Category Archives: Education

Silver Oaks International Schools to provide succor to the underprivileged through its Silver Oaks Street Store initiative

Hyderabad, 22nd September 2023: Silver Oaks International School – a 22-year-old institution, nurturing both character and competence with innovative pedagogy and an indigenous research-led curriculum; is hosting a unique charitable pop-up event – Silver Oaks Street Store on Sunday 24th September, 2023 at Silver Oaks International School, Bachupally and Silver Oaks International School, Wadakpally, Beeramguda in Hyderabad.

As part of the initiative, the students of Silver Oaks International Schools, are collecting unused and redundant articles, Books, toys, old clothes in good condition, and other utility items from their homes and that of their relatives and friends. The underprivileged can visit the Silver Oaks Street Store hosted at the Silver Oaks International School at Bachupally or Beeramguda on Sunday 24th September, 2023 between 9.00 am and 12.00 noon and choose and own items of utility for personal use.

Interested good Samaritans can be part of this noble initiative by contributing such items to the Silver Oaks Street Store, that may not be of use anymore, but are in good condition for others to use. They can also create awareness among the impoverished families engaged with them, to avail the opportunity and own needy items from the Silver Oaks Street Store. This way they can join the mission to bring joy in the lives of those who can’t afford some of the basic necessities.

Bryan Strain’s New Book, Elery Is Not Himself, is a Heartfelt Story of a Little Elf

Mount Pleasant, UT, September 14, 2023 –Fulton Books author Bryan Strain, who was born and raised in the Southern San Joaquin Valley of California, has completed his most recent book, “Elery Is Not Himself”: a charming story of a young elf who longs to fly like his new friend, but soon discovers the importance of being true to oneself, and his very important role as an elf.

Growing up, stories were always a large part of author Bryan Strain’s childhood. His mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother all loved reading and telling stories, which became a regular occurrence and instilled in him a love for the power of stories. Now with a family of his own, Bryan was inspired to write his own set of stories for his children and others.

“Elery, a woodland elf, wishes he could be like his friend, Sammy,” writes Strain. “He thinks Sammy’s ability to fly makes him better and more important than a woodland elf. With the help of a wise friend, Elery discovers that you will never be more happy than when you are being yourself.”

University of Essex unveils new MSc Economics of Business and Management programme

New Delhi, 13 September 2023: University of Essex, UK-based and ranked 18th in the UK for Economics by QS World University Rankings 2023 is proud to announce the launch of its latest academic offering, the MSc Economics of Business and Management programme. This innovative programme, designed to address the needs of both seasoned economists and newbies to the subject, smoothly integrates fundamental economic principles with real-world applications in business and management.

The MSc Economics of Business and Management curriculum is a dynamic educational journey that aims to equip students with theoretical proficiency, technical acumen, and strong communication skills, all developed in the context of economics as applied to business and management. The course ensures that graduates possess a deep understanding of economic theories and cultivates transferable skills such as the ability to construct persuasive arguments and the versatility to excel both independently and in collaborative settings.

During the one-year degree programme, the students will delve into core economic principles and analysis, meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of the business and management landscape, and will cover a range of crucial topics such as mastery of modern microeconomics, encompassing key principles and theories, utilization of statistical methods for comprehensive economic data analysis, in-depth exploration of contract theory, incentive theory, and the theory of the firm, insight into the impact of strategic interactions between firms on sales and profitability and application of economic insights to real-world business and management decision-making.

During the summer term, students have the opportunity to conduct an independent study on a specific topic of interest through the capstone project whereas, during the autumn term students can choose from a variety of optional modules that allow them to explore different areas of specialization such as asset pricing, banking, behavioural economics, and game theory.

The programme opens doors to a world of professional opportunities for the students such as business and financial analysts, management consultants, government officials, and economists in prominent banks and financial institutions.

Professor Carlos Carrillo-Tudela, Head of the Department of Economics, University of Essex, expressed his excitement about the launch of the programme and said, “The MSc in Economics of Business and Management is tailored to develop future leaders in the fields of economics and business management. Our commitment to academic excellence and practical relevance will ensure that our graduates are well-prepared to make a significant impact in their careers. At the University of Essex, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders and problem solvers, and this programme is a testament to that commitment””

The module is open to both domestic and international students and the applications for the programme are now open, with the first cohort of students set to begin their studies in January 2024. For more information about the programme, admission requirements, and how to apply, please visit : https://www.essex.ac.uk/courses/pg01569/1/msc-economics-of-business-and-management

St. George’s University’s Dean of Clinical Studies Receives Distinguished Service Award for 40+ Years of Service

St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine, Grenada, in the Caribbean, presented Clinical Dean Rodney Croft with a Distinguished Service Award after 43 years with the University, 20 of which he served as Dean of Clinical Studies in the UK. The award is given to members of the faculty and those in the community in recognition of their outstanding service to the University.

