Category Archives: Education

Padma Shri Hans Raj Hans joins Guru Kashi University as Chairman of Sufi and Folk Music Heritage Chair

Chandigarh, May 1, 2025 : Chandigarh: In a step towards preserving Punjab’s musical traditions, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, has announced the establishment of the Sufi and Folk Music Heritage Chair under its Faculty of Visual and Performing Arts. The university formally welcomed celebrated singer Padma Shri Hans Raj Hans as Chairman of the Chair during a press conference held today at the Press Club in Chandigarh.

The Chair aims to promote Punjab’s rich legacy of Sufi and folk music through research, education, documentation, and public engagement. Alongside Hans Raj Hans, Prof. Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, Dean of the Faculty, has been appointed Executive Director, while Dr. Aman Sufi will serve as Project Coordinator.

Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, Vice Chancellor of Guru Kashi University, said:

“We are proud to establish this Chair, which will act as a bridge between our cultural past and future. It will help preserve invaluable musical traditions and provide academic depth to the study and practice of Sufi and folk music.”

Dr. Singh also introduced an Advisory Board comprising eminent personalities from around the world, who will guide the Chair’s work:

– Chief Patron: Sardar Gurlabh Singh Sidhu, Chancellor, Guru Kashi University
– Puran Shah Koti, respected Sufi Guru and mentor to Hans Raj Hans
– Sardar Charanjit Singh Batth, USA
– Dr. Dalbir Singh Kathuria, Canada
– Preet Inder Dhillon, UK
– Prof. D.N. Jauhar, former Vice Chancellor, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra
– Prof. Dr. Jaspal Kaur Kaang, former Chairperson, Guru Nanak Sikh Studies, Panjab University
– Prof. Dr. Hukum Chand, former Dean, Faculty of Music, MDU Rohtak
– Prof. Dr. Neelam Paul, former Chairperson, Department of Music, Panjab University

In his address, Padma Shri Hans Raj Hans expressed his gratitude and said:

“I’ve spent my life singing the verses of Sufi saints and the songs of Punjab’s soil. This Chair is a way for me to give back—to document, preserve, and pass on this treasure to future generations through the academic world.”

Prof. Dr. Gurpreet Kaur outlined the Chair’s planned activities, which include workshops, documentation of oral traditions, collaborations with international institutions, and national-level cultural festivals to engage students and the wider public.

Mrs. Usha Singh, the Lady Vice Chancellor of Guru Kashi University, also joined the event and congratulated Padma Shri Hans Raj Hans on his appointment and expressed her appreciation for his lifelong contribution to Punjabi music and cultural heritage.

Those present at the event included Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, Er. Sukhwinder Singh Sidhu (General Secretary, Balaji Education Trust), Dr. Dalbir Singh Kathuria, Prof. D.N. Jauhar (former Vice Chancellor, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra), and Prof. Dr. Neelam Paul from Panjab University, Chandigarh.

Prof. Dr. Neelam Paul and other advisory members also shared their congratulations virtually, praising the university’s efforts and the leadership behind the Chair.

Er. Sukhwinder Singh Sidhu delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of the university team, faculty, and all dignitaries for supporting this cultural milestone. The press conference concluded with a networking lunch for the media and guests.

Finland International School–Race Course Marks One Year with Inaugural Ilo Utsav Annual Concert

Mumbai, April 29, 2025 – Finland International School (FIS) Race Course marked a glorious year of its founding by hosting its inaugural annual concert, Ilo Utsav: Oni’s Great Journey. The event was a true celebration of joy, creativity and learning, and was held at the Sophia Bhabha Auditorium. The exuberance of the evening was witnessed by esteemed dignitaries including Erik af Hällström – Consul General and Head of Mission, Finland; Eva Nilsson – Deputy Head of Mission, Finland;  Tibor Kovacs – Trade Attaché, Hungary;  and Toshihiro Kaneko – Chief Consul, Japan. 

Since its inception, FIS has been making waves for its holistic ethos, inclusive environment, and emphasis on creating lifelong learners. The FIS Board comprises key visionaries including Shashank Goenka – Managing Director of FIS–Race Course, Nikke Keskinen – Founding Principle of FIS, and Fatema Agarkar – a renowned educationist and mentor,  who is also the wife of a former ace cricketer. 

