Education
Tips for positive parenting
Sue Atkins gives tips for positive parenting.
Parenting is tiring, exhausting, overwhelming and frustrating to name only a few of the very strong emotions parents go through every day.
Whether they are toddlers or teens children need parents’ time, energy and attention.
Parenting is the most fulfilling job that anyone will ever do, but it’s not without its challenges. Modern family life can be stressful and with various pressures on families it’s not always easy.
Most parents want what is best for their child, and a strong parent-child relationship, can help lead to better outcomes for children wherever they live in the world.
CREATING A POSITIVE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP IS IMPORTANT
Developing the bond of connection from the very beginning of a parent’s journey is important because the parent-child relationship is one that nurtures the physical, emotional, spiritual and social development of a child and sustains them in a busy, hectic, fast paced world.
The relationship a parent creates is a unique bond that a parent and child will enjoy and nurture throughout both of their lives – building memories that will last a lifetime. This relationship lays the foundation for a child’s personality, their confidence, their selfesteem, their life choices and their overall behaviour. Parents pass on their values about life and what is important through their parenting. Creating a strong and positive parent child relationship can also affect the strength of a child’s social, physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF POSITIVE PARENTING
Research has shown that children who grow up with a secure and healthy attachment to their parents stand a better chance of developing happy and content relationships with others in their life.
A child who has a secure relationship with their parent learns to regulate emotions under stress and in difficult situations.
Positive parents help to nurture a child’s mental, linguistic and emotional development.
Positive parenting helps a child feel connected and that they count, that they are significant and that they matter, so a child exhibits optimistic and confident social behaviours.
Healthy involved parenting lays the foundation for better social and academic skills and outcomes for children.
Secure parent-child attachment leads to healthy social, emotional, cognitive, and motivational development, long term self-esteem, strong mental health and wellbeing as well as lifelong resilience.
THERE ARE 4 WAYS PARENTS LEARN TO PARENT
We go on ‘Marketing to Management Skill Training Courses’ but how many of us go on Parenting Courses?
Not many.
People often find it a taboo subject to ask for parenting help or support as they feel they should just be born with this innate ability to raise happy, confident, resilient kids.
But that isn’t true.
We live in a world where grandparents and immediate family don’t necessarily live nearby anymore so parenting values and support can be harder to pass down from generations to generations and families are busy working, juggling and managing a multitude of tasks.
Parents often revert to the way their own parents parented them, or they decide that they definitely don’t want to parent the way their parents raised them. But where do parents get the help, advice and support they need free from finger pointing and judgement?
Parents often turn online for advice but sometimes that advice is conversational, anecdotal and based on other parents’ ideas from forums. It’s not based on robust research or studies.
Most parents become parents without any training and that’s one of the things that makes parenting so hard: There is no simple formula. Parents are not automatically given great parenting skills just because they have a baby. They don’t always know what to do. And as parents with more than one child will know, each child is also unique and different and arrives into the world with their own personality, character as well as their own strengths and weaknesses. All of this makes parenting rather complex.
HERE ARE SOME WAYS PARENTS LEARN TO PARENT.
1 They Learn Parenting Skills from Their Parents.
The main way parents learn to parent is by watching their own parents. Some will have been lucky enough to be blessed with incredible parents who modelled how to be patient, loving, tolerant and kind and knew how to handle misbehaviour, tantrums and every day challenges and also how to take responsibility as a parent.
Many others, however, may not have been quite so fortunate. Maybe they had parents who were trying to do their best, but they made lots of mistakes, had addictions, mental health issues or found the whole experience too overwhelming. Or, perhaps they had parents who were immature and never took ownership of the huge responsibility of being a parent or they had parents who were absent, neglectful, selfish, or even abusive.
The positive news is that even if a child’s experience was less than ideal, parents can choose to learn and practice positive parenting skills, and they can break the intergenerational patterns to carve a new brighter future for their children. All it takes is a commitment to that idea of being the best parent they can be.
2 They Learn Parenting Skills from Observing Others
Whether it’s from observing a sister, someone on the school playground or a stranger in the supermarket, lots of parents learn from friends, neighbours, family or even celebrities. As much of parenting comes through the advice and the example of others it’s also a good idea for parents to ‘Pause to Ponder’ the influences on their parenting style, values and attitudes.
Many people who have experienced, or witnessed, poor parenting from their own parents are able to look to others and learn to do things differently and better as they become parents themselves.
The positive news is that it’s never too late to change to positive parenting models and copy them. Parents could look for positive examples of great parenting from a neighbour, a friend, a sibling, an aunt or uncle, a grandparent, or even a stranger who’s parenting their child positively in the park. By simply finding someone whose parenting skills they respect and admire parents can gain in confidence. They can then watch, listen, ask questions and try out what other parents do, to see if it works for their family.
3 They Learn Parenting Skills from Books, Media & Experts
The positive news is that there’s a great deal parents can learn from good books, the media, and from family and childhood experts. The important thing for parents to do is to discern, ponder and consider what they are looking at, listening to or watching, and to make sure that it sits with their core values and intuition.
There are dozens of great parenting books out there, one to fit each of a parent’s needs, styles, parenting problems, or ages and stages of their child’s development so they need to explore. There are tools, techniques, strategies and advice for every child’s needs and every “issue” they may face. Every parent can easily find these excellent resources— to read, watch, listen, and to build their confidence. It’s important for parents to remember to always keep the bigger picture in their mind – that they are raising a happy, confident, resilient adult – today’s child but tomorrow’s future and they need to be adaptable and flexible on the journey.
