Education

WEBINAR: Early Lessons For Education & Schooling During COVID-19 Crisis

ScooNews conducted a webinar on Zoom & FB Live with Dr. Ger Graus (Panel Chair), Dr. Mary Ashun, Jose Papa, Dr. Swati Popat Vats & Dr. Arunabh Singh

Published

5 years ago

April 10, 2020

Rahul Sharma

On 9^th April 2020, ScooNews conducted yet another informative webinar on “Early Lessons For Education And Schooling From A Global Crisis: COVID-19, addressing the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic puts on the education sector and how it can be tackled. The Live session was attended by more than 10,000 educationists.

The webinar was hosted by our guest panellist Dr. Ger Graus OBE, Global Director of Education, KidZania. Other panellists included Jose Papa, Global Director, Bett Show, Dr. Mary Ashun, Principal, Ghana International School, Accra, Dr. Swati Popat Vats, President, Podar Education Network and Dr. Anurabh Singh, Director, Nehru World School.

The webinar begins with an address by Dr. Graus who cherished being surrounded by other wonderful panellists to discuss the issue. “Friendship is better than normal ships and it is really true that we can’t do any of these things on our own,” he says.

He then proceeds to a presentation discussing the challenges that the Corona pandemic has brought and also the optimism that follows. Dr. Graus brilliantly narrates how the pandemic has led us into introspection about the online and offline living. He gives a personal account of himself and his family, who miss the offline social life during the lockdown.

Dr. Graus also explores the silver linings emerging out of the pandemic as teachers will be more appreciated by both parents and students.

He makes the audience understand the distinction between schooling and educating our children by giving the example of Barcelona Football Club’s motto ‘mes que una club’ that means ‘more than a club.’ In his opinion, the primary schools should also adopt a motto on similar lines ‘more than a school’.

Dr. Graus acknowledges the importance of school and calls it the heart of our community rather than just a building to produce grades. “In the future, the role and importance of schools at the heart of the community needs reexamination both on and offline and the outcomes needed to be acted on urgently,” he says.

The importance of ‘access’ is also discussed by Dr. Graus and he puts great emphasis on how the lack of access to educational resources both online and offline is widening the social gap.

He concludes the presentation by giving some valuable advice on education and how adults should make children comfortable and feel safe and secure. He guides, “Please remember who you are and not what you are. It will bring out the best in people.”

Dr. Grass then invites Dr. Mary Ashun, Principal, Ghana International School, Accra, to share her views about the ongoing situation.

“We are all unified for one purpose, we want what is best for our children,” remarks Dr. Ashun. She talks about how we need to connect in order to keep education great for children.

She gives an overview of the Ghana International School situated in Accra and shares a wonderful story about how one of his teachers gifted her a painting of a ship on turbulent water that resembles the current situation of her school and how the teachers are praying for her to steer the ship well.

Dr Ashun shares her struggle during the lockdown both on the professional and personal front. She talks about the stress she is facing in keeping things from falling apart. According to her, parent, teachers, and administrators are facing the same kind of stress and they need to understand each other to keep things afloat.

“I want a school standing when we are ready to go back to school. That is critical for me and the people who will keep the school going are the teachers. They are my assets and I have to make sure that they don’t fall apart,” she reaffirms.

She says that social distancing has affected her as the culture in Ghana has always been outgoing. She adds how she is striving hard to please all the stakeholders even if sometimes it seems impossible.

The next speaker was Dr. Anurabh Singh, Director, Nehru World School, who continues the session with an astounding thought – “For 42 years, students have been coming to the school to study and it all stopped three weeks back!”

He shares his experience that how all the professional development of teachers so far has been for the betterment of traditional classrooms and not for online teaching. In the current situation when teachers are expected to conduct online classes, it’d become stressful for them as the students are better at technology than the teachers. According to him, teachers will have to understand and tackle the fact in a way so they emerge as the ones who have the ultimate power to guide the session.

