Category Archives: Education

Histria Books Announces the Release of The Death Tax by S.A. Hogan

Histria Books is thrilled to unveil the paperback and eBook editions of “The Death Tax” by S.A. Hogan. Published by Addison & Highsmith Publishers, an imprint of Histria Books renowned for exceptional works of fiction. This captivating novel is set to intrigue readers with its unique blend of suspense, mystery, and thought-provoking themes.

In “The Death Tax,” a small Missouri town becomes gripped by an eerie phenomenon every April 15th. Mysteriously, millions of hummingbirds descend upon Lake Tanaka, leaving behind a trail of fatalities that escalates with each passing year. Dr. Kevin Cousey, once a man with boundless potential, finds himself grappling with the aftermath of a life-altering incident two decades ago—an incident that cost him his career, his family, and nearly his life. Searching for purpose, he becomes fixated on the annual deadly hummingbird attacks and teams up with Paul Mahr, the editor of a local newspaper who shares his belief in a pattern underlying the disturbing events. Together, they uncover a tapestry of enigmatic clues, including a passionate thirteen-year-old French exchange student with an affinity for hummingbirds, a Navy diver-turned-corporate millionaire with a shadowy past, and the enigmatic figure of the patron saint of birds.

The Death Tax is an enthralling fusion of Hitchcock’s The Birds with a purpose, Nabokov’s Lolita in its darkest incarnation, and a compelling murder mystery. As the story unfolds, it fearlessly explores complex themes such as pedophilia, social apathy, intolerance, and religious hypocrisy. It also serves as a celebration of nature, offering a balance between the macabre and the beautiful. Author S.A. Hogan brings a wealth of experience to the narrative, having spent four years as a Christian lay missionary in Ghana and over seven years as an English instructor and curriculum developer in Thailand.

With 264 pages of gripping storytelling, The Death Tax (ISBN 978-1-59211-286-9) is available in paperback and eBook formats. Readers can find it at HistriaBooks.com and all major book retailers. Histria Books distributes titles published under its various imprints worldwide through the Independent Publishers Group. For more information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com.

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New Age Universities should Foster New Age Learning Environment -Experts at Amity University Haryana

Atwo-week online refresher course on Digital Skills and Competencies for University Teachers: With a Special Focus on MOOC’s and E-Content Development jointly organized by Amity University Haryana and Association of Indian Universities, Academic and Administrative Development Centre in collaboration with Academic Staff College, Amity University Haryana to equip teachers with the 21st-century digital skills necessary to design, develop, and deliver MOOCs effectively so that they should be at par with national and international standards and have the ability to think critically and creatively, to collaborate with others, to clearly and effectively communicate with students. The program was held successfully from June 09-22, 2023.

The course attracted a significant number of registered participants, including deans, heads of institutions, faculty members, and a total of 146 participants from various universities, institutes, and colleges in both India and abroad

The program commenced with opening remarks by Prof Sanjna Vij, Deputy Director, Academic Staff College, Amity University Haryana and Chief organiser of the Program. In her remarks, Prof Sanjna Vij emphasized that in today’s rapidly changing world, digital skills have become essential in our daily lives. As educators, it is crucial for teachers to stay updated and equipped with the necessary tools and competencies to effectively navigate digital landscapes. Highlighting the importance of embracing digital skills, Prof Vij quoted, “Illiterates of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” This quote serves as a reminder to teachers that embracing digital skills and technology is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process of learning, unlearning outdated practices, and relearning new ones.

