Education

Turning Small Ideas into Big Wins

PARVATHY JAYAKRISHNAN explores the importance of teaching entrepreneurship in
schools and how to go about it.

Published

6 years ago

May 10, 2019

PARVATHY JAYAKRISHNAN

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney

Walt Disney’s quote defines the true essence of what good entrepreneurs do—they don ’t just hold on to an idea, they get the ball rolling.

Our teachers are doing a fantastic job of training students to learn topics that are covered in their textbooks, guiding them morally and making them independent and self-sufficient. They are also often focused on preparing students for the future – to make them strong, confident and sometimes ready for jobs that are not even discovered yet! (It is true that technolo gy is taking over a number of jobs and we cannot predict the jobs that will be availa ble 10 years from now). We are living in a time when students will most likely use their skills to create their own employment. They may not use their skills to join a workforce necessarily. In this case, it is the risk-takers who have a better shot at success. This, in turn, implies that teaching entrepreneurship in schools is imperative and can have far-reaching results in encouraging students with creativity and encourage them to work hard towards a goal. Entrepreneurship education prepares students to identify and address challenges and opportunities.

However, the word “entrepreneurship” can be daunting for a school student. They would wonder how they would learn what entrepreneurship is considering they can barely pronounce the 16-letter word! What we need to teach them is that an entrepreneur is an entity which has the ability to find and act upon opportunities to translate inventions or technology into new products. An entr epreneur becomes successful when he combines skill and innovation. You have had that student in class who is great with technology and designing and creating logos and videos in exchange for money. Today, students own and run YouTube channels which earn them good money. Students often become entrepreneur s without even realizing it! When given the right knowledge and boost, they will be able to take it forward as they become adults.

Omkar Mantri, a grade 8 student at Vibgyor High school, Bangalore, has dropped science and chosen to learn only economics from class 9. He explains why teaching entrepreneurship in schools can be a big boon for students like him. “I would love to understand how an idea can be converted into a business plan. It will be great to get practical information, instead of the excessive amount of theory that we normally have to study. I would love to learn about rules/laws, business models and related subjects in school. It will give us an idea about the perils of getting into business and we can choose our electives accordingly. Also, entrepreneurship must be made an attractive and viable concept, so that students don't rush towards an engineering college or a job in an IT company.”

While the world around us is developing at a fast pace with technology and innovations, education in K-12 needs to move an extra mile to evolve accordingly. Education is the driving force behind e very country’s economy, directly or indirectly. Many schools in India have adapted to technology or are slowly making the change. They are encouraging students to work in groups to solve problems, they are encouraging online learning and they are even attempting to merge art with science to make learning more effective. However, even with all these new techniques, students often fail to perform at jobs because they lack knowledge in entrepreneurship. Thus, entrepreneurship, the capacity to not only start companies but also to think creatively and ambitiously, is very important to be included in the school curriculum.

“Entrepreneurship skills are necessary for the current generation of kids. They need to have negotiation skills right through the early years. They need to build thinking skills and design thinking is the beginning of an entrepreneurial journey. They also need to be risk-taking and they need to develop the ability to forecast. If students are taught these skills at the school level, they can be more planned and ready when they grow up. Most kids don't know that they have an entrepreneurial streak and this can be identified if it is taught in schools,” says Deepali Ghosh, mompreneur and mother to a 10-year old.

Entrepreneurship education empowers students with the skill to think outside the box and nurture unconventional talents and skills. It creates opportunities for all, ensures social justice and instills confidence in students. We often mistake entrepreneurship to be a skill to be imparted in undergrad or post graduation. Why wait till then? Entrepreneurship is a lifelong learning process – it can be taught from elementary school till they become adults. Introducing young kids to entrepreneurship develops their initiative and helps them to be more creative and self-confident in whatever they undertake and to act in a socially responsible way.

According to Dr. Prakash Sai L, Professor, Dept of Management Studies, IIT Madras, “Teaching entrepreneurship in schools is absolutely necessary. Already CBSE has a course called Business Studies in class 10 to introduce basic concepts of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship is seen as a particular type of skill that will enable a student to start a firm and ensure business growth. Today, even our society is encouraging student entrepreneurs. We often see young children set up stalls in apartment complexes, trying to sell food. When society is encouraging students to develop entrepreneurial skills, schools need to back them up by giving them the knowledge.”

Entrepreneurship teaches students about money, investing, business strategies, loans, and creating budgets. At the same time, students can learn critical life skills such as problem-solving, brainstorming ideas, taking risks, facing failure and getting up again, setting goals, working together, and feeling comfortable to work individually.

Deepali recalls how she was amazed at her 10-year-old daughter’s idea to sell homemade watermelon juice to tired gym-goers at 10 am during her summer holidays. “She made the juice and sold it at a profit of almost 110 per cent! What she figured was the ability to judge that there is a buyer’s market and she figured the pricing on her own. She even used a USP ensuring that she used organic watermelon and brown sugar (keeping in mind that her target audience are gym goers),” she proudly remembers.

Government initiative

The Delhi AAP government took a step in the right direction by launching the Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Framework for government schools in February, this year. The Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum Framework was developed by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had explained that the curriculum would invariably bring about a paradigm shift in the education system in the way students explore and learn and in the manner teachers facilitate and guide these exploratory processes. He also emphasised that an entrepreneurial mindset was required for all professionals to be successful in their career. Success stories of various professionals and public servants testify it.