“I want to express my sincerest appreciation to Mr. Croft for the remarkable service to St. George’s University School of Medicine,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, Dean of the School of Medicine. “Mr. Croft made many significant contributions to furthering our MD program in the UK. I am grateful for his leadership there, most notably as Dean of Clinical Studies.”

Early years

Mr. Croft’s journey started with a bachelor’s degree from Cambridge University back in 1965. He earned his qualification (MB BCHIR) in 1968 and his Master of Arts the following year (MA Cantab). Mr. Croft then became a fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of England in 1972, received his Master of Surgery (MChir Cantab) in 1982, and went on to proudly become a fellow of The American College of Surgeons in 1984.

During his tenure as a consultant general and vascular surgeon at North Middlesex University Hospital, Mr. Croft’s dedication and expertise shone as he became the foremost authority in cardiovascular implants within the UK. His influential role included crafting standards for prestigious international bodies such as CEN, the European Committee for Standardization, and the International Organization for Standardization. His commitment to excellence was acknowledged with a commendable long-service award from the British Standard Institute.

Mr. Croft is well-versed in London Medical School education, having previously served as the Clinical Sub-dean at The Royal Free and University College Hospital Medical School in London. Furthermore, he played an active role on The Royal Free Medical School Council for a commendable nine-year period.

A long tenure at SGU

Mr. Croft has dedicated an impressive 43 years to undergraduate medical education at SGU’s School of Medicine. Notably, he served as the Dean of Clinical Studies of the UK program for 20 years, overseeing clinical faculty at SGU’s 17 UK-affiliated hospitals and clinics. His past SGU roles have included Clerkship Director, Director of Medical Education, and UK chair of the School of Medicine Department of Surgery.

“From the entire SGU community, my heartfelt congratulations to Rodney for this esteemed accolade and on his retirement,” Dr. Loukas said.

Bharti Foundation in collaboration with Directorate of School Education

13 September 2023, Jammu: Bharti Foundation in collaboration with The Directorate of School Education (DSEJ), Jammuis extending its ‘Life Skill Development among Students through House System’ project under its Satya Bharti Quality Support Program – At Scale to more than 3,500+ Government Middle Schools of Jammu.

The program lays emphasis on building the capacities of head of schools and teachers to enable students with 21st century skills. The project is being led by the Counselling Cell with support of Aadharshila and Cultural Innovation Cells at DSEJ. Dedicated team from Bharti Foundation will impart training to resource persons to help implement the project. These resource persons will further support schools in developing a comprehensive understanding of life skills education and buildingthe skills through school activities.

In August 2022, the first round of training was organised for more than 390 resource persons who cascaded the life skill development training to 8,500+ teachers from 1,100+ Government High and Higher Secondary Schools in Jammu, benefitting more than 2 lakh students. This year, along with offline training, online training and webinars have also been designed to equip resource persons to support heads of schools and teachers effectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Ashok Sharma, Director of School Education Jammu, acknowledged the Bharti Foundation and applauded the program which intends to build critical life skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, managing emotions, creative thinking, etc. in line with National Education Policy 2020. He said, “strengthening of healthy competition among students in the house system will create positive impact and prepare students for the real-world challenges.”

Dr Romesh Kumar, Head Counselling Cell DSEJ, who happens to be the Nodal officer for the program, opined that this program will offer a paradigm shift in how schools function. It will be very meaningful to conduct co-scholastic activities with “life skills development” as an end in mind.

Speaking on the successful extension of the project, Mamta Saikia, CEO-Bharti Foundation said, “Bharti Foundation has been working in the field of education in rural India for the past 20 years. It is our belief that life skills among students is an important area to work on and can be best delivered to the students when integrated with various school activities. Thanking the Directorate of School Education, Jammu, and all those who are involved in this ambitious project to support Bharti Foundation in creating a meaningful impact.”

