Category Archives: Education

British Lingua Celebrates Freedom with a Voice for India

British Lingua Celebrates Independence Day with Dr. Birbal Jha’s Visionary Call — “Speak Up for India”

Patna, August 16: In a stirring celebration of patriotism and purpose, British Lingua marked Independence Day with the launch of a national civic awakening movement — “Speak Up for India, Rise for India” — under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Birbal Jha, acclaimed author, celebrated English litterateur , and visionary founder of British Lingua.

At the institution’s Boring Road headquarters, the tricolour soared high in the morning breeze as Dr. Jha, often hailed as a “People’s Linguist” and a pioneer of English skills empowerment in India, unfurled the flag. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, pride, and a renewed sense of mission.

Delivering his keynote address on the theme “Speak Up and Rise for India” in alignment with the Viksit Bharat @ 2047 vision, Dr. Jha electrified the audience with his words:

“Speaking up for India is not mere rhetoric; it is an act of responsibility, a pledge to shape her destiny with courage and conviction. A silent citizenry weakens a nation; a vocal, visionary people elevate it. Let us speak up for India and rise together.”

Dr. Jha’s speech was not just a patriotic address — it was a clarion call to action. Emphasising the crucial role of citizens, particularly the youth, in steering the country towards a developed India by 2047 — the centenary of independence — he urged Indians to move beyond passive patriotism and embrace active civic engagement.

To translate words into action, Dr. Jha inaugurated the “Speak Up for India, Rise for India” social campaign, drawing a spirited response from dozens of young change-makers. The highlight was the “Bolo Dil Se, Bharat Ke Liye” march — a vibrant rally from British Lingua to Boring Road Crossing — turning heads and stirring conversations about the power of an awakened citizenry.
“Every citizen’s voice matters,” Dr. Jha told participants. “If we speak up for India today, we rise together for a stronger, more vibrant tomorrow.”

With his blend of eloquence, vision, and ground-level activism, Dr. Birbal Jha once again demonstrated why he is regarded not merely as an educator, but as a nation-builder — inspiring millions to find their voice and use it for India’s collective ascent.

Crack Academy Empowers 350 Students at RKMV Shimla with Career Seminar

Crack Academy, India’s first ed-tech platform dedicated to nurturing talent in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, successfully hosted an engaging and impactful seminar at RKMV College, Shimla. The event drew an enthusiastic participation of more than 350+ students from B.Com, BSc, BA, and Tourism streams, aiming to equip them with essential skills, career awareness, and competitive exam readiness.

The seminar, conducted by Crack Academy’s expert counsellors, covered a range of impactful topics aimed at enhancing students’ personal and professional growth. Sessions on Personality Development and Communication Skills included interactive activities to boost confidence, improve public speaking abilities, and encourage teamwork. Career Awareness and Guidance segments provided in-depth insights into SSC, Bank Exams, Tally, Skill Development Programs, and various other competitive examinations. The Exam Awareness component offered valuable guidance on eligibility criteria, preparation strategies, and opportunities across both government and private sectors. Additionally, a Scholarship Test was organized to identify meritorious students, rewarding them with scholarships, fee concessions, and exclusive benefits.

Speaking about the initiative, Neeraj Kansal, Founder & CEO, Crack Academy, said, “At Crack Academy, we believe that every student, regardless of their location or financial background, deserves access to quality guidance and skill development opportunities. Our seminar at RKMV College was designed to not just inform students about career paths, but to inspire them to believe in their potential and take concrete steps towards achieving their dreams.”

The session received an overwhelming response from students and faculty, who appreciated the academy’s practical and student-focused approach. Crack Academy will continue to roll out similar programs in other educational institutions, reaffirming its mission to bridge the gap between ambition and achievement for students across India.

Plaksha University celebrates first undergraduate convocation, marks strong career outcomes for the founding cohort

India, August 12, 2025: Plaksha University, a technology university reimagining higher education and research in India, celebrated a major milestone with the convocation of its founding BTech cohort, the Class of 2025. The event highlights Plaksha’s vision of nurturing a new kind of engineer who can address the challenges of an ever-evolving world. The university’s strong industry connects and the diverse career trajectories of its graduates, reaffirms Plaksha’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The graduating cohort was addressed by the chief guest, Dr V Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO at the university campus in Mohali, who emphasised the importance of lifelong learning.  He said “Great students are shaped by great teachers and Plaksha has that strength. This is a true temple of knowledge, and it’s inspiring to see the calibre and purpose in its graduates. Keep learning, work hard, serve the country, and above all, be good human beings. You now have the chance to help build a Viksit Bharat,  make it count.”