It will be implemented in all Delhi government schools from classes 11 to 12 and will build awareness and knowledge of various aspects of entrepreneurship among the students. The curriculum is expected to inspire students through various entrepreneurial stories, case studies and many mindfulness activities and approaches. It focus – es on imparting the personality and character traits of successful entrepreneurs other than the business aspects of entrepreneurship. The curriculum is expected to be launched as a pilot project in 15-20 schools in April and will see a full-fledged launch in all government schools in July.

‘School teachers are the most important influencers’ …Says Pradeep Mishra, Founder, Leader to Creator, India's first organisation providing entrepreneurship training to children.

Why do you think entrepreneurship learning should be introduced in schools?

Our entrepreneurship for kids programme intends to make a remarkable impact on various fronts of developing nations like India. The world has migrated to a knowledge-based economy where innovation and entrepreneurial mindset will be a game changer. We cannot push the youth directly into jobs after their attain their degree. My conviction is that an entrepreneurial mindset can only be beautifully crafted at an early age. Children can be exposed to a controlled economic environment so that they understand the world around them and relate to it. They can recognise the problems of people as an opportunity and come up with innovative solutions which are scalable.

Our entrepreneurship programme also helps students unleash their creative potential in a big way. The entrepreneurship programme also focuses on life skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, time management, self awareness and personal brand image. These skills help them excel in any field of their choice. Kids have ideas but giving them a proper ground and skills to make it a functional model is what we do. Studies have shown that 80 per cent of our graduates are not even employable. This is the consequence when we have one size fits all approach in education.

How many schools do you cater to?

In 2017, Leader to Creator has been shortlisted by Economic Times Power of Ideas. I have per – sonally interacted with more than 5,000 students. We have worked with 11 campuses and we are operational in three states with expansion in Nepal.

Our in-house "Train the Trainers" programme is creating a pool of passionate trainers who can operate in different parts of the country. We have identified six more states touch points in Northern and central India, where we will be operational this year. We are also encouraging schools to nominate teachers who are interested in getting trained.

What was your inspiration to start Leader to Creator?

I have seen the pressure of placements and degree completion. I have witnessed the shattered aspirations of students who are not doing the things they wanted because their talent could not be converted into a business model. I worked with a few reputed brands in my career and there the problem was scarcity of talented people. So on one hand, students are looking for jobs but the industry says they are not good enough.

Economics shows that there are too many problems that need to be sorted out in our country. It means that there is a lot of work to be done. At the same time, we have a workforce that is looking for jobs. Do you notice the gap? Our mindset needs to be changed and the necessary skill set needs to be imparted. However, the moment we started teaching entrepreneurship in colleges, it only added on as another subject to pass. Students often asked me “Will this course help me get better placement offers?” Leader to Creator is bridging this gap.

How has the response been from schools?

Majority of schools are now interested in trying new things because they strive to be ahead of the times and they are committed to provide a better future for their students. There are schools where people still think that entrepreneurship is a business study meant for business schools only. We must sensitise education forums about entrepreneurship education as this is happening all across the globe. Awareness is the key.

Is it hard to convince the parents?

Fortunately, in our country, teachers are perceived as the best guide for a student's career and future. Parents trust them and kids listen to them. Leader to Creator is continuously working for awareness programmes in schools. We organise free seminars in schools during PTMs and other fests, but school teachers are the most important influencers.

Introducing entrepreneurship skills in classroom

You don’t even need to introduce the concept of entrepreneurship in a formal way and use business jargon that can seem complicated to your students. Multiple skills that aid entrepreneurship can be developed using activities in the classroom. Some skills that need to be de veloped include:

Communication skills: Communication is key for an entrepreneur and enhancing communication skills in students is something that teachers can work on in schools. Instead of standard class discussions, teachers can give students a chance to practice public speaking. Teachers can make this shift by introducing pop-up debates. With these activities, kids are positively pressurised to speak in front of an audience and they gradually develop the confidence to do it.

Brainstorm ideas: Teachers can set up a box in a class where students can put in their ideas. The box is a good way to encourage students to come forward with their ideas and to pitch them confidently in front of their class. Once all the ideas are in, there can be a brainstorming session where the entire class can discuss the viability of the idea and see if they can be implemented The brainstorming session can improve their critical thinking skill and problem-solving abilities. They can explain how their idea can bring about a change in society. Teach students to think about what’s positive or strong about their work and let them ponder on their weaknesses to find the changes needed to make their product more interesting.

Discuss solutions: Students often complain about facilities or rules that are implemented in the school. Teachers can encourage them to come up with solutions to these problems based on discussions rather than giving them space to complain. This can have positive outcomes. It can improve the relationships among students, improve their self-esteem and encourage problem-solving.

Discuss success stories: Encourage students to research on successful entrepreneurs and their methods and strategies and get them to discuss them in class. Each entrepreneur uses different skills and strategies to make their way to the top. For example, Oprah Winfrey relies on her oration skills and compassion while Steve Job’s quest for innovation and perfection made him reach the top. Such discussions also encourage students to find out what they could have done better to improve their skills.

Learning a business: Students can practice writing interview questions and conduct interviews with entrepreneurs. The information can then be compiled into a directory of the types of goods and services, locations, and hours of the businesses. Students can then discuss the location, advertisement and the products involved in the business.

Encourage imagination: Creativity dwells within imagination. Pass around common objects to students and encourage them to imagine the object in a different outlook. This will help students see the same object through a different perspective.

Organisations Supporting Student Entrepreneurship

In the USA, there are numerous organisations formed that support student entrepreneurs in various capacities.