He admits that another challenge for teachers is to make their students connect with them and their classmates during the online classes. He acknowledges the importance of access to data in these times with a hope that the government will realize how important it is for us to stay connected.

He ends his session with the note that 'this event will ‘change our DNAs forever and we will be better prepared next time.’

The discussion then moves on to Jose Papa, Global Director, Bett Show. Mr. Papa begins with acknowledging the special opportunity and sending out a message of optimism on how this chaos has brought us together and given us a chance to transform the world for better.

Being an expert from the Ed Tech field, he shares that no matter how challenging this time is for the companies, it’s also a great opportunity to reset the old way of working and lay the foundation of future by endorsing digital platforms as the way of the future.

“Technology is going to be the fundamental way of how we are going to interact with each other and how we’re setting the cornerstone of the future through the use of technology now,” he assures.

He informs that this the right time to acknowledge the importance of technology in education and that’s exactly what BETT is doing by grabbing the opportunity to align technology with education as never before.

He then goes on to talk about the importance of active access to technology to all level of society and the importance of working with national governments to formulate policies for the same. “The current crisis has renovated our purpose,” he adds.

The next speaker was Dr. Swati Popat Vats, President, Podar Education Network, who begins by acknowledging the importance of BETT in making technology education-friendly and introducing us to the unique ideas from around the globe.

She expresses the concern about how difficult it is for the Early Childhood community to go online as children thrive for human touch and presence.

Since Podar Education Network has many preschools in remote areas where the access to proper internet connection is a challenge, she says the administration is trying all possible media to keep the connection active. “We are trying to ensure that the children see their teachers every day Live because that is the most important thing,” she remarks. She adds that for now Google Hangout, WhatsApp video calling and teacher’s personal cameras are being used to deal with the situation.

She talks about their two schools in Dubai that are now closed until June, unlike those in India because here the parents are comparatively open when it comes to online home-based learning, that’s putting more emphasis on skill development at the moment.

“We are advising the parents to talk in a positive way to their kids and show them resilience as this is the stage where they imitate adults,” she advises.

Dr. Vats shares that her team has received a large number of photographs and videos from parents establishing the fact that the initiative was an instant success.

She concludes with the message that ‘we should begin promoting digital literacy among children already.’

Moving on to the next section, Dr. Graus puts three important questions for the panellists.

How will we be better ready for the next time?
What will be our message to the policy-makers?
Should we change our attitude towards dealing with technology in schools?

Dr. Singh takes these questions with the advice to government that they should intervene and promote learning through television and radio channel for the children who lack access to stable and fast internet connections. He makes the distinction between group studies and individual projects to keep the kids engaged when they lack access.

“Teachers need to build communities and small learning groups for children rather than providing only content. Kids need human collaboration more than any robotic learning content,” he confesses.

He also admits that the school leaders are scared of technology as they fear losing control due to unmonitored access. However, he then makes a very valid point that teachers will start looking at technology in a different light when they return to schools after the lockdown, as they will be more familiar with it by then.

Talking further about how the parents can become a better member of the school community and an active participant in their child’s education, Dr. Ashun says, “We need to do more to get the parents to be better collaborators. We should ask ourselves whether it will be a synchronous approach or an asynchronous one.”

She then takes on the question of how we can be better prepared next time by putting up the idea that she would like to give one week every term to online learning or learning that is away from the campus. She also adds that we should train children to be self-sufficient in learning, just in case we don’t have the privilege of using the internet so freely the next time.

Mr Papa gives his final take on the issue by saying that the sooner we adjust and acknowledge that there is a new normal and that life has changed forever, at least for the next generation to come, it will be better. Acknowledging the current situation and changes that it will bring is highly important.

“We are witnessing how interactions have changed, how the role of technology is now much more important and how societies will run, how businesses will run, how it will affect the normal day to day activities, how we study and provide education, the government policies and that we need to control a serious sanitary issue – everything around us is changing,” he informs.

Dr. Mary concludes the webinar by sharing about the two silver linings that she discovered during these troubled times.