Delivering the Keynote address, Prof. P.B. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, emphasized on creating a new age learning environment within Indian universities. Prof Sharma highlighted the significance of events like this and stressed the need for utmost seriousness. Prof Sharma stated that such gatherings signify the eagerness and determination of the teaching community to prepare for the challenges ahead, particularly in the digital age. In this new age, it is crucial to actively contribute towards establishing an educational environment that maximizes the potential of digital tools and technologies in the realm of teaching and learning. Prof. Sharma underlined the need for teachers to foster an environment that supports three key attributes: innovation, collaboration, and enterprising approach. By embracing these attributes, teachers can create a dynamic and effective learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the digital age. Prof Sharma also stated the importance of generating new applied knowledge and expressed delight in having esteemed resource persons present during the course

The Chief Guest, Prof. S.N. Sridhara, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Chennai in his presentation titled “Revolutionising Education: The MOOCs,” provided a comprehensive overview of MOOCs. Prof Sridhara delved into the history of MOOCs, distinguishing between cMOOCs and xMOOCs. Furthermore, he discussed the development of MOOC companies in the United States, such as Udacity, Coursera, and edX, as well as those in Asia, including SWAYAM, NPTEL, and JMOOC, and Europe’s FutureLearn, EduOPen, and MOOC.fi.Prof. S.N. Sridhara also highlighted the success story of SWAYAM MOOCs and elucidated the requirements for creating MOOCs. He elaborated on the four quadrants of LMS, which encompassed aspects such as synchronous and asynchronous engagement, E-content, AI-assisted assessment, and peer learning. Additionally, he addressed the issue of attrition in MOOCs and provided insights into the underlying reasons for it.

Prof Vikas Madhukar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, AUH during his address emphasized the need for modern educators to stay aligned with new technological advancements. Prof Madhukar mentioned the importance of incorporating the National Education Policy (NEP) into the academic curriculum. The NEP places particular emphasis on the SWAYAM MOOCs platform, which was created by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) in 2016. This platform provides Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that can benefit both teachers and students by offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities. By incorporating the NEP and leveraging platforms like SWAYAM, educators can enhance their digital skills and competencies, as well as develop e-content that aligns with the changing educational landscape. Prof. Madhukar emphasized that by embracing these technologies and platforms, educators can create engaging learning experiences and cater to the diverse needs of students in the digital age.

Dr. B. Shadrach, Director, Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia, Commonwealth of Learning, New Delhi, emphasized the significance of understanding the learners and their individual learning styles for educators. During the presentation, Dr. Shadrach discussed the importance of teachers understanding the theoretical grounding of their teaching practices as well as their practical orientation. By having a strong theoretical foundation, teachers can design and deliver effective digital learning experiences for their students. Additionally, understanding the practical aspects of teaching allows teachers to align their digital skills and competencies with the needs of their students.

Dr.BrijuThankachan, Executive Director, Educational Technology Society of India& Ex-Visiting Faculty, Educational Technology, IIT Bombay touched upon the paradigm shift in the education system and introduced the concept of the information age paradigm, which highlights the changing role of teachers from being mere information providers to becoming facilitators of information. Dr.Thankachanalso emphasized that in the information age, teachers are no longer the sole repositories of knowledge. Instead, they play a crucial role in guiding students in accessing and critically analysing information. The focus has shifted towards developing skills such as digital literacy, information evaluation, and problem-solving.

Dr.AmrendraPani, Joint Director & Head, Research Division, Association of Indian Universities, Delhi during his address emphasized the importance of AIU’s objective to modernize digital education through the introduction of online activities for teachers, such as teaching, learning, and integrating technology into the research and revolution process of teaching and learning.

During the two-week event, excellent and fruitful deliberations were shared by esteemed speakers from various domains included – Jake Olivier, Adviser: Higher Education at the Commonwealth of Learning, Burnaby, Canada, Dr. Fawzi Baroud, Chairholder, UNESCO Chair on Open Educational Resources (OER) for Access and Success, Assistant Vice President for Information Technology, Notre Dame University -Louaize (NDU), Lebanon, Dr Md Shuhel Miah, Deputy Dean, Brittany University, Malaysia, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Pro-Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, Prof Sameer Sahasrabudhe, Professor of Practice (Design), IIT Gandhinagar, Prof B.S. Balaji, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Prof Ramesh C. Sharma, Associate Professor, School of Global Affairs, Director, Human Resource Development Centre, Dr B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi, Ms. Subha Das Mollick, Independent filmmaker, visiting faculty Aliah University and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, Prof Manas Ranjan Panigrahi, Director, Symbiosis Centre for Online Learning (SCOL), Symbiosis Skills and Professional University, Pune, Prof. Kushal Sen, Indian Institute of Technology Department of Textile Technology Hauz Khas, New Delhi and many more esteemed speakers during the event contribute to the overall objectives of the NEP-2020, fostering a culture of lifelong learning, professional growth, and effective pedagogy among teachers.

