Category Archives: Education

BIMTECH’s 3rd PRISM 2023 Concludes with Insightful Closing Remarks by IIM Nagpur Director, Education Advisor to the Chief Minister of the UP Government

November 20th, 2023; Greater Noida: Birla Institute of Management Technology successfully hosted the ‘3rd PRISM 2023 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE’ from November 17th to 19th. The conference explored the challenges of leadership, digitalization, and sustainability under the theme “Reimagining the Future of Business: The Challenges of Leadership, Digitalization, and Sustainability.”

 The ceremony concluded with the Dr. Pritam Singh Award Ceremony and Valedictory Function, featuring distinguished personalities, including Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum; Prof. D P Singh, Education Advisor to the Chief Minister, UP Government; Mr. P Dwarkanath, President of PRISM; Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Nagpur; Prof. Dr. C Rajkumar, Founding Vice-Chancellor of OP Jindal Global University, Haryana; and Prof. H Chaturvedi, Director of BIMTECH.

Dr. Pritam Singh Lifetime Achievement Award 2023 is conferred upon Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum, EC-NAAC, and NBA. Dr. Pritam Singh Transformational Leader Award 2023 is conferred upon Prof. Dr. C Rajkumar, the Founding Vice Chancellor of OP Jindal University, Haryana.

Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Nagpur remarked, “During the 3rd PRISM conference in 2023, we observed active participation from a diverse array of esteemed individuals, including seasoned educators, scholars, and professionals deeply immersed in the field of education. Their collective engagement added immense value to the conference, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights.”

Prof. H Chaturvedi, Director of BIMTECH, stated, “During the three-day conference, we learned one important thing: if you do good things in life, help others, take care of your pupils, people will never forget you, even if you depart from this world.” He further illustrated this principle through the example of Dr. Pritam Singh, emphasizing his roles as an educator, thought leader, and administrator.

The 3rd PRISM 2023 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and partners. Adani Enterprises and Union Bank of India played pivotal roles as Gold Sponsors, while Executive Access contributed as Silver Sponsors. The international conference also received valuable support from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL), the Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), the Association of Indian Management Schools (AIMS), Vishwa Vishwani Institute of Systems & Management (VVISM), and Siva Sivani Institute of Management (SSIM) as Bronze Sponsors.

Recognizing the significance of the conference, ICSSR (Indian Council for Social Science Research) and the Ministry of Education provided grant support. The media presence was amplified through the collaboration with Business World as the Media Partner and the Education Promotion Society for India (EPSI) joined as a Partner, contributing to the success of the international conference.

33,000+ from 18 countries participate in Unstop’s World Cup Campaign as the top 6 advance to the final

New Delhi, 20th November 2023: Unstop, the community engagement and hiring platform for students and graduates, announced the finalists of its ‘World’s Biggest Cricket Quiz Festival’.

 ● The quiz saw a total of 33,000+ participants hailing from 18 countries, primarily India, the United States, and Bangladesh, vying for the prize pool of INR 4,00,000.
● Unstop conducted 45 daily quizzes throughout the tournament, with 6 questions for every player to ace.
● The grand finale of the Unstop World Cup Cricket Quiz Festival was conducted on 18th November, a day prior to the finale of the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
● The top 6 are Tushar Kanda from NIT Karnataka, Surathkal; Madhav Kedia; Pradhyumna R from PES University, Bengaluru; Preetham Upadhyay from Barclays; Abhishikth Boda from IIIT, Sri City; and Saswata Panigrahi, an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad.
● The winner of the Grand Finale was crowned the World Cricket Quiz Champion and took home a prize money of INR 1,00,000, while the runner-ups received INR 50,000 and INR 30,000 each. There are cash prizes for all other finalists along with Amazon Vouchers and a subscription to OTT Play for the top 100 players. All participants receive a subscription to Unstop Pro.

 The finale saw Arun Lal, ex Indian cricketer and commentator, and Sresth Shah, Editor, and journalist at ESPNcricinfo, as celebrity guest quiz masters posing questions to the finalists.

 Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop said, “Cricket is one game that brings together millions and we’ve been cheering for #Unstoppable Team India since day 1. This quiz was indeed a wonderful experience of giving our community of young talent a digital playground to showcase their best shots!”

 Alekhya Chakrabarty, VP, of Marketing & Growth of Unstop added, “We felt it is natural to combine quizzing with the cricket world cup to come up with this competition for our community. The quiz saw stellar participation and I’m glad all participants could connect with their inner fan through it. Super excited for both the finals on 18th & 19th November.”

 Reflecting on the experience, one of the finalists, Preetham Upadhyay said, “I used to look forward to the Unstop Cricket quiz at 6 PM, as much as the actual matches at 2 PM, and this had become a daily ritual over the last month all through the world cup. It was overall a fun and challenging experience as questions and scoring evolved through the festival.”

Tune in to watch the finale on www.unstop.com and their Youtube channel Unstop_World. An exciting day when they played the final innings with the top 6 and announced the winners to present them with their much-deserved rewards!

Ms. Padma Negi, appointed as the Principal of JBCN International School Mulund

Mumbai, 20th November 2023: JBCN International School is known for delivering progressive education with a legacy spanning over two decades and proudly announces Ms Padma M. Negi as the Principal of its newly launched Mulund campus. With over 25 years of dedicated service in education, Ms. Padma brings extensive experience, innovation, and leadership that has shaped learners to become Changemakers of tomorrow.

 Throughout her journey, Ms Padma Negi has managed multiple portfolios. Having held leadership positions in prestigious educational institutes across Mumbai, Ms Padma continues to showcase her commitment to fostering excellence in education. Her tenure as a principal portrays exceptional leadership skills, and her profound insights transform schools into centers of interdisciplinary learning.

Ms. Padma’s educational philosophy is grounded in her belief that education plays a pivotal role in molding future leaders. She has been a catalyst and has witnessed learners evolve into emotionally intelligent individuals who excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Mr. Kunal Dalal, Managing Director, of JBCN Education, says, “At JBCN International School, our mission has always been to nurture the next generation of Changemakers through progressive and EduCreative experiences while utilizing innovative and transformative teaching methodologies. We are happy to welcome Ms. Padma Negi to our JBCN family and are certain that her extensive experience and leadership will contribute to an exceptional experience for our learners. Ms Padma’s vision aligns with ours, and together, we will strive to create notable citizens of tomorrow.”

 Highlighting her thoughts, Ms Padma Negi, Principal, of JBCN International School, Mulund, states, “I am thrilled to be a part of the JBCN International School network, and heading this newly launched campus is a privilege. I am excited about the potential that we have before us. With a strong and passionate team of educators, I am confident in shaping the lives of young ones and transforming them into Changemakers of tomorrow. I strongly believe that a school is a place of learning both for children and faculty. Every academic year, we learn as much, if not more, than children. Excited to embark on this new journey.”

 Her dedication to lifelong learning underscores her belief in the need for continuous adaptation and growth to meet the evolving needs of learners. The introduction of a fifth campus, located in the heart of north Mumbai, Mulund, showcases the unwavering
the commitment of JBCN International School to providing progressive and EduCreative experiences.

 The new JBCN International Mulund campus will uphold the school’s rich tradition of excellence while embracing changing educational paradigms. As Ms. Padma Negi takes the helm as Principal, her vision and dedication promise a holistic learning environment that nurtures academic prowess, personal growth, and character development.

Havana Boys Club “Mighty Marlin Shoot Out” 2023

Dallas, TX, November 20, 2023: Havana Boys Club “Mighty Marlin Shoot Out” Raises $25,000 for Hope For Los Cabos Foundation

In its fourth triumphant year, the Havana Boys Club proudly announced the overwhelming success of the Mighty Marlin Shoot Out at its monthly dinner, raising an impressive $25,000 in support of the Hope For Los Cabos foundation. The foundation was organized and administered by founders Dave and Jen Limpert. The annual event, a labor of love organized by founder Clay Thompson and charter member Jim Merritt, who hosts the annual event at his residence Casa Verde in Pedregal, continues to make a profound impact on the lives of special needs children in the Barrios of Los Cabos.

The primary focus of the Hope For Los Cabos Foundation is to champion education, providing a pathway for these deserving children from school to university. The funds generated by the Havana Boys Club members during the marlin shootout played a pivotal role in advancing this noble cause.

Esteemed chef Richard Chamberlain, Chamberlains Steak and Fish Addison, TX, now in his third year of dedicated involvement, not only tantalizes the taste buds of their members but also prepares the freshly caught fish for the Saturday night presentation dinner during the 3-day event in Cabo San Lucas.

The Havana Boys Club Mighty Marlin Shoot Out is more than a fishing expedition; it is a three-tiered endeavor that significantly impacts the community. Beyond the substantial financial contribution, the event donates the fish to the orphanage and provides an unforgettable adventure for their members. “This creates a perfect synergy of brotherhood and philanthropy,” said Clay Thompson.

“They are thrilled by the success of this year’s Mighty Marlin Shoot Out and grateful for the unwavering support of their members,” said Clay Thompson, founder of the Havana Boys Club. “The funds raised will empower the Hope For Los Cabos foundation to continue its vital work, ensuring a brighter future for special needs children in the local community.”

The annual tradition not only showcases the camaraderie of the Havana Boys Club but also exemplifies the power of collective giving, where a weekend of fishing transforms into a year of educational opportunities for those who need it the most.

photo: from left to right, charter members Ron Hinds, Jim Merritt, Drew Dimatos, Clay Thompson, Tim McNamara, Matt Salustti, Richard Chamberlain, and John Zander.

Brillio Enables Hejamady Kodi School to Achieve 100% Pass Percentage in Karnataka Secondary State Board Examination

Bengaluru ─ November 17 2023 ─ Helped by academic and infrastructure support from leading digital transformation services provider Brillio over the last six years, Vidya Prasara distinction of achieving a 100% pass percentage in the Karnataka Secondary State Board Examination for 2022-23. VPVMS also secured the top position among 77 schools in the Udupi education block. Notably, this was VPVMS’ very first batch of class 10 students.

As part of its “Bringing Smiles” programme focused on fostering STEM education and career development among underserved children, Brillio has been supporting VPVMS since 2017 through digital learning and STEM initiatives, including the establishment of digital classrooms, STEM and computer labs, a tablet-based learning programme, and comprehensive digital literacy initiatives. In addition, Brillio’s employee volunteers have also been conducting online teaching sessions for the students. All these have made learning more interactive and effective for children while empowering teachers with advanced
teaching tools.

The school’s spectacular results validated the joint commitment and efforts of VPVMS and Brillio. Of the eight students of VPVMS who scored more than 90% marks, Keerthana, the daughter of a fisherman, secured the top position in the school with 98.5% marks. As many as 64% of the students scored more than 60% marks to pass with first class.

As part of its commitment to advancing education, especially for girls, Brillio has instituted scholarships for JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) and NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) entrance coaching to empower students to pursue careers in engineering and medicine. These scholarships were awarded to six meritorious female students of VPVMS who scored more than 90% marks in the board examination to secure distinction.

Abhishek Ranjan, Senior Director and Global Head of Sustainability, at Brillio, said, “We, at Brillio, are thrilled with the performance of VPVMS. I had first interacted with the school back in 2017 when they had only the primary section. Over the past six years, devoted VPVMS teachers and Brillio volunteers worked hard to equip the school with everything it needed to provide quality education. We supported the school’s learning infrastructure and regularly engaged with the students. Our association with VPVMS still continues, and we are hoping that the partnership will become a template for sustainable quality education in underserved schools.”

Ms. Rajeshwari S. Karkera, Headmistress of Vidya Prasara Vidya Mandira School, said: “I wish to express our deepest appreciation for the sustained help that Brillio has provided to our humble school. As the headmistress of Vidya Prasara Vidya Mandira School, I am privileged to have witnessed first-hand the difference made by Brillio. Our school serves a community where resources are scarce, dreams often go unfulfilled, and education is considered a luxury. It is often a struggle to meet even the most basic requirements of our students. Brillio’s commitment to making a difference in our community is remarkable and has allowed us to breathe new life into our school. Brillio’s deep and ongoing involvement with our school has instilled a sense of hope in our students. The feeling that someone beyond our school walls believes in their ability and dreams is a powerful force that motivates them to work harder, dream bigger, and strive for excellence. We are proud of our performance in the grade 10 examination and hope that it will serve as an inspiration to countless other schools and students, and create a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond our community.”

Keerthana, a recipient of the Brillio scholarship, said: “I am deeply grateful to Brillio for its incredible support in my journey to pursue my dreams. As a student from a fishing family with very modest means, my dreams often felt out of reach. The financial burden of education seemed enormous, and I often doubted my ability to pursue my aspiration of becoming a medical practitioner. Thanks to the generosity and expertise of Brillio, I have been blessed with an opportunity that may forever change the lives of me and my family. The tablet-based education provided by Brillio ensured uninterrupted learning during the pandemic and played a vital role in my success. I hope to follow in Brillio’s footsteps by giving back to society in meaningful ways in the future.”

Nafeesathu Zakiya, another proud recipient of the scholarship, said: “I am delighted to have scored 98.2% marks in the board exam. I have been raised by a single parent and life has been full of hardships. Brillio’s support and guidance have not only eased my financial and educational worries but also given me the confidence to believe in myself and my potential. Their close involvement has not only changed my life but also ignited hope in my ability to make a positive impact on the world. With the help of Brillio’s scholarship, I am making good progress in pursuing my dream of becoming a medical practitioner. Brillio has made me more determined than ever to work harder, excel in my field, and contribute positively to society.”

This initiative forms a part of Brillio’s “Bringing Smiles” programme, which aims to make a difference to 10 lakh underserved students worldwide by 2030. Launched in 2015, the programme has already made a positive impact on more than 1.5 lakh students across more than 900 schools in different countries. It combines financial help from Brillio with the volunteering efforts of the company’s more than 6,000 employees to support students through partnerships with schools and non-profit organisations. In India, the programme focuses on preparing children aged 10 to 16 for the digital-first, entrepreneurial, and
disruptive world they will face.

Reaching Beyond Borders: Navigating USA Higher Education with Top Platforms for Personalized Guidance

As per the Open Doors Report, the United States continues to be a premier destination for Indian students seeking higher education abroad. In the academic year 2022-23, the number of Indian students heading to the United States saw an impressive 35 percent surge, reaching an unprecedented high of 268,923 students. This surge not only reflects the appeal of American education but also underscores the global trend of students seeking diverse academic
experiences.

Research findings highlight that students who pursue education abroad not only enhance their professional opportunities but also develop a heightened sense of social awareness. This trend is a significant driver behind the increasing popularity of international education.

These global education providers are actively bridging the gap to facilitate students in their pursuit of studying abroad.

1. Study Group: Study Group is a leading provider of international education and a trusted strategic partner to over 50 universities around the world. Committed to a better world through education, we deliver high-quality international education solutions that drive success for our partners and students – from outstanding teaching to innovative approaches to international recruitment and student support. Our digital learning platform is intended, to help institutions deliver high-impact, transformational online and blended education using the most pedagogically powerful digital tools available.

2. iSchoolConnect Technologies – iSchoolConnect is India’s leading and most trusted overseas education consultant in the global higher education industry that leverages cutting-edge AI technology. While it takes 200+ hours for one student to cover the entire application cycle, iSchoolConnect brings this down to 24 hours. Their scalable technology can sift through 4000+ universities & 300K+ programs to give profile-based recommendations. The other offerings, such as the Writing Mentor Tool and Video Interview Analyzer, help students receive instant feedback on college essays/SOPs and university and visa interview performance. iSchoolConnect is the simple one-stop shop for all your higher education requirements. The Innovative EdTech platform helps you apply to universities around the globe and study abroad. As one of the best overseas education consultants in the world, iSchoolConnect supports students every step of the way, helping save both time and money. The company’s state-of-the-art AI- platform can scan through a vast collation of documents, recommend programs, and even arrange mock interviews, all within a matter of seconds.

3. Leverage Edu: Leverage Edu is India’s most trusted study abroad Ed-Tech platform providing full-stack services to students pursuing international education and careers. Headquartered in New Delhi, with offices in Hyderabad, Pune, and the recently launched European office in the UK, Leverage Edu offers specialized services along with various tech products such as Univalley- aimed at bringing together universities and students, Uniconnect- the World’s leading virtual education fair platform that helps 150+ universities connect with thousands of students, helping students apply in real- time and financial services.

4. Leap Scholar: Founded in 2019, Leap Scholar is South Asia’s largest overseas study abroad platform with products & services in overseas education. Leap Scholar has pioneered the ‘platform way’ of end-to-end services for students pursuing international education and careers and has a thriving community of 1M+ students. It aims to help build a network of bright Indian students looking for International education with a vision to assist future leaders in pursuing their international careers. It’s a one-stop solution for all the need to kick start a global education dream – from exam prep, and choosing the right university to help with application and financing counseling to lining up job interviews.

5. Yocket: Founded in 2015, Yocket is today the largest community-driven online platform for international education. They help students aspiring to study abroad by connecting them to the best universities in the world. To date, Yocket has helped more than 600,000 students plan their international education. Yocket for Students: Yocket is the perfect place to start your research and understand the process of studying in countries such as the USA, Australia, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, and many more. Yocket uses data science and ML combined with the power of the user community to accurately match students to more than 50,000 courses and specializations from 1200 international universities. Further, there’s access to application deadlines and tools to track universities’ decisions, prepare for tests, or connect with alumni and university reps. Yocket for University Representatives: Yocket is a great online platform to reach out to thousands of aspirants from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and many more countries .

How to Prepare for Competitive Exams

Competitive exams are standardized tests designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and aptitude of candidates in various subjects. These exams are used for admissions to educational institutions or for recruitment to government and private sector jobs.

Preparing for competitive exams requires a systematic and disciplined approach. Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare effectively:

Understand the Exam Pattern:

Know the exam pattern, including the number of sections, types of questions, and marking scheme.

Create a Study Plan:

Develop a realistic and structured study plan that covers all the topics within the given time frame.
Allocate more time to subjects or topics you find challenging.

Gather Study Material:

Collect relevant study materials, including textbooks, reference books, and online resources.
Make sure your study material is up-to-date and aligned with the exam syllabus.

Time Management:

Allocate specific time slots for each subject or topic in your study plan.
Practice time management during your preparation to simulate exam conditions.

Conceptual Understanding:

Focus on building a strong conceptual foundation in each subject.
Understand the basic principles and theories before moving on to advanced topics.

Regular Practice:

Solve previous years’ question papers and sample papers to understand the exam pattern and practice time management.
Take regular mock tests to assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Revision:

Regularly revise what you’ve studied to reinforce your learning.
Create concise notes or flashcards for quick revision.

Healthy Lifestyle:

Ensure you get enough sleep, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet to stay physically and mentally fit.

Stay Updated:

Keep yourself updated with current affairs, especially for exams that include a general knowledge or current affairs section.

Seek Guidance:

If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or peers.
Join study groups to discuss topics and gain different perspectives.

Self-Analysis:

Analyze your performance in mock tests and identify areas where you need improvement.
Focus on strengthening your weak areas.

Stay Positive:

Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your abilities.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.

Adaptability:

Be flexible in your study plan. If a particular method is not working for you, be open to trying different approaches.

Exam Day Strategy:

Plan your exam day strategy, including how you’ll manage your time during the exam and what order you’ll attempt the sections.

Remember, each exam has its own unique characteristics, so tailor your preparation strategy accordingly, consistency and dedication are key to success in competitive exams. It’s important to start early, stay focused, and adapt your strategy based on your progress.

Distance Learning Education in India

A distance course, also known as a distance learning or online course, is an educational program where the majority or the entirety of the instruction occurs remotely, often via the Internet. These courses allow students to study and complete coursework from a location of their choice, offering flexibility in terms of time and location. Distance courses can range from individual classes to entire degree programs and are commonly offered by various educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and online learning platforms. They often utilize digital resources, such as online lectures, readings, videos, and interactive assignments, and may incorporate communication tools like video conferencing, discussion forums, and email for student-teacher interaction.

Distance learning in India has gained significant momentum over the years, especially with the proliferation of digital technologies and the internet. Several institutions offer distance education programs, providing opportunities for individuals who can’t pursue full-time, on-campus education due to various constraints.

The landscape of distance learning in India includes various universities, both central and state, such as Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, and many others. These institutions offer a wide array of courses, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, across disciplines like arts, science, commerce, management, and technology.

The approach to distance education in India has evolved considerably, transitioning from traditional correspondence courses to more dynamic online platforms. Learners now have access to study materials, lectures, discussion forums, and even live sessions through various digital mediums.

Government bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) regulate and maintain the standards of distance learning programs to ensure quality education and the recognition of degrees obtained through these programs.

Challenges within the system often include issues related to access, quality, and equity. There’s a significant focus on expanding access to education, particularly in rural areas, and ensuring that the quality of education is consistent across regions. Efforts are being made to address these challenges through various government initiatives and private endeavors.

However, while distance learning provides flexibility, it’s crucial to choose recognized and accredited institutions to ensure the value and acceptance of the certifications or degrees earned. There have been instances of non-accredited or unrecognized institutions providing questionable education, leading to concerns about the quality and recognition of the degrees obtained.

Overall, distance learning in India has significantly expanded educational accessibility, catering to a diverse range of learners across the country and beyond. The flexibility it offers has made education more inclusive for individuals who might otherwise struggle to pursue higher education due to geographical, financial, or time constraints.