Category Archives: Education

D Y Patil International School Hosts IB Global Leadership Event

Mumbai,  Mar 28 : D Y Patil International School Worli recently hosted a landmark co-creation session in collaboration with the International Baccalaureate (IB), bringing together global leadership, 12 IB officials, and Heads and Coordinators from nine IB schools across Mumbai. Titled “Shaping the Future of Hybrid Learning,” the session moved beyond conventional discussions on educational formats to explore a more fundamental question: how schools can meaningfully prepare students to think independently and continue learning in a rapidly evolving world.

The session was attended by Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the IB, along with Mahesh Balakrishnan, Senior Manager for Business Development (India & Nepal), highlighting India’s growing influence in global education dialogue. Designed as a co-creation platform rather than a top-down policy discussion, the session enabled educators to collaboratively examine how hybrid learning, when implemented with intention, can foster self-directed learners, students equipped to manage their own learning, navigate uncertainty, and adapt beyond the structure of traditional classrooms.

A key takeaway from the discussions was the evolving purpose of hybrid learning. Participants agreed that its true value lies not in the integration of online and offline modes, but in its ability to develop the critical skill of “learning how to learn.” This approach reflects the changing expectations of higher education and the workplace, where independence, adaptability, and continuous learning are essential. The dialogue also underscored the importance of building trust with families, ensuring equity and access, and designing learning environments that actively engage students as participants in their own educational journey.

The significance of the session was further reinforced by the recognition extended to the host institution. Reflecting on the co-creation process, Heinonen noted that the manner in which the session was facilitated at D Y Patil International School Worli should be replicated across schools worldwide, describing it as a model for collaborative educational innovation. Ms. Kinnari Shah, Principal of the school, encouraged educators and parents to remain open-minded and to embrace technology as an integral part of this evolving learning landscape.

Commenting on the occasion, Ms. Kinnari Shah, Principal of D Y Patil International School, Worli said,

“Education today must move beyond delivering knowledge to developing thinkers. Hosting the IB’s global leadership at our campus is not just an honour, it is a responsibility. We believe schools must create environments where students learn how to learn, question, adapt, and grow independently. That is the future we are committed to shaping.”

As Mumbai continues to strengthen its position as a hub for international education, the session marks an important step in reimagining how learning is designed and delivered. It highlights a broader shift, from schools that focus primarily on curriculum delivery to institutions that actively shape the future of education itself, with students at the centre of that transformation.

785 students graduate with nine winning gold medals at the 51st Convocation of IIMB

PhD scholar receives award for excellence in research

Mar 28, Bengaluru: “Congratulations to the Class of 2026 at the 51st Convocation of IIM Bangalore. As you enter a rapidly evolving business environment, remember that lasting success is built through consistent choices, not just moments of acceleration. The real test of leadership lies in balancing short-term performance with long-term value creation. It is possible to have it all, but not always at the same time – prioritization and resilience act as the key. I wish you the wisdom to play the long game and create meaningful, enduring impact”, said Chief Guest Ms Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HDFC Life, during her special address at IIM Bangalore’s Convocation ceremony, this evening. 

Ms Padalkar explained the graduating students that life should go beyond the fast pace of the sprint to make way for a more resilient and enduring marathon. She explained that institutions and careers are not built in sprints but through a process of evolution of a long distance race, with doses of energy, ambition, confidence and courage, and that leadership was about integrating multiple lenses. She also emphasized on the importance of precision meeting persuasion, trust built over years and slowing down to accelerate, to have sustainable careers. 

Ms Padalkar also shared that three key decisions proved to be the turning points in her own life – choosing finance as her career, returning to India to build a life in the financial capital Mumbai, and choosing the life partner that she did. 

Ms Vibha Padalkar advised the students that the ability to anticipate, discipline to pause and wisdom to choose deliberately, will stand them in good stead in the long run. “IIMB has honed your decision making skills. So, as you enter a new phase of your lives, remember that you need to run fast when it matters, slow down when it counts and stay in the long race.”