The university’s first graduating batch saw strong career outcomes, securing roles across diverse functions such as data science, AI/ML, business analysis, software engineering, product management, and consulting. Of the students who opted for industry roles (65% of the eligible cohort), 100% successfully secured job offers.

The average CTC stood at little above ₹20 lakh per annum, with top offers reaching up to ₹60 lakh per annum. Top 25 percentile of the class received average CTC of ₹36 lakh per annum, underscoring the strong demand for talent trained in interdisciplinary and future-facing skills.

Prominent recruiters included Arcesium, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), D.E. Shaw, Flipkart, Fractal Analytics, Info Edge, Jefferies, McKinsey and Company, Wayground (formerly Quizizz) and Wayfair. Students secured positions in leading sectors such as Deep Tech, Startups, Consulting, BFSI, and Emerging Technologies.

In addition to placement outcomes, 27% of students chose to pursue higher studies and research, securing admissions from leading global institutions like Carnegie Mellon University, UPenn, University of Chicago, University of California San Diego, King’s College London, New York University, TU Delft among others. This underscores the academic rigor and research-driven approach at Plaksha, preparing students for advanced studies in cutting-edge fields. Remaining students have chosen to start their own startup ventures.

“This moment represents not just the graduation of a cohort but the emergence of a new model for tech education in India,” said Neeraj Aggarwal, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Plaksha University and Chair, Asia-Pacific at Boston Consulting Group. “Our first batch exemplifies what’s possible when students are nurtured in an ecosystem that encourages curiosity, leadership, and deep engagement with the world’s most pressing problems.”

“This is not just a proud moment for us and our students, these career outcomes reaffirm our belief in interdisciplinary learning, experiential education, and a strong focus on research,” said Prof. Rudra Pratap, Founding Vice Chancellor, Plaksha University. “Our graduates are stepping into roles that will shape the technological future of India. Whether joining global firms, pursuing research, or launching ventures, they reflect a commitment to building with purpose.”

The two-day convocation celebration brought together founding donors, global faculty, and industry leaders who have played a pivotal role in shaping Plaksha’s journey. Highlights included the inauguration of the Bharti Academic Building and a ceremonial address by the Hon’ble 14th President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and the Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria on August 8, 2025. The event culminated in a celebration of the achievements and aspirations of the university’s first graduating cohort, reaffirming Plaksha’s mission to reimagine tech education in India on August 9, 2025.

Rising Indian Education Costs Push Tier 3 and Tier 4 Students Toward Global Degrees

Prodigy Finance Sees Rising demand in Education Loans from India’s Tier 3 and 4 Cities

London, 12th August 2025: quiet revolution is underway in the Indian education landscape. Students from Tier 3 and Tier 4 towns are increasingly opting for postgraduate programs at top global universities, not just for prestige, but for practical reasons rooted in cost and career outcomes.

Driven by rising tuition fees in India’s Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, families are reevaluating where their education investments truly yield the best returns. Private MBA programs in India now range between ₹18–25 lakh, often with limited global exposure. In comparison, many postgraduate programs in the UK, Germany, or France fall nearly under the same price bracket, while offering international credentials, work visa options, and stronger long-term returns.

“Studying abroad is no longer seen as out of reach or an extravagant dream,” said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance. “For students in places like Bhubaneswar, Jalandhar, and Guwahati, it has become a strategic choice. They’re asking: If the cost is the same, why not invest in a global opportunity with better exposure and earning potential?”

This shift in mindset is reflected in application trends. There’s a sharp increase in loan applications from Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities, particularly for courses in data science, health sciences, business analytics, and engineering.

Prodigy Finance, a global student loan provider offering no-collateral, no-cosigner education loans, has played a pivotal role in enabling this access. Unlike traditional lenders, Prodigy Finance assesses applicants based on their future earning potential, rather than their current income or assets, making it possible for students from semi-urban and rural areas to study at world-class institutions.

This transformation is not just about affordability, it’s about value. More families are comparing the return on investment (ROI) of education at home versus abroad. For many, international degrees offer a more comprehensive package: a global network, English-language instruction, and the chance to work abroad after graduation.