Commenting on this momentous milestone, Fatema Agarkar said, “Thanks to Shashank’s vision, Mumbai has a beautiful legacy created in the form of Finland International School–Race Course, through the adoption of Finnish pedagogy.”

“We envisioned and began working on this school in 2017. It is a proud moment for us to see our dream come to life, and to create these exciting opportunities for the community in Mumbai,” added Shashank Goenka.

The evening’s vibrant and heartwarming narrative titled Ilo Utsav: Oni’s Great Journey, found resonance in the beautiful expressions of music, dance and drama showcased by the school’s students. Their performances embodied the school’s values of expression, collaboration, and life skills. The event included a sombre tribute to the lives lost to the recent tragedy in Kashmir, demonstrating the core principles of community and empathy. The glittering event was entirely conceptualised, planned and executed by the dedicated team at FIS–Race Course. 

The presence of eminent international dignitaries lent a special significance to the evening, reinforcing the global ethos that FIS represents. Their appreciation for the performances reflected the school’s commitment to nurturing global citizens with strong roots in creativity.

With Ilo Utsav, FIS Race Course has set a remarkable precedent, weaving cultural richness and educational depth into a memorable showcase of talent, while also fostering a truly global and yet deeply local community of young achievers. 

Ryan International Academy Students Explore Pune’s Natural Heritage at Vetal Tekdi

29 April 2025, Pune – In a commendable initiative to instill environmental awareness and appreciation for local heritage, students of Grades 6, 7, and 8 from Ryan International Academy-CBSE, Bavdhan visited Vetal Tekdi in Pashan, Pune.

The educational visit aimed to introduce students to the Miyawaki forest technique, highlight the importance of wetland ecosystems, and provide insight into the migratory birds that frequent the area. As part of the experience, students also actively participated in watering plants, fostering a hands-on understanding of ecological responsibility.

This enriching experience was made possible with the support of a group of like-minded citizens working tirelessly to preserve Vetal Tekdi, a vital part of Pune’s natural landscape. The students were guided through various ecological zones, observed several species of birds, and engaged in interactive discussions about Pune’s natural and cultural heritage.

The visit emphasized that today’s children are tomorrow’s conservationists—the flag bearers of our heritage. They were inspired to take responsibility for conserving nature and passing it on to future generations.

Ryan International Academy continues to uphold its commitment to holistic education by integrating environmental learning with real-world experiences that nurture responsible, conscious citizens.

C.K. College Secures 10-Year UGC Autonomy, Unveils Industry Tie-Ups and Future-Ready Courses

Tamil Nadu, India | 29 April 2025: In a significant milestone, CavinKare patronized academic institution C.K. College of Engineering and Technology (CKCET) has been awarded Autonomous Status by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for 10 years from 2025 to 2035, marking a leap forward in its journey to redefine engineering education. Located in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, CKCET’s autonomy empowers the institution to independently design curriculum, introduce industry-aligned courses, emerging technology modules, and implement flexible real-world pedagogy through initiatives that empower students to take ownership of their learning journey.

Celebrating this milestone, CKCET also announced upcoming collaborations with over 15 leading industry partners to provide students with real-world, hands-on learning experiences. In addition to this, the college is also set to launch a blended program with specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI), preparing students for the evolving global job market. The conferment of autonomy was based on CKCET’s outstanding academic governance, consistent student success, and commitment to educational excellence.

Commenting on the occasion, Ms. Amudhavalli Ranganathan, Executive Director, CK Group of Educational Institutions, and Director, New Initiatives & E-Commerce, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd., said “This achievement is a proud moment for CKCET. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our principal and the dedicated faculty team whose relentless commitment has brought us to this milestone. Our journey to autonomy reflects years of focused effort, innovation, and student-centric growth. With this momentum, we believe CKCET will not only continue to excel but also transform Cuddalore into a thriving educational hub, fostering talent and innovation for the future.”

Building on its new autonomy, CKCET continues to offer a wide range of innovative and future-focused programs. As the No.1 Engineering College in Cuddalore District, the institution is recognized for its consistent academic results, high placement records, and emphasis on holistic student development. CKCET students have showcased innovation at national platforms such as Smart India Hackathon (SIH) and Road Safety Hackathon, with several venturing into entrepreneurship through on-campus incubation centers, developing prototypes, and filing patents. Faculty members actively contribute to the research ecosystem through publications, funded projects, and industry collaborations, further strengthening CKCET’s academic leadership. Signature initiatives like Invest in Yourself (IIY), Win@Life, CK Hackathon, and Life-Oriented Classes continue to empower students with technical prowess and life skills.