Overall, the two weeks of the refresher course were filled with a wealth of information, wisdom, fresh perspectives, and cherished memories.

Maj Gen (Dr) J.S.Dhull, VSM (Retd), Director, Amity Institute of Defence Technology & Deputy Director, ASET, AUH delivered Vote of Thanksexpressing gratitude to all the dignitaries, organisers, and participants.

EDII celebrates International MSME Day

Ahmedabad, June 27, 2023: The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) on Tuesday celebrated the International MSME Day at its campus. The celebration marked the significance of MSMEs in India’s economic growth. It also touched upon issues surrounding the growth and sustainability of MSMEs, and the solutions that could be implemented to address the same.

Shri BM Prajapati, IAS, Additional Industries Commissioner (Extension), Industries Commissionerate, Government of Gujarat, graced the occasion as chief guest. Other distinguished guests at the event included Shri Shailesh Patwari, Former President, GCCI, and Director, Nexus Group of Industries, and Shri Akash Pawar, Deputy General Manager Incharge, SIDBI, Ahmedabad. Shri DM Jadeja, Deputy Commissioner of Industries, MSME Commissionerate, Government of Gujarat, shared information about government initiatives for the growth of the MSME sector.

Dr Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, in his opening remarks, said, “The entire entrepreneurial movement is being led by MSMEs. The sector’s contribution is enormous. MSMEs help maintain regional balance by addressing the issues of unemployment, poverty, and varied disparities. Industries, policymakers, and institutions have to join hands in erecting a conducive ecosystem for MSME growth. EDII has been working closely with the state and central government towards uplifting the sector and bolstering its growth.”

Shri BM Prajapati, IAS, Additional Industries Commissioner (Extension), Industries Commissionerate, Government of Gujarat, expressed, “There is a lot of scope for interventions in the MSME sector, which is the backbone of our economy. The MSME sector needs to be fortified to solve the problem of unemployment for youths. During COVID, MSMEs suffered the most. So, several areas need to be worked on, to strengthen the sector and restore the faith of our youth in the potential of MSMEs. We have begun a diagnostic study to identify the gaps. Cluster-wise data is mandatory to understand the sector and thus devise the right policies. So, efforts are going in and the results will be heartening.”

Shri Shailesh Patwari, Former President, of GCCI & Director of Nexus Group of Industries, opined, “The need of strengthening the MSME sector is tremendous and a lot of handholding has to be facilitated. A system has to be instituted to ensure that the benefits crafted for MSMEs, reach the sector. Several sectors need to be promoted; for instance, the textile sector depends largely on imports for several items. This sector, therefore, holds a huge potential and must be suitably promoted. So, emphasis needs to be placed on market research, so that MSMEs are promoted in the areas where there is potential.”

Shri Akash Pawar, Deputy General Manager, Incharge SIDBI, Ahmedabad said, “SIDBI was formulated to focus on MSME growth, and with several well-meaning policies, we are seeking to encourage people, especially youth to set up MSMEs. SIDBI has adopted the mode of maximising its outreach by following the objectives of ‘Promotion’, ‘Finance’, and Development of MSMEs.’ I urge all upcoming entrepreneurs to derive benefits from SIDBI’s ambitious and entrepreneur-friendly schemes.”

Shri DM Jadeja, Dy. Commissioner of Industries, MSME Commissionerate, Government of Gujarat, made a presentation focusing on various schemes undertaken by the state government for MSME growth. Shri Jadeja emphasised that amidst widely evolving technologies, the Government’s role becomes all the more significant in ensuring that MSMEs become technologically-oriented and forward-looking, instead of fearing growth and closure.

