Education

What was considered while drafting the National Education Policy draft?

A look at the current education scenario in India and what forms the foundation for the recommendations of the TSR Subramanian.

Published

7 years ago

June 27, 2016

TeamScoonews

The past 2 months has seen a flurry of activities in conjunction with the HRD Ministry to create a draft National Education Policy. The formulation of a committee and mass public consultations are efforts that have been taken for the first time to create a truly nation-facing policy. When finally the draft of the policy was out, media was rife with news about the tussle between the head of the committee T.S.R. Subramanian and the HRD minister Smriti Irani over making the recommendations of the public consultations public.

Amidst all this, the committee recommendations have been made public. Here we try to peep into the mind of T.S.R. Subramanian – the man of the moment and the head of the committee tasked with assisting the ministry in formulating the policy. The following thoughts belong to Subramanian.

For most people the images of flagrant mass copying at Bihar examination centres are firmly etched in their minds and are synonymous with the state of Indian education in 2015. Then, the “topper” scam was revealed in the media last week; again, originating from Bihar and quickly became the symbol of all that is wrong with the examination system. However, spare a moment to think, is this only a Bihar phenomenon? What is the state of education in the rest of India?

In terms of sheer size, the Indian education system is among the largest in the world, with about 26 crore children enrolled in Classes I to XII located in 36 States and Union Territories, 683 districts, about 7,300 blocks and more than 82,000 clusters, covering more than 15 lakh schools; the total number of teachers functioning in the system (in public and private schools) is to the tune of 80 lakh. These figures don’t include enrolment figures from higher education institutions, which cover more than 3 crore students. In many senses, this is one of the largest areas of direct contact between the state and the citizen, with nearly 20% of the population directly involved daily in the teaching or learning process.

The National Education Policies of 1968, and 1986 as modified in 1992, had endorsed a norm of 6% of the gross domestic product (GDP) as the minimum expenditure on education. However, this target has never been met. The expenditure by Education Departments of the Centre and the States has never risen above 4.3% of the GDP, and is currently around 3.5%.

As compared to a meagre 12% in 1947, the overall literacy rate in India in 2011 was 74%, with a male literacy rate of 82.1% and a female literacy rate of 65.5%. However, having travelled such a long road we are still below the world average literacy rate of 84%, and India currently has the largest illiterate population in the world.

Let’s look at the state of Elementary education (Classes I-VIII) today

The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan programme launched for the universalisation of education (Education for All), along with the no-detention policy, has resulted in a significant enhancement both in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to over 95%, and in the enrolment of girls.

In 2014-15, there were 14 lakh schools in the country imparting elementary education, with a total enrolment of 19.77 crore. Of these, government schools numbering 11 lakh accounted for an enrolment of 11.9 crore students at the elementary level.

In 2014-15, the retention rate at the primary level was 83.7% and it was as low as 67.4% at the elementary level. Roughly, 40% children enrolled in Class I were leaving school before completing Class VIII (U-DISE, 2014-15).

Focussing on the Quality of education

NGO Pratham’s The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2014 survey found that nearly half of the Class V students were not able to read at Class II level; nearly the same proportion of Class V students did not have basic arithmetic skills, which they should have learned by the end of Class II (ASER 2015). It is a telling sign of the quality of education being imparted today. Here a special mention needs to be given to Gunotsav, a mass assessment process, first introduced in Gujarat in 2009, which is now being implemented with variations in some other States as well.

All the surveys reveal that at an all-India level, the percentage of older girls (in the 11-14 age groups) not enrolled in school has dropped from 10% in 2006 to close to 5% in 2014. Except for Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, the figure has dropped significantly for many States, with Bihar showing the steepest decline from 17.6% in 2006 to 5.7% in 2014. In fact, if we were to account on ground figures attendance rate checked randomly at government schools stood at about 71% of enrolled children, though these figures need to be taken with a pinch of salt.

While these are encouraging figures, the quality of education, in terms of learning outcomes, is undeniably poor, particularly in the government school system. This figure is of grave concern because approximately 80% of all recognised schools at the elementary stage are government-run or supported. Reading is a foundational skill; without being able to read well, a child cannot progress in the education system and it is found that reading outcomes are unacceptably poor, particularly in government and rural schools.

For example, ASER 2014 found that over 75% of children in Class III and over 50% in Class V could not read texts meant for the Class II level. At the national level, children in rural schools in Class II who could not even recognise letters of the alphabet increased from 13.4% in 2010 to 32.5% in 2014. Further, when compared year-on-year, reading levels for children enrolled in government schools in Class V showed a decline between 2010 and 2012. While reading levels in Class V in private schools were also not very high, the gap in reading levels between children in government schools and private schools appears to be growing over time.

In sum, half of all children in Class V have not yet learned basic skills that they should have learned by Class II. Close to half of all children will finish 8 years of schooling but will still not have learned basic arithmetic. However, it is also important to know that the Indian child, given the opportunity, is a fast learner—a fact which cuts across every district in every corner of India. The failure to provide the opportunity for a decent education to every child, even 7 decades after Independence, is a severe indictment of our governance standards.