Countries like the UK and Germany have helped fuel this interest by offering favourable post-study work rights, allowing students to recoup their investment and establish global careers.

“We’re seeing a new kind of ambition from students in smaller towns,” added Kapoor. “They’re digitally savvy, globally aware, and determined to make smart decisions for their future. At Prodigy Finance, we’re proud to support their journey.”

Prodigy Finance expects this momentum to continue, reshaping the global classroom with students who are determined, prepared, and ready to lead on the world stage.

Henry Harvin Launches Kazumi: A Premier Japanese Language and Culture School for Global Learners

New Delhi, August 11, 2025 : Henry Harvin, a leading global edtech company known for its industry-aligned upskilling programs, is proud to announce the launch of Kazumi Japanese and Culture School — a specialized institution designed to offer comprehensive training in the Japanese language and culture.

Kazumi stands as a one-of-a-kind learning platform that caters to a wide audience — from complete beginners to advanced speakers, from curious enthusiasts to professionals preparing for work or study opportunities in Japan.

“Kazumi is not just a language school; it’s a bridge to a new world,” said Kounal Gupta Founder & CEO Henry Harvin. “With Japan emerging as a top destination for skilled professionals and cultural exchange, we saw a clear need for a dedicated, end-to-end training solution. Kazumi fills that gap — guiding learners from Hiragana to Keigo, and from grammar drills to etiquette and immersion.”

The curriculum is strategically aligned with internationally recognized Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) standards, offering structured levels from N5 (beginner) to N1 (expert). In addition to language modules, Kazumi also features cultural training that spans traditional customs, business etiquette, food practices, and historical context — ensuring that learners are well-prepared to thrive in real-world Japanese settings.

Whether you’re preparing to relocate to Japan, working with Japanese clients, or simply pursuing a personal passion for anime, cuisine, or heritage, Kazumi Japanese and Culture School aims to be your trusted learning partner.

Key Features of Kazumi:

• Structured JLPT preparation (N5–N1)
• Live instructor-led classes & self-paced modules
• Cultural immersion workshops
• Business Japanese & etiquette courses
• Certification from Henry Harvin upon completion

“Let the journey to Japan begin with Kazumi,” the spokesperson added, highlighting the platform’s vision of making authentic Japanese learning accessible to global audiences.

IIT Guwahati and Get Set Learn Launch AI Quotient Program for K12 Students

IIT Guwahati joins hands with Get Set Learn for its flagship initiative ‘Project Vidhya’; Announces the launch of ‘Artificial Intelligence Quotient’ – An AI Programme for K12 segment

8th August 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, in collaboration with Get Set Learn (GSL), a future-skills-focused learning startup backed by the Arvind Mafatlal Group, has announced the launch of the Artificial Intelligence Quotient (AIQ) – a structured AI education programme designed for K12. Launched under IIT Guwahati’s flagship initiative ‘Project Vidhya’, the programme will enable advance digital and AI literacy through research-backed curriculum design, faculty-led interventions, and outreach to learners across India.

With AICTE declaring 2025 as the ‘Year of AI’ and national initiatives like ‘AI For All’ (via NITI Aayog) and UNESCO’s guidelines on AI in Education, the need for early AI literacy has never been more essential. Keeping this in mind, the Artificial Intelligence Quotient (AIQ) aims to equip students with the foundational understanding, practical skills, and ethical lens needed to engage meaningfully with emerging technologies. The programme introduces learners to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) through a blend of hands-on projects, guided digital learning, and real-world problem-solving.

Talking about the programme, Dr. Gaurav Trivedi, Principal Investigator, Project Vidhya, Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering, IIT Guwahati said, “This is one of the first structured AI programmes in India for middle school students. We have co-developed AIQ to balance academic depth with accessibility. It introduces students to emerging technologies while strengthening creative thinking, problem solving, and ethical awareness. We aim to foster innovation at a very tender age, preparing many Eklavyas for Bharat towards self-reliance and technology independence in the future,” he added.

“India’s education vision, articulated through NEP 2020 and the AICTE’s ‘Year of AI 2025’ initiative, underscores the growing need to integrate AI into our school curriculum,” said Ameet Zaveri, CEO & Co-founder of Get Set Learn. “In collaboration with IIT Guwahati, we have built a rigorous, hands-on programme that reflects both national goals and global best practices. Our aim is to prepare every student, regardless of background, to engage meaningfully with AI and contribute to the future”, he further added.