“The first one is the Unit of Purpose. I met so many people through the on-going webinars who are together moving towards the same purpose to talk about education and the issues that affect the educators and students. The second silver lining for me is a certain Open-mindedness that we are suddenly allowing to have because this kind of event has never happened before. Our minds are now more open and we are thinking about possibilities to explore new technology and even uncomfortable things,” she goes on.

“We’ve no choice but to accept and work towards those uncomfortable situations. The level of discomfort that we are forced into is forcing us to be openminded and get more inventive in the process,” she adds.

Enjoyed the ScooNews Webinar? Tell us more about it at [email protected].

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Education

AI Creating Personalised Learning Pathways for Students

Published

14 hours 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

6 days 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

6 days 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

7 days 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

1 week 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

1 week 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.

Education

2024 Year in Review: Updates and Insights from the Department of School Education & Literacy

Published

1 week ago

January 11, 2025

Team ScooNews

Image- Ministry of Education, Government of India

The Department of School Education & Literacy, under the Ministry of Education, unveiled several key initiatives and achievements in 2024, reflecting its commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. From boosting foundational literacy to advancing eco-conscious education, the department’s efforts highlight a transformative year in the realm of school education in India.

Samagra Shiksha: A Holistic Approach to Education

The Samagra Shiksha scheme continued its focus on integrating education from pre-primary to Class XII, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4). Between 2018 and 2025, the scheme achieved notable milestones:

3,656 schools upgraded.
138,802 schools equipped with ICT and digital initiatives.
9,477 schools introduced vocational education.

The scheme also addressed inclusivity with provisions for children with special needs, including stipends, aids, and barrier-free infrastructure, ensuring equitable access to education.

PM SHRI Schools: Exemplars of NEP 2020

The PM SHRI scheme aims to establish over 14,500 exemplar schools to implement NEP 2020 effectively. As of 2024, 12,084 schools have been selected, spanning primary to senior secondary levels. These schools boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, including smart classrooms, Atal Tinkering Labs, and enhanced sports facilities, fostering holistic education and innovation.

PM POSHAN: Tackling Hunger and Promoting Nutrition

The PM POSHAN scheme continued to provide hot meals to students from pre-primary to Class VIII in government and government-aided schools. Key enhancements included:

Integration of school nutrition gardens.
Special provisions for anaemia-prone districts.
Community participation through Tithi Bhojan.

Material costs for meals were also revised to address inflation, ensuring sustained nutrition for students.

ULLAS: Fostering Lifelong Learning

The ULLAS initiative aims to achieve universal literacy by providing foundational and vocational education to adults aged 15 and above. In 2024:

Over 2 crore learners and 39 lakh volunteer teachers registered.
Ladakh became the first fully literate administrative unit.
National Literacy Week saw 4.8 crore participants.

PARAKH and Assessment Reforms

The National Assessment Centre, PARAKH, implemented the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024, covering 23 lakh students across 87,619 schools. The survey aimed to benchmark student competencies and introduced Holistic Progress Cards (HPC) to capture multidimensional student progress.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Under Samagra Shiksha, efforts to include children with special needs advanced significantly. Key achievements include:

Accessible infrastructure in 58.5% of government schools.
Development of educational content in Indian Sign Language.
Dedicated resources for screening and supporting students with disabilities.

Environmental Awareness: Eco Clubs for Mission LiFE

Eco Clubs, aligned with the Mission LiFE initiative, empowered students to adopt sustainable practices. Activities in 2024 included:

1.46 lakh new Eco Clubs established.
5.18 crore saplings planted during tree plantation drives.
School nutrition gardens promoting sustainable food systems.

Teacher Education and Training

The introduction of the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) aims to enhance teacher training by offering a dual major bachelor’s degree in education and a specialised subject. This initiative, along with the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM), strives to elevate teaching standards and professional development.

Equivalence Across School Boards

PARAKH facilitated regional workshops and studies to standardise assessments and curricula across school boards, promoting equity in education nationwide.

