News
This Irish School Just Assigned ‘Kind Acts’ as Homework to Its Kids
Irish school asking students to do acts of kindness instead of Homework. Have a look at the new initiative by the school to embed kindness in children.
Can you imagine a no-homework month at schools? No, right? You will be surprised to know that an Irish school has made the month of December absolutely homework-free for its students. All they are supposed to do is focus on doing acts of kindness each day rather than solving their regular (boring) assignments.
For a month, the children of Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Uí Choileáin, Clonakilty, will be relieved of the burden of doing the same old monotonous homework and instead experience the joy of kindness and compassion. In the past, a good number of schools throughout the globe have experimented with a similar kind of curriculum by adding ‘acts of kindness’ as one of the main educational activities. The effects, undoubtedly, resulted in more vigorous development of the kids involved. Isn't this a beautiful example of Progressive Schooling?
In this Irish school, the students are assigned an act of kindness every day. This may include helping an elderly cross the road on Monday, assisting their family in regular household chores on Tuesday, feeding homeless people on Wednesday, petting a stray the next day, and so on.
Students are also asked to keep a track of their acts in a Kindness Diary while the school will maintain a Kindness Bucket where students will deposit a positive note, affirmation, and observations, which will be randomly be read out in the classroom on Fridays, to uplift the self-esteem of their comrades.
Apart from this, the students of each class are also supposed to collaborate for a Group Kindness Activity that will be based on the idea of collective-brainstorming. They're hoping that, with this idea, the conventional methods of teaching that emphasize only on rote learning and information-based exams can be slowly withdrawn as they create unhealthy competition among students. The desire to leave their classmates behind and stand as a topper in class hinders the positive emotional development among children as they also lose the sense of togetherness amongst them. With ideas like Act of Kindness, we can actually make a positive impact on their psychology.
Scroll down to read some benefits that can be obtained by implementing such healthy practices in schools:
1. Happiness
Students must be happy both inside and outside the classroom and some studies have proved that acts of kindness can provide it to both the giver and the receiver of kindness. The feeling of being kind also releases endorphins that stimulate the areas of the brain associated with trust and pleasure.
2. Compassion
Bullying in schools has sadly become a common phenomenon and with activities like acts of kindness, we can truly teach them about compassion, living in unity, and treating everyone with equality.
3. Better results
Kindness will ensure a peaceful mind which will, in turn, lead to a healthy life cycle. A healthy mind and body are essential to perform well in daily activities that include studying, as well. A mind that is full of envy and frustration won't be able to perform to its fullest.
4. Stress buster
It is evident that stress can target anyone without looking at the age. The stress children go through during their school time is very real and the appointment of psychologists in school settings can ratify this fact. Small acts of kindness that can make them happy will automatically decrease their stress and are also far better than depending upon counselling.
Image Courtesy: Southernstar.ie
Education
Stonehill International School Students Shine in Spectacular Performance of In the Heights
Bangalore– The stage at Bangalore International Centre came alive as students from Stonehill International School, Bangalore, delivered a stunning performance of In the Heights, a Tony Award-winning musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The production, which ran from 27th February to 1st March, showcased the immense talent and dedication of the school’s middle and high school students, reinforcing Stonehill’s commitment to fostering the performing arts.
The school’s annual musical production provides students with a professional platform to display their acting, singing, and creative skills before a large and diverse audience. This year’s high-energy performance blended hip-hop, salsa, merengue, and soul to bring to life the vibrant Latino community of Washington Heights, New York City. The story follows Usnavi, a bodega owner with dreams of returning to the Dominican Republic, alongside his neighbors as they navigate love, ambition, and identity, all set against the backdrop of a changing community.
The production was the culmination of six months of rigorous rehearsals, late-night practices, and weekend sessions, with students working tirelessly to ensure a seamless performance. Joe Lumsden, Head of School, Stonehill International School, commended their efforts, stating:
“The Stonehill musical production this year was stunning. Our students worked on this production for six months, giving up their evenings and weekends to ensure that the show was as professional as possible. All members of the crew and cast can be immensely proud of the performance that they put on. The audience absolutely loved it.”
Adding to the immersive theatrical experience was a realistic set, designed by students and teachers, that transformed the stage into a bustling New York high street, complete with candy shops and boutique salons. The meticulous attention to detail extended to costumes, props, lighting, makeup, choreography, and music, all conceptualized and executed in-house by the students and faculty.