Indian Institute of Management Bangalore hosted its 51st Convocation on 27th March 2026. A total of 785 students from various programmes graduated, this evening. Degrees were awarded to the students of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme and the MBA programmes – the Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM), Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP), Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) and Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP). Students of the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM) received the Master of Management Studies (Public Policy) degree. One PhD scholar received the award for excellence in research, while gold medals were awarded for Best All Round Performance, First Rank and Second Rank.

The students graduated from the prestigious institution this year in the presence of the Chief Guest, Board Members, Director-in-charge, Deans, faculty, alumni and staff of the Institute, alongside proud smiles and loud cheers from their families.

Gold medallists and PhD award winner: This year, a total of nine students have won gold medals. Moreover, a PhD scholar received the award for excellence in research.

In the Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) 2024-2026,Manasi Anju Mertia is the First Rank Holder, whileDhvit Jayen Mehtais the Second Rank Holder. 

Mayur Dattatray Khule is the Gold Medallist for Best All Round Performance for Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP) and Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) 2024-2026 combined.

For the Post Graduate Programme in Business Analytics (PGPBA) 2024-2026, Bharat Mundra is the First Rank Holder.

In Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP) 2025-2026, Aysha Shaba PP is the First Rank Holder andRajasilpi SP is the Best All Round Performer.  

In Post Graduate Programme in Enterprise Management (PGPEM) 2024-2026,Lakshmi R is the First Rank Holder, while Biswaranjan Mishra is the Best All Round Performer.

In the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management (PGPPM), Anirudh has won the gold medal for Best Academic Performance.

The Institute Research Award 2026 was won by Divya Dwivedi, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) student of the Information Systems area of the graduating batch. The award seeks to inspire the school’s Doctoral students to achieve greater heights in terms of research quality and productivity.  

Address by Prof. Malavika R Harita, Member, IIMB Board of Governors

The day’s events also included an inspiring address by Prof. Malavika R. Harita, Founder & CEO, Brand Circle, and Member, IIMB Board of Governors. She made mention of IIMB’s new Centres such as the Centre for Digital Public Goods as well as the Tony James Centre for Private Equity and Venture Capital, the newly set up IIMB Development Foundation – the Institute’s fundraising and development arm, and the Institute’s collaborations with leading national and global organizations which play a significant role in enhancing the Institute’s reputation. She also highlighted IIMB’s achievements in terms of placements and the Institute’s position in prestigious national as well as global rankings.

“Be focussed on gaining knowledge, stay authentic, relevant and original, and create the impact you want to”, she advised the budding managers and entrepreneurs.”

Director’s address

Prof. U Dinesh Kumar, Director-in-charge, IIM Bangalore, highlighted some of the achievements of the Institute as well as of faculty, students and alumni, and shared details on IIMB’s programmes, centres, events, digital learning initiatives, rankings, placements, entrepreneurship, and more. 

“With a vision to elevate undergraduate education in India with the same academic rigour that defines our postgraduate offerings, we introduced two undergraduate offerings: BSc Honors in Economics, and BSc Honors in Data Science.”

While sharing his message, Prof. Dinesh Kumar commended the Institute for its initiatives on sustainability, inclusivity as well as nation building, apart from academics and research. “The Office of Diversity and Inclusion convened important conversations on accessibility and universal design, and student-led efforts play an important role in our outreach.”

“Sustainability remains our key priority. We released our Sustainability Report on World Environment Day and introduced a new core course on Responsible Business and Sustainability. These efforts were accompanied by practical steps toward greener campus operations, including the introduction of an EV fleet on campus, donated by the PGP 1998 batch. IIM Bangalore won the Award for Excellence in Biodiversity Management and the Award for Excellence in Social Welfare and Community Services, at the ELCITA Sustainability Awards 2025.”

He also congratulated IIMB’s incubation centre, NSRCEL, on completing 25 years of supporting entrepreneurs in November last year. 

Prof. Dinesh Kumar also shared three Zen stories to emphasize on the importance of mindfulness to the graduating students. “The destination is not so important, but the journey is, and the journey has to be full of happiness. Be compassionate, which again is necessary to make life happier. Also, make integrity your life motto. These three elements will go a long may in making your lives happier.”

