Director India at the British Council, remarked, “The University of Southampton’s decision to establish a campus in India reflects the strong educational partnership between India and the UK. This development aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and underscores the power of education in building cross-cultural understanding and a brighter future for young people.”
Education
Odisha Launches PM-USHA Programme to Boost Higher Education
Published
2 weeks agoon
September 2, 2024
Odisha has launched the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), a significant initiative aimed at elevating the state’s higher education sector. The programme was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state and the Union Education Ministry, in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan, and state Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.
This initiative will see the central government contribute Rs 500 crore towards the development and infrastructure of higher education institutions across Odisha. Minister Pradhan hailed August 31 as a momentous day for Odisha’s educational landscape, underscoring the programme’s alignment with the vision set forth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the National Education Policy, 2020.
Key Aspects of PM-USHA
PM-USHA is designed to ensure access, equity, and excellence in higher education throughout Odisha. The Centre will provide 60 percent of the grants, with the remaining 40 percent covered by the state. This transformative initiative aims to enhance Odisha’s state universities into world-class institutions, equipped with the tools to impart 21st-century skills.
Chief Minister Charan emphasised the programme’s goal of upskilling one crore students and making Odisha a beacon of knowledge. Plans to grant autonomy to state universities were also announced, focusing on curriculum improvements, teacher training, and infrastructure development.
Education
EDUCATION vs. SEX OFFENDERS: Ending the Culture of Violence Through Learning
Published
4 weeks agoon
August 22, 2024
In light of the recent reports about sex-related crimes, it’s natural to ask, “How much worse can it get?” But, “How can we make it better?” is perhaps a better question. This article explores solutions that schools, educators, society, and we as individuals can implement. Ultimately, we have a choice: either remain trapped in a vicious cycle that fosters sex offenders or teach lessons of equality, empathy, and equity to shape a safer future for our country.
Rapists are not born, they are made. They emerge when seemingly normal actions subtly elevate men above the basic principles of humanity. For example, when boys are asked to sit with girls in schools as a “punishment,” when boys are not encouraged to form healthy friendships with girls, or when girls are told to dress a certain way, concealing their individuality and their skin, these experiences serve the dual purpose of making girls feel inferior and leading boys to believe that everything wrong with society is somehow related to women. If such harmful beliefs can be taught, then lessons of empathy, respect, and equality should be even easier to instil. Proper sex education, paired with eradicating the long-standing practice of asking only girls to adapt, can help dismantle these erroneous beliefs by promoting gender equality and mutual respect.
Gender-based stereotypes that focus on what a student ‘should’ do rather than what they ‘can’ do also create an implicit obligation to follow a set path, whether towards family, profession, or society. The human mind is a pattern recogniser—we see things and assume them to be the rule. Thus, when children see their parents taking responsibility for certain tasks at home, they assume this is what happens in every household, in every place. Parents need to constantly challenge gender stereotypes to prevent their children from learning them. By dividing kitchen duties, having both parents buy essentials, both making payments, and both participating in home repairs, parents can demonstrate that duties or jobs are not assigned by gender, thereby teaching gender equality.
Sex education is also seen as a crucial solution. We’ve discussed its importance, read about its significance, and debated its benefits. Yet, we’ve failed to give it the academic and societal attention it truly deserves. With children now having unprecedented access to technology, and experiencing both the wonders and horrors of the world, addressing this issue has become even more crucial.
While efforts have been made to make sex education a mandatory course for adolescents, many states have opposed the idea, altering the course content to suit their preferences. Some schools have even gone to the extent of substituting the word “sex” with “adolescent” in the curriculum. The lack of proper sex education only exacerbates unhealthy attitudes towards sex, allowing non-consensual encounters and gender-based violence to persist. A study conducted on American students found a 56% reduction in the likelihood of sexual assault among those who received comprehensive sex education compared to those who did not. (This study, along with many others, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, highlights the benefits of sex education, including a better understanding of consent, a decrease in unwanted pregnancies and STIs, and a reduction in sexual violence and marital rape.)