• Dorm Room Fund: A student-run venture fund backed by First Round Capital

• Entre-Ed: Support for teachers and programme leaders

• The Future Project: Helps high schools provide entrepreneurship programmes

• Junior Achievement: Fostering work-readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills

• Kairos Society: Network for entrepreneurs under 25

• Lean LaunchPad: From Silicon Valley’s Steve Blank

• MIT Launch: High school entrepreneurship programs

• Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE): Preparing young people for business

• National Student Leadership Conference: Conference supporting high school entrepreneurs

• One Stone Solution Lab: Organisations, foundations, businesses and start-ups can engage a team of One Stone students in design thinking a solution, business idea or product.

• Real World Scholars: Works with teachers who use entrepreneurship to engage students in core curriculum

• Roadtrip Nation: Roadtrip offers experiences, interviews and curriculum

In the UK:

• Shell LiveWIRE: Shell LiveWIRE aims to inspire young people to find solutions to energy and resource challenges facing today’s society.

• National Association of College and University Entrepreneurs – A membership charity organisation fostering student entrepreneurship with a focus on supporting the creation of enterprise societies in educational institutions in the UK.

• Santander Universities Enterprise Portal – The portal helps young entrepreneurs win funding for their startups, build their business knowledge and access networking opportunities.

• Tycoon In Schools – Tycoon in Schools gives upcoming entrepreneurs, aged 5-18, a start-up loan between £50 to £1000 to manage a business while at school or college.

In India:

Leader to Creator programme

Started by Pradeep Mishra, the Leader to Creator programme is India’s pioneer academy for entrepreneurship training in schools. Leader to Creator is a group of professional trainers who have scientifically designed curriculum, which is a blend of technical skills, soft skills and life skills to teach entrepreneurship to students. They use the latest technology to interact with participants. They add fun in learning by live projects, camps, smart classes and business games.

Mishra has designed a fun-filled 60- hour course on “Entrepreneurship for Kids”. The idea was recognised by the Economic Times Power of Ideas. The course is now offered in some of the most prominent schools in India.

Awards

Entrepreneurship awards are a good way of encouraging young entrepreneurs to come up with innovative ideas and put them to practice. However, there are not many such awards that encourage school students.

• The Global Student Entrepreneur Award (GSEA): Student entrepreneurs compete through regional competitions to win their shot at going head to head against the best student entrepreneurs in the world at the GSEA. Undergraduate and graduate college/university students who own and operate a business for at least six months are eligible to compete for the $20,000 cash prize.

• The Big Idea (Australia): Coordinated by The Big Issue, The Big Idea is a social enterprise planning competition. Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students of participating Australian universities, applicants are invited to develop a concept and business plan for a brand new social enterprise.

• Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition: The competition is designed for undergraduate, college or polytechnic students across the globe. The idea is that students can display their business skills on a global platform, which will allow them to gain seed funding.

Teaching entrepreneurship skills in school is not merely for helping a student identify his skills or to fulfill the ultimate goal of starting a firm. We need to provide teachers with the appropriate training to impart knowledge to students in a way that they can understand and be involved and interested in. The learning can provide life lessons like perseverance, money management, problem-solving and much more. The classes will enable teachers to identify potential entrepreneurs and give them the support they need to move ahead towards their goal.

Let’s not merely include it in our syllabi as yet another subject. Let’s adopt it in a way that it becomes a life-changing experience for our students, where they learn values and skills that they can use when they become successful adult entrepreneurs!

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

Published

3 hours ago

January 31, 2025

Dhruv Chhabra

The image is generated using AI

As India prepares for the announcement of the Union Budget 2025-26, all eyes are on the government’s allocation of funds towards education and skilling. The BJP-led government, now in its first term since re-election in 2024, has an opportunity to set the tone for the next five years, addressing long-standing issues of underfunding while building on past efforts to improve accessibility. This budget is expected to be pivotal in aligning the country’s education system with the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy, as industry experts weigh in on their expectations.

Addressing Key Gaps with Higher Budgetary Allocation

Praveen Singh, CEO of Aasoka (research-based blended curriculum developers for K-12), emphasises the importance of increasing investment in education to 6% of the GDP, which is in line with the ambitions of NEP 2020. “Such investment will be crucial for enhancing public-private partnerships, expanding skilling initiatives, and creating sustainable employment opportunities that contribute to individual empowerment and national economic growth,” Singh said. He also highlighted that achieving ambitious Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) targets in higher education requires leveraging technology and online learning. However, to achieve this, policies must prioritise accessibility and the improvement of learning outcomes.

“Many educational institutions face challenges due to outdated infrastructure and limited technological resources. Addressing these gaps, along with equipping students and faculty with proper tools and training, is vital to preparing future generations for a tech-driven job market,” Singh added, calling for a clear policy roadmap that ensures effective delivery of critical learning skills.

Digital Infrastructure and Inclusive Learning: The Road Ahead

Aarul Malaviya, Founder of Zamit (an AI-driven ed-tech platform), believes that the upcoming budget should prioritise digital infrastructure and inclusive learning. “Increased allocations for technology integration in schools, tax incentives for EdTech platforms, and support for teacher training initiatives can drive innovation and accessibility. With a growing focus on future-ready skills, we anticipate measures that strengthen collaboration between industry and academia, enabling India to nurture a workforce equipped for the challenges of tomorrow,” Malaviya said.