“Consider IIMB to be your home – come back, share your life stories and be an inspiration to the entire country.”

As the graduating students get a step closer to their dreams – with new beginnings, hopes and possibilities in the horizon – the campus today was witness to moments full of emotional farewells, group photos, selfies and other celebrations.

Pravesh Utsav & Khadichuan on April 2 to Mark Children’s First Step into Education

A new chapter in the educational journey of young children is set to begin on April 2 with the celebration of Pravesh Utsav and Khadichuan, organized in line with the National Education Policy.

ଜାତୀୟ ଶିକ୍ଷା ନୀତି ଅନୁଯାୟୀ ଆସନ୍ତା ଏପ୍ରିଲ ୨ ତାରିଖରେ ଆୟୋଜିତ ହେବାକୁ ଯାଉଥିବା ‘ପ୍ରବେଶ ଉତ୍ସବ ଓ ଖଡ଼ିଛୁଆଁ’ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଆମ ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ଶୈକ୍ଷିକ ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର ଏକ ନୂତନ ଅଧ୍ୟାୟ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହେବାକୁ ଯାଉଛି। ଶିଶୁ ବାଟିକା ଓ ପ୍ରଥମ ଶ୍ରେଣୀରେ ନାମ ଲେଖାଇବାକୁ ଥିବା ଯୋଗ୍ୟ କୁନି କୁନି ପିଲାମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ମାନ୍ୟବର… pic.twitter.com/ZWMTRg3z0Y

— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) March 24, 2026

This special initiative aims to warmly welcome eligible children enrolling in Shishu Vatika (pre-primary) and Class 1, marking their first step into formal education. The program reflects a strong commitment to nurturing early childhood learning and building a solid academic foundation.

In a heartfelt gesture, invitation letters from the Hon’ble Chief Minister are being personally delivered to parents by government officials and public representatives. This outreach highlights the importance of community participation in ensuring that every child has access to quality education.

The event is not just a ceremonial beginning but a meaningful effort to inspire families and encourage enrollment at the foundational level. It emphasizes the collective responsibility of society in shaping an educated and empowered younger generation.

Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in this noble initiative and contribute to creating a bright educational future for children. By doing so, they play a vital role in building a progressive and prosperous Odisha.

Digital Libraries: Transforming Access to Knowledge in the Modern Era

Libraries are undergoing a major transformation in the digital age, evolving from traditional book storage spaces into dynamic, technology-driven knowledge hubs. Digital libraries are now playing a key role in reshaping how information is accessed, shared, and preserved across education, research, and public learning systems.

Pic Credit: Pexel

A digital library is a collection of information resources—such as e-books, journals, research papers, audio-visual content, and archives—stored in electronic form and made accessible through computers and mobile devices. The primary aim is to make knowledge available anytime and anywhere, removing the limitations of physical location and opening access to a wider audience.

Experts say the objectives of digital libraries go beyond convenience. They are designed to preserve rare documents, improve information retrieval through advanced search systems, and support education and research by providing instant access to reliable academic content. They also help reduce costs associated with printing, storage, and physical maintenance of books.

In recent years, digital libraries have gained significant importance, especially with the expansion of online education and remote learning. Educational institutions, universities, and government initiatives have increasingly adopted digital platforms to ensure students and researchers can access updated learning materials without barriers.

In India, initiatives such as the National Digital Library of India have made millions of academic resources available to students across the country. Similarly, universities and public library systems are integrating digital catalogues and e-learning tools to enhance accessibility and improve learning outcomes.

Globally, institutions like the World Digital Library and academic databases such as JSTOR have expanded access to historical documents, research papers, and scholarly publications, supporting global knowledge exchange.

Digital libraries also play a crucial role in bridging the information gap between urban and rural learners. With the help of internet connectivity and mobile technology, students in remote areas can now access the same educational resources as those in major cities.