Noteworthy news from recent times is that the Allahabad High Court took cognisance of the poor quality of education in government schools and directed all government servants in Uttar Pradesh to send their children only to public schools run by the State Basic Education Board.

Let’s move on to understand the state of the Secondary & higher secondary education (Classes IX to XII)

At the secondary stage, the Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) is the most important programme rolled out by the HRD Ministry. It has the twin aims of enhancing access to and improving the quality of secondary education in the country.

Enrolment numbers are sought to be increased by establishing a secondary school within a reasonable distance of all habitations and by removing gender, socio-economic and disability barriers to education. A list of prescribed infrastructural and physical facilities is already present including adequate number of classrooms, laboratories, libraries, art and crafts rooms, toilet blocks, drinking water availability, electricity connection, telephone and Internet connectivity and disabled-friendly amenities. However, the fact is that even minimum infrastructure standards are not available in most schools, particularly in the hinterland.

Bringing equity in the system is important and that aspect is addressed by focusing on micro-planning and opening schools in areas with concentrations of Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/Minorities. Undertaking a special enrolment drive for the weaker sections, providing more female teachers in schools and separate toilet blocks for girls are some of the other significant moves.

The RMSA aims at achieving a GER of 100% by 2017 and universal retention by 2020. While the first target could be seriously addressed, it is highly doubtful if it would be realistic to retain the “retention” target by 2020, even if major remedial steps are urgently undertaken.

The spread of secondary education throughout the country remains uneven. Regional disparities continue as do differences in access depending on the socio-economic background of students. Absence of teachers, lack of incentives and low academic standards in government schools has contributed to the rise of the private sector in secondary school education.

Where does Higher education stand today?

There has been a virtual explosion in the number of universities and colleges in the country. Many students join university courses merely to obtain a degree, which has come to be considered as a sine qua non for white (and even blue) collar employment and social status.

At last count, there were 46 Central universities and 128 deemed-to-be universities in the country (UGC Annual Report 2014-15). The Indian higher education system, which includes technical education, is one of the largest in the world. The number of universities has grown from 27 in 1950-51 to 621 in 2010-11 and further to 712 in 2013-14. The number of institutes has grown from 11,095 in 2010-11 to 11,443 in 2012-13.

The private sector is playing a more active role in the growth of colleges and institutions in India. In 2011-12, 63.9% of the total number of colleges and institutes were in the private sector and 58.9% of the total number of students were enrolled in private colleges and institutes. State institutes accounted for 35.6% and Central institutes for 0.5% of the total number of colleges and institutes.

Even today the utility of higher education in assuring employment is questionable. Many graduate and postgraduate students do not get jobs in their respective fields even after spending several years in acquiring higher education. While the problem of educated unemployed youth remains acute, there is also, paradoxically, a shortage of skilled manpower in the labour market.

The global ranking of universities is a useful indicator of their institutional performance, based on a relative assessment in the areas of research and teaching, reputation of faculty members, reputation among employers, resource availability, share of international students and activities and other factors. Hence the recommendation of a rating scale for higher education institutes on a scale of 1-8.

In conclusion, the most noteworthy point that emerges is that while issues of accessibility and enrolment have dramatically improved in the past decades and much progress has been made in relation to equity in opportunities, issues relating to quality of education at both school and higher levels have not been addressed adequately either in policy or in practice; indeed, there is a secular decline in the overall quality of education. Necessarily, issues of equity, as also of quality have to be the main focus of any new national policy.

Serious reforms are imperative and brook no delay. Major new directions now need to be taken. Issues of immediate concern and administrative constraints should not be allowed to override the medium- and long-term measures essential for major reforms. The country is now looking to the Government of India to give a new direction in the field of education. The steps taken now will determine if India will be a leading nation in the world this century.

This post is based on an article originally published here.

Up Next

Dy CM Manish Sisodia’s initiative of Parents-Teachers-Meeting (PTM)gets massive response from Parents

Don't Miss

“Heavy rain can easily break-down our school,” says headmaster

Education

India retains 40th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2023

Published

4 days ago

September 29, 2023

Team ScooNews

India retains 40th rank out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index 2023 rankings published by the World Intellectual Property Organization. India has been on a rising trajectory, over the past several years in the Global Innovation Index (GII), from a rank of 81 in 2015 to 40 in 2023. Innovation has been at the forefront of our battle against the unprecedented crisis created by the pandemic and will be pivotal in driving the country’s resilience, as enshrined in the Prime Minister’s clarion call on Atma Nirbhar Bharat.

The consistent improvement in the GII ranking is owing to the immense knowledge capital, the vibrant start-up ecosystem, and the amazing work done by the public and private research organizations. All Departments of the Government, including Scientific Departments such as the Department of Science and Technology; the Department of Biotechnology; the Department of Space; and the Department of Atomic Energy and also departments such as Ministry of Electronics and IT, Department of Telecommunications, Department of Agricultural Research & Education and the Department of Health Research have played a pivotal role in enriching the National Innovation Ecosystem. Most importantly, the Atal Innovation Mission has played a major role in expanding the Innovation ecosystem.