Echoing this sentiment, Naman Jain, Vice-Chairman of Silverline Prestige School, highlighted the need for comprehensive digital integration in K-12 education. “It is essential to dedicate funds toward improving internet access, supplying modern devices, and equipping both educators and students with necessary digital competencies. Schools can provide interactive and personalised learning experiences using technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education,” Jain said. He also called for increasing the current 4% of GDP allocated to education to 6%, aligning investments with advancements in AI and technology while addressing schools’ fundamental needs.

Holistic Learning and Skill Development at the Core

Dilip Gangaramani, Founder & Managing Director of Target Learning Ventures, pointed out that holistic child development should be a key focus of this year’s budget. “Robust support in implementing play-based learning methodologies, investments in teacher training, and the establishment of specialised labs—such as robotics and astronomy labs—can empower students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” Gangaramani suggested. He also stressed the importance of bridging the digital divide, particularly for marginalised communities, and ensuring access to quality education through increased government support for digital learning resources.

Naman Jain further emphasised the importance of skilling, particularly in emerging fields like AI, data science, and renewable energy. “A concentrated effort on equipping individuals with future-ready employable skills is necessary to provide hands-on experience, especially in creative industries. The government should prioritise investments in AI hubs, centres of excellence, and regulatory frameworks for the EdTech sector,” he stated.

Fostering Innovation Through Industry Collaboration

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor of Mahindra University, highlighted the need for public-private partnerships to make education more accessible and effective. “Increased financial incentives, simplified regulatory frameworks, and enhanced incubation support can stimulate technological advancements. Establishing centres of excellence and fostering interdisciplinary education can bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application,” Medury noted.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of the World University of Design, emphasised India’s potential in the creative economy. “Our animation, AR/VR, and design sectors are already demonstrating world-class capabilities. By combining our cost-effective talent pool with strategic policy support, we can transform from a service provider into a global creative powerhouse,” Gupta said.

The Role of Fintech in Education Access

Nikunj Agarwal, CFO of Propelld (a FinTech startup specializing in education lending), highlighted the importance of improving credit accessibility for non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in the education sector. “The private education landscape plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and skill development in India. We urge policymakers to implement reforms that enable lower lending rates and promote co-lending models, thereby facilitating easier access to funds for students,” Agarwal said.

Building on Past Investments

The Union Budget 2024-25 allocated ₹1.48 lakh crore for education, employment, and skilling, representing a 7.7% increase from the previous year. Key areas included increased funds for school education, higher education, research and development, internationalisation, and foundational literacy and numeracy. Initiatives were also introduced to skill 20 lakh students over five years and provide internship opportunities for one crore youth.

The upcoming budget will need to expand on these efforts, ensuring that investments are not only increased but effectively utilised to deliver tangible outcomes. With the education sector being a critical driver of India’s future workforce, experts believe that this budget could be a game-changer, setting the nation on a path toward sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

All in all, the Union Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity to address fundamental issues in the education sector and drive innovation through strategic investments. With experts calling for increased funding, policy reforms, and public-private collaboration, this budget could mark a significant step in shaping a future-ready India.

Education

The Year of Global Education: How Student Exchange Programmes Build Global Citizens

Published

1 week ago

January 24, 2025

Team ScooNews

The image is generated using AI

As the world becomes more interconnected, education is increasingly seen as a powerful bridge between cultures. Student and teacher exchange programmes are gaining traction globally as tools to foster cultural exposure, adaptability, and global citizenship. This International Education Day, let’s delve into the transformative potential of these initiatives and explore why they are essential for shaping global citizens in 2025 and beyond.

The Evolution of Exchange Programmes

Student and teacher exchange programmes have moved beyond simple cultural exposure. They now integrate global challenges like climate change, inequality, and technology into their curriculum. These programmes, such as Japan’s Sakura Science Exchange Program and Erasmus+, offer opportunities for students and educators to immerse themselves in diverse learning environments.

Highlighting the transformative nature of these experiences, Dr. Kalpana Gangaramani, Founder & Managing Director of Target Learning Ventures, said “In a world increasingly shaped by globalization and digital connectivity, international student and teacher exchange programmes have evolved into dynamic platforms for cross-cultural learning and collaboration… Education serves as a bridge, connecting diverse perspectives and equipping individuals with the skills to navigate an interconnected world.”

Cultural Exposure: A Catalyst for Change

For students, these programmes open doors to broader perspectives. Schools like The Bishop Strachan School in Toronto have demonstrated how international learning experiences—from performing at cathedrals in Ireland to exploring marine biology in Fiji—cultivate a deeper understanding of global issues.

“Cultural exposure through education promotes critical thinking and adaptability. It encourages students to view global challenges… inspiring innovative, collaborative solutions,” said Shaswati Sharma, Principal, Varanasi Public School, Rajatalab.

For teachers, these exchanges are equally transformative. Imagine a teacher from a Tier 2 Indian city visiting Japan or the UK, observing innovative classroom techniques, and returning with new strategies. Similarly, educators from developed countries can learn about India’s diverse student base and teaching methods.

Such interactions create a ripple effect, improving educational practices globally.

India’s Global Footprint

India has embraced the potential of international education with initiatives like NEP 2020 and partnerships with programmes such as Fulbright and Japan’s JET Program. Lt Gen Surendra Kulkarni, former Director of Mayo College, Ajmer, emphasised the importance of this dual approach, stating, “It is about building—‘Global boots, Indian roots’.”

Programmes like these not only empower students to appreciate global perspectives but also help them remain grounded in their cultural identity, creating well-rounded global citizens.

The Role of Technology

The inclusion of virtual exchange programmes has expanded accessibility. Digital platforms now bridge geographical divides, making global education more inclusive. For example, virtual collaborations under the Global Learning Exchange allow classrooms from different continents to interact, breaking barriers of cost and distance.