Setting a New Benchmark in School-Level AI Education

AIQ goes beyond traditional coding programmes through several distinctive features:

• Academic Rigor: Jointly developed with IIT Guwahati, the curriculum reflects research-driven academic excellence and structured progression.
• Holistic AI Literacy: Students in Grades 6–12 explore AI, Robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), along with ethical technology use. No prior coding experience is required.
• Hands-On Learning with A3EI Framework Based on the Absorb, Analyze, Apply, Evaluate, and Innovate (A3EI) model, over 60% of the programme is project-based, enabling students to build real portfolios.
• Real-World Challenges Reviewed by IIT Faculty: Students solve thematic challenges through GSL’s SOLVE IT platform, with expert feedback from IIT Guwahati. Themed technology immersions and workshops such as AI Storytelling and Art of Prompting add real-world relevance.
• Ethics in AI at the Core: A dedicated module introduces age-appropriate discussions on algorithmic bias, data privacy, and responsible tech use.

Curriculum Structure and Rollout
AIQ is structured in three progressive levels:

• Level 1 (Grades 6–8): Introduction to AI through storytelling and real-world problem-solving
• Level 2 (Grades 9–10): Application of GenAI tools, robotics, and design thinking
• Level 3 (Grades 11–12): Advanced topics in machine learning and ethical innovation
Each level features a custom textbook developed by IIT Guwahati and is delivered via workshops, technology immersions, and guided digital learning.

Programme Snapshot

• Eligibility: Students in Grades 6 to 12
• Coding Requirement: None
• Learning Model: 60% practical, 40% theoretical
• Tools: Get Set Learn’s SOLVE IT platform, custom textbooks, live technology immersions
• Certification: Joint certificate by IIT Guwahati and Get Set Learn
• Implementation: Flexible formats (in-school curriculum or hybrid models)
• Capstone: Masterclasses with IIT faculty and real-world project challenges

Preparing Future-Ready Learners

Students will receive a joint certificate from IIT Guwahati and Get Set Learn upon completing the programme, validating their participation and achievements. Masterclasses with IIT faculty and capstone challenges are part of the learning journey. The rollout begins in the 2025–26 academic year, starting with Grade 6 and expanding to other levels and grades each subsequent year.

This marks the first time IIT Guwahati has co-developed a full K–12 programme in artificial intelligence with GSL, which brings deep experience in delivering STEM and future technology programmes across Indian schools.

AIQ is designed to be inclusive. With elements of storytelling, design, art, and ethics integrated into the curriculum, students across disciplines can engage meaningfully with AI. The goal is for students to understand AI, question it, and learn to build responsibly with it. This initiative directly addresses the growing AI skills gap in K-12 education and the lack of future-ready STEM programs. By providing an interdisciplinary, practical tech education, GSL and IIT Guwahati aim to bridge the school-to-industry skills mismatch, aligning with both the National Education Policy (NEP) and global skill demands.

Arena Animation Announces the World Creative Excellence League (WCEL), a global platform for Arena Animation students

Mumbai, August 7th, 2025: Arena Animation, a leader in animation, gaming, digital content creation, and VFX training and a brand of Aptech Limited, proudly announces the launch of the World Creative Excellence League (WCEL), a pioneering global creative competition platform for its students. Designed to encourage and celebrate artistic excellence among students, the inaugural edition of WCEL invites participation from students of Arena Animation from across the world. The competition, aiming to showcase creative talent on a large scale, marks a significant milestone in Arena Animation’s journey as a truly global creative education leader.

Speaking about the new initiative, Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited and Brand Custodian, Arena Animation, said, “The World Creative Excellence League (WCEL) is more than just a competition; it is an outstanding platform that enables young creators to push their limits, gain recognition, and benchmark themselves against global creative standards. This initiative truly reflects Arena Animation’s long-standing commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and world class talent. By connecting students with international exposure and industry leaders, our aim is to build a talent pipeline for the future of the global creative economy.”