NITI Aayog has been working tirelessly to ensure the optimization of the national efforts for bringing policy-led innovation in different areas such as electric vehicles, biotechnology, nanotechnology, space, alternative energy sources, etc. It has also played a role in expanding the innovation eco-system in states and districts. A constant thrust in monitoring and evaluating India’s position in the global rankings has been provided by the NITI Aayog, including in the GII.

The GII is a reliable tool for governments across the world to assess the innovation-led social and economic changes in their respective countries. Over the years, the GII has established itself as a policy tool for various governments and helped them to reflect upon the existing status quo.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has also been collaborating in India’s journey towards an innovation-driven economy. This year, the NITI Aayog, in partnership with the CII and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), is hosting, virtually, the India Launch of the GII 2023 on 29th September 2023.

The launch session will be graced by many senior dignitaries including Shri Suman Bery, Vice-Chairman, NITI Aayog; Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog; Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, Chief Executive Officer, NITI Aayog; Mr. Daren Tang, Director General, WIPO; Dr. Sacha Wunsch-Vincent, Co-Editor, GII & Head, Economics and Statistics Division, WIPO; Dr. Nausad Forbes, Chairman, CII National Committee on Technology, Innovation & Research, and Co-Chairperson, Forbes Marshall; Professor Rishikesha Krishnan, Director, Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore; and Sh. Alok Nanda, Co-Chairman, CII National Committee on Technology, Innovation & Research, and CEO, GE India Technology Centre.

Education

Carfax Education launches the 2023 Schools Index

Published

5 days ago

September 28, 2023

Team ScooNews

28 September 2023; Carfax Education, the leading global education consultancy, today announced the launch of the fourth annual Schools Index, the leading international index of the top 125 private schools.

Categorised by region, prospective parents and pupils can now access a list of the top 125 schools for 2023 across the UK, Switzerland, Europe, USA, Middle East, China, Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, reviewed and selected by a panel of education consultants, led by Carfax Education.

As well as formal criteria, such as academic results and preparation for university entry, schools are selected for their unique ethos, their reputation both locally and internationally, and how they prepare students for life beyond academia. The guide provides a comprehensive overview of curriculum and fees, as well as practical information such as travel times to local airports.

Top schools listed for 2023 providing exceptional education for students include world-renowned British schools such as Eton College, Wycombe Abbey and Rugby School, as well as those further afield, such as St Paul’s School in Brazil and Geelong Grammar School in Australia. New entries for this year include UK senior school, Radley and UK prep school, Port Regis, as well as The British School in Delhi and The Dalton School, USA. Collated by Carfax Education experts on the ground across the world, the index is the most comprehensive global guide available.

Fiona McKenzie, Head of Education, Carfax Education, said: “Now in its fourth year, the Schools Index has rapidly become a valuable resource for parents looking for the very best education for their child, wherever they are in the world – as well as for the private schools sector. This year’s guide has been comprehensively curated by international experts, with each school notably recognised for their own individual footprint in education, including academics, facilities, preparation for university entry, unique ethos and how they prepare students for life beyond academia. Demand for excellent schools remains high and is still fiercely competitive, as parents strive to ensure their child receives the strongest foundations to set them up for a lifetime of success.”

Jo Duncan, Headmistress of Wycombe Abbey said: “We are delighted to be included in the Carfax Education Schools Index as one of the Top 125 private schools in the world this year and a Top 30 UK Senior School. Wycombe Abbey strives to be a world leader in girls’ boarding education and a place where academic excellence, empathy and integrity thrive. We aim to ensure that our pupils leave our School as confident, articulate, independent young women. It is my privilege to lead Wycombe Abbey and to be recognised in this way by Carfax Education’s Schools Index.”

Lists in this year’s Schools Index include:

Top 30 UK Senior Schools
Top 10 UK Prep Schools
Top 10 Switzerland
Top 15 Rest of Europe
Top 15 China & Southeast Asia
Top 15 USA
Top 15 Middle East
Top 15 Rest of the World

For more information and to view the Schools Index, visit www.schools-index.com

Education

World Tourism Day 2023: The Career Prospects in the Field of Tourism

Published

6 days ago

September 27, 2023

Isha Juneja

As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2023, it’s time for school graduates to embark on a journey that goes beyond the familiar horizons of textbooks and classrooms. This is a journey that explores the educational perspective of tourism, unveiling the skills required and the plethora of career opportunities available in this dynamic field. India’s travel and tourism industry is poised for center stage in the coming years, and the prospects for students have never been brighter.