The rise of mobile applications such as Kindle has further simplified access to digital books and reading materials, making learning more flexible and personalized.

However, experts also point out challenges such as the digital divide, limited internet access in rural areas, and the need for digital literacy training. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure equal and effective use of digital library systems.

Overall, digital libraries represent a major step forward in modern education systems. By combining technology with knowledge sharing, they are helping build a more accessible, efficient, and inclusive learning environment for the future.

PM-Vidyalaxmi Emerges as a Key Gateway for Education Loans

The Government of India’s PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme has completed one year since its launch, emerging as a significant platform for students seeking financial support for higher education. The scheme has witnessed strong demand, with a large number of applications received from across the country and an approval rate of around 50 percent, indicating steady implementation.

Designed as a single-window digital portal, PM-Vidyalaxmi has simplified the education loan process by allowing students to apply to multiple banks through one platform. This has reduced delays, improved transparency, and made it easier for applicants to track their loan status without navigating complex procedures.

A key feature of the scheme is its focus on accessibility. By offering collateral-free loan options and reducing traditional barriers, it has opened up opportunities for students from middle-class and economically weaker backgrounds. The scheme supports those admitted to recognized institutions, ensuring that financial assistance is directed toward quality higher education.

In its first year, PM-Vidyalaxmi has contributed to strengthening a more inclusive and structured education financing system in India. With growing awareness and participation, it is expected to play an important role in helping students pursue their academic goals without being constrained by financial limitations.

Centre Launches Nationwide Drive via NIOS to Bring Dropout Children Back to School

New Delhi, March 21 (BNP): The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education has announced a nationwide initiative to strengthen the open schooling framework through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), with the aim of achieving 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030.

The move aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative focuses on identifying and enrolling out-of-school and dropout children across the country.

According to official data, nearly 2 crore children in the 14–18 age group are currently out of school, while around 11 per cent of children in Classes 3 to 8 remain unenrolled. Additionally, over 50 lakh students fail board examinations annually, highlighting the need for flexible and inclusive education pathways.

Officials said open schooling provides a practical alternative for students unable to attend regular schools due to socio-economic or geographical constraints. NIOS, the world’s largest open schooling board, offers flexible admission, multiple opportunities to clear exams, on-demand examinations, and vocational courses aligned with employability.

To strengthen outreach, the Ministry will launch the “NIOS Mitra” programme, a technology-enabled initiative aimed at identifying, counselling, and enrolling out-of-school children, particularly from marginalised, tribal, migrant, and economically weaker sections. Trained facilitators will support students through enrolment and academic guidance, ensuring last-mile connectivity and measurable outcomes.

The Ministry also plans to expand infrastructure by establishing at least one NIOS Study and Examination Centre in every block. Existing institutions such as PM SHRI schools, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan schools, and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti institutions will be leveraged to support this effort.

Officials said the initiative will be implemented in coordination with States and Union Territories, using district-level survey data to identify dropout children and ensure targeted interventions.

The government emphasised that these measures aim to provide inclusive, flexible, and quality education while advancing universal school participation and reducing dropout rates nationwide.

Groundbreaking AI-Generated Documentary on Science and Faith Premieres April 8

DALLAS, Texas, March 21, 2026 — At a time when artificial intelligence is raising urgent questions about authenticity and truth, The Invisible Everywhere: Believing Is Seeing demonstrates how emerging AI tools can be used to explore enduring spiritual questions.

The 80-minute documentary might very well be the first feature-length motion picture created entirely by a single filmmaker using consumer-grade artificial intelligence tools on a standard home desktop computer.

The film chronicles former Harvard physics instructor and Emmy Award-winning ABC News Science Editor (1988-2002) Dr. Michael Guillén’s adventurous and surprising journey from atheism to Christianity — and his conclusion that modern science points beyond materialism.

“While AI raises many legitimate concerns about authenticity and truth, The Invisible Everywhere illustrates how AI is enabling ‘the power of one’ — liberating talented filmmakers from traditional Hollywood gatekeepers by democratizing the cinematic arts and sciences,” Guillén said.