Leeds University to Guarantee Industry Experience for Masters’ Students from 2025

India, April 29^th, 2025: The University of Leeds is raising the bar in postgraduate education with the launch of a guaranteed industry consulting project for every taught postgraduate (Masters) student enrolling from the 2025/26 academic year. This exclusive opportunity is designed to equip students—including those from India—with real-world, global experience and the professional skills employers value most.

Building on successful pilot programmes involving over 400 students, the Leeds Global Industry Programme (GIP) ensures that each student will work in a small, diverse teams to tackle genuine industry challenges presented by UK or international organisations. These projects are delivered virtually, allowing students to collaborate across borders while solving real-world problems in areas such as business strategy, technology innovation, sustainability and social impact.

Talking about the University of Leeds GIP, Greg Miller, Deputy Director of Student Opportunity, University of Leeds said, “This is a game-changing initiative for students preparing for global careers. We’ve designed this programme to offer every student—regardless of subject studied, background or prior experience—the opportunity to work on high-impact, real-world projects that strengthen their CV and professional direction.”

Focussing on the impact of the programme on Indian students, in particular, “Indian students bring strong analytical and collaborative skills—this programme enhances their employability and professional confidence before they graduate.” added Greg.

The programme is open to students from all subject areas and is designed to fit around their studies. Participants will receive a live company brief, conduct research and analysis, and develop solutions before presenting their findings in a professional consultancy report. The experience is supported by dedicated staff, culminating in a certificate and digital badge to strengthen students’ professional portfolios.

As per the finding from the pilot programme, the impact is clear – 91% of students report greater confidence in their ability to contribute to future employers, 87% say they have increased career clarity and awareness, 89% note development of key skills including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, and 91% gain practical, relevant work experience.

Industry partners also find the projects valuable and rated 93% of student final reports being of high and outstanding quality.

“Fantastic, the platform and framework surrounding the programme is absolutely awesome. There is a real feel for the client/consultant relationship here. It also allows students to appreciate working with professionals and understanding the nuances of the professional world.” said one of the employers.

This initiative complements the University of Leeds’ comprehensive employability and careers support, which includes internships and paid work, leadership programmes, start-up and enterprise guidance, mentoring, careers fairs and employer events throughout the year as well as becoming part of a global network of over 312,000 alumni across 197 countries.

With a strong Indian student community and a growing focus on global, virtual opportunities, the University of Leeds remains a top destination for ambitious students looking to build international careers.

ITM Secures 200 Companies for Exceptional Internship Placements

New Delhi, April 28 2025 – ITM is thrilled to share that its internship placement drive turned out to be a huge success. The event witnessed the participation of 200 top companies that offered students different kinds of internships in various fields of study.

Time and again, ITM Business School has kept indicating its steadfast pledge to the gap-filling exercise of academia and industry. As a result, students can secure internship placements with relative ease. This time around, the institute not only went on to break its record but also marked a significant milestone by providing a more direct route to industry for 92% of the students, and the remaining 12% got internships in various fields through their initiatives.

The growth in the number of options available this year is a clear indication of a decisive change in the trends for hiring, which is influenced not only by the companies in sectors such as Manufacturing (17%), Real Estate (16%), NBFC (13%), Retail (11%), ITES (10%) but also by the skill set of ITM’s student talent pool who are being increasingly recognized and valued. The highest point of the internship season was one of the most competitive recruiters who very generously offered a record monthly stipend of ₹40,000, making an indelible new milestone in the program history of the institute.

Furthermore, the students were entrusted with the responsibilities of Marketing, Finance, Operations, Analytics, and General Management, and this hands-on experience not only allowed them to develop their skills but also laid the groundwork for their future careers. Some of the prestigious organizations participating included Deloitte, PWC, PepsiCo, Nomura, Ernst & Young, ICICI Bank, Aditya Birla Group, JSW, Zomato, Tata Communications, and UltraTech Cement. 

“At ITM, we believe in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. These internship opportunities are more than just industry exposure; they are stepping stones toward impactful careers,” said Dr. Lakshmi Mohan, Pro Vice Chancellor, ITM Business School. “We’re incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our industry partners for their continued trust and collaboration.”