A Glimpse into the Growth of Tourism:

In 2021, India’s tourism sector wasn’t just a contributor; it stood as a powerhouse, constituting a significant 5.8% of the country’s GDP and providing employment for a remarkable 32.1 million people. This resurgence followed a tumultuous 2020 marked by the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What’s more exciting is that India’s tourism sector is poised for sustained growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% during the period from 2019 to 2023. By 2023, it’s expected to reach an impressive ₹32.05 lakh crore (US$450 billion). Furthermore, the sector is on track to create an astonishing 52.3 million jobs by 2028, accounting for 8.1% of the nation’s total employment.

Moreover, India’s tourism sector is anticipated to benefit from consistent hiring in other sectors such as financial services, technology, FMCG, and property and construction in 2023, providing diverse opportunities for aspiring professionals.

Educational Avenues in Travel and Tourism:

The journey toward a rewarding career in travel and tourism begins with education. Numerous institutions offer a broad spectrum of courses tailored to the industry’s diverse demands. These educational pathways encompass Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, diploma programs, and even flexible distance learning options.

Here are some popular courses for undergraduate and postgraduate education in tourism in India:

Undergraduate Courses:

BA in Tourism Administration: A three-year course covering various aspects of tourism management, including tourism planning, marketing, operations, finance, and human resource development. It also provides exposure to the cultural, social, and environmental dimensions of tourism. Some institutions offering this course include Christ University, Bangalore, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, and Amity University, Noida.
BA in Tourism Studies: A three-year course focusing on the theoretical and practical aspects of tourism, including tourism geography, tourism products, tourism policy, tourism development, and tourism research. It also offers electives in areas such as adventure tourism, heritage tourism, and eco-tourism. Institutions offering this course include Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, and Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh.
Bachelor of Tourism Management (BTM): A four-year course providing comprehensive knowledge and skills in tourism management, such as tourism marketing, operations, finance, law, and entrepreneurship. The course also includes industrial training and project work in the tourism sector. Some institutions offering this course include the University of Calicut, Malappuram, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, and the University of Kashmir, Srinagar.
Com in Travel and Tourism Management: A three-year course combining core commerce subjects with specialized topics related to travel and tourism, such as travel agency management, tour operations, airline ticketing, and tourism economics. It prepares students for careers as travel consultants, tour managers, and tourism officers. Some institutions offering this course include St. Joseph’s College of Commerce, Bangalore, Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, Pune, and Loyola College, Chennai.
Sc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration: A three-year course covering various aspects of hospitality and hotel management, including food production, food and beverage service, front office, housekeeping, and hotel engineering. The course also provides practical training and exposure to the hospitality industry. Some institutions offering this course include the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition, New Delhi, Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, Manipal, and the Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai.

Postgraduate Courses:

Master of Tourism Administration (MTA): A two-year course offering advanced knowledge and skills in tourism administration, such as tourism policy, planning, marketing, finance, and research. It also offers specializations in areas like tourism product development, destination management, and human resource management. Some institutions offering this course include Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, and Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla.
Master of Tourism and Travel Management (MTTM): A two-year course focusing on managerial and operational aspects of tourism and travel, including operations, marketing, finance, and law. It includes field visits, internships, and project work in the tourism and travel sector. Some institutions offering this course include the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, Gwalior, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneswar, and Amity University, Noida.
Master of Tourism and Heritage Management (MTHM): A two-year course exploring the connections between tourism and heritage, including heritage tourism, cultural tourism, and eco-tourism. It covers heritage conservation, management, and promotion challenges in the context of tourism. Some institutions offering this course include the Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, and Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi.
Master of Hotel Management (MHM): A two-year course providing in-depth knowledge and skills in hotel management, including operations, marketing, finance, law, and entrepreneurship. It offers electives like hotel revenue management, quality management, and facility management. Some institutions offering this course include the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition, New Delhi, the Institute of Hotel Management, Bangalore, and the Institute of Hotel Management, Bhopal.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Tourism and Hospitality Management: A two-year course blending core business administration subjects with tourism and hospitality management, covering areas like business environment, strategic management, marketing management, and financial management. It prepares students for leadership roles in the tourism and hospitality industry. Some institutions offering this course include the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow, the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode, and the Indian Institute of Management, Indore.

Expanding Opportunities in Sustainable Tourism:

The travel and tourism sector have the potential to reshape India’s economic landscape, especially in the face of job losses in traditional sectors due to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). It’s not just about discovering new destinations; it’s about unlocking a world of educational opportunities and fulfilling careers, all while contributing to our nation’s economic growth.

The surge of Green Tourism and its positive impacts are becoming increasingly evident, particularly in South Asian countries. This practice encourages India and other nations to adopt best practices and learn from experiences in green tourism, including ecotourism, rural tourism, wildlife tourism, and adventure tourism. Through adaptability, we can address common challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector, such as climate change, digitalization, skills development, and destination management. Prioritizing job creation, income generation, and empowerment, while conserving and enhancing natural and cultural resources, is crucial for the future. By aligning with the principles and goals outlined in international agreements, destinations across the nation can work towards a future where India’s natural beauty remains preserved for generations of travelers and opportunities to come.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2023, let’s embrace the immense potential within the travel and tourism industry. Students possess a unique opportunity to be part of an industry that not only thrives but also actively shapes the future of our nation.