Mamta Shekhawat, Founder of Gradding.com, remarked, “Living and learning beyond borders can change how we see the world… They create friendships, dissolve stereotypes, and show us how deeply connected we all are.”

The Road Ahead

Statistics affirm the rising popularity of exchange programmes. According to UNESCO, international student mobility is projected to reach 8 million by 2025, underscoring their growing relevance. Moreover, research shows that students participating in exchange programmes are 71% more likely to secure leadership roles in their careers.

As Rashmi Sharma, Controller of Examinations and French Language Facilitator at The Mann School, noted, “Exchange programmes improve intercultural communication abilities… a student’s capacity to interact successfully in global contexts is improved, which is an essential benefit in the modern global economy.”

The Final Word

Student and teacher exchange programmes are not just about education; they are about creating a generation of empathetic, collaborative, and globally aware citizens. By integrating these programmes into mainstream education, schools worldwide can prepare their students and educators for the complexities of an interconnected world.

As PV Narayana, Principal of Westberry School, Tamil Nadu, aptly stated, “By experiencing different education systems, students can appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, ultimately enriching their learning journey… It’s crucial to invest in global education initiatives to empower the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers.”

This International Education Day, let’s celebrate the power of education in building bridges, breaking barriers, and shaping a harmonious global future.

Education

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

Published

1 week ago

January 23, 2025

Team ScooNews

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, a landmark initiative aimed at protecting, educating, and empowering the girl child. Launched on 22 January 2015 in Panipat, Haryana, the scheme has evolved into a national movement that addresses gender discrimination and fosters societal change towards valuing and empowering girls and women.

The inaugural event on 22 January 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, was attended by Union Ministers Shri J. P. Nadda and Smt. Annpurna Devi, alongside international representatives from UNICEF, UN Women, and other global organisations. Women officers from various sectors and girl students joined the event, which featured an oath-taking ceremony and the launch of compendiums and digital initiatives such as Mission Vatsalya and Mission Shakti portals.

The celebrations, spanning until International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025, will include rallies, cultural events, and campaigns at state and district levels. Schools, community groups, and women achievers will actively participate in activities under SANKALP: Hub for Empowerment of Women. Nationwide media campaigns and sustainable practices such as a plantation drive will amplify the scheme’s message.

In its decade-long journey, BBBP has sparked a nationwide dialogue on gender equality, challenging societal biases and championing the rights and dignity of women. The scheme’s accomplishments include a rise in the national Sex Ratio at Birth from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24, an increase in institutional deliveries to 97.3%, and higher enrolment of girls in secondary education, now at 78%. Initiatives such as the Kanya Shiksha Pravesh Utsav and Yashaswini Bike Expedition have further underscored the scheme’s impact.

Through collaboration with partner ministries, the mission of this campaign is to advancing gender equality, ensuring girls become active leaders of change and shaping a more inclusive India.

Education

Amazon Future Engineer: 3 Million Students, 20,000 Teachers Trained Across India

Published

1 week ago

January 22, 2025

Team ScooNews

L to R: Samir Kumar, Country Manager, Amazon India, AFE Scholar Vishali B J from Madras Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, along with Alice Shobe, Global Director, Amazon Community Impact

Amazon’s Future Engineer Program, launched in 2021, has reached significant milestones in its mission to bridge the digital divide and promote computer science education in underserved communities. The program has successfully trained three million students and 20,000 teachers across 272 districts in India, providing education in seven Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Marathi.

At the inaugural Careers of the Future Summit 2025, Amazon announced scholarships for 500 female students pursuing undergraduate degrees in computer science or related fields. Each scholarship, worth ₹2 lakhs over four years, includes additional support such as mentorship, coding boot camps, and personal laptops. These initiatives aim to address the gender gap in the tech sector and empower young women to thrive in technology-driven careers.

The summit, held in Delhi, brought together policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to discuss the integration of computer science education into school curriculums and its role in preparing students for future careers. It highlighted the importance of self-paced learning platforms and online certifications in creating equitable opportunities for students, especially in tier 2 cities.

Samir Kumar, Country Manager at Amazon India, emphasised the company’s commitment to fostering digital equity, stating, “At Amazon, we are committed to bridging India’s digital divide through education. Our Amazon Future Engineer program is offering 500 merit-based scholarships worth INR 2 lakhs each to female computer science students. We have already trained 3 million government school students and 20,000 teachers across 8 states. By empowering India’s youth with future-ready skills, we are nurturing the next generation of tech innovators. This investment in diverse, inclusive education is key to unlocking India’s potential and driving sustainable growth,”

The program has collaborated with non-profit organisations and government bodies to implement initiatives in states such as Delhi, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. It provides students with exposure to foundational AI concepts, coding, and project-based learning. Teachers have also benefited from targeted training programs, enabling them to effectively guide students in computer science.

While Amazon’s efforts mark significant progress, experts highlight the need for broader collaborations between corporations, governments, and educational institutions to sustain these initiatives and scale them nationwide.

Education

AI Creating Personalised Learning Pathways for Students

Published

1 week ago

January 21, 2025

Husien Dohadwalla

Image Source- Pexels/Tara Winstead

Students generally have different learning preferences. While some prefer visual aids, others opt for hands-on training. Traditional education often fails to cater to this diversity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) acknowledges these diverse learning patterns and customises the curriculum to fit each student’s requirements. Though AI has not replaced traditional textbooks, it has transformed education into a personalised and inclusive experience to help learners acquire knowledge at their own pace.