Suraj Singh Rathore, CEO of Jammu, addressed while the program was anchored by Dr Sharma from Counselling Cell DSEJ. Other prominent people, present on the occasion, included HR Pakhroo, Joint Director (SE), Devender Singh Manhas, DEPO Jammu,Team members of Bharti foundation, Surjeet Singh, Incharge Cultural Cell DSEJ and other team members of Counselling Cell DSEJ.

Dreamtime Learning Launches Curriculum-Based Model for Futuristic Schools

India, 13th September 2023: After transforming the education industry with micro-schooling, Dreamtime Learning has ushered in an innovative initiative called ‘Powered by Dreamtime Learning’ or “Powered by DTL”. This is a customized and personalized curriculum model which is tailored for future schools to transform and infuse technological advancements. Conceptualized keeping into consideration three Pillars of Futuristic Education viz. Brain & Behavioral Science, Entrepreneurial & Growth Mindset, Social-Emotional Intelligence the curriculum is crafted free from franchise norms or additional costs.

The franchise model in education is tied to numerous limitations, including restricted flexibility, higher expenses, inconsistent quality, and loss of community connection. Recognizing the imperative to transcend these limitations and embrace modernization, renowned educationist Ms. Lina Ashar after a 30+ years stint since Kangaroo Kids & Billabong High School, Introduces a game-changing concept, ‘Powered by DTL’. The curriculum is largely inherited by the International Standard Curriculum and a gamified curriculum designed for self-mastery. Aligned and structured with the NEP 2020, it also features an advanced and user-friendly Learning Management System (LMS) for better learning. Elevating the school management, the model also provides a teacher training program and gives access to upgrade pedagogy with all micro and macro approaches constantly.

Transforming education with an innovative concept, Ms Lina Ashar, Founder of Dreamtime Learning, said, “In an era marked by rapid advancements in AI, robotics, 3D printing, AR/VR, and biotech, it’s crucial to question: Are our schools truly equipping our children for this future? India is on the urge to transform the education ecosystem by adapting personalized learning concepts, however many schools persist with outdated ‘teach to the test’ methods, and focusing on information, which is already, obsolete. By focusing on and developing a dynamic environment for learners that align with their individual interests and preferences, it is also imperative to encourage schools as well as futuristic institutions to boost a new horizon. PoweredbyDTL integrates cutting-edge technological resources and a tailored approach driven by a futuristic curriculum. It also eliminates the franchise model for the school and thereby making the school owner the real Brand Owner. We need to move with the times and create a learning ecosystem that creates future professionals and citizens who can compete and flourish anywhere in the world.”

Dr. Swati Popat Vats, President, Early Childhood Association, said, “Dreamtime Learning’s vision for education is to make it a lifelong journey and future enabled for the kids. I am extremely delighted as President Early Childhood Association to be a part of such a revolutionary initiative by Dreamtime Learning that will not only revolutionize the way we approach education but also help adapt it to the rapidly changing, technologically advanced world. The aim to provide learners with the necessary skills, competencies and flexibility to thrive in any future venture is the need of the hour. This also encourages future schools to create a distinguished platform for learners”.

This curriculum-based model is all set to redefine the future of education by offering a dynamic and adaptable curriculum which comes along with LMS for Teachers, Learners, Parents and 360 degree academic support for the Teachers, that prepares learners of all ages for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

Ben-Gurion University invites applications for M.Sc. in Earth and Environmental Sciences

The Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), Israel is inviting applications from international students for the M.Sc. in Earth and Environmental Sciences for its Fall 2023 session.

The M.Sc. program at the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is a research degree with a thesis, designed to impart research skills and professional competence in a variety of fields in geology, earth and environmental science. The disciplines studied in this department enable a deeper understanding of the processes operating on and beneath the surface of the Earth. Study and research facilities in earth dynamics, geochemistry, micropaleontology, engineering geology, and field measurements are cutting-edge.

The program is subject to rules and regulations set by the Faculty of Natural Sciences, including the awarding of credit points and eligibility for scholarships and teaching assistantships.

Program delivery: The 2-year program is taught completely in English. Outstanding students may join the combined M.Sc.-Ph.D. track during the 2nd year of the M.Sc. studies. Students in this track can join the Ph.D. program without submitting an M.Sc. thesis. Students will get opportunities for employment in research laboratories during the course of studies along with exciting prospects to participate in field excursions abroad, usually to neighbouring countries.

Admission Cycle:

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2023

Course dates:

Academic year October – July

Application deadline:

Rolling admissions

Admission Requirements:

· B.Sc. degree (or equivalent) from a recognized academic institution.