The statistics are compelling India’s tourism sector is on a remarkable trajectory, and the future is brighter than ever before. So, pack your bags and prepare for an educational journey that could lead to a fulfilling and prosperous career in tourism.

Education

PM Modi addresses academic leaders at G20 University Connect Finale in Delhi

Published

6 days ago

September 27, 2023

Team ScooNews

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressed the G20 University Connect Finale programme at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi yesterday. The G20 University Connect initiative was undertaken with the aim of building an understanding of India’s G20 Presidency among India’s youth and enhancing their participation in the different G20 events. During the event, the Prime Minister also released four publications, including “The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership” and “India’s G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

The Prime Minister began his address by recalling the hustle and bustle at the Bharat Mandapam two weeks ago during the G20 Summit and expressed delight that the same venue was witnessing the future of India. He credited the success of such events to the promising youth of India, emphasizing that when the youth associate themselves with such events, they are bound to be a success.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s recent achievements, including the successful Chandrayaan mission, the launch of the solar mission, and India’s diplomatic efforts, such as the BRICS Summit in South Africa and his visit to Greece, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades.

He also mentioned India’s growing international profile, citing Saudi Arabia’s planned investment of 100 billion dollars in India after the G20 summit. The Prime Minister emphasized that India’s progress benefits not only the nation but also provides new opportunities, friends, and markets for the youth.

In addition, he touched on the government’s efforts to empower various communities and the poor and middle class, including the launch of PM Vishwakarma Yojna and Rozgar Melas to provide job opportunities.

Prime Minister Modi spoke about the rapid growth of startups in India, the country’s increasing manufacturing and service sector, and its successful efforts in improving physical, social, and digital infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of the next 25 years for India and the youth and called upon them to think big and make every activity a benchmark.

The Prime Minister concluded by urging the youth to participate in a cleanliness campaign on October 1, promote digital transactions, and support ‘Vocal for Local’ by buying ‘Made in India’ products during festivals. He encouraged campuses to promote Khadi and make it a fashion statement.

The Prime Minister said that unlike the stalwarts of the freedom struggle we did not get an opportunity to die for the country but we have all the opportunity to live for the nation. He said the youth of the decades a century ago had decided on the grand goal of Independence and that nation-wide energy freed the nation from colonial powers.

“Friends, come walk with me, I invite you. 25 years are in front of us, what happened 100 years ago, they moved for Swaraj, we can move for Samriddhi (prosperity). Aatmnirbhar Bharat opens new doors of prosperity and takes self-belief to new heights. That is why I need your support and cooperation for Maa Bharati and for 140 crore Indians.” the Prime Minister exhorted the youth.

Union Minister for Education and Skill Development, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, also attended the event and praised the Prime Minister for advancing the global education agenda under the G20 architecture, which garnered recognition for India’s education and skill ecosystem.

The Prime Minister’s insightful interaction highlighted the speed, scale, and full range of New India and inspired India’s youth to ‘Think and Dream Big.’ His statesmanship during the G20 Presidency brought the world together for prosperity, He congratulated the students’ for spearheading the Jan-bhagidari events and making G20 India a people-driven national movement.

Education

Tensions Rise Between India and Canada: Implications for Students and Education Sector

Published

1 week ago

September 25, 2023

Isha Juneja, Dhruv Chhabra

As political tensions continue to escalate between India and Canada, the future of their diplomatic and trade relations hangs in the balance. The dispute revolves around allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who claimed that credible evidence links Indian authorities to the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. This accusation has strained the bilateral relationship, with New Delhi firmly dismissing the allegations as “absurd” and calling upon Canada to take action against anti-India elements operating within its borders.

One of the largest factors that needs immediate attention is the education sector. As trends show that Canada is one of the most preferred educational destination for Indian students going abroad. Adding to the discord, the Canadian Border Security Agency has issued notices to deport approximately 700 youths who had presented fake offer letters. A substantial number of these individuals hail from Punjab, a state in India, and are drawn to Canada due to its liberal immigration policies and relatively straightforward path to citizenship. For those who immigrate to Canada, the opportunity to apply for citizenship becomes available after five years of continuous residency, with a minimum of three years spent within the country.

Many of the Punjabi youths seeking a brighter future in Canada are students who opt to pursue higher education in the country. Canada’s appeal lies not only in its academic institutions but also in the option for students to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week while pursuing their studies. This attractive proposition has led to a significant increase in the number of Indian students heading to Canada.

Notably, Canada has become a preferred destination for Indian students, particularly those from Punjab. According to Amar Ujala, a Canadian Member of Parliament Ramesh Sangha reveals that Punjabis constitute 2.6 percent of the Canadian population, with a significant Sikh and Punjabi community of around 9.50 lakh residents, out of which 7.70 lakh are Punjabis.