World University of Design presents INTERFACES

World University of Design presents INTERFACES

An Indo-European exhibition in association with Alliance Française

World University of Design, known for reinventing itself and pushing its own limits, brought forth INTERFACES, a HolzIndia presentation along with Alliance Française. The exhibition celebrates the transformative power of printmaking and showcases artworks by Indian, French and Belgian artists and is up for display until July 3rd, 2023 @ Alliance Francaise de Delhi.

To create awareness about the genre of Printmaking in Visual Arts as the new age sphere, WUD also organised a ‘Panel Discussion on Printmaking – Transformation in New India’, embellished with eminent artists as panelists including Ananda Moy Banerji, Kanchan Chander, Prayag Shukla, Prachi Sahasrabudhe and Seema Kohli along with Prof Rajan Fulari from WUD. This diverse group of panelists represented talented printmakers who have pushed the boundaries of the medium and contributed to the artistic landscape of New India.

Inaugurated by Mr. Stephane Alamir, Director of Alliance Française de Delhi, the exhibition features Indian artists Ananda Moy Banerji, Anita Das Chakracorty, Dattatraya Apte, Hemavathy Guha, Kanchan Chandar, Moti Zharotia, Prof. Rajan Shripad Fulari, Seema Kohli, Sushanta Guha, Dr. Sushma Yadav and Prof. V. Nagdas along with French Artist Olivier Deprez and Belgian Visual Artist Roby Comblain.

On the occasion Prof. Ranjan Shripad Fulari exclaimed, “We are honored to put together a platform that touches upon the Printmaking aspect that has evolved over the years and has now rejuvenated into a form that is changing dynamics and dimensions of the Visual Arts scene in India. I am glad to have with me such eminent panellists who have had enriching experience in India and abroad. I am very enthralled to share my views with them and am all ears to hear them out. There is so much to learn from here!”

Dr. Sanjay Gupta shared his views as, “This is a prestigious platform for connoisseurs of art and visual arts to align with. It is a pleasure to be here amongst such significant people who have marked their niche in their domain of creative field. As Vice Chancellor of a promising and ever emergent University I see it as my prime responsibility to associate with platforms that impart eternal firsthand knowledge and enhance our perception of art as we know it. I thank Alliance Française for joining hands with us in this great merger of thoughts across geographies.”

About Panelists:

Ananda Moy Banerji (India): Ananda Moy Banerji, born in Kolkata, is an accomplished printmaker who has collaborated with renowned artists from India and abroad. He has received several awards for his work, including the Lalit Kala Akademi’s national award in 1994 and the Charles Wallace India Trust Award in fine arts in 1996-97.

Kanchan Chander (India): Kanchan Chandar studied art in Berlin and Delhi, specializing in painting and printmaking. Her works focus on feminine energy and celebrate the fertility and sensuality of the female form. Her artworks can be found in esteemed collections, including the National Gallery of Modern Art and Mumbai International Airport.

Prayag Shukla:  A poet, fiction writer, art critic and curator. He is a multi-talented writer. He has been writing for more than 5 decades in Hindi and English. He has attended my international seminar and given readings of his work in many countries. He has many publications under his credit.

Prachi Sahasrabudhe: B.F.A. in Painting from Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, Maharashtra in 2016 and M.F.A. in Graphics/Printmaking from Kala Bhavana,Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan, West Bengal 2018. Her work has been shown in many Indian and International exhibitions.

Seema Kohli (India): Seema Kohli is a versatile artist who works with various mediums, including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and performance art. Her unique artistic style and eclectic repertoire have earned her international recognition, with exhibitions held in major cities worldwide.

Moderator :

Prof. Rajan Shripad Fulari (India): Prof. Rajan Shripad Fulari is an accomplished printmaker with a vast experience in the art scenario in India and abroad. He has been honored with numerous awards and has exhibited his works in prestigious exhibitions. Currently serving as the Dean of the School of Visual Arts at World University of Design, Sonipat, Delhi, he continues to inspire and guide emerging artists.