We have always waited for the government, society, and the elites to recognise problems and take action, but we often fail to realise that we are the ones who shape the government, society, and elites. When we unlearn these problematic ideologies, we create a society that doesn’t victim blame, takes serious action against heinous crimes, and welcomes people into workplaces based on their talents and merit, not on the sex they were assigned at birth. Education can either build or break the future citizens of a country. When we make these changes on our own level, we shape the future law-makers, law enforcers, and law-abiding citizens. The future is indeed in our hands.
This article is authored by Sanvi Agarwal, a Law Aspirant, passionate about women rights, gender equality, and social justice
Education
Ministry of Education Celebrates 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 with “Shiksha Saptah” Campaign
Published
2 months agoon
July 29, 2024
The Ministry of Education is commemorating the 4th anniversary of the National Education Policy 2020 with a week-long campaign titled “Shiksha Saptah.” On the final day, schools nationwide are focusing on enhancing community involvement in education through the Vidyanjali and Tithi Bhojan initiatives.
Vidyanjali: Strengthening Schools through Community Involvement
Vidyanjali, a school volunteer management program run by the Department of School Education & Literacy, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 7th September 2021. This initiative aims to improve the quality of education by involving the community, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the private sector.
As part of the Shiksha Saptah campaign, the Department of School Education & Literacy has suggested various activities for schools. These include onboarding schools to the Vidyanjali portal and identifying local volunteers. Schools will feature active volunteers on a “Wall of Fame” and encourage principals, teachers, and students to write letters of gratitude to these volunteers.
Community awareness activities such as rallies, street plays, poster-making, and chart-making about volunteer activities are being organised. State- and district-level officials are actively participating to ensure the campaign’s success. These efforts align with the NEP 2020’s goal of increasing community participation in education.
The activities aim to build a strong support system for students and teachers, creating a better learning environment by bringing together schools, volunteers, and the community through the Vidyanjali portal (https://vidyanjali.education.gov.in/).
Education
Youth Ideathon 2024: CBSE Launches India’s Biggest Entrepreneurship Competition for School Students
Published
2 months agoon
July 25, 2024
ThinkStartup, India’s leading entrepreneurship education platform, in association with the Management Entrepreneurship Professional Skills Council (MEPSC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and the Central Board for Secondary Education (CBSE), announced the launch of the 4th edition of Youth Ideathon (YI24). This prestigious Innovation and Entrepreneurship festival aims to harness the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of young minds across India.
The theme for this year’s Youth Ideathon is “iStartup a Good Thing for India.” The competition will be held in five stages, initially online, and is open to all school students in India, divided into Junior (Class 4 to Class 8) and Senior (Class 9 to Class 12) categories. Students will compete in teams of 3 to 5 members from the same school. The grand finale is set for October 6, 2024. Last year, the Ideathon attracted over 1.5 lakh students from more than 8,000 schools, and this year aims to see participation from over 2 lakh students across 10,000 schools.
Dr Biswajit Saha, Director (Skill Education & Training), CBSE, remarked, “Entrepreneurship is an essential pillar of the New Education Policy 2020, and the Youth Ideathon platform allows students to think bravely and showcase their talents.”
Mamta Kumari, Deputy General Manager, SIDBI, added, “Initiatives like Youth Ideathon 2024 nurture the entrepreneurial spirit among young minds, creating over 200 internships for school students in fields such as technology and digital marketing.”
Shivani Singh-Kapoor, Co-founder of ThinkStartup, emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent, stating, “Youth Ideathon empowers the next generation by nurturing high-potential student ideas with incubation support.”
The competition is supported by industry leaders such as Esri India and MediaTek. Agendra Kumar, Managing Director of Esri India, noted, “Youth Ideathon channels the creativity of young minds towards addressing pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges.”
Anku Jain, Managing Director of MediaTek India, echoed this sentiment, saying, “By supporting platforms like Youth Ideathon, we aim to generate more startups, create jobs, and cultivate groundbreaking ideas.”
Sanjeeva Shivesh, Program Director of Youth Ideathon, highlighted the new frugal startup challenge, offering Rs. 1000 cash to the top 500 teams to build a prototype or small venture.