According to Reuters, since 2018, India has been the largest source country for international students in Canada. In 2022, their number rose 47% to nearly 320,000, accounting for about 40% of total overseas students, the Canadian Bureau of International Education says, which also helps universities and colleges provide a subsidised education to domestic students. Canada has issued nearly a million study permits to Indian students since 2015, making it a crucial source of income for Canadian educational institutions.

Shivir Setia, an Indian student who has applied for a project management course in Canada said to ScooNews, “Mentioning my experience regarding whatever happened between India and Canada in the last few days. First, I was very surprised to see that this issue escalated so much to the extent that India is restricting Canadians to coming to India. I was also scared of what would happen if my student Visa got rejected, as the process is very time consuming and a lot of money is involved. I spoke to my friends and other people who stated that nothing is going to happen, this will fade out. I am still a little curious about how things turn out as I am just hoping to go and start with my studies. I am applying for the Visa tomorrow and I hope for the best. My Counsellor was always positive and assured me that things are going to work out.”

Rohinton Medhora, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, underscores the importance of how each country’s government handles the public relations and strategic aspects of this dispute. He notes that while India and Canada may not be each other’s primary trade partners, concessions made during this crisis could have repercussions. The trade relationship between the two nations has not been robust compared to other global partners. In 2021, India constituted only 0.62 percent of Canada’s exports, while Canada represented 1.02 percent of India’s exports. Both countries are wary of making concessions that could compromise their standing with more significant trade partners. (Source- BNN Bloomberg)

Despite the growing political tensions, there is no immediate indication that Indian students will cease their migration to Canada. However, if the crisis deepens, the Indian government may consider directing students, particularly those on government scholarships, to explore alternative destinations for their education, impacting Canada’s education sector significantly. Mr. Ameya S. Bal, Assistant Professor, SKSC, Somaiya Vidyavihar University had this to say on the matter, “I do not think that it is going to affect students in a major capacity. As students are the fraternity which is mostly excluded from the politics here. It may indirectly affect them if policy changes are to take place like that by the Indian government to suspend the visas or by the Canadian government in future due to the tainted international relations. Obviously, the one major consequence is that students will think before going to Canada as the ambiguity of the PR and the treatment of the students can be an issue. Many agencies are promoting permanent residency in Canada, they will be affected by it due to the circumstances as many students may opt out of getting PR and may only choose to go for the duration of their respective educational course or professional project and then come back to India.”

Anand Krishnaswamy, an Educational Consultant and Coach, considers the investigation to play a big part in the future. He said, “No one can assess as of now the exact course of action that will be taken by both the nations. It is difficult to say that this might impact students in a negative manner. The existing students in Canada might face issues with their work visas. The Indian government has been excessive in taking major steps against Canada and have denied the allegations imposed by the Canadian government. While Canada has maintained a more careful stance on the issue. US has also stood up and claimed that if the allegations are to be true, other nations might have to step in and ask questions from the Indian government. I think all that can be done for now is let the investigation take its due course and then understand where do both the nations stand in this matter. However, what may happen is that the students will start showing keen interest in other educational destinations like Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong and EU which are also good educational hubs. US has already increased the number of visas for Indian students since the week gone by. So that is a clear consequence.”

In the midst of this turmoil, Shantanu Singh, Director of EduCandor Pvt. Ltd., a study abroad counselling agency, emphasizes that the safety and well-being of Indian nationals in Canada remain unaffected. He advises prospective students to exercise patience amid visa service suspensions and expects a resolution in the near future. Singh urges that international students should not bear the brunt of political disputes, as their contributions are vital to the economies of host countries, including Canada. He said,” I engaged in discussions with a multitude of students, visa officers, and counsellors on this issue. Now, concerning students who are already residing in Canada, their prevailing sentiment is that the recent developments appear to be more of a political and a theatrical display, likely influenced by the approaching elections. Contrary to the sensationalism propagated by the Indian and Canadian media, Indian nationals in Canada can rest assured that their safety and well-being remain unaffected.

Now, shifting focus to students intending to apply for Canadian visas, I also conversed with visa officers. They acknowledged the Indian context, where visa services have been temporarily suspended. However, the stance and intentions of the Canadian government remain uncertain. Consequently, our recommendation to students, in light of these circumstances, is to refrain from submitting visa applications at this juncture. Nevertheless, we hold the belief that this situation is likely to stabilize within the next 10 to 15 days. Failing that, we anticipate a resolution in the near future, as the future prospects of numerous individuals and students are hanging in the balance.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding India-Canada relations, it is hoped that diplomacy and dialogue will prevail, allowing both nations to navigate these turbulent waters and maintain their historically strong ties.

Education

PM Modi to Engage with Academia in ‘G20 University Connect’ Event

Published

1 week ago

September 25, 2023

Team ScooNews

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is all set to host the ‘G20 University Connect’ event on Tuesday, September 26, providing an opportunity for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to interact with the academic community. Professor Manish R Joshi, Secretary of UGC, unveiled this significant initiative. The event is scheduled to be held at Bharat Mandapam and will bring together Vice-Chancellors, principals, faculty members, and students from universities and colleges across the nation.