Prof. Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The Vice Chancellor of World University of Design (WUD), will also be a panelist for the discussion on Printmaking Transformation in New India. Dr. Gupta is a distinguished academic leader with a rich background in the field of design and education. He served as the Dean of NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology) and was the Founding Dean of the School of Design at GD Goenka University. With his vast experience and expertise, Dr. Gupta has played a pivotal role in shaping the design education landscape in India

NMIMS MPSTME Student Develops AI Model for Sign Language Translation, Empowering the Hearing and Speech-Impaired Community

Mumbai, 26 June 2023: PreeyajSafary, a talented and compassionate 19-year-old BTech student at NMIMS Mukesh Patel School of Technology Management & Engineering (MPSTME), Mumbai, has created a groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) model that translates sign language into text, revolutionizing communication for individuals with hearing and speech impairments. Preeyaj’s innovative technology utilizes the power of AI to bridge the communication gap, enabling seamless interaction with the larger society.

Inspired by a visit to a restaurant where he witnessed the challenges faced by deaf and mute individuals in communicating with the outside world, Preeyaj embarked on a mission to develop a solution that would make their lives easier. The AI model captures sign language gestures through a camera, and by comparing them to a comprehensive database of sign language images, it accurately translates the gestures into written text displayed on a connected screen. The model not only provides the words corresponding to the signs but also indicates the accuracy level of the translation, ensuring effective communication.

Preeyaj collected a diverse range of sign language images from various sources, including online platforms and interactions with individuals associated with NGOs working in this sector. The AI model’s database continues to expand as he works diligently to include more signs, and the increased usage of the technology will further contribute to enhancing the database’s accuracy and completeness.

Reflecting on the motivation behind his work, Preeyaj said, “I was deeply moved by the challenges faced by individuals with hearing and speech impairments while interacting with the public. Witnessing the inclusive nature of society inspired me to explore the potential of technology in facilitating smooth communication. I began working on this project during the lockdown, driven by the belief that technology can bring about positive change.”

In addition to his remarkable achievements in sign language translation, Preeyaj had previously developed a computer program to assist elderly individuals in booking vaccination slots during the COVID-19 pandemic. His commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society is evident in his tireless efforts to address critical societal needs through innovative solutions.

Preeyaj’s journey toward making a meaningful impact has been greatly supported by MPSTME Mumbai and its dedicated faculty. The institution’s nurturing environment and encouragement have played a vital role in his success, providing an atmosphere where students can thrive and contribute to society. NMIMS MPSTME is proud to provide a platform that enables students like Preeyaj to achieve significant accomplishments. “MPSTME and its faculty have always helped me and motivated me to achieve greater heights and also do something which can be useful for a larger audience. I am glad to be a part of such an institution,” he says proudly.

Looking ahead, Preeyaj envisions a future where technology continues to drive positive social change. With a motto centred around doing good for society, Preeyaj intends to explore new technologies and identify innovative use cases that address pressing societal needs. His passion for technology and dedication to academic excellence demonstrate his commitment to making a lasting impact.

As Preeyaj’s story exemplifies the transformative power of technology and innovation, MPSTME remains committed to nurturing the talents of its students and providing them with the necessary tools and support to create a better world.

The N.S.S. unit of K.P.B. Hinduja College of Commerce organizes Yog Sangam in association with Isha Foundation

Mumbai: The N.S.S. Unit of K.P.B. Hinduja College of Commerce, in collaboration with Isha Foundation, organized a remarkable event called “योग संगम” (Yoga Sangam) to commemorate International Yoga Day. The event took place at Hinduja College in Mumbai. The participants immersed themselves in various yoga asanas, or postures, with tremendous enthusiasm under the leadership of professional yoga instructors. The asanas combined gentle movements, stretches, and breathing exercises to create a harmonious flow of energy within each person. Participants gained an understanding of the significant practice of yoga in everyday life.