As a scientist and committed atheist, Guillén used to believe that reality is limited to what can be observed and measured. His guiding principle was “seeing is believing.”

That conviction began to unravel when he looked to empirical science for answers to life’s biggest questions:

How did the cosmos begin? Where is the mind located?

How did life on Earth begin?

Is there life after death? Are we alone?

Does God exist?

Through physics, cosmology and rigorous inquiry, Guillén reached a conclusion that stunned him: Modern science does not eliminate God; it clearly points to Him.

“Modern science now believes that most of reality is not visible, not logical and not even imaginable,” Guillén said.

This unexpected revelation shattered his atheism and turned his lifelong motto on its head — from “seeing is believing” to “believing is seeing.”

Many documentaries explore the visible universe. The Invisible Everywhere explores what cannot be seen.

“If I still lived by the motto ‘seeing is believing,’ I’d be blind to most of what’s real,” Guillén said. “Today, because of what I’ve learned on my long, winding journey, I now can see the invisible creator — everywhere. It’s a journey that changed my life forever.”

The Invisible Everywhere premieres worldwide April 8 exclusively at www.theinvisibleeverywhere.com.

“Modern science is not the enemy of God,” Guillén added. “It might very well be His strongest ally.”

Creative Survival in the Algorithm Era: Veteran Showrunner Decodes Mechanics of Modern Storytelling Across Old and New Ecosystems

LOS ANGELES, March 21, 2026 — In a world where anyone can publish, attention spans are finite and platforms control distribution, talent is no longer the differentiator, explains writer and creative executive Daniel Cubillo, who has spent decades shaping stories for entertainment brands such as Top Chef, Fear Factor and Real Housewives.

“About 4 out of every 10 people on earth, between the ages of 14 and 35, want to be content creators, without knowing any details,” Cubillo said. “And, not surprisingly, most independent creators don’t last.”

In his new book, The Creative Mastermind Mind: From Roadrunner to Showrunner, Cubillo reveals the creative systems, behind-the-scenes insights and strategic frameworks that show how creators, storytellers and entertainment professionals can lead, adapt and endure in a landscape ruled by algorithms, audiences and rapid innovation.

Cubillo’s career spans nearly 2,000 hours of produced content across broadcast, cable, streaming and social platforms, including NBCUniversal, Discovery, MTV, Facebook Watch, Netflix and the Zeus Network. His unique experience in storytelling that performs across formats has positioned him at the intersection of legacy media and the emerging creator economy.

In The Creative Mastermind Mind, he distills decades of experience into actionable insights: mastering creative reinvention, understanding the inner workings of the industry and building resilience. Blending mentorship with candid behind-the-scenes stories, the book offers practical frameworks, real-world scenario analysis and a roadmap for anyone determined to make a living — and find meaning — through storytelling.

Readers will discover how to:

• Adapt and evolve in an industry defined by rapid change
• Balance creativity, strategy and resilience in high-stakes environments
• Navigate the realities of show business with honesty and professionalism
• Build a lasting career as a storyteller

“Whether you’re an aspiring creator, a content professional or a seasoned showrunner, this book is a guide to not just surviving — but thriving — in the content arena,” Cubillo said.

The Creative Mastermind Mind: From Roadrunner to Showrunner

Release Date: December 31, 2025

ISBN-13: 979-8993586809 (Hardcover)

ISBN-13: 979-8993586816 (Paperback) Available from: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Mastermind-Mind-Showrunner-Showbusiness/dp/B0GBNLCDPK and https://thecreativemastermind.com/

Global Feminist, Therapist, and Powerlifter Barrie Zucal Delivers Bold Rallying Cry Against ‘Debilitating Goodness’

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 21, 2026 — Barrie Zucal is a powerlifter in more ways than one. Besides breaking records in the deadlift and bench press, she is a fierce advocate for women’s voices and rights, a global feminist, a former marriage and family therapist, and an executive coach to women in 75 countries. Now, she’s making a daring entrance into the self-help space with BOLD: How Women Play BIG by Leading Instead of Pleasing — a rallying cry against what she calls “debilitating goodness,” the quiet force that keeps many women from realizing their ambitions.