AI-based tutors, chatbots, VR learning experiences, and gamified learning platforms are facilitating student-centred approach, addressing learners’ specific needs, abilities, and interests and customising the curriculum and learning techniques.

Adapting Learning Experiences with AI-Powered Tools

AI-driven adaptive learning tools analyse huge amounts of data on each student, including their cognitive abilities, strengths, weaknesses and pace of learning. By doing so, such tools create a unique database of learners’ profiles. Besides, AI recommends tailored resources—from articles and videos to podcasts and books—based on past performance, interests, and learning preferences of the students, nudging them towards sharpening their knowledge. Available in multiple languages, EdTech tools make education access easier by helping remove language barriers.

Enhancing Educator Effectiveness

Data-driven insights derived from AI tools enable educators to collect and analyse information about student performance, understand each student’s aptitudes, modify curriculum delivery, and provide timely feedback while developing a data-driven teaching strategy. These insights also help identify learning gaps in advance, allowing educators to adjust their teaching strategies based on students’ needs. AI is breaking down barriers by creating an inclusive and flexible learning environment. A report by EdTechXGlobal shows that 60% of K-12 instructors in the US implement personalised learning in their classrooms.

Empowering Students with Disabilities

AI assists students with visual, speech, language, and hearing impairments in accomplishing tasks with ease. Screen readers, speech-to-text tools, and AI-powered learning modules help disabled students engage more effectively with educational content. For instance, learners with dyslexia and dysgraphia can achieve improved educational outcomes with AI-integrated writing assistance software and text-to-speech tools.

Adaptive technologies tailored to the needs of disabled learners are actively promoted in the United States to enhance personalised learning. The U.S. Department of Education ensures that disabled students have access to the latest education technology. It also instructs schools to assess whether students require tools such as text-to-speech software and alternative communication devices.

The Indian Perspective

India is actively leveraging AI to promote personalised education. India’s Education Ministry is promoting AI in education through programs such as NEP 2020, NITI Aayog’s AI for All Initiative, and PM eVidya. Such favourable government policies are driving educational institutions across the country to adopt data-backed approaches to enhance personalised learning experiences. By integrating AI algorithms into educational platforms, Indian schools and colleges are tailoring learning pathways based on each student’s performance and learning speed.

Additionally, India’s policy frameworks are evolving to support these technological advancements to promote inclusivity and improve learning outcomes. This combination of visionary policies and practical AI applications has created an environment where students of all abilities can thrive.

A Breakthrough Year Ahead

2024 has been a crucial year for AI in education. The AI market grew significantly last year and reached more than 184 billion US dollars, an almost $50 billion gain over 2023. The growth of this sector can be attributed to the use of artificial intelligence tools in classrooms, which have transformed the way students learn. AI will further transform education and make it more adaptable, inclusive, and progressive through equity, engagement, and innovation in 2025. Its ability to customise the learning experience will ensure that students, regardless of their abilities or challenges, can achieve their full potential.

Government initiatives, targeted financing, teacher training programs, and private schools collaborating with reputed STEM institutes/universities have made India’s education system more AI-friendly. Nevertheless, the country still has a long way to go compared to other developed nations with well-defined AI strategies.

Traditional teaching methods are no longer effective in addressing the needs of the digital age. It may also lead to significant skill gaps. The Economic Survey 2023-24 shows that 65% of India’s population is under 35, with many lacking the skills required by a modern economy. Therefore, integrating AI into education is necessary to prepare the younger generation for a competitive job market. Thus, educational institutions and educators in India must embrace this transition proactively to prepare students for increasing global digitalization.

This article is authored by Husien Dohadwalla, Chief Executive Officer, Crimson Education Management Services

Education

National Startup Day: A New Era for Education and Entrepreneurship

Published

2 weeks ago

January 16, 2025

Team ScooNews

The image is generated using AI

As India celebrates nine years of the Startup India initiative on National Startup Day, 16 January 2025, it’s evident how deeply the entrepreneurial spirit has been embedded in the nation’s fabric. From being a country of aspiring doctors and engineers to a hub for budding entrepreneurs, India has undergone a significant transformation. This shift isn’t confined to adults but is increasingly taking root in schools, where the next generation of business leaders is being nurtured.

The Entrepreneurial Wave in Schools

Startup culture has permeated classrooms, with students now creating and marketing products under professional guidance. Chemistry labs aren’t just for experiments anymore; they’ve become mini manufacturing units. Students are crafting innovative products—think handmade soaps, eco-friendly cleaning agents, and even tech gadgets—and selling them under their school’s brand. This hands-on experience in entrepreneurship is teaching them valuable lessons in problem-solving, teamwork, and financial literacy, far beyond traditional academics.

Shows like Shark Tank India have also played a crucial role in shaping young minds. These programmes, widely watched across TV and OTT platforms, have demystified entrepreneurship for students and parents alike. By showcasing real-life success stories, they’ve encouraged families to view entrepreneurship as a viable career path, on par with medicine or engineering.

Schools as Incubators of Ideas

Schools today are recognising their potential to act as incubators for future business leaders. Many are introducing entrepreneurship programmes, collaborating with startups, and organising business pitch competitions. These initiatives allow students to explore their interests and learn the intricacies of building a business—from ideation and prototyping to marketing and scaling.

Some schools have even created dedicated innovation labs and partnered with local businesses for mentorship opportunities. These setups not only foster creativity but also give students exposure to the practical aspects of running a business. Such efforts align perfectly with the government’s Startup India initiative, which has championed innovation and inclusivity for nearly a decade.