Youth Ideathon 2024 also receives support from SheAtWork and BRICS CCI WE. Ruby Sinha, Founder of SheAtWork, stated, “Youth Ideathon addresses both SDG 4 and SDG 5 goals of quality education and gender equality.”
Participants will receive certificates, with top teams competing for incubation grants up to Rs. 100,000. Special recognition will be given to teachers, mentors, and schools with high participation rates.
Education
Internships in Top 500 Companies, Rs 5k Stipend for Youth: Key Highlights from the Education Budget 2024
Published
2 months agoon
July 24, 2024
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget 2024 yesterday, marking the first budget of the BJP-led NDA after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his third term. The budget introduced significant allocations aimed at bolstering education, employment, and skilling, with a notable allocation of Rs 1.48 lakh crore for these sectors.
Education Budget 2024: Rs 1.48 Lakh Crore Allocated
A new scheme offering internship opportunities at 500 top companies for 1 crore students over the next five years was one of the major highlights. Each student will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 and a one-time assistance payment of Rs 6,000. This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, providing practical experience to young learners.
“The government’s initiative to provide financial support for higher education loans up to Rs 10 lakh is commendable. This move will enhance accessibility to quality education,” said Dilip Gangaramani, Founder Director & CEO of Target Publications Pvt. Ltd. “The allocation of Rs 2 lakh crore for employment and skilling initiatives is also a positive step towards addressing youth unemployment.”
Major Employment and Skilling Schemes
The Finance Minister announced a substantial PM Package consisting of five programmes aimed at boosting employment and skilling, with a total allocation of Rs 2 lakh crore. Among these, Rs 1.48 lakh crore has been specifically allocated for education, employment, and skilling. The initiatives will skill 20 lakh youth over a five-year period, significantly contributing to the nation’s workforce by equipping young individuals with necessary skills to thrive in various industries.
25,000 Students to Avail Loan Benefits Every Year
The budget also introduced model skill loans. “Skilling loans – model skill loans schemes for up to 7 lakh rupees will benefit 25,000 students every year,” stated Finance Minister Sitharaman. This initiative aims to support students financially in acquiring necessary skills, thus enhancing their employability and career prospects.
“This year’s budget strikes a fine balance between fiscal discipline and drivers of economic and social growth. Enhanced initiatives on women empowerment and education underscore the focus on welfare schemes,” noted Dr Rakesh K Singh, Professor and Associate Dean – Academics at IMT Ghaziabad. “Structural reforms propose new policies to foster innovation and skill development in emerging areas such as AI and renewable energy.”
Comparison with Previous Budget
In the Union Budget 2023, the central government’s allocation for the education sector was Rs 1,12,898.97 crore, the highest allocation granted to the Ministry of Education at the time. The Union Budget 2024 reflects a strong focus on education, employment, and skilling, with significant investments aimed at creating a more skilled and educated workforce. The announced programmes and allocations are expected to drive improvements in educational infrastructure, job creation, and skill development across the nation.
“The government will also offer internships in 500 of India’s top companies. The companies can employ these interns through their CSR funds. As a support to employers, reimbursement of up to Rs 3,000 per month for two years towards their EPFO contribution for each additional employee will be provided,” stated Balkishan Sharma, Chairman & Founder at FVEG. “These new schemes aim to create new jobs and provide employment to well-educated youth.”
A Step Towards a Skilled Workforce
“The proposed comprehensive internship programme for one crore youth is a commendable initiative,” added Gangaramani. “These measures, if implemented effectively, can significantly boost India’s human capital development and contribute to a more skilled and employable workforce.”
The Budget 2024, with its focus on education, employment, and skilling, aligns with the nation’s developmental goals and is a welcome step forward in building a robust and future-ready workforce.
Education
Higher Education Enrollment Jumps To Nearly 4.33 Crore In FY22, Up 26.5% From FY15
Published
2 months agoon
July 22, 2024
The higher education sector in India has seen a substantial increase in enrolment and rising equity over the past eight years, as revealed by the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22. The Economic Survey 2023-24, tabled in Parliament by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, highlighted that total enrolment in higher education surged to nearly 4.33 crore in FY22, up from 4.14 crore in FY21 and 3.42 crore in FY15—a remarkable 26.5% increase since FY15.
