A recent report by research firm InsightAce Analytic reveals a significant shift in the education sector, as the metaverse, supported by blockchain networks, is set to reshape the learning landscape by 2031. With an estimated annual growth rate of 38.42 percent, this transformative fusion of education and the metaverse is projected to generate over $102 billion (approximately Rs. 8,48,980 crore) in revenue.

Metaverse ecosystems, providing fully functional virtual environments for work, play, and social interaction as digital avatars, are poised to revolutionize education. This evolution could see educational institutions establishing their presence in the metaverse, offering inclusive access to education while eliminating barriers such as travel, health issues, and the financial burden of traditional educational necessities.

According to InsightAce’s ‘Global Metaverse in Education Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report,‘ the surge in e-learning adoption and the growing interest in immersive learning environments are key drivers behind the metaverse’s expansion in the education sector. The convergence of factors like increased internet adoption, 5G connectivity, cryptocurrencies, cloud services, and emerging technologies such as AI, VR, and AR further propels this integration.

The report highlights that North America and the Asia-Pacific regions are expected to witness the fastest adoption of metaverse technology in education. Developing nations like China and India, with their substantial populations and advancements across various industries, present promising opportunities for market players.

Advertisement

Numerous metaverse ecosystems, including The Sandbox and Roblox, are already offering captivating experiences in this space. Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, is also working to enhance the usability and realism of the metaverse, focusing on making digital avatars appear more lifelike. Despite these advancements, the report emphasizes the need for affordable hardware to seamlessly transition between the physical and virtual worlds. Some ed-tech platforms have already begun integrating metaverse technology into their offerings, including Invact Metaversity, Tomorrow’s Education, 21K Schools, Roblox, the University of Miami, and the University of Nevada.

In a move towards metaverse-based education, the University of Tokyo, Todai, introduced a range of study programs in the metaverse. Former India head of X, Manish Maheshwari, sees the metaverse as a solution to address the global education crisis and is now part of the Invact Metaversity team. This emerging trend signifies a transformative shift in the education sector, driven by the metaverse’s potential to revolutionize the way we learn and engage with educational content.

Ayatiworks has forged a strategic alliance with Anna University, a leading Public State University in Chennai, to elevate students’ skill development and enhance employability. This collaboration is designed to enrich students’ educational experiences and practical competencies in the dynamic realm of Digital Advertising, reflecting both organizations’ shared commitment to education and skill-based training.

As part of this training partnership, Ayatiworks will facilitate valuable learning experiences for Anna University’s Media Science students. This will be achieved through a series of intensive guest lectures on the comprehensive spectrum of Digital Advertising, led by Upendran Nandakumar, CEO of Ayatiworks. These sessions will run from August to December and aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry insights, ultimately enhancing students’ skills, knowledge, and employability.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, Upendran Nandakumar, Founder & CEO of Ayatiworks, remarked, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Anna University, an opportunity that allows us to revolutionize the industry by augmenting university programs with real-world experiences. This collaboration will undoubtedly bolster the employability of university students, marking a significant advancement in their careers.”

Within this partnership, Upendran Nandakumar will engage with over 100 students, providing insights into current industry trends, job opportunities, and challenges within the Digital Advertising landscape. Leveraging his extensive experience in the field, he will offer a comprehensive view of the industry’s present market dynamics. Through this training partnership, he will empower university students to master the art of crafting innovative strategies for building brand loyalty and awareness.

Advertisement

This collaboration represents a pivotal step in nurturing a future-ready workforce in India. Ayatiworks and Anna University share a deep commitment to empowering students, enabling them not only to adapt to but also to drive technological innovations in their respective domains. Following the conclusion of the training sessions, Ayatiworks will conduct a recruitment drive to identify and hire talented interns, providing them with valuable industry exposure. Together, these efforts aim to shape the next generation of digital advertising professionals and foster innovation in the field.

In a significant move towards promoting education and inclusivity, the Indian Army has introduced the ‘Jammu and Kashmir Special Scholarship Scheme 2023.’ This initiative falls under the Army’s ‘Sadbhavana’ operation and aims to provide educational opportunities to underprivileged students in the region.