Why This Matters for the Future

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about creating businesses; it’s about fostering a mindset. Students who grow up in this environment are better equipped to tackle real-world challenges, think creatively, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are invaluable, whether they eventually choose to run their own business or work within an organisation.

Moreover, promoting entrepreneurship in schools has a ripple effect. It not only prepares students for the future but also inspires communities and contributes to economic growth. Schools that actively engage in such initiatives are setting a precedent for holistic education that balances academics with life skills.

What Next?

With over 1.59 lakh startups now recognised in India, the country has become a global hub of innovation. Schools must seize this moment to integrate entrepreneurial education into their curriculums actively. By doing so, they will not only align with national objectives but also prepare students for a world that values innovation and adaptability above all.

As we celebrate National Startup Day, let’s look forward to a future where classrooms double as boardrooms and students graduate not just with degrees but with dreams ready to take flight.

Education

Sunbeam Suncity’s Year of Achievements and Global Engagement

Published

2 weeks ago

January 16, 2025

Team ScooNews

Sunbeam Suncity (School & Hostel) Varanasi has had a noteworthy year, marked by significant achievements across academics, sports, and cultural domains. Upholding the Sunbeam Group’s 52-year legacy, the school has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering holistic education, encouraging global engagement, and nurturing well-rounded individuals.

A standout event of the year was the hosting of the Round Square Conference 2024 on Sunbeam Suncity’s expansive 65-acre campus. The event brought together 210 delegates from India, Europe, and the Middle East, providing a platform for students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and develop a broader global perspective. This conference, along with the school’s active participation in associations such as Round Square and AFS, has offered students avenues to interact and collaborate on international platforms.

In the realm of academics and the arts, the school’s students delivered notable performances, particularly at the Kanchenjunga Lit Fest 2024, where they were awarded the title of Overall Champion. Students excelled in events such as quiz competitions, creative writing, debate, and visual arts, underscoring the school’s focus on fostering intellectual exploration and creative expression.

Sports also played a significant role in the school’s accomplishments this year. Sunbeam Suncity’s teams earned commendable recognition at various events, including the CBSE Cluster Table Tennis Championship 2024, where both team and individual honours were secured.

The school’s efforts to promote leadership and global awareness, combined with its consistent success in academic, creative, and athletic pursuits, highlight its dedication to preparing students for future challenges. Through a blend of tradition and innovation, Sunbeam Suncity continues to provide an educational environment that prioritises comprehensive growth and achievement.

Education

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

Published

2 weeks ago

January 15, 2025

Team ScooNews

The image is generated using AI

The US PowerSchool data breach has once again spotlighted the vulnerabilities of the education sector to cyberattacks. As reported by Caitlynn Peetz for Education Week, the breach potentially exposed the personal data of millions of students and teachers, raising significant concerns about digital security in schools.

The K-12 operations platform PowerSchool, serving over 60 million students across 18,000 institutions globally, experienced a significant data breach on 28th December 2024. Hackers accessed sensitive information, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, grades, and medical details of students and educators. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in systems managing critical educational data, sparking concerns about privacy and cybersecurity in the education sector.

The Growing Threat in India

India is facing a surge in cyberattacks, with the education sector emerging as one of the most targeted. A report by Check Point Software Technologies reveals that Indian educational institutions experience an average of 8,195 weekly attacks, significantly higher than the global average of 3,355. Sensitive data, including students’ personal, academic, and financial records, makes these institutions lucrative targets for cybercriminals.

Weak cybersecurity measures and the growing reliance on digital tools post-pandemic have further exacerbated vulnerabilities. Generative AI and sophisticated phishing techniques have increased the frequency and severity of these attacks, exposing institutions to risks ranging from financial loss to reputational damage.

Consequences of a Data Breach

The consequences of a data breach in the education sector are far-reaching and can be devastating:

Identity Theft: Personal information, once leaked, can lead to identity theft, affecting students and their families.
Financial Fraud: Misuse of sensitive financial data can result in fraudulent transactions.
Disruption to Learning: Cyberattacks often paralyse institutional operations, forcing schools to shut down for days or weeks.
Erosion of Trust: Breaches undermine confidence in institutions, leading to reputational damage that can take years to repair.

Why the Education Sector is Vulnerable

Educational institutions store vast amounts of sensitive data but often lack robust cybersecurity frameworks. Their reliance on online platforms, coupled with limited budgets for IT infrastructure, makes them easy targets for cybercriminals. In India, post-COVID-19 adoption of online learning platforms has only increased exposure to data breaches.

Lessons from the PowerSchool Breach

The PowerSchool breach occurred due to compromised credentials, highlighting the importance of basic cybersecurity practices. The company has since implemented stronger password policies and multi-factor authentication. However, this incident underscores the need for a proactive approach to prevent such attacks in the first place.

Mitigating Cybersecurity Risks

To prevent 2025 from becoming the year of rampant cyberattacks on education, a multi-pronged approach is essential:

Training and Awareness: Teachers, staff, and students must be educated about phishing and other cyber threats.
Strong Password Practices: Implementing multi-factor authentication and avoiding password reuse are critical steps.
Regular Audits: Conducting cybersecurity audits can help identify vulnerabilities and address them proactively.
Data Encryption: Sensitive data should be encrypted to minimise the impact of breaches.
Collaboration with Experts: Partnering with cybersecurity firms can provide institutions with the latest tools and strategies to combat threats.
Government Support: Leveraging grants and policies to strengthen IT infrastructure in schools is imperative.