Histria Books Presents The Last Words of James Joyce by James Broderick

SAN FRANCISCO, June 20, 2023 – MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best, today announced the expansion of MasterClass at Work, its L&D enterprise offering, which provides companies with the most engaging learning and development materials through content taught by the world’s best in their fields. The expansion includes the L&D platform’s LMS integrations and new enterprise-exclusive content, Skill
Builder and Paths, addresses the needs of today’s leaders through active learning. The company also named its first Chief Business Officer, Nathan Smith, who will report into CEO David Rogier and oversee MasterClass at Work’s operations and the MasterClass L&D offering.

Smith brings over 20 years of experience building international SaaS businesses in the data analytics space by designing and delivering high performing ROI solutions for many of the world’s largest businesses.

MasterClass at Work focuses on developing durable skills in employees of all levels through emotion-based learning, designed to maximize knowledge retention, entertain and inspire. The bite-sized content, immersive learning experience and employee engagement tracking allow businesses to match leadership lessons to their business needs. Current clients include Capital One, Deloitte, Microsoft, Block, Paypal and half of the Fortune 100 companies.

“There’s been a regression in soft skills post-pandemic. The world has changed, and the workplace has drastically changed with it. Companies are starting to see gaps in how employees among different generations communicate, lead, and collaborate,” said Nathan Smith, CBO of MasterClass. “The need for learning and development materials that make a real impact on behavior and an ROI to tie back to is now more important than ever, and MasterClass at Work helps companies bridge this gap.”

The platform will feature two new products, Skill Builder and Paths, both enterprise-exclusive learning experiences that focus on helping employees develop the skills they need to thrive in their roles. Skill Builder and Paths feature multiple instructors from across the MasterClass catalog, bringing together the interdisciplinary expertise and diverse perspectives of luminaries, business leaders, artists, scientists and coaches to keep employees engaged and drive them toward a clear and measurable outcome.

● Skill Builder focuses on a specific skill or capability such as public speaking, leading a team and personal growth. Each Skill Builder is delivered as a 20-minute video, and includes a narrator as the connective thread between instructors.

● Paths start with a big challenge relevant to a role within the organization, and then outline the steps a person needs to take and the skills and mindset they need to develop to solve that challenge. Each Path includes active learning components like Playbooks, which support practice and application of learning, and Community Discussion, that are designed to foster critical thinking and feedback. Upcoming Paths cover challenges relevant to managers and people leaders including how to lead innovation, how to be a better decision-maker, how to think and act more strategically
and how to build an inclusive team with world-renowned leaders like Bob Iger, Indra Nooyi, Richard Branson and Mellody Hobson.

“For most organizations today, employee success requires a holistic approach to learning – one that nurtures both emotional well-being and skill-focused development,” said Dr. John Scott, Head of Learning Design and Strategy for MasterClass. “By combining amazing storytelling with evidence-based learning design frameworks, we’re keeping employees engaged and helping them develop the skills they need to be more successful at life and in work.”

MasterClass at Work has also integrated with learning management systems and learning experience platforms including Degreed, which is MasterClass’ first integration with a Learning Experience Platform. The platforms unlock learning in the flow of work for employees and cultivate community through increased interactivity. Users can now discover and build learning experiences and programs with MasterClass content, including curated learning paths. Users will be directed to MasterClass to experience the content first hand, with progress and tracking supported.

Recently released and upcoming class launches include:

● Mellody Hobson: Leveraging her experience in the C-suite and as a board member for Fortune 500 companies, including Starbucks Corp., JPMorgan Chase, the Estée Lauder Companies, DreamWorks Animation SKG and more, Ariel Investments Co-CEO, board director and philanthropist shares her tactics on strategic decision-making and how to apply a strategic framework to problem-solving to grow the leader within.

● Kim Scott: Bestselling author, co-founder of Radical Candor® and renowned CEO coach breaks down her Radical Candor framework for soliciting, giving, gauging and encouraging feedback, cultivating an inclusive culture and empowering others to succeed.