Under this newly launched scholarship program, a total of 146 students hailing from various districts in the valley will receive invaluable support for their education. Each student will be granted a scholarship worth Rs 1.2 lakh, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the defense sector. The universities affiliated with this program will cover the remaining expenses for these students, and there are 12 such universities where they will pursue their higher education.

The primary objective of this program is to bridge the gap between privileged and underprivileged students by offering scholarships and financial aid to those who demonstrate exceptional potential and dedication in the field of education. In a highly competitive selection process, a significant number of students from Kupwara district applied for the scholarship. Following written tests and interviews, 34 outstanding students were chosen to be a part of this transformative program. The selected students received a warm send-off organized by the Army division stationed in Kupwara at Drugmullah. The ceremony not only celebrated their academic achievements but also aimed to inspire students from marginalized communities to pursue higher education and actively contribute to the development of a self-reliant India.

“The scholarship scheme is gaining widespread popularity, and we anticipate that many more students will take advantage of this joint initiative by the Indian Army and affiliated universities,” stated the spokesperson. This initiative embodies the Indian Army’s commitment to empowering underprivileged students and fostering a brighter future for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

Advertisement

On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the Indian Ministry of Education has initiated the ‘Promise To Protect’ campaign, a robust effort aimed at combating the growing menace of youth tobacco addiction. Under this ambitious campaign, educators from all corners of the nation have pledged their commitment to maintain tobacco-free environments within their schools.

The ‘Promise to Protect’ digital campaign, launched on this significant day, is a solemn vow to shield students and young generations from the harmful grasp of tobacco. This initiative draws inspiration from the alarming statistics revealed by the Global Youth Tobacco Survey-4 (2019), which indicates that a staggering 38% of cigarette smokers, 47% of bidi smokers, and 52% of smokeless tobacco users in India begin their tobacco consumption journey before their 10th birthday. Aligned with the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering tobacco-free educational institutions, this campaign’s primary objective is to prevent the youth from falling victim to tobacco addiction.

Over 1,000 educators from across the nation attended the digital conference and witnessed participants taking an online pledge to safeguard their schools and students against the perils of tobacco. Steering this impactful event was the renowned actor and presenter, Karanvir Bohra. Esteemed speakers such as Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of School Education; Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, Director of Academics (CBSE); Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi of Tata Memorial Hospital; and Dr. Vishal Rao, Group Director for Head and Neck Surgical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre, shared their insights on this critical issue. Additionally, individuals who had suffered due to tobacco use shared their harrowing journeys, shedding light on the devastating consequences of tobacco addiction. Teachers also shared their personal stories related to tobacco use, underscoring the campaign’s gravity.

Educators at the conference expressed their unwavering commitment to incorporating anti-tobacco education into their curriculum, recognizing it as an essential component of their mission.

Advertisement

Drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings, Karanvir Bohra highlighted the significance of collective efforts in securing a tobacco-free India for future generations. The conference also commemorated India’s journey towards becoming a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” (a drug-free nation), a government initiative that commenced on the same date in 2008, emphasizing the role of teachers as heralds of a tobacco-free future.

This impactful campaign was executed in partnership with the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, with the active participation of 21 civil society organizations in mobilizing pledges nationwide. Together, they are committed to realizing a brighter, tobacco-free future for the nation’s youth.

Advertisement

Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, actively participated in the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign at New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station, as part of the ‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Shramdaan activity. Joining him were Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE, senior officials from the Ministry, and members of the general public, all uniting their efforts to contribute towards creating a garbage-free India.

To commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 154th birth anniversary, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi called for a nationwide, citizen-centric movement, “Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath,” which served as a clarion call for government officials and citizens alike to volunteer for a one-hour cleanliness drive called “Shramdaan for Swachhata” on October 1. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship led the cleanliness drive across its ecosystem, including Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs), National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), and the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) in Guwahati and other centres in the northeastern region.

The cleanliness drive encompassed Sarojini Nagar Market, Commonwealth Games Park, Safdarjung Railway Station (track and surrounding area), and other locations in New Delhi. A total of 1345 events created in the dedicated portal for the “Shramdaan for Swachhata” drive were conducted across institutions nationwide.

Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar commented, “Over the past 9 years, PM Modi has spearheaded much-needed initiatives to reshape our collective behaviour as citizens after decades of challenges. It’s heartening to witness so many Indians enthusiastically participating in and believing in the Swachh Bharat Mission’s vision. This shift in behaviour has proven invaluable, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Advertisement

“Young Indians are the primary champions of the Swachh Bharat movement. They have embraced the responsibility of furthering PM Modi’s vision. From the Red Fort’s ramparts, PM Shri Narendra Modi launched this mission to transform India into a Swachh Bharat. It aimed to transform our way of life, fostering a profound behavioural change among all citizens. He spoke of ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas Sabka Prayas,’ illustrating how Indians rallied behind his vision for a Swachh Bharat,” the minister further added.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari expressed that from a skill development perspective, ‘Swachhata’ also requires a specialized skill set. For instance, in the realm of solid waste management, it is imperative to possess skills for waste segregation and disposal. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has been providing training in collaboration with local bodies and state governments in cleanliness-related areas. The focus has also been on empowering workers with modern machinery knowledge to instil a sense of dignity in their work, resulting in improved societal outcomes.

In a significant development with far-reaching implications for India’s technology and education sectors, Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, has officially announced a pioneering collaboration between Google and HP. They are poised to commence the production of Chromebooks within India, marking a momentous milestone as the country’s inaugural venture into Chromebook manufacturing. The primary objective of this ambitious initiative is to democratize access to affordable and secure computing solutions, addressing the growing demand for budget-friendly PCs within the educational sector.

In a joint statement released by HP, the partnership underscores a shared vision to fortify India’s digital education ecosystem. The core aim is to empower students with cost-effective, secure, and top-quality computing devices. These Chromebooks will be readily available to educational authorities, schools, and institutions across the nation.

The manufacturing of these cutting-edge Chromebook devices will be based at the Flex factory, strategically situated near Chennai, India. HP has been utilizing this state-of-the-art facility for the production of a wide range of laptops and desktops since August 2020. Starting from October 2, 2023, the production line will expand its offerings to include HP India Chromebooks, effectively catering to the burgeoning demand for affordable personal computing.

This monumental development not only underscores the burgeoning capabilities of India’s manufacturing sector but also represents a significant step forward for the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Launched to bolster local manufacturing and stimulate India’s economic growth, this program has witnessed impressive success. A recent report by Counterpoint Research reveals that between 2014 and 2022, over 2 billion mobile phones were manufactured in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, showcasing an impressive compound annual growth rate of 23 percent.

Advertisement

In summary, the partnership between Google and HP to locally manufacture Chromebooks in India signifies a noteworthy leap in making high-quality computing devices accessible to students while further enhancing India’s ‘Make in India’ success story. This venture not only underscores India’s manufacturing prowess but also solidifies its standing as a prominent global technology hub.

Gurukul The School, a beacon of education excellence, hosted a transformative workshop on Hindi Language Teaching, aligning with the principles outlined in the New National Education Policy. The event drew participation from 55 prominent C.B.S.E. schools and witnessed over 180 enthusiastic Hindi language teachers in attendance.

Dr. Sunday Light Gupta, a renowned educationist and former Regional Director of the Central Hindi Institution under the Ministry of Human Resources and Development, Government of India, graced the occasion as the esteemed subject expert. The event commenced with a warm welcome from the School’s Senior Mentor, Mrs. Anjali Malik, who also served as the main speaker. Mrs. Malik emphasized the pivotal role of Hindi in nurturing students’ creativity and facilitating effective communication, crucial skills for the 21st century.

The workshop delved into the significance of Hindi language teaching as a cornerstone of the New Education Policy. It underscored the importance of fostering students’ all-round development, promoting inclusive teaching practices, and consolidating art within education.

Participants found the workshop to be incredibly enlightening and valuable. As the day concluded, gratitude flowed towards all guests and participants for their active engagement.

Advertisement

Gurukul The School remains committed to promoting excellence in education, with ‘Hindi Language Teaching’ emerging as a central theme in this forward-looking initiative.

In an education landscape dotted with choices, parents worldwide yearn for exceptional educational experiences for their children. The eagerly awaited announcement by Carfax Education, a leading global education consultancy, brought forth the prestigious Schools Index 2023. This carefully curated guide, compiled by international experts, showcases the top 125 private schools globally. Among these, India proudly boasts The British School in New Delhi, The Doon School in Dehradun, and Woodstock School in Mussoorie, recognized for their outstanding contributions to education.