The production was directed by Jason Gallant, a faculty member at Stonehill International School with an extensive background in theatre. Trained in dance and having performed in theatre from a young age, Gallant has used performance arts as a tool for education. Reflecting on the play’s significance for an international school, he shared: “As an international teacher, I feel In the Heights is a perfect choice for this year’s production. It is a story about finding a sense of belonging and creating a community wherever one is—something the diverse student body at Stonehill can truly relate to.”
Gallant, who initially worked as a music and drama programmer at a summer camp for children with physical disabilities, now actively encourages his students to explore drama as a means of building confidence and collaboration skills.
The three-day showcase received resounding applause, with audiences appreciating the passion, professionalism, and storytelling brought to life by the young performers. Stonehill International School’s commitment to the arts continues to empower students to explore creative expression and cultural storytelling, making their annual musical production a highlight of the school’s cultural calendar.
New Delhi, 3rd March 2025: Hello Kids, one of India’s largest preschool chains, has reached a significant milestone by expanding to 1,000 centres across India and Bangladesh. With an ambitious roadmap ahead, the brand now targets 2,000 centres within the next three years, aiming to provide early childhood education to over 100,000 students by 2028.
Predominantly established in Bangalore and Hyderabad, Hello Kids is now gearing up to expand its presence across northern and western India, further strengthening its position in the preschool segment.
Founded in 2005 by Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Hello Kids began as a single preschool in Bangalore. Over the years, the brand has grown into a widespread network, largely credited to its no-royalty franchise model. The chain’s affordable and accessible approach to early learning has made it a preferred choice for parents and educators alike.
Mr. Agrawal, who hails from a small village, faced numerous challenges while establishing Hello Kids. From managing daily operations to personally driving school vans, he worked hands-on to understand the intricacies of running a credible preschool. His efforts gained further momentum when his wife, Sunita Jain, a software engineer, joined him in the venture. Together, they leveraged franchising to scale the business, making Hello Kids India’s first no-royalty model preschool chain.
“From humble beginnings to becoming a household name in early childhood education, Hello Kids has always focused on making preschools affordable while providing the best learning environment for young minds. Our goal is to reach 2,000 centres by 2028 while staying committed to excellence in early learning,” said Pritam Kumar Agrawal, Founder & Director of Hello Kids.
Over the years, Hello Kids has garnered multiple accolades for its contribution to early childhood education. The brand was named India’s Most Respected Childhood Education Brand 2022-23 by Education World and was also awarded Leading Preschool Chain at the Elets World Education Summit 2022.
“At Hello Kids, we believe in nurturing young minds with innovative learning experiences. Our goal has always been to make high-quality preschool education accessible to every child. As we expand further, we remain committed to providing a safe, engaging, and stimulating environment for early learners, ensuring they build a strong foundation for the future,” added Sunita Jain, Director & CEO of Hello Kids.
A major factor behind Hello Kids’ rapid expansion has been its comprehensive training and support system for franchise partners. The company provides training in curriculum development, teaching methodologies, marketing strategies, social media engagement, parent counseling, and admission handling.
Academic training sessions focus on phonics, Montessori techniques, STEM education, and social behaviour development—all crucial elements for early childhood development.
The Hello Kids curriculum aligns with India’s New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, integrating digital learning tools such as Virtual Reality kits, digital slates, and talking pens to enhance student engagement. The brand also ensures child safety with CCTV-monitored classrooms, a hygienic environment, and experienced educators.
With a strong foundation in early learning, a commitment to innovation, and an ambitious expansion plan, Hello Kids is poised to reshape the preschool landscape in India in the coming years.
On February 27, 2025, former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino visited PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya in New Delhi, where he engaged with students in an interactive session. During his visit, he also explored the school’s advanced facilities, including the AR-VR Lab, Atal Tinkering Lab, and language lab.
While interacting with the students, Mr. Massimino praised India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission, emphasizing its significance not just for India but for the global space community. He highlighted the challenges of landing on the Moon’s South Pole and how this achievement could provide key insights into water sources essential for habitation. Additionally, he underscored the importance of international collaboration in future space programs.