This growth has been driven significantly by underprivileged sections, including SC, ST, and OBC communities, with a notable increase in female enrolment across these groups. Female enrolment in higher education jumped to 2.07 crore in FY22 from 1.57 crore in FY15, reflecting a 31.6% rise. This growing equity in higher education is expected to translate into better employment opportunities for previously disadvantaged sections of society.
India’s educational landscape is vast, with 26.52 crore students in schools, 4.33 crore in higher education, and over 11 crore learners in skilling institutions. The National Credit Framework (NCrF), announced under the National Education Policy 2020 in April 2023, serves as the foundation of a regulatory structure that promotes lifelong learning.
The Economic Survey underscores the importance of mission-mode and cost-effective implementation of educational programmes, especially at the primary level. Effective public spending on education should focus on pedagogy and governance, including monitoring teaching quality, recognising teacher performance, and employing local volunteers to ensure students are taught at the appropriate level.
India is making significant strides in research and development. The number of patents granted in FY24 nearly quadrupled from FY20, reaching almost 1,00,000. According to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), India had the highest growth in patent filings in 2022 at 31.6%. The country has improved its rank in the Global Innovation Index from 81st in 2015 to 40th in 2023.
Ph.D. enrolment has also surged, with an 81.2% increase from FY15 to FY22. Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) has more than doubled since FY11. The newly established National Research Foundation, ‘Anusandhan’, aims to bolster India’s R&D ecosystem with a significant financial commitment from the government.
India’s ascent in high-quality research is marked by its rise to 9th place in the Nature Index 2023, surpassing Australia and Switzerland. The government’s commitment to research and innovation is encapsulated in the interim budget of FY25, which includes a Rs. 1 lakh crore corpus for research, adopting the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan”.
Newsletter
Indian Edtech’s Next Chapter: Navigating the Post-Boom Era
Renowned Educationist Shomie Das Passes Away
How Pop Culture is Making Reading Cool Again in Indian Classrooms: From Comics to Classroom Libraries
The Silent Conversations: How Teacher-Student Relationships Need a New Language
CBSE Mandates ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in Schools to Enhance Skill-Based Education
University of Southampton Receives Licence to Establish Campus in India
Odisha Launches PM-USHA Programme to Boost Higher Education
EDUCATION vs. SEX OFFENDERS: Ending the Culture of Violence Through Learning
The Evolution of Education Since the Arrival of the World Wide Web
Beyond Rote Learning: Cultivating Curiosity in Indian Classrooms
From STEM to STEAM: The Power of the Arts in Modern Education
India at the 2024 Paris Olympics: A Call for Greater Sports Prowess and Better Sports Education
Ministry of Education Celebrates 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 with “Shiksha Saptah” Campaign
Remembering Kargil Vijay Diwas: A Lesson in History, Sacrifice, and Peace for Our Children
Youth Ideathon 2024: CBSE Launches India’s Biggest Entrepreneurship Competition for School Students
Internships in Top 500 Companies, Rs 5k Stipend for Youth: Key Highlights from the Education Budget 2024
Higher Education Enrollment Jumps To Nearly 4.33 Crore In FY22, Up 26.5% From FY15
UNESCO Report Highlights Need for Boost in India’s Upper Secondary Education
Embracing Emojis in the Classroom: A Fun and Polite Approach to Modern Learning
Workshop on Writing Textbooks in Bharatiya Bhasha for Higher Education Inaugurated by Dr. Sukanta Majumdar
Nurturing Natural Skills: Empowering Youth for the Future
Global Education Crisis Demands Immediate Action, Says UN Secretary-General
Celebrating Nikola Tesla: A Beacon for Transforming Education
Maharashtra Government Announces Free Higher Education for EWS, SEBC, OBC Girls
Chhattisgarh Introduces Local Language Primary Education in Tribal Areas