· GRE is required when applying to the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics.

· TOEFL is required when applying to the Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, Geological and Environmental Sciences (for students who completed their B.Sc. at an institution where the language of instruction is NOT English).

· Acceptance to the program requires the agreement of a specific faculty member to act as a supervisor of the candidate.

Tuition: Approximately $5000 per year

Scholarship: Full Tuition and Cost of Living Scholarships are available for excellent students.

How to Apply:

Prospective students are required to find an advisor prior to submitting an application. More information on finding an advisor can be found here: https://in.bgu.ac.il/en/international/Pages/Find-an-Advisor.aspx.

New Palm Coast Martial Arts School Already a Neighborhood Favorite

Bunnell, FL, September 11, 2023 — In a testimony to its reception within the Palm Coast community, The Dragon Institute has been bestowed with the “Neighborhood Faves” award, a noteworthy achievement coming after just a month of its grand opening in Palm Coast. This acknowledgment reflects the community approval of its martial arts classes in Palm Coast and on the local network platform, Nextdoor.

“The Neighborhood Faves winners truly represent the heart and soul of their respective communities, exemplifying exceptional quality, service, and dedication,” said Sarah Friar, Chief Executive Officer, Nextdoor.

Led by Sifu Adam Williss and his vision to build a community of Wing Chun Kung Fu enthusiasts and practitioners in Palm Coast, The Dragon Institute is rapidly paving its way to becoming a cornerstone in the community. This accolade, given by Palm Coast and Flagler County neighbors, reflects the Kung Fu school’s immediate impact and the resonating connection it has forged with the community.

“I am incredibly honored to see the rapid pace our school is growing,” noted Sifu Adam Williss, founder of the The Dragon Institute. “This award is not just a recognition but a testimony to how ready the Palm Coast community is for the depth of what we offer.”

The Nextdoor platform, facilitating neighborly connections and community engagements, saw a notable majority recognizing The Dragon Institute as a Neighborhood Favorite. This not only embarks the institute on a path of glory but also exemplifies the community’s trust and respect that has been fostered within a short span of time.

Maria Campbell, a student whose husband and daughter also take classes, said “Sifu Adam has so much to share. The classes are engaging, fun, and skillfully taught. Our family is learning so much. We love the challenge and skills we are learning.”

The Dragon Institute, grounded in traditions yet modern in its approach, embodies the full mind, body and spirit of martial arts, focusing on both physical well-being and mental fortitude. With this award the Institute stands reaffirmed in its commitment to provide a empowering environment for Kung Fu enthusiasts of all age groups.

The Dragon Institute invites locals visit their school, to experience first-hand the dedication and expertise that is earning the community’s trust and respect. The school offers classes for kids ages 5 and up, teens, adults and seniors.

“If you’re searching for ‘martial arts Palm Coast’ or something similar, come take advantage of our free trial class to see why we are getting such a positive reaction from the community,” said Sifu Adam. “We feel very strongly that we could help you and your family too!”

NMIMS Bengaluru Campus Successfully Hosted A Session On Indian Space Program And Chandrayan Missions

Bengaluru, 9th September 2023: An interactive session on “Indian Space Program and Chandrayaan Missions”, featuring Dr. P.G. Diwakar, ISRO Chair Professor and Former Scientific Secretary of ISRO, was hosted at the SVKM’s NMIMS Deemed-to-be-University, Bengaluru Campus. In the session, the esteemed guest delved into the realm of Chandrayan missions and the Indian Space Program, enlightening the session with his rich and intriguing insights about space exploration.

Dr. P.G. Diwakar, a PhD in Participatory Geomatics, is currently the ISRO Chair Professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, IISc Campus Bengaluru, and is a former distinguished scientist from ISRO, DOS (Department of Space). In his illustrious career, he has served in various capacities at the ISRO, and made significant contributions in Diverse National Missions; Web Technologies And GeoPortals; Image Processing solutions and Software Design And Development – Geospatial Applications.

In his stint at ISRO, he has accomplished some significant achievements like design, development and deployment of a unique and the only Geoportal of National reckoning, “THE BHUVAN GEOPORTAL”. Bhuvan is a prominent National Geospatial Platform today.

One of his recent applications enabled on the platform “Jal Shakti Abhiyan ” served more than 1,000 blocks in the country for ground water recharge structures taken up in distress districts to rejuvenate groundwater aquifers in the country. He also administered an ISRO Platform on Artificial Intelligence and Big Data analytics that uses Machine learning and Deep Learning techniques for problem solving.