Students participating in the WCEL are competing across 12 creative categories showcasing a wide range of skills. The categories range from Comic Design, Brand Identity Design, Motion Graphics, Cinematic Scenes (Unreal Engine), 3D CGI Advertising, to UI/UX Design, Short Story Reel and many more. The top 2 students in each category stand to win from a prize pool of INR 6,00,000. In its first edition, over 5,500 students have registered for the WCEL competition. In addition to individual student recognition, Arena Animation centres will also have the opportunity to earn the prestigious title of “WCEL Centre of Excellence”. The title will be awarded to centres that demonstrate outstanding participation and performance across multiple benchmarks in the competition, which includes highest number of students participants, maximum no. of qualified artwork submissions, the most nominations across categories and top winning entries. It’s a recognition of the passion, mentorship quality and the creative culture nurtured at these top performing Arena centres – setting benchmarks for others to follow.

Participant entries comprise original artworks in their chosen categories highlighting the creative vision, skill, and storytelling abilities of Arena Animation students. All entries are judged by a Grand Jury comprising industry leaders and international experts, ensuring high standards of evaluation and global credibility. This elite panel brings diverse perspectives and ensures that the evaluation is aligned with global standards of creative excellence.

Participating students also benefit from 12 exclusive masterclasses led by experienced mentors, helping them hone their skills conducted by brands such as Adobe, Pantone, and more.

Arena Animation’s existing flagship event, Creative Minds, is also playing a vital role as a qualifying ground for the WCEL. The top artworks from each category at Creative Minds earn a direct spot, handpicked by the jury, into the WCEL. These jury picked entries are in addition to the top artworks from the primary categories, based on the quality of their artwork and skills of the students. These shortlisted students then compete at the international level, where one ultimate winner per category gets crowned.

With the World Creative Excellence League (WCEL), Arena Animation has taken a major step in building a truly international creative education ecosystem. and most importantly, creating a vibrant, competitive, and inspiring global creative community, reinforcing its position as a global creative education leader

Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Entry-Level Jobs and Career Paths

6th August 2025: Cybersecurity offers multiple entry paths for STEM professionals beyond computer science degrees. From security operations center analysts to security engineers, the field needs diverse skills including problem-solving, communication and technical analysis. Certifications and transferable experience from IT, networking or data analysis can lead to lucrative cybersecurity careers.

Cybercrime is booming, and so is the demand for cybersecurity expertise. In 2024 alone, malicious actors stole billions from companies worldwide, while millions of jobs protecting those companies went unfilled.

Part of the problem lies in perceptions and pathways. Many STEM professionals assume cybersecurity requires a computer science degree or elite hacking skills. In reality the field desperately needs analysts, communicators, auditors and problem-solvers from diverse backgrounds.

“Cybersecurity is evolving fast, but education and training haven’t kept up,” said IEEE Senior Member Vaibhav Tupe. “Many job listings demand years of experience, but few entry-level paths exist.”

The good news? There are multiple entry points into cybersecurity, and many technical skills transfer beautifully into security roles. Whether you’re coming from IT support, data analysis, network engineering or even fields like accounting or law, there’s likely a cybersecurity path that matches your background.

The SOC Path

One of the most accessible entry points into cybersecurity lies within security operations centers, or SOCs. These specialized facilities monitor and respond to cyber threats around the clock, offering a natural progression path that’s particularly welcoming to newcomers.

Tier one SOC analysts represent the most common entry-level positions in cybersecurity. These analysts respond to routine security alerts and escalate complex threats to more experienced colleagues. It’s ideal for beginners because companies expect to provide training, and the structured environment offers clear advancement opportunities.

As analysts gain experience, they can progress to tier two roles conducting detailed threat investigations, then to tier three positions focused on identifying security blind spots and fine-tuning monitoring systems. For those with leadership aspirations, SOC managers balance technical oversight with strategic management, handling team leadership and serving as the bridge to executive leadership.

Beyond SOC roles, the cybersecurity field offers numerous other specialized positions:

Information Security Analyst: Information security analysts typically focus on information protection policies, regulatory compliance, risk management and the physical security of organizational facilities.
Junior Penetration Tester: People in this role simulate cybersecurity attacks to identify vulnerabilities. They work under senior penetration testers that often design more comprehensive attacks.

Vulnerability Assessment Experts: Professionals in this role perform research to identify new, previously unknown vulnerabilities. They also manage the response to known vulnerabilities, prioritizing action according to risk.