During this event, PM Modi will engage in discussions and dialogues with academic leaders, emphasising the pivotal role of higher education in India’s growth and development. In a LinkedIn post, PM Modi had earlier invited students to the G20 University Connect event, highlighting the success of the G-20 University Connect programme over the past year in bringing together India’s youth. He noted that this initiative showcased how Indian youth have established enduring connections with the G-20 fraternity.

PM Modi mentioned a particularly noteworthy event, the “Model G20 Meeting,” where students from 12 different nations, including 10 G20 countries, discussed the theme “Youth for LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).” He expressed eagerness to hear and gain insights from the experiences of Indian youth during the special G-20 University Connect programme, encouraging all youngsters to participate in this unique endeavour.

This event holds immense significance as it provides a platform for academic institutions to directly engage with the country’s top leadership. It offers stakeholders in the education sector an opportunity to share their ideas, concerns, and aspirations with the Prime Minister, fostering collaboration and innovation in higher education. PM Modi underscored the event’s importance in nurturing excellence in higher education, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting it.

“The G-20 University Connect initiative has witnessed numerous programmes held across India, with extensive participation from higher education institutions,” noted the Prime Minister on LinkedIn. He added that the ‘G20 University Connect’ event is poised to be a landmark occasion for the Indian education system, reinforcing the government’s dedication to advancing excellence in higher education and research.

In this programme, Prime Minister Modi will discuss the recently concluded G20 Summit and deliberate on future challenges with students and the new generation. The direct interaction between the PM and academic leaders is expected to catalyse initiatives that will further enhance India’s global standing in the field of education.

Source- ANI

Education

UOW Australia & NSE Academy unveil book on Corporate Finance; Adam Gilchrist rings the ceremonial bell

Published

2 weeks ago

September 22, 2023

Team ScooNews

The University of Wollongong (UOW) Australia, in collaboration with the NSE Academy launched their new book titled “Introduction to Corporate Finance (sixth edition)” at the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai. The book, authored by first year lecturers at UOW campuses in Hong Kong and Dubai, is poised to become a seminal work in understanding the complexities and nuances of the corporate finance landscape.

The book was launched by MD & CEO, NSE Ashishkumar Chauhan, UOW’s Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia M. Davidson, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Alex Frino, and Global Brand Ambassador Adam Gilchrist. The book includes a chapter which details how shares are traded on the National Stock Exchange.

The book launch took place on the heels of UOW unveiling its India identity at GIFT City, Gujarat, on September 18 (Monday). The University is on track to being one of the first foreign universities to have a teaching base in India, and to hand out Australian degrees to Indian students.

The event at NSE featured a discussion by Chauhan and Frino on the intriguing subject of the ‘Future of Equities Markets in India’. The highly anticipated talk provided a comprehensive overview of the evolving trends, the formidable challenges, and the abundant opportunities that shape India’s dynamic equities markets landscape.

“India has made significant strides in maintaining a regulatory environment that is investor-friendly, a key factor in attracting more foreign investment into our vibrant markets. The ongoing reforms and initiatives, including the establishment of the GIFT City as a financial hub and IFSCA (GIFT City regulator), exemplify our commitment to nurturing global partnerships and welcoming foreign institutions, such as the University of Wollongong, to have a physical presence in India. It is an exciting time for India, and we are dedicated to embracing innovation, facilitating market integration with the global arena, and ensuring a prosperous future for both our domestic and international stakeholders,” said Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE.

“India’s remarkable rise in fintech and technological advancements in recent years, coupled with the surge in digital consumption, presents an ideal environment for international businesses to thrive. UOW’s physical presence in India signifies more than just a strategic move; it represents our commitment to fostering deeper research engagements with our Indian partners, resulting in impactful global outcomes. Our presence in India allows us to provide world-class education, nurturing India’s young population and contributing to their holistic development. It also aligns with our vision to expand our international footprint, strengthening our global network and creating a bridge for knowledge exchange,” added Professor Frino from UOW.

On the occasion of the book launch, UOW Global Brand Ambassador and cricketing legend Adam Gilchrist interacted with the delegation from NSE and key Australian government officials and rang the ceremonial bell, signifying stronger Australia – India relations in trade, research and education partnerships.

The University, which has a strong global presence, has been successfully operating campuses in Australia, Dubai, Malaysia and Hong Kong. It will commence its India operations in 2024 with a Graduate Certificate in Computing and a Masters in Computing (Data Analytics), followed by other undergraduate programs. UOW already has close ties with over 30 Indian universities for research and educational collaborations in the areas of software development, advanced medicine solutions, molecular and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity and mining technologies.