● James Clear: The author of Atomic Habits joins MasterClass later this summer, as the world heads back to work and school, to teach the power of building small habits, work/life balance and a growth mindset.

● Amy Poehler: Launching in September, viewers will get to see Poehler like never before as she steps out of the chair and onto the stage, teaching a live audience how the principles of improv can be incorporated into business and everyday life to navigate work, life and relationships. Workshopping real-life scenarios with the live audience, viewers will learn how to tackle the world through flexibility, openness and humor. “In my class, I’ll share what I’ve learned throughout my career to help anyone who is looking to be open, curious, and ready for an unprepared life,” said Poehler.

● Jocko Willink: Former commander of Seal Team 3 takes members through stories from his special forces days and showcases how to apply them in the real world. Joined in a situation room with managers, executives and entrepreneurs, he demonstrates how these life-or-death moments can be applied to driving team engagement.

SAI International School Bags Top 3 Ranks in the State in NEET 2023

Mumbai / India, 14^th June 2023: Swayam Shakti Tripathy, a student of SAI International School, becomes the State Topper (Odisha) in NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) 2023 by securing All India Rank (AIR) 8, followed by Surya Pratap Mishra securing the 2^nd position in the state with AIR 35 & Abhipsa Chowdhury, securing the 3^rd rank in the state with AIR 63. Securing the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd ranks in the state, SAIoneers set a new benchmark for achievement with their exceptional dedication and hard work.

Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International, expressed her profound joy at the students’ exceptional performance, stating, “We are immensely proud of our students’ outstanding achievements in the NET Examinations 2023. Their accomplishments not only reflect their remarkable dedication and perseverance but also exemplify the efficacy of SAI International School’s holistic education system. Our steadfast aim has always been to create an environment that fosters excellence and empowers students to realize their fullest potential. I wish all my achievers my heartiest Congratulations! These students are the future doctors that you’re looking at!”

SAI International is thrilled to announce the exceptional performance of its students in the NEET Examinations. Several students from SAI International have secured top ranks, making a mark in the state & beyond, showcasing their exemplary dedication and proficiency in the medical field. Their exceptional results bear testimony to their unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and the institution’s relentless pursuit of providing quality education.

The students’ remarkable performance in the NEET Examinations has earned them top ranks in the state of Odisha, highlighting their exceptional knowledge and aptitude in the medical sciences. Their success across various disciplines exemplifies the school’s holistic approach to education and its focus on nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Swayam Shakti Tripathy

State Rank (Odisha) – 1

All India Rank – 8

Surya Pratap Mishra

State Rank (Odisha) – 2

All India Rank – 35

Abhipsa Chowdhury

State Rank (Odisha) – 3

All India Rank – 63

SAI International School has consistently been at the vanguard of educational excellence, and these remarkable results further reinforce its position as a leading educational institution in Odisha. The school’s emphasis on providing a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment as envisioned by Founder-Chairman, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, has been instrumental in shaping the success of its students.

The achievements of these students in the NET Examinations 2023 are not only a source of immense pride for SAI International School but also a testament to the students’ capabilities and the guidance provided by their exceptional teachers and mentors. The school extends its heartfelt congratulations to the students for their extraordinary performance and wishes them continued success in all their future endeavours.

Student Quotes

“I am honored and thrilled to have secured the top rank in the NEET Exams 2023 in the state. Throughout my journey, my mentors at SAI International School have been instrumental in shaping my academic career. The school’s nurturing environment, comprehensive curriculum, and exceptional faculty have played a significant role in my success. I would also like to extend my gratitude towards my parents who have gone above & beyond for constantly encouraging me”, expressed Swayam Shakti Tripathy on becoming the State Topper.