Mr. Massimino shared how a movie based on 7 astronauts inspired him to become an astronaut. Engaging with the students, he answered their questions about space exploration, the kind of food they had during their space trips, etc. Recounting his personal experiences, he described how he adapted to zero gravity in space and elaborated on their sleeping arrangements, consoles to work, etc. Students were also curious about AI’s role in space exploration. In response, he explained that AI would streamline the processes, making them more efficient, cost-effective, and safe. Concluding his interaction, he advised students on the subjects and skills they should pursue if they aspire to a career in space exploration.
During the event, students asked several questions about the challenges of pursuing a career as an astronaut and the key subjects essential for their preparation. Mr. Massimino emphasized the importance of exploring various fields, including soil sciences and marine biology. His practical and insightful answers left the students excited and deeply inspired. They also asked him about the most challenging project he worked on at NASA and whether human habitation on Mars would be possible in the near future. He explained that while living on the Moon could become a reality soon, settling on Mars would take longer due to the technological challenges that still need to be overcome.
Mr. Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut, is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and the senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. He received a BS from Columbia University, and MS degrees in mechanical engineering and in technology and policy, as well as a PhD in mechanical engineering, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
After working as an engineer at IBM, NASA, and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, along with academic appointments at Rice University and at the Georgia Institute of Technology, he was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1996, and is the veteran of two space flights, the fourth and fifth Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions in 2002 and 2009. Mike has a team record for the number of hours spacewalking in a single space shuttle mission, and he was also the first person to tweet from space. During his NASA career he received two NASA Space Flight Medals, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the American Astronautical Society’s Flight Achievement Award, and the Star of Italian Solidarity.
He is the Senior Adviser for Space Programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City. He is also a professor in Columbia University’s engineering school, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science.
Also present at the programme were Shri Somit Shrivastava, Joint Commissioner (Pers); Shri B.K. Behra, Deputy Commissioner (Academics) KVS HQ; Shri S.S. Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner, KVS Delhi Region; Shri G.S. Pandey and Shri K.C. Meena, Assistant Commissioner, Delhi Region; Shri V.K. Mathpal, Principal KV No.2, Delhi Cantonment; and others.
For years, India has prided itself on producing some of the brightest minds in STEM—engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who have made a mark globally. Yet, when it comes to disruptive innovation, the kind that births global tech giants and Nobel Prize-winning research, we often fall short. Why?
Is it because we lack talent? Absolutely not. The problem runs deeper—our education system, built on rote learning, has prioritised exam-cracking over curiosity, job security over risk-taking, and textbook knowledge over problem-solving. The question is: Can India break free from this outdated model to create its own Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, or Marie Curie?
A Legacy of Rote Learning: The British Blueprint We Never Questioned
The roots of India’s memorisation-based education system can be traced back to British colonial rule. The primary goal of British education policies in India was not to create scientific thinkers or innovators but to train clerks for the colonial administration. Lord Macaulay’s downward filtration theory introduced English as the medium of instruction and focused on producing a workforce that could follow orders rather than challenge ideas.
After independence, while we made commendable strides in higher education, the colonial mindset persisted in schools. The emphasis remained on scoring high marks, clearing competitive exams, and securing stable government jobs—leaving little room for questioning, experimenting, and inventing.
The Price of Playing It Safe: Where Are the Innovators?
While India has produced exceptional engineers and IT professionals, our track record in deep-tech innovations, fundamental scientific research, and original inventions remains underwhelming. Some staggering facts highlight this gap:
- Nobel Prize Count – Since independence, India has produced only three Nobel laureates in Physics, Chemistry, and Medicine, and none of them were affiliated with Indian institutions at the time of their award.
- Dependence on Imports – Despite being a global IT hub, we import key technologies for semiconductors, mobile devices, and pharmaceuticals instead of pioneering them.
- Startup Landscape – While India has a thriving startup ecosystem, the bulk of it focuses on software services and e-commerce, rather than cutting-edge technology or fundamental research.
Clearly, we are not lacking in intelligence, but in an environment that encourages bold, innovative thinking.
Shifting Gears: A New Wave of Scientific Learning?
Thankfully, a quiet revolution is taking place—one that is moving away from rote-learning towards experiential, hands-on learning.