Education

CLAT To Be Conducted In Regional Languages- NTA To Delhi High Court

Published

2 weeks ago

September 21, 2023

Team ScooNews

New Delhi, September 21, 2023 – The National Testing Agency (NTA) has made a significant announcement, stating its readiness to conduct the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) in a variety of regional languages, potentially as early as 2024. This move aims to make CLAT, a crucial examination for law aspirants, more accessible to students across India. However, the final decision rests with the Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs), the current organizers of CLAT.

In response to a petition presented before the Delhi High Court, NTA revealed its willingness to conduct CLAT in languages such as Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. This initiative could revolutionize the accessibility of legal education by breaking down language barriers.

The NTA further stated its readiness to administer CLAT in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode, similar to other major entrance exams such as JEE and CUET. If approved, the CLAT (UG)-2024 could potentially be held in the third or fourth week of January 2024, taking into consideration the necessary preparations.

This move has garnered widespread support from students and educationists who believe it will foster inclusivity and democratize access to legal education. Advocates argue that conducting CLAT in regional languages aligns with India’s emphasis on mother tongue-based education, as recommended by the 2020 Education Policy and the 2009 Right to Education Act.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this decision, there are valid concerns regarding the feasibility and cost implications. Ensuring accurate translation and equal access to exam materials for all students will be paramount. Additionally, coordinating the logistics of conducting CLAT in multiple languages will be a complex endeavor.

CLAT, which is presently conducted solely in English, has faced criticism for allegedly discriminating against students with regional language backgrounds, potentially violating constitutional articles 14 and 29(2). This development holds the potential to bring about a transformative change in the way aspiring lawyers across India prepare for their legal careers.

As the legal fraternity awaits the final decision by the Consortium of National Law Universities, the prospect of CLAT being conducted in regional languages has ignited hope for a more inclusive legal education landscape while also presenting a set of logistical and financial challenges that must be thoughtfully addressed.

Education

UK-Gujarat Higher Education Conference: Gujarat’s education system to be strengthened

Published

2 weeks ago

September 21, 2023

Team ScooNews

A high-level academic consultation was held in Gujarat on Wednesday to explore the potential of Transnational Education (TNE) partnerships between the UK and Gujarat higher education institutions (HEIs). The event was organised by the Department of Higher and Technical Education Government of Gujarat and UK in India, which hosted a senior-level higher education delegation from September 18-22. The delegation visited Ahmedabad and met with Gujarat’s Higher and Technical Education Minister Rushikesh Patel.

The consultation aimed to promote internationalisation and support institutions on both sides to develop shared understanding and collaboration opportunities. The delegation included vice chancellors of various UK universities and bodies, who discussed the latest trends and opportunities in the field of education, such as the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) and the scope of joint venture with new technology.

Minister Rushikesh Patel welcomed the delegation and briefed them about the research and innovation opportunities in Gujarat, the work being done in Gujarat in terms of Student Startup Innovation Policy (SSIP) and start-ups, and the recent Gujarat Public Universities Act passed by the Gujarat Legislative Assembly. He also congratulated Alison Barrett MBE, Director of British Council India, for the trust and collaboration that exists between the UK and Gujarat higher education systems.

Barrett said, “We are delighted to be in Gujarat with a large delegation of UK universities and bodies to discuss partnership opportunities institutions in the State and those in the UK, showcasing the trust and collaboration that exists between our higher education systems. Institutions from the state and the UK are already working together, and we are confident that our discussions will pave the way for even more mutually beneficial initiatives. This is a moment to celebrate the deep and extensive links that exist between our universities and the numerous opportunities for collaboration and internationalisation.”

The meeting also focused on how to make Gujarat’s universities world class with the implementation of the Gujarat Public Universities Act, to strengthen the education system of Gujarat in the field of National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) through SSIP, and to mark Gujarat on the international stage through various provisions of NEP. The Minister said that Indo-UK relations will continue to be important in capacity building of the state’s higher education system. (ANI)

Education

Maharashtra Launches ‘Adopt a School’ Scheme to Boost Education Quality

Published

2 weeks ago

September 20, 2023

Team ScooNews

The Maharashtra government has announced a new scheme on September 19 that will allow private entities with a SEBI registered CSR certificate to adopt government schools in the state. The scheme, called Adopt a School, aims to improve the quality of education and infrastructure in these schools, irrespective of their medium of instruction.

The scheme will be implemented in phases across the state and the period of adoption will be either five or ten years. The private entities can also choose to add their name to the existing name of the school for the duration of the adoption.

The government has fixed the adoption fee at Rs 2 crore for five years and Rs 3 crore for ten years for schools located in A and B category municipal corporations, such as Mumbai and Pune. The fee will be used for enhancing the facilities, curriculum, teaching methods, and learning outcomes of the students. The private entities will also have to provide regular feedback and reports to the government on the progress of the schools.

The scheme is part of the government’s efforts to achieve the goals set by the National Education Policy 2020, which envisages a holistic and multidisciplinary education system in India. The scheme will also create a platform for collaboration and innovation between the public and private sectors in the field of education.