Security Engineers: Cybersecurity teams use a lot of different software applications. The job of the security engineer is to evaluate that software and to get all of the different applications to work together.
Security Architect: The goal of this job is to plan, research and design a robust security infrastructure within a company. Security architects conduct regular system and vulnerability tests and implement or supervise the implementation of enhancements. They are also in charge of establishing recovery procedures.

Multiple Pathways Into the Field

The entry point into cybersecurity doesn’t have to be a computer science degree. An increasing number of cybersecurity-related degrees are being offered by departments outside of computing and computer science, with business, law and engineering serving as examples of other parent disciplines. At the same time, some companies are looking for key certifications and coursework, rather than a specific degree.

IEEE Senior Member Steven Furnell offered this advice to STEM professionals who are curious about cybersecurity but worried they don’t have the right experience.

“Think about the underlying skills that cybersecurity needs,” Furnell said. “Successive surveys of employers indicate that they value — and often claim to prioritize — transferable skills such as problem solving, collaboration and communication. These skills aren’t exclusive to those studying computer science. Holding any STEM degree or experience shows the ability to study and succeed at that level.”

Certifications also offer a pathway into entry-level positions, said IEEE Senior Member Kevin Curran.

“Often these certifications bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, job ready skills,” Curran said. “Especially for those with transferable tech backgrounds like IT, networking or programming.”

Four Ways to Strengthen Your Medical School Application

6th August 2025: With schools coming to an end, aspiring medical students from India are facing the critical step of preparing for their medical school applications. This process requires lots of planning, dedication, and a strategic approach to stand out in the competitive field of medicine. Prospective students must focus on academic excellence, and develop strong personal statements that reflect their passion for healthcare. With the right preparation, students from India can position themselves for success in their medical school journey, paving the way for a future in medicine that aligns with the region’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.

It’s no secret that admission to medical school can be competitive. You’re likely pretty familiar with the basic requirements such as maintaining a good GPA, achieving a strong ILETS score, and writing a compelling personal statement.

But if you want to push your medical school application beyond the ordinary, you’ll need to learn how to make each element as strong as possible.

St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies had a discussion with Dr. Ryan Gray, founder of Medical School Headquarters, on ways students can strengthen their medical school applications. Dr. Gray has advised countless students who’ve gained acceptance to medical school and here, provides some of his best application tips.

How to make your medical school application stand out

Dr. Gray explains that the best way to build an impressive application is to avoid looking at medical school requirements as a rigid list of boxes you’ll need to check.

The following strategies can make a big impact during the MD program application process:

1. Focus on school first

The road to medical school is long. There are several aspects that make up a completed application, and some of them take a considerable amount of time. One of the most helpful pieces of advice Dr. Gray offers to pre-med students is to pace yourself.

Medical schools seek students capable of handling the program’s rigorous academic demands. While GPA isn’t the sole factor, it remains significant, with 3.5 being the average GPA for regional students accepted into medical students. To improve or maintain your GPA, Dr. Gray advises learning effective time management and study methods early on. Once you have strong grades, you can focus on other application requirements.

2. Demonstrate what you’re passionate about

Realistically, you know you’ll be applying to medical school among a sea of other students who have also obtained strong GPAs, impressive test scores, and have a range of related experiences. In that environment, you can let your unique passions and interests shine through to stand out from the other applicants. Your personal statement can be a great place to highlight the things you’re passionate about and demonstrate your leadership and analytical skills.

Dr. Gray advises students to try to focus more on what they enjoy and that will make the application and interview a little different and create conversation.

Medical schools look for a range of different qualities in promising applicants, from social skills to critical-thinking abilities to cultural competence. Whether you’re interested in music, sports, working with children, supporting community issues, or anything in between, there are numerous ways you can showcase the characteristics they’re seeking.

3. Embrace Imperfection:

There are many unwritten rules pre-med students think they need to abide by, but it’s helpful to maintain some perspective. While schools scrutinize your grades and test scores, that doesn’t mean you need to be perfect. In fact, an increasing number of medical schools have been adopting a holistic review process. If you happen to have a bad semester or a bad year because you’re away from home, you can still make the best out of your medical career and thrive through the challenges.

4. Importance of English Proficiency:

For international applicants, one other key element to consider is the performance on an English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. Your IELTS score can have an impact on your MD program admission because it demonstrates the ability to use English competently – critical for the study and practice of medicine in an international setting.