The alarming frequency of cyberattacks in both the US and India signals a pressing need for educational institutions to prioritise cybersecurity. As experts have advocated for integrating sports, humanities, AI, or STEM into education, a similar emphasis on digital safety could create a holistic approach to modern learning.

The data of students and educators is priceless. Safeguarding it is not just a technological challenge but a moral imperative to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of educational institutions worldwide.

Education

Bhaichung Bhutia and Neeraj Chopra Amplify The Mission to Make India a Champion Nation Through Sports-Driven Education

Published

3 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Team ScooNews

The image is generated using AI

Creating a nation of sports champions requires a fundamental shift in how India balances education and athletics. Former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia and Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra have called for a more sports-integrated education system to nurture talent and elevate India’s global athletic standing.

Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, Bhutia emphasised the urgent need for collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. “Every child is trained to become a doctor or an engineer, but we need a more sports-friendly curriculum. Only then will India produce world champions,” Bhutia said. He suggested making sports a major subject in schools to build an ecosystem that values athletic achievement alongside academics.

Echoing similar sentiments, Neeraj Chopra highlighted the success of student-athletes in the United States, where schools and universities play a critical role in producing Olympic-level athletes. “If schools and universities in India adopt a similar approach, we will see a big rise in sports,” Chopra told Lallantop. He stressed that with proper management, balancing sports and education is achievable, citing American athletes as examples.

Both athletes pointed to the need for systemic changes in policy and mindset. Bhutia called for sports and education ministries to collaborate closely, while Chopra advocated for schools and universities to integrate competitive sports programs.

The calls from Bhutia and Chopra align with India’s growing focus on youth development under initiatives like the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue. For India to become a sporting powerhouse, the nation must prioritise infrastructure, policy reforms, and a cultural shift that places equal importance on athletic and academic excellence.

Education

National Youth Day: Would Swami Vivekananda Be Proud of Indian Youth Today?

Published

3 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Team ScooNews

Image Source- News18 Hindi

On 12 January each year, India celebrates National Youth Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda—a visionary whose ideals continue to inspire generations. His emphasis on courage, self-discipline, and selflessness laid the foundation for building a nation of empowered youth. Yet, as we reflect on his teachings, a poignant question arises: if Swami Vivekananda were alive today, would he be proud of the state of India’s youth?

A Disturbing Landscape

Despite remarkable strides in education, technology, and global recognition, troubling statistics reveal a different narrative. Reports show a disheartening rise in suicides among young students, with academic pressure, bullying, and mental health struggles emerging as significant factors. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, India recorded over 13,000 student suicides in 2022—a grim reminder of the challenges our youth face.

Swami Vivekananda famously said, “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.” But how do we encourage this awakening in an environment that often prioritises grades over mental well-being, competition over collaboration, and individual success over collective growth?

Polarisation and Division

In his landmark address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, Vivekananda envisioned a harmonious world, where mutual respect and inclusivity thrived. Yet, incidents of hate crimes in educational institutions paint a different picture. Instead of fostering understanding, many schools struggle to counter narratives of division and intolerance, which are seeping into the minds of impressionable young individuals.

Vaping is Cool!

Another alarming trend is the increasing prevalence of substance abuse and vaping among teenagers. Easy accessibility and peer influence have made vapes and drugs a growing concern in schools and colleges. Vivekananda’s ideal of youth as paragons of strength and discipline seems to clash with a reality where momentary fun triumphs responsibility.

Are We Listening to the Youth?

One of Vivekananda’s core messages was to listen and understand the needs of the youth, not dictate them. Today’s students crave purpose and authenticity in their pursuits. Yet, our education system largely remains exam-centric, with limited focus on developing emotional resilience, moral values, and critical thinking skills.

The rise of mental health issues highlights the urgent need for robust counselling frameworks in schools. Bullying, academic stress, and societal expectations weigh heavily on students. Swamiji believed in holistic education that nourished the body, mind, and soul—a vision that modern-day institutions must strive to achieve.

The Path Forward

Mental Health Awareness: Schools must normalise conversations about mental health. Hiring trained counsellors and introducing life skills education can empower students to cope with stress and trauma.
Fostering Inclusivity: Combatting polarisation starts with creating safe spaces for dialogue. Schools can champion diversity and empathy through collaborative activities and community-driven projects.
Balanced Education: Beyond academic excellence, education must focus on creativity, moral values, and societal contributions—aligning with Vivekananda’s philosophy of balanced personal and communal growth.
Youth Empowerment: Engage students in decision-making processes within educational institutions, giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Combatting Addictions: Early intervention and peer education programmes can deter substance abuse. Incorporating discussions on self-control and the consequences of addiction is crucial.

A Call to Action

If Swami Vivekananda were here today, he might be disheartened by some of these realities but would undoubtedly call upon educators, parents, and leaders to rise to the occasion. The Indian youth remain a powerful force capable of leading transformative change, provided they are equipped with the right guidance and support.

As educators and leaders, we must ask ourselves: Are we nurturing the kind of youth Swami Vivekananda dreamed of? Are we empowering them with the tools to think critically, act compassionately, and embrace diversity? Or are we just celebrating the day just for the sake of it? We need to ask real questions. The answers lie in our collective efforts to reshape the educational and societal systems influencing young minds.

Swami Vivekananda’s timeless words echo loudly: “The youth are the pillars of the nation.” It is upon us to ensure that these pillars stand strong, united, and unwavering, ready to lead India toward a brighter and more inclusive future.