For discerning parents, the Schools Index is not just a list; it is a compass guiding them toward the pinnacle of educational brilliance. Handpicked by Carfax Education’s seasoned consultants, these schools stand as paragons of academic excellence, holistic development, and unique ethos. The meticulous selection process delves into factors beyond academic prowess, including a school’s reputation, its global standing, and its ability to prepare students for life’s challenges beyond academics.

Beyond Borders: Recognising Indian Excellence

The presence of The British School, New Delhi, The Doon School, Dehradun, and Woodstock School, Mussoorie, on this esteemed list reaffirms India’s position on the global educational map. These schools have not only excelled academically but have also nurtured unique environments, preparing students not just for exams but for life itself.

Advertisement

The Schools Index offers more than just a ranking. It provides a comprehensive overview of each school’s curriculum, fees, and unique offerings. Prospective parents can gain valuable insights, from academic achievements to travel times to local airports. This detailed information empowers families, enabling them to make informed decisions about their child’s education, understanding that choosing the right school is an investment in a child’s future.

As these exceptional Indian schools bask in their global recognition, they continue their tireless efforts to mold future leaders. They provide not just education but a nurturing environment where character is honed, talents are discovered, and dreams are encouraged. The Schools Index 2023 stands as a testament to their dedication and underscores the importance of quality education in shaping tomorrow’s global citizens.

In a world that seeks excellence, these Indian schools have etched their names among the best, reminding us that exceptional education knows no boundaries. Through their commitment, they not only educate young minds but also inspire generations, ensuring a brighter, more enlightened tomorrow.

Check the complete list at: https://www.schools-index.com/

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

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.

The Third International Conference on Emerging Techniques in Computational Intelligence (ICETCI 2023) concluded triumphantly on September 23, 2023, at Mahindra University. This exceptional event drew together an eclectic assembly of leading experts, scholars, and practitioners from around the world, solidifying ICETCI 2023’s standing as a dynamic crucible for the exchange of pioneering concepts and the unveiling of state-of-the-art research within the realm of Computational Intelligence.

The conference was inaugurated with a comprehensive day of tutorial sessions, setting the stage for two subsequent days brimming with invigorating discussions, keynote presentations, and technical paper unveilings. This year’s prestigious lineup included luminaries such as Prof. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Chairman of both the NBA (National Board of Accreditation) and NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council), who graced the event as the Guest of Honour. Prof. Sahasrabuddhe shared invaluable insights into the pivotal role of innovation in academia. Furthermore, the occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Kota Harinarayana, Former Director General of the Tejas Program and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the profound impact of computational intelligence on cutting-edge technologies across diverse domains, with a special focus on the Aerospace and Agriculture sectors.

Prof. Nikhil R. Pal, celebrated for his outstanding contributions to Computational Intelligence and a former President of the International Computational Intelligence Society, IEEE, captivated the audience with a captivating technical discourse, shedding light on the continually evolving landscape of Computational Intelligence, with special attention to its synergies with Biological Intelligence.

Reflecting on the event, Prof. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Chairman of the NBA and NAAC, remarked, “ICETCI 2023 served as an invaluable platform for academia and industry to converge, offering a glimpse into the latest advancements in Computational Intelligence. The dedication of Mahindra University to research and education is truly commendable, and this conference has undeniably propelled the domain forward.”

Advertisement

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor of Mahindra University, expressed his delight at hosting ICETCI 2023, stating, “Mahindra University is honored to have been the venue for ICETCI 2023, a conference that fosters innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among experts in Computational Intelligence. The resounding success of this event is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and the vibrant research community at Mahindra University.”

ICETCI 2023 witnessed a significant influx of high-caliber research paper submissions, all subjected to rigorous peer review. Beyond serving as a conduit for knowledge dissemination, the conference also facilitated invaluable networking opportunities and collaborative prospects among researchers, academicians, and industry experts. Participants departed ICETCI 2023 invigorated, armed with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation of the immense potential inherent in the field of Computational Intelligence.

Advertisement