1. Atal Tinkering Labs: India’s Answer to MIT’s Maker Culture
One of the most promising government initiatives in recent years has been Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), introduced under Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). These labs, established in over 10,000 schools, encourage students from Grades 6-12 to explore STEM concepts through practical projects.
Take the example of Revalla Archana, a ninth-grader from Andhra Pradesh, who used ATL resources to develop a train accident prevention system—a project born from personal loss but fueled by scientific curiosity. Stories like hers are proof that given the right resources, students can think beyond textbooks and solve real-world problems.
2. EdTech Platforms: Bridging the Creativity Gap
The rise of EdTech startups like Byju’s, Unacademy, and Vedantu has already changed how students prepare for exams. But the real game-changer is platforms like:
- ICT 360 – Empowering students with hands-on experience in robotics, AI, and IoT to drive future innovation.
- Experifun – A hands-on science experiment kit provider helping students understand concepts practically.
- Curiosity Gym – Encouraging design thinking through innovation workshops.
Such platforms gamify learning, encourage creativity, and make scientific exploration fun—a stark contrast to traditional rote-learning methods.
3. NEP 2020: A Long-Overdue Reform?
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has been hailed as a major step in breaking the rote-learning culture. Some key reforms include:
✔️ Introducing coding from Grade 6.
✔️ Encouraging multidisciplinary learning—students can mix subjects like Physics and Music.
✔️ Focusing on conceptual understanding rather than memorisation.
While these changes are promising, their implementation will decide whether they truly revolutionise science education or remain just another policy on paper.
Breaking the Fear of Failure: India Needs a Culture Shift
Another major hurdle in fostering young innovators is the fear of failure. Unlike Silicon Valley, where entrepreneurial failure is celebrated as a learning experience, in India, it’s a stigma.
🚀 Nikhil Kamath (Founder of Zerodha) – Dropped out of school, yet built India’s biggest stock-broking platform.
🚀 Kaivalya Vohra & Aadit Palicha (Founders of Zepto) – Quit Stanford to create India’s fastest-growing quick-commerce startup.
These success stories are exceptions, not the norm. For every Nikhil Kamath, there are thousands of students discouraged from taking risks because the system values marks over ideas.
So, what’s the way forward?
Building a Future of Disruptors
For India to produce its own Elon Musks and Marie Curies, we need to make systemic changes:
1. Reward Curiosity Over Marks
Schools should reward students for asking questions, not just for answering them correctly. The introduction of open-ended assessments and project-based learning will encourage original thinking.
2. Make Failure a Part of Learning
We need a cultural shift where failing in an experiment is seen as a step towards success. Schools and universities should highlight real-world failures and how they led to breakthrough inventions.
3. Strengthen Industry-Academia Collaboration
One reason why the US and China lead in innovation is their strong link between universities and industry. More Indian startups, tech firms, and research institutions need to work with students on cutting-edge projects.
4. Introduce ‘Innovation Grants’ for School Students
The government, private sector, and philanthropists should set up innovation grants for young school students working on disruptive projects. These grants will provide financial backing for young inventors.
India has the potential to be a global leader in science and technology, but it cannot happen if students continue to be measured by how well they memorise textbooks. We need an education system that inspires curiosity, rewards risk-taking, and nurtures inventors.
The next Elon Musk or Marie Curie might be sitting in an Indian classroom right now—but whether they become pioneers or just another cog in the machine depends on how we choose to educate them. The choice is ours.
Education
Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti
Adolescence is a pivotal phase in a child’s development, marked by rapid physical and psychological transformations. It is a time of exploration, self-discovery, and, often, vulnerability. To provide structured guidance and empower young girls during this crucial stage, Nagaland has introduced ‘Adolescent Girls Clubs’ in both government and private schools for girls aged 10-19 years under Mission Shakti.
On 5th October 2024, the first Adolescent Girls Club was launched at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Wokha, Nagaland, with 50 adolescent girls as its founding members. The initiative aims to equip girls with essential skills, knowledge, and support systems to navigate challenges, make informed choices, and build a strong foundation for their future. With the motto “Live the Promise,” the clubs aspire to develop confident, informed, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
The initiative is designed with key objectives to educate, uplift, and empower adolescent girls:
The Adolescent Girls Club will engage its members in workshops, mentorship programmes, health camps, community service projects, and creative expression activities. Additionally, a special adolescent toolkit is being developed to serve as a guide for both adolescent girls and their parents. The toolkit will include informational materials on menstrual hygiene management (MHH), mental health, teenage pregnancy prevention, child abuse awareness, and emergency helpline numbers.