Key Infrastructure Developments

Approval for 85 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and expansion of one existing KV.
Enhanced accessibility through the generation of over 7 crore APAAR IDs, ensuring seamless academic transitions for students.

Looking Ahead

The department’s initiatives in 2024 reflect a comprehensive effort to make education inclusive, innovative, and aligned with future needs. From integrating technology to fostering environmental responsibility, these steps pave the way for a transformative educational landscape in India.

Education

Sunbeam School Sarnath Achieves Multiple Milestones in Education and Beyond

Published

1 week ago

January 11, 2025

Team ScooNews

Sunbeam School Sarnath has marked a year of significant achievements, reflecting its commitment to innovation, talent, and holistic development. Among its accomplishments, the school secured 1st place in the Disaster Management category at the CBSE Regional Science Exhibition 2024, held at DPS Gomtinagar, Lucknow. This win has qualified its students for the National Finals, showcasing their capability to address real-world issues through science.

The school also hosted the district-level National School Band Competition 2024, where over 13 teams participated. Sunbeam School Sarnath’s Brass Band emerged victorious, earning first place and advancing to the National Finals. The event highlighted the dedication and teamwork of young performers.

In sports, the school’s U-11 Aerobics Team won a gold medal at the Inter School Gymnastics Aerobics Competition, held at Panini Kanya Mahavidyalay and organised by the Varanasi District Gymnastics Association.

Additionally, the school was honoured with the Institution of Happiness Award at the Institution of Happiness Conclave in Bangalore. This achievement was backed by the school’s emphasis on mental well-being and fostering an inclusive educational environment that prioritises emotional health alongside academic growth.

Education

Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils Draft UGC Regulations 2025

Published

2 weeks ago

January 10, 2025

Team ScooNews

Image Source- PIB

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, in New Delhi. The event also saw the inauguration of ‘Pushpagiri’, the new auditorium of the University Grants Commission (UGC), honouring the intellectual heritage of Odisha.

Addressing the audience, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted how the proposed reforms align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to foster innovation, inclusivity, and flexibility in higher education. He praised the UGC team for their efforts and expressed optimism that these guidelines will empower academic staff, strengthen educational standards, and pave the way for Viksit Bharat 2047 through quality education and research.

The draft regulations have been made available for public feedback, with stakeholders invited to share their suggestions before the final version is published. Shri Pradhan underlined the transformative potential of these guidelines in shaping India’s education system, promoting holistic learning, and driving the country towards excellence in research and academia.

Key Highlights of the Draft Regulations 2025

Flexibility in Qualifications: Candidates with NET/SET qualifications can pursue teaching careers in subjects differing from their previous degrees, with PhD specialisation prioritised.
Promoting Indian Languages: Encourages academic publications and degree programmes in Indian languages.
Holistic Evaluation: Eliminates score-based shortlisting, focusing on broader qualifications, including “Notable Contributions.”
Inclusivity: Creates pathways for experts in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines, and welcomes accomplished sportspersons, including those with disabilities, into academia.
Enhanced Governance: Revises Vice-Chancellor selection processes with expanded eligibility and transparency.
Simplified Promotions: Streamlines promotion criteria, emphasising teaching, research, and academic contributions.
Professional Development: Encourages faculty development programs for continuous skill enhancement.
Transparent Processes: Ensures accountability in recruitment, promotions, and grievance redressal.

A Potential Game-Changer

If implemented effectively, the Draft UGC Regulations 2025 could significantly transform higher education in India. By fostering inclusivity, encouraging multilingualism, and prioritising holistic evaluation, these reforms align with global standards. Enhanced transparency and opportunities for professional development can uplift the teaching community, creating a vibrant ecosystem of learning and innovation. The focus on Indian languages and traditional disciplines could bridge the gap between modern education and cultural heritage, setting a benchmark for academic excellence worldwide.

The draft guidelines can be accessed for review and feedback on the UGC website.