4 They Learn Parenting Skills from Their Children & On-the -Job.
Parents teach children, but every parent knows that children also teach parents too. Children are mirrors and sponges watching, learning and listening to parents all the time. So, it’s important for parents to be a positive role model in all that they do, say and in how they act.
Parenting is a full-time, never ending job. It’s demanding, frustrating, overwhelming, and definitely exhausting. It’s also delightful, surprising and wonderful.
‘Failing Forward’ is a way for parents to see mistakes. I remember my own father saying to me ‘But I haven’t done this before’ which came as a surprise as I thought he knew everything! It’s a timely reminder that parents become great parents by simply being and doing their best and a natural part of that is making some mistakes. It’s not necessary for parents to beat themselves up, but to remember to make learning from their mistakes a natural part of their parenting toolkit and then they can’t go far wrong. None of us stop learning.
IN CONCLUSION
There are many ways to learn to be a positive parent. What matters is that parents continue to learn and to have the intention to be the best they can be. As they focus on acquiring the best parenting skills–from their own parents, from those around them, from experts, and from their children–their children will surely only benefit as they grow up to be happy, confident kids with strong self-esteem and good mental health.
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.
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)
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi kick-started the 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, an annual initiative aimed at helping students navigate exam stress and academic pressure with confidence. Breaking away from the conventional Town Hall format, the first episode took place at the serene Sunder Nursery in New Delhi on 10th February 2025, bringing together 36 students from across India for a highly interactive session.
The Prime Minister covered essential topics such as Nutrition and Wellness, Mastering Pressure, The Art of Leadership, 360° Growth Beyond Books, and Finding Positives in Challenges. The session encouraged students to adopt a growth mindset and focus on holistic learning rather than just academic success.
A Star-Studded Line-Up to Guide Students Beyond Academics
As part of the revamped edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, the government has roped in eminent personalities from diverse fields—including sports stars, entertainment icons, business leaders, and education experts—to engage with students in a series of insightful episodes. The sessions are designed to equip students with practical strategies, inspire them to take on challenges, and instil confidence ahead of their exams.
With five episodes aired so far, Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 has seen engaging conversations with Sadhguru, Deepika Padukone, Technical Guruji (Gaurav Chaudhary), Radhika Gupta, and leading nutrition experts like Rujuta Diwekar, Shonali Sabherwal, and Revant Himatsingka (Food Pharmer).
Sadhguru on Overcoming Exam Stress with Mindfulness
In the fifth episode (14th February 2025), Sadhguru engaged students in a free-flowing conversation on the importance of mindfulness in tackling exam-related stress and overcoming life’s challenges.
Sharing his observations, Sadhguru highlighted the increasing number of children suffering from stress-induced health complications due to exam pressure. He emphasised that education is not just about exams, but about gaining access to life itself. He advised students to keep their intelligence in ‘dynamic mode’ and view education as a stepping stone to broader life experiences.
Sadhguru also introduced students to Nada Yoga, demonstrating three basic sounds and encouraging them to practise the technique for seven minutes every morning to improve focus and emotional well-being.
His advice on limiting smartphone usage to maintain concentration and balance in daily life was particularly well received by the students.
Deepika Padukone on Mental Health and Resilience
In the second episode (12th February 2025), Bollywood star Deepika Padukone interacted with 60 students, sharing her personal journey with mental health. She spoke about the importance of acknowledging mental health challenges and seeking support, emphasising that dealing with these issues can be empowering rather than a sign of weakness.
As a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, Deepika’s insights encouraged students to openly discuss their struggles and adopt positive coping mechanisms.
Technical Guruji and Radhika Gupta on AI & Emerging Technologies
In the third episode (13th February 2025), popular tech influencer Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guruji) and Edelweiss Mutual Fund MD & CEO Radhika Gupta introduced students to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
The session focused on the real-world applications of AI, including ChatGPT and AI image-generation tools. The speakers encouraged students to embrace AI-driven learning, explore technological advancements, and build future-ready skills.
Nutrition Experts on Exam Diets & Healthy Living
On 14th February 2025, renowned nutritionists Shonali Sabherwal, Rujuta Diwekar, and Revant Himatsingka (Food Pharmer) interacted with students about the critical role of nutrition in staying stress-free and energised during exams.
The session covered:
- The best brain foods for students
- How to maintain energy levels while studying
- The dangers of excessive caffeine and junk food consumption
- Simple diet changes to improve focus and concentration
Students walked away with actionable tips on maintaining a balanced diet during exam season, ensuring their physical and mental well-being.
A Transformative Initiative for Student Well-Being
With Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, the Indian government continues to reinforce the importance of holistic development, stress management, and lifelong learning. By inviting leaders from various fields, the initiative ensures that students receive multi-dimensional guidance—not just on academics, but also on mental health, leadership, technology, and well-being.
As students gear up for their exams, these insightful sessions serve as a powerful reminder that success is not just about marks—but about resilience, adaptability, and a well-rounded approach to life.
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Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils Draft UGC Regulations 2025
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Bhaichung Bhutia and Neeraj Chopra Amplify The Mission to Make India a Champion Nation Through Sports-Driven Education
Sunbeam Suncity’s Year of Achievements and Global Engagement
PM Modi Leads ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ with Deepika Padukone & Sadhguru
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