Teachers and counsellors are actively working on IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials tailored to adolescent needs. The clubs will also conduct monthly activities to ensure continuous engagement, provide a platform for girls to discuss their concerns, and create a safe space for their growth and development.
This initiative under Mission Shakti is expected to positively impact thousands of young girls across Nagaland, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate adolescence with confidence and resilience.Objectives of the Adolescent Girls Club
Education
Maharashtra to Mandate Registration of Pre-Primary Schools from 2025 for Better Regulation
In a significant move to regulate the burgeoning number of pre-primary schools across Maharashtra, the state government has announced that, starting from the academic year 2025-26, all such institutions will be required to register with the School Education Department. This initiative aims to curb arbitrary fee structures and ensure standardized education quality for young learners.
Minister of State for Education, Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar, emphasized the necessity of this regulation, stating that while establishing a pre-primary school currently doesn’t mandate prior permission from the government or the education department, it’s imperative for local education officers to maintain records of these institutions. “To achieve this, the registration of schools will be made mandatory,” Dr. Bhoyar remarked. He further disclosed that efforts are underway to draft legislation governing the fees these schools can levy. Once enacted, this law will enforce compulsory registration of pre-primary schools with the School Education Department, with implementation slated for the 2025-26 academic session.
The state’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to bringing positive transformations in the education sector through collaborative efforts. Dr. Bhoyar encouraged stakeholders to share insights or suggestions regarding the execution of central or state educational initiatives, assuring that valuable recommendations would be duly considered. “The state government is striving to bring positive changes in the education system through collective efforts,” he affirmed.
This development is poised to bring about a more transparent and equitable educational landscape for Maharashtra’s youngest scholars.
Gwalior, India – The Scindia School in association with White Canvas India hosted an inspiring Young CEO Product Launch Ceremony on February 20, 2025. The event marked a significant milestone in student-led entrepreneurship, showcasing innovative startups developed by young minds of the school.
The TSS WCI Young CEO Program is a revolutionary initiative designed to nurture entrepreneurial thinking among students, equipping them with right mindset, real-world business skills through hands-on learning. The event brought together founders, industry leaders, and students to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of tomorrow’s business leaders.
Three teams of dynamic young entrepreneurs introduced their startups, each addressing crucial market needs with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and impact:
1️. Eco BAM – Sustainable Bamboo Products
- A venture dedicated to replacing plastic with eco-friendly bamboo-based alternatives such as bottles, cutlery, and plates.
- Committed to promoting a greener, plastic-free future.
2️. Rebloomers – Upcycled Fabric Creations
- A student-led foundation transforming discarded fabrics into stylish bags, wallets, and pouches.
- Advocates for zero-waste fashion and sustainable consumption.
3️. Profeed – Healthy Protein Bars & Millet Cookies
- A nutrient-rich, no-added-sugar snack brand designed for health-conscious consumers.
- Focused on providing wholesome, high-protein alternatives to promote a healthier lifestyle.
- Pioneering Healthy can be tasty mantra.
The launch in record time is a testament to the power of young minds in shaping the future of business and sustainability. By fostering innovation at an early stage, The Scindia School aim to ignite a culture of entrepreneurship among students, inspiring them to think big, take risks, and make an impact.
The founders are empowered to do a need analysis, write a professional business plan, negotiate with vendors, design and brand the product, market the product, achieve the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), develop a high Social Quotient (SQ) while they are still in school.
The White Canvas India Young CEO program is committed to make every Scindian a Viksit Bharat Ambassador, exclaimed Samaresh Shah, Founder- White Canvas India.
YB Chavan Auditorium became a hub of creativity as Kala Ka Karawaan, an initiative by Salaam Bombay Foundation, provided students from Mumbai’s municipal and government aided schools with a platform to showcase their artistic and media skills on February 20, 2025. The event highlighted the transformative impact of arts education through performances, exhibitions, and interactive stalls.
A key highlight was the exhibition by students from the Arts Academy, where paintings, photography, and digital artwork captured various facets of Indian culture. Visitors also engaged with students at interactive stalls that showcased photography, filmmaking, podcasting, and magazine writing, demonstrating the skills they had honed through the Media Academy.