Education

India’s Education Conundrum: Envisioning 2025 Amid Ground Realities

Published

2 weeks ago

January 7, 2025

Dhruv Chhabra

Image Source- Pexels/Soumen Sinha

“India will grow only if India reads.” But is India truly reading? Recent statistics reveal a sobering reality: over the past two years, 1.72 crore children have dropped out of school. The Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) 2023-24 report highlights a worrying decline in school enrolments, dropping from 26.5 crore in 2021-22 to 24.8 crore in 2023-24. This marks the first major fall in six years, raising critical concerns about the robustness of India’s education system.

Inspired by a video report by The Quint, highlighting key insights into India’s education challenges.

A Declining Trend Across States

States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra have witnessed significant drops in enrolments, with Bihar alone seeing a decline of 35.65 lakh students. At the primary level, enrolments have fallen by 46 lakh in the last year, while secondary-level dropout rates remain alarmingly high. Despite the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s ambitious vision of universal access and equity, the stark reality indicates otherwise.

The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), which measures the proportion of students enrolled in a particular level of education against the age-appropriate population, has seen minor dips at most levels. While retention rates are higher at the elementary level, the secondary level remains a challenge, with dropout rates spiking significantly.

Reasons for the Decline

UDISE+ attributes the decline to several factors:

Improved Data Collection: Earlier, children were often dual-enrolled in government and private schools to access benefits. Aadhaar-linked verification has curtailed this practice, reflecting more accurate enrolment figures.
Reverse Migration: The COVID-19 pandemic saw families moving back to villages, enrolling their children in government schools. As migration reverses, many students are returning to private schools.

However, these reasons fail to explain why the overall enrolment rate has not stabilised or increased. This raises questions about the authenticity of data in previous years and the systemic gaps in ensuring universal education.

Infrastructure and Teacher Shortages

India’s education system faces significant infrastructural and human resource challenges.

Over 110,000 schools operate with only one teacher, making effective learning nearly impossible.

States like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh report dismal teacher-student ratios, with thousands of teaching positions lying vacant. In Assam, Odisha, and Karnataka, underutilised infrastructure due to low student-to-school ratios further underscores the inefficiency in resource allocation. While digital initiatives have gained traction, only 7% of schools across the country have digital libraries, and fewer have functional computers for educational use. These gaps highlight the urgent need for equitable distribution of resources and investments.

Vision 2025: A Lofty Goal

The NEP 2020 outlines a transformative roadmap for education by 2025, focusing on universal access, quality improvement, and innovation. It aims to:

Achieve a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio in school education.
Integrate vocational education into mainstream curricula.
Promote multilingualism and mother-tongue instruction in early grades.
Strengthen teacher training and professional development.

While the vision is commendable, the ground realities paint a different picture. Without addressing foundational challenges such as teacher shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities, these goals may remain aspirational rather than achievable.

The Path Forward

To realise its Vision 2025 and the broader aspiration of becoming a global superpower by 2047, India must prioritise education as a critical driver of progress. Key measures include:

Investing in Teachers: Teachers are the backbone of any education system. Comprehensive training, better salaries, and improved working conditions are essential to attract and retain talent.
Bridging the Infrastructure Gap: Adequate infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, and digital resources, must be a priority. States with underutilised resources should focus on optimising their infrastructure to ensure equitable access.
Addressing Dropout Rates: Targeted interventions, such as scholarships, counselling, and after-school support, can help retain students, particularly at the secondary level.
Fostering Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between the government, private sector, and non-profits can enhance resource allocation, innovation, and accountability.
Focusing on Data Transparency: Reliable data is critical for effective policymaking. Strengthening systems like UDISE+ to ensure accurate and timely reporting can help identify gaps and track progress.

A Nation’s Future Hinges on Education

As India marches towards its centenary of independence in 2047, its aspirations of becoming a superpower are intrinsically linked to the quality of education it provides. A nation’s strength lies in its people, and education is the cornerstone of human capital development. Bridging the divide between vision and reality requires collective effort, strong political will, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.