With these Internship placements, ITM reaffirms its role as a premier institution dedicated to nurturing industry-ready professionals. The Institute continues strengthening its corporate collaborations and career support systems to help students thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Toyota Camdir and Arunachal Government Launch 68th TTEP at ITI Roing

Roing, 25 April 2025: Continuing its commitment to the nation’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in collaboration with the Skill Development & Entrepreneurship department instituted its 68^th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) and the “Scholarship program for Technical Education and Recognition” [STAR] initiative under T-TEP at Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Roing, Arunachal Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri. Nyato Dukam launched the T-TEP by inaugurating the state-of-the-art automotive training facility and launching the scholarship program today. The initiative aims to equip students, particularly from rural and under-served communities – with job-ready technical skills in the automotive domain. Commissioner Skill Development, Shri. Saugat Biswas; Smti. Soumya Saurabh – Deputy Commissioner, Lower Dibang Valley, Shri. Sibo Passing – Director, SDE, Shri. Ringu Ngupok – Superintendent of Police, Roing, Shri R C Dutta – Principal Government ITI Roing, Country Head and Executive Vice President Shri. Vikram Gulati, Toyota Kirloskar Motor were present on the occasion.

T-TEP is a comprehensive, year-long training program tailored for final-year ITI and diploma students, combining in-depth classroom learning with On-the-Job Training (OJT) at Toyota dealerships. This dual approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the latest in automotive service technologies. At ITI Roing, the program will focus on the General Technician Category, specifically catering to students in the Mechanic Motor Vehicle (MMV) and Diesel Mechanic trades.

Complementing this initiative is the STAR Scholarship Program, under T-TEP, introduced by TKM to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing technical education. Eligible students can receive scholarships of up to ₹51,000 per year, covering hostel fees, educational expenses, and family support—allowing them to focus on their learning without financial burden.

Established in 1971, Government ITI Roing is the oldest technical institute in Arunachal Pradesh operated under the Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The partnership with TKM marks a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a hub of high-quality vocational training in the region.

Camdir Toyota, a key partner in this endeavour, shares equal ownership in the T-TEP Roing initiative and is also contributing to the STAR Scholarship Program, reinforcing its commitment to community development and youth empowerment in the region.

Nationally, T-TEP has trained over 13,000 students, with more than 70% successfully placed across the automotive sector. T-TEP Roing’s workshop has been structurally remodelled, along with training aids from conventional engine, automobile components and multiple simulators which includes Toyota’s latest Hybrid technology. The newly inaugurated facility features a fully equipped workshop, modern classrooms, and trained faculty. The first batch includes 20 students, guided by two instructors, with three students selected as STAR Scholars based on academic performance and potential.

Hon’ble Minister Shri. Nyato Dukam on the occasion expressed his appreciation to the department for having partnered with Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Camdir Toyota and bringing the T-TEP Activity to Arunachal Pradesh. “This program brings global standards of training, industry exposure, and career opportunities closer to our students—many of whom come from remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh. The STAR Scholarship program, introduced under T-TEP, further strengthens this support by easing the financial burden on deserving students and enabling them to focus entirely on their learning journey. We believe this initiative will serve as a model for industry-academia partnerships and inspire many more such efforts to uplift skill education across the region. We are thankful to Toyota for their vision and commitment to empowering the youth of the North-East” he added.

While appreciating the speed of execution of the Project by Toyota and Camdir Toyota, Commissioner, Skill Development Shri. Saugat Biswas also highlighted the future plans of the department to expand the program to other ITIs. Biswas further informed that the department is collaborating with various top of the line companies in addition to Toyota such as Tata, L&T, Honda, NHPC to bring in collaboration in skilling and technology partnership for enhancing sustainable employment from Arunachal Pradesh. “We will also send the Principals of the ITIs and senior faculty members of ITIs to Toyota Plant in Bangalore soon for capacity building & exposure” he added.  

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs and Governance – Toyota Kirloskar Motor said “Toyota Kirloskar Motor has long recognised that true progress lies in inclusive growth—where every region, every community, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The launch of the T-TEP facility at ITI Roing marks another meaningful step in that direction. This initiative is not just about automotive skills; it’s about building aspirations, enabling self-reliance, and preparing young minds for a future shaped by innovation and mobility. Through such efforts, we hope to create a lasting impact—one where industry-academia