“Preparing for the NEET exams was a challenging yet rewarding experience. SAI International School provided me with a strong foundation in the medical sciences, fostering my passion for the field. The teachers went above and beyond to ensure that I received the best education and guidance, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel. My coaches at Akash helped me throughout. I’m extremely grateful to our Chairperson Ma’am, for teaching us to dream big and constantly empowering our spirits with her unwavering encouragement.”, said Surya Pratap Mishra who has secured the second position in the state.

“Securing the 3^rd rank in the NEET 2023 exams for the state of Odisha fills me with immense gratitude and pride. I owe this remarkable achievement to the unwavering support of my family, my teachers, and the incredible SAI International School community. Their guidance and encouragement have shaped my success, fuelling my determination to pursue my dreams in the medical field”, said Abhipsa Chowdhury.

The achievers also talked about dedicating long hours to understanding concepts, practicing mock tests, and analyzing previous years’ question papers, accompanied by soughing guidance from teachers and utilizing study materials provided by the school. They all highlighted how maintaining a positive mindset and staying motivated were crucial elements in their preparation strategies.

Schools should imbibe values of sustainability among students at an early age

By Niru Agarwal, Trustee, Greenwood High International School

Robert Swan says, “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” In the current world scenario, there is consensus that children must be taught values of sustainability so that they can help future generations imbibe the same. This is the apt message for World Environment Day 2023, which is focused on #BeatingPlasticpollution. Planet Earth faces so many risks & abuses that taking environmental action is even more urgent. From biodiversity to solar energy, there is now a need to build a greener earth, and in this journey, schools indeed play a key role in encouraging students to learn new ways to build sustainability. Educating students will promote awareness, address the current vacuum, and help build perspective toward environmental needs having sustainable development goals. Hence, we should look at diverse ways in which schools can help students be green warriors at an early age.

Schools should involve wider community

Sustainability involves everyone working together in small ways to achieve something huge. It is both an individual and a team effort. If you can get parents and guardians involved in your sustainability initiatives, the lesson will go even further. This means that everyone needs to be involved and teachers and school leaders should lead by example. Whether it is cycle-to-work initiatives, installing solar panels, or bringing a lunch in sustainable packaging, sustainability must be modelled as well as taught. To be truly sustainable, schools should fully engage with these activities, which means helping teachers and staff members and going beyond the school gates.

Imbibe sustainable life skills

To live a sustainable lifestyle, children and society’s youth should be urged to undertake individual responsibilities, such as minimising resource usage, composting, reducing over-consumption, depending on clean energy sources, practising minimalism, and purchasing local and organic items. Education on sustainability will help them develop these sustainable life skills and practices.

Developing a critical mindset

Teaching sustainable ways of living helps in creating a critical mindset among children. They understand that they need to look beyond the materialistic values of things and learn to appreciate their intrinsic value. Reusing and recycling materials can prevent wastage and over-production, which is the principal cause of over-industrialization and carbon emissions. Recycling has taken the world by storm and schools need to take measures that will enable students to further intensify this approach.

Build solutions into lessons

Students should not grow up with neglect about the environment. They must be taught everything there is to know about the planet and this is best done by incorporating such ideas in a curriculum. This will create awareness on all aspects of the earth and how best to protect it. The syllabus can have a mix of theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical steps that will surely enhance the intellect of students and enable them to learn new aspects of the environment.

Bring down consumerism

Consumerism is at an all-time high, but teaching children how to thrift can make them more conscious about wastage and prevent them from binge buying when they are old enough to buy things for themselves. Living a minimalist lifestyle can teach them how one needs only a handful of good and well-loved items to live a fulfilling life. Students will have to be shown a broader view of things when they learn how much they can save the planet by making better choices.

In conclusion, it can be said that education plays a crucial role in raising the younger generations’ awareness in the right direction and safeguarding their future sustainability. The right direction will allow young people to make conscious decisions and lead greener lifestyle with their evolved knowledge and understanding of the natural surroundings. Early education, especially at school, will lead to mature individuals proactively managing global challenges, contributing to a greener and healthier planet. Students are the future advocates and educating today’s youth is imperative to enable environmental conservation.