Theatre and dance performances brought another dimension to the event, as students expressed themselves through movement and dialogue, addressing real-world issues and their lived experiences.
The event also featured alumni who have successfully turned their training into professional careers. Priti Singh, an Arts Academy alumnus, displayed her latest paintings. Sagar Kanojia, a former dance student, returned as a choreographer, and Kushal Mahale, now a professional photographer and video editor, presented his portfolio. Their journeys exemplify how skill-based education can create real career opportunities.
Speaking about the event, Rajashree Kadam, Senior Vice President (Arts and Media), Salaam Bombay Foundation, said, “Kala Ka Karawaan demonstrates that if students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds are given the right education and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary success. Our programmes align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which not only promotes vocational training and creativity but also highlights the significant role of training in arts and culture in students’ holistic development. This event underscores the importance of integrating arts and media into mainstream education.”
Renowned theatre director Jeff Goldberg shared his thoughts, “The confidence, talent, and storytelling skills these students possess are incredible. Arts education is not just about skill-building but also about giving young people a voice. Salaam Bombay Foundation is doing a phenomenal job ensuring that students from municipal schools get these opportunities.”
Bhushan Gagrani, BMC Commissioner, added, “Students in Mumbai’s municipal schools have immense potential. Organisations like Salaam Bombay Foundation prove that, with the right platforms, they can excel in fields beyond traditional academics. We must continue to invest in arts education and skill-based learning for a brighter future.”
The United States is undergoing a major shift in its education policy under President Donald Trump’s administration, with a plan to abolish the US Department of Education through an executive order. This move has sparked widespread fear and uncertainty among education professionals in the US, with experts arguing that it could have far-reaching implications—not just for America but for global education, including India.
What’s Happening in the US?
The Trump administration’s education policies have long been focused on decentralisation—moving decision-making power from the federal government to individual states. The latest effort aims to dismantle the Department of Education altogether, returning full control of education to state governments.
A report by The Guardian describes the panic among Department of Education employees, who fear losing their jobs as federal funding for education faces imminent cuts (source). The department currently supports around 7.5 million students with disabilities and provides critical funding to Title I schools, which cater to over 26 million children living in poverty. The proposed shutdown could mean an end to federal oversight of educational equity, potentially worsening disparities in access to quality education.
The administration has also issued directives eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federally funded schools, warning that failure to comply could result in the loss of funding for essential services such as student loans, free lunch programs, and special education support (source).
Why Does This Matter Beyond the US?
America’s education policies often set a global precedent, influencing trends in international education, research collaborations, and student exchange programs. If the US withdraws from actively shaping global education policies, it could create a ripple effect on countries, including India, where millions aspire to study in American universities.
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Funding Cuts Could Impact Indian Students Studying in the US
- The US is the top destination for Indian students, with nearly 200,000 Indian students enrolled in American universities in 2024.
- If Trump’s administration cuts federal student loan programs, the financial burden on international students could increase.
- Scholarship opportunities, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, could shrink significantly.
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Loss of DEI Programs Could Make US Universities Less Inclusive for Indian Students
- The directive to eliminate diversity and inclusion programs from federally funded institutions could reduce support services for Indian and other international students.
- Many Indian students rely on DEI initiatives that offer mentorship, career guidance, and cultural adaptation programs.
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Impact on Higher Education Partnerships
- India has multiple research collaborations with US universities in fields like AI, healthcare, and climate science.
- A weakened Department of Education may reduce funding for research collaborations, impacting Indian researchers working in the US.
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Could India See a Similar Shift in Education Policy?
- India is currently in a phase of educational reform, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasising equitable access to education.
- If the US reduces investment in public education, there’s concern that other nations, including India, may deprioritise education spending in the long run.
Who Will Be Affected the Most in India?
The biggest impact of the US education shake-up could be felt among economically weaker students and marginalised communities in India.
- Indian students from lower-income backgrounds aiming for US education could struggle with financial aid.
- Institutions collaborating with US universities may see a decline in research funding.
- Public education in India, which already faces funding constraints, might suffer if government priorities shift away from long-term investment in education.
A Step Back for Global Education?