Prepare for your future as a physician

There’s no denying how challenging it can be to get into medical school. But with this advice on how to make your medical school application stand out, you should feel ready to put your best foot forward.

IRM India Affiliate Licenses Mahindra University to Launch South India’s First Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management

Hyderabad, August 6, 2025 — The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) India Affiliate, the Indian arm of the world’s leading certifying body for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) exams across 140 countries, has announced a strategic collaboration with Mahindra University to establish South India’s first Global Centre for ERM. This significant partnership highlights the increasing demand for structured and internationally benchmarked risk education in the region, particularly amidst today’s volatile and interconnected global environment, as disclosed in a press note issued in the city today.

The Centre was officially launched a couple of days back by Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, in the presence of Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO, IRM India Affiliate, Dr. Shivdasini S Amin, Head- Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management, faculty, and students.

The newly established Centre will act as a dedicated hub for advancing IRM’s globally recognised ERM qualifications, risk-focused research, faculty development, and capacity building. It aims to nurture a new generation of risk-intelligent leaders capable of helping organisations across sectors anticipate and navigate complex challenges across industries.

Designed with a focus on academic excellence and practical engagement, the Centre will feature expansive physical and digital infrastructure to support continuous learning. It will house a curated collection of over 150 books and publications spanning risk management, strategy, governance, and leadership. An integrated online knowledge resource centre developed by IRM India will provide access to case studies, global risk reports, and white papers. To foster professional connections and peer learning, the Centre will include a networking arena for students, executives, and faculty to engage with visiting experts and industry leaders. As a tribute to global thought leadership, a Hall of Fame will celebrate notable risk influencers from around the world. Additionally, the Centre will feature a comprehensive risk taxonomy that provides structured classifications and definitions of over 300 types of enterprise risks, supporting academic, research, and industry applications.

Through this collaboration, Mahindra University, with the support of IRM India, will train students, professionals, and senior executives in ERM competencies aligned with IRM’s Global Level 1 curriculum. The Centre will also function as a regional think tank, driving research on emerging risk areas such as cyber threats, ESG exposures, climate change, geopolitical instability, and supply chain resilience. Faculty development programmes, policy advocacy, and sector-specific thought leadership will amplify the Centre’s impact across academia and industry.

Speaking at the launch of the Centre, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, Mahindra University, said, “At Mahindra University, we believe that future-readiness is the cornerstone of education. Our partnership with the Institute of Risk Management – India Affiliate is more than an academic collaboration — it is a statement of intent to nurture leaders who can navigate uncertainty with insight, resilience, and integrity. The IRM India Affiliate Centre at MU will serve as a crucible for research, learning, and thought leadership in risk management—an area that is no longer optional, but essential for sustainable progress.”

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mahindra University, added, “The launch of the IRM India Affiliate Centre at Mahindra University is a forward-looking initiative that reinforces our interdisciplinary approach to education. This partnership aligns with our long-term vision of promoting academic excellence, industry-relevant skills, and internationalisation under the National Education Policy 2020. By embedding risk management into the core of academic inquiry and practice, we are equipping our students to become strategic thinkers and responsible decision-makers. We are proud to collaborate with IRM India Affiliate in creating a new generation of professionals who will shape resilient organisations and societies.

Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO of IRM India Affiliate and India’s Youngest Enterprise Risk Expert, stated, “Our collaboration with Mahindra University marks a pivotal step in democratising access to high-quality risk management education in India. South India is home to dynamic industries such as information technology, manufacturing, infrastructure, finance, defence, and logistics—sectors that face an increasingly complex risk landscape. The establishment of this Centre reflects a shared commitment to developing risk-intelligent individuals and organisations — a vital step toward building a resilient world. May every individual who walks these halls be inspired to lead with foresight, responsibility, and purpose.”

Mahindra University has already demonstrated a strong track record in preparing students for IRM’s global ERM exams since 2021. The launch of the Global Centre for ERM further elevates its role as a regional anchor for risk education and leadership. The Centre will collaborate closely with industry bodies, regulators, and corporate partners to ensure academic offerings remain contextually relevant and aligned with real-world needs. It will also provide a range of programmes in collaboration with IRM India to enhance governance and strategic risk capabilities across the public and private sectors. This partnership represents a significant contribution to India’s broader vision of building a resilient, risk-ready nation powered by risk-intelligent leadership and international collaboration.