“Women worldwide are constrained by their conditioned conviction that they should serve others even at their own expense; as a result, they end up pleasing, performing, and perfecting instead of leading, living, and developing,” Zucal said.

A lifeline for women everywhere, BOLD blends inspirational stories, self-reflective exercises, and practical steps to help readers tap into their passion, trust their instincts, act on their behalf, and lead with courage and clarity. BOLD isn’t a diatribe; it’s a solution-driven antidote to the deeply rooted beliefs that have kept women playing small for generations.

“I want this book to inspire women everywhere,” Zucal said. “We were born for this moment. It’s time for women to claim their right to develop themselves and use their talents to create a rich future for themselves, their families, and their world.

More than a book, BOLD is a wakeup call — motivating women to explore who they exist for, why they exist, and how they will exist.

“The world needs more women leading unapologetically,” writes author and CEO of Few & Far, Sarah Dusek, in the book’s introduction. “Step into this book with courage, and I promise you will emerge with a stronger, bolder, more empowered version of yourself.”

Releasing in April 2026, BOLD arrives at a moment when women’s leadership is urgently needed — in boardrooms, classrooms, and communities worldwide.

IIT Mandi Invites Applications for Its First 2-Month Multi-Track Summer Residential Programme ‘HIMSHIKHAR 2026’

Mumbai, Mar 20: The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi), one of India’s leading IITs, through its Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), invites applications for its first 2–month summer residential programme, HIMSHIKHAR 2026. The programme is designed to equip students and young professionals with industry aligned skills in emerging technologies and entrepreneurship, while bridging the gap between academia and industry.

The programme offers an immersive on-campus experience, enabling participants to live and learn within the IIT Mandi ecosystem while working on real-world projects under the guidance of faculty and industry mentors. Structured across 190 hours of engagement, the programme includes 100 hours of faculty-led sessions, 50 hours of tutorial sessions conducted by PhD scholars, and 40 hours of sessions delivered by industry experts.

Five Specialized Tracks Across Emerging Technologies:

1. Software Development with AI: Focuses on building intelligent applications by combining core software development skills with AI Driven capabilities.

2. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning : Covers key concepts of AI and ML to develop systems that can analyse data, learn patterns and solve real world challenges.

3. Agentic AI Systems: Introduces autonomous AI systems that can independently perform tasks and make decisions in dynamic environments.

4. Data Science: Emphasizes data analysis, visualization and predictive modelling to derive  actionable insights for decision-making.

5. Entrepreneurship & Venture Building: Develops entrepreneurial skills, focusing on start-up ideation, business model creation, and innovation-driven growth.

Speaking on the launch, Prof. Tushar Jain, Head of the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) at IIT Mandi, said, “HIMSHIKHAR 2026 programme combines academic rigor, national skilling infrastructure, and outcome-driven training for learners. Every module emphasises building, problem-solving, and working with real tools, guided by practitioners, and faculty who understand industry demands.”

Eligibility and Admission Process:

• Minimum Eligibility: Candidates are eligible to apply for various specialization tracks, with the starting minimum entry requirement being passed in Class 12 or an equivalent qualification from a recognized board.
• Application Submission: Interested candidates are required to fill out the online application form through the official website of HIMSHIKHAR 2026.
• Entrance Test: Applicants must appear for an entrance test assessing reasoning and analytical abilities.
• Counselling Process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for counselling, where they can select their preferred track and receive provisional admission details.
• Final Admission: Candidates must confirm their seat by completing the admission formalities and fee payment within the stipulated timeline. 

Total Seats Available: 250 seats in each track (1250 seats in total)

The programme will commence in May 2026, with reporting starting from May 16, 2026, followed by the beginning of classes from May 18, 2026.

Through this initiative, IIT Mandi continues to strengthen its commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements by equipping young learners with future-ready skills in emerging technologies and innovation-driven domains.