Education has long been seen as the great equaliser, but dismantling federal oversight on education in the US may widen inequalities, not just within America but worldwide. The Time Magazine report on the history of US education policies (source) shows that education reforms have often been tied to social equity movements. Removing this federal framework could reverse decades of progress in education equality.
Experts argue that international collaboration is key in shaping future-ready education systems. However, if the US retracts its role in funding and regulating equitable education, it might push other nations towards privatisation and deregulation, creating greater disparities in access to quality learning.
What Next?
For Indian students, parents, and educators, this is a moment of introspection and advocacy. As the US undergoes these drastic changes, India must ensure that:
- Financial support structures remain intact for Indian students aspiring to study abroad.
- Global research collaborations continue, even if funding sources shift.
- Domestic education policies remain focused on equitable access, rather than mirroring privatisation trends.
The US education system has long served as a benchmark for excellence, but its current trajectory raises concerns for students worldwide. For Indian students looking towards the US for higher education, the road ahead could be more uncertain than ever.
In a bid to curb bullying and ragging in schools, the Kerala General Education Department is set to introduce anti-ragging cells across educational institutions in the state. This initiative comes in response to persistent concerns over student safety and well-being in schools.
General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced that senior officials are preparing a proposal to implement anti-ragging cells in every school. This step aims to reinforce the existing disciplinary committees and protection groups to ensure a more structured and effective response to bullying.
“Through disciplinary committees and protection groups already exist in schools across the state, the practices like ragging have yet to be completely rooted out. Therefore, the General Education Department is considering setting up anti-ragging cells in every educational institution in the state,” Sivankutty said.
A committee of senior officials from the General Education Department will be formed to study and propose the structure and functioning of these cells before implementation. The minister added that these anti-ragging cells should also instil a sense of responsibility and respect among students, shaping their approach towards peer interactions in both school and higher education.
Emphasising the importance of a healthy student-teacher relationship, the minister said that children should feel comfortable sharing their issues with their teachers. He reiterated that open communication between students and educators is essential in addressing concerns and creating a safe and inclusive school environment.
With bullying and ragging remaining a major issue in schools and colleges, Kerala’s initiative could set a progressive precedent for other states. The introduction of anti-ragging cells aims to foster respect, safety, and well-being among students while strengthening institutional support systems.
(With Inputs from PTI)
Stonehill International School Students Shine in Spectacular Performance of In the Heights
Rethinking Education: Why High Schoolers Are Opting Out of Traditional Degrees for Skill-Based Learning
Hello Kids Expands to 1,000 Centres, Aims for 2,000 by 2028
NASA Veteran Mr. Mike Massimino Interacts with Students in New Delhi
Can India Create the Next Elon Musk? Rethinking Science Education for Young Disruptors
Nagaland Schools Launch ‘Adolescent Girls Club’ to Empower Young Girls Under Mission Shakti
Maharashtra to Mandate Registration of Pre-Primary Schools from 2025 for Better Regulation
The Scindia School Students Launch Three Groundbreaking Startups in Record Time
Kala Ka Karawaan Empowers Mumbai Govt School Students via Arts & Media Education
Trump’s Move to Dismantle the US Department of Education: Its Impact on India
Kerala to Introduce Anti-Ragging Cells in Schools to Tackle Bullying
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Education3 months ago
CBSE to Introduce Two-Level Structure for Science and Social Science in Classes 9 and 10 by 2026
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Education3 days agoHello Kids Expands to 1,000 Centres, Aims for 2,000 by 2028
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Edutainment3 months agoWord of the Year 2024: Can Teachers Keep Up With The Evolving Language of Gen Z?
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Education2 months agoIndia’s Education Conundrum: Envisioning 2025 Amid Ground Realities
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Education2 months agoNational Youth Day: Would Swami Vivekananda Be Proud of Indian Youth Today?
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Education1 month agoIndia Marks 10 Years of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao with Nationwide Celebrations
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Education2 months agoNational Startup Day: A New Era for Education and Entrepreneurship
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Education1 month agoUnion Budget 2025-26: A New Dawn for India’s Education Sector
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Education1 month agoUnion Budget 2025-26: An Opportunity to Revolutionise India’s Education and Skilling Landscape
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Education2 months ago2025: A Wake-Up Call for Cybersecurity in Education After the US PowerSchool Breach