NCERT Introduces ‘Poorvi’ For Class 6: A New English Textbook With Indian Focus
The Liberal Gift: The Key Lessons from “College – Pathways of Possibilities” by Saikat Majumdar
Celebrating Nikola Tesla: A Beacon for Transforming Education
Navigating Teen Emotions: The Essential Lessons of ‘Inside Out’
NIIT Foundation and UNICEF YuWaah Empower 5,000 Women and Girls through Data Literacy Training Programme
A Story About Turning Math Anxiety into Achievement
Potato of my Classroom
Kozhikode Becomes India’s First UNESCO ‘City of Literature’
Navigating Future Horizons: The Imperative Need of Updated Career Counsellors in Indian Schools
Maharashtra Government Announces Free Higher Education for EWS, SEBC, OBC Girls
Goa to Introduce Uniforms in Government Colleges
Prerana Students Chart Career Paths with Target Publications’ Event
Navigating Post-Class 12 Career Choices: A Comprehensive Guide
Growing Education Parity in India: The Divide Between Rich and Poor
Remembering Kargil Vijay Diwas: A Lesson in History, Sacrifice, and Peace for Our Children
India at the 2024 Paris Olympics: A Call for Greater Sports Prowess and Better Sports Education
PeakMind Report: 47% of Delhi/NCR Students Battle Sleep Problems Amid Growing Mental Health Concerns
National Teachers’ Award 2024: Self-Nominations Open Until 15th July
Chhattisgarh Introduces Local Language Primary Education in Tribal Areas
Ladakh Celebrates Achieving Full Functional Literacy
Chandigarh to Launch First-of-its-Kind Health Education Centre
The NEET Debacle: Understanding the Issue and Looking Ahead
Ministry of Education Launches Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions Campaign
Australia’s Doubling of Student Visa Fees to Impact Indian Applicants
Workshop on Writing Textbooks in Bharatiya Bhasha for Higher Education Inaugurated by Dr. Sukanta Majumdar
SGEF2023 | Special Address by Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, Jaipur
ScooNews | After Movie | ScooNews Global Educators Fest 2023
Aftermovie | NIES2 UP Chapter | 21 Jan 2023
WEBINAR | Gamification in Education: How Digital Badges Can Boost Student Motivation and Engagement
ScooNews | WEBINAR| Importance of Physical Activity for Children at School | Plaeto
SCOONEWS | WEBINAR | WHY DIGITIZING YOUR SCHOOL IS A MUST | TEACHMINT
Keynote Address | Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar
Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, CBSE at SGEF2022
How schools can nurture every student’s genius
Aftermovie | SGEF2022 | Jaipur
Li Andersson | Minister of Education | Finland
Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) discusses NEP2020
ScooNews | Early Ed Asia 2019 | Aftermovie
#PodarECEconf : Pursuing quality ECE
#CBSE Class XII #Results #Highlights
The interesting story of India’s educational system | Adhitya Iyer
A young scientist’s quest for clean water
The Danger of Silence: Clint Smith
National Digital Library of India is an initiative by HRD Ministry
Remembering Kalpana Chawla on her birthday!
Message from Sadhguru for Students!
Message from Sadhguru for Students!
The Untapped Genius That Could Change Science for the Better
Eddy Zhong: How school makes kids less intelligent TEDxYouth@Beacon
#TEDxCanberra : What if every child had access to music education…
Trending
-
Education2 months ago
NCERT Introduces ‘Poorvi’ For Class 6: A New English Textbook With Indian Focus
-
Inspiration3 months ago
The Liberal Gift: The Key Lessons from “College – Pathways of Possibilities” by Saikat Majumdar
-
Education2 months ago
Celebrating Nikola Tesla: A Beacon for Transforming Education
-
Edutainment3 months ago
Navigating Teen Emotions: The Essential Lessons of ‘Inside Out’
-
Education3 months ago
NIIT Foundation and UNICEF YuWaah Empower 5,000 Women and Girls through Data Literacy Training Programme
-
Edutainment3 months ago
A Story About Turning Math Anxiety into Achievement
-
Education3 months ago
Potato of my Classroom
-
Education3 months ago
Kozhikode Becomes India’s First UNESCO ‘City of Literature’
-
Knowledge3 months ago
Navigating Future Horizons: The Imperative Need of Updated Career Counsellors in Indian Schools
-
Education2 months ago
Maharashtra Government Announces Free Higher Education for EWS, SEBC, OBC Girls