Dr. P.G. Diwakar has also represented ISRO in a number of capacities at the International level in forums such as Committee of Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS), International Charter “Space and Major Disasters”. UN-ESCAP, APRSAF – JAXA, etc. He has also received many national and international accolades and awards, and has authored more than 100 publications/technical reports.

During the session Dr. P.G. Diwakar emphasised on how India has taken giant strides in space exploration over the last few years through its successive Chandrayan or moon missions, the Mangalyaan or the Mars mission, and the recent Adita L1, our maiden Solar Mission. At the end of the session, an interactive Q&A was organised, where the special guest patiently answered questions asked by students and space enthusiasts.

Sharing his insights on space exploration at the event, Dr. P.G. Diwakar said, “All the planetary systems in our Solar System have perfect resonance with each other. Any one of these planets moving away from the orbit can create a problem on earth. We are all gelling together with the Sun as part of the Solar System. If one fine day, the Moon gets completely away from the Earth, it will have a huge impact on our Gravitational forces. Therefore, the moon is very important for us.”

Speaking about the session, Dr. Narayani Ramachandran, Deputy Director, NMIMS Bengaluru said, “We are incredibly obliged to host Dr. P.G. Diwakar at the NMIMS Campus here at Bangalore. Listening to his insights on India’s consistent rise in Space Exploration was an inspiring experience”

About NMIMS Bengaluru

The School of Business Management (SBM) Bengaluru campus has been ranked first in the “Top B-Schools under Private Universities” category in Karnataka by Open Magazine. NMIMS Bengaluru was ranked second in the city-wise category by Fortune India Magazine and was awarded a rating of A+++ by Business India Magazine. Business Today Magazine ranked NMIMS Bengaluru third in the city-wise category, seventh in the south-zone category, and 15th among the private B-schools.

LEAD partners with Rajasthan Government for quality education in MGGS schools

Jaipur, 07th September 2023: LEAD, India’s largest School Edtech company, today announced that it has partnered with the Government of Rajasthan to help students of English medium schools to succeed and build their English speaking, reading and writing skills. LEAD will work with more than 3000 Mahatma Gandhi Government Schools (MGGS) across all districts of Rajasthan to offer its one-of-a-kind English Language Program, through which students will be able to learn English as a skill. As part of the partnership, MGGS schools in Rajasthan will gain access to LEAD’s English Language Lab, which includes Smart TVs for classrooms; QR-enhanced books for students; and integrated content tablets for teachers. Students will learn Phonics, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Expression and Grammar; and will cover 1.5 years of English skill growth in a year.

Sumeet Mehta, CEO and Co-Founder, LEAD, said, “For a child to learn and excel in various subjects, they must first achieve grade level proficiency in English, beginning at the pre-primary school level. We are delighted to join hands with the Government of Rajasthan to empower students in the state with the essential skills needed to excel in English language proficiency. Through our skills-based English Language Program, we will ensure every student has access to a world of learning opportunities and an equal chance of success in life.”

Shri Naveen Jain IAS, Department of School Education, Govt. of Rajasthan, said, “Children, particularly in rural areas, studying in Mahatma Gandhi Government Schools (MGGS) were facing difficulties in handling the changeover from Hindi medium to English medium. But, with these facilitating classes of the English Language Program by LEAD, they will be prepared to take up the challenge. I am sure the material provided by LEAD shall make their learning process easier and better.”

LEAD’s English Language Program has been developed based on the learnings of getting more than 2.5 million students to grade level. LEAD’s Integrated School Edtech system is aligned with NEP 2020 and includes customized, AI-enabled offerings for all segments of schools. LEAD’s holistic approach to education includes a Teacher Capability System to empower every teacher with internationally benchmarked tools and resources; Smart Class solutions to transform traditional classrooms into digitally enabled, multi-modal teaching-learning spaces; an Integrated Curriculum to boost student learning and confidence; and Smart School systems to streamline administrative tasks, enhance operational efficiency and provide actionable data insights to schools. With LEAD, schools are able to derive all the benefits of improved academic performance and admissions. Students are able to gain deep conceptual understanding of subjects; and build critical 21st century skills such as Communication, Collaboration and Critical Thinking.

In July, LEAD announced its foray into the low-fee school segment in India. LEAD is on a mission to provide propulsive learning to 25 million students across 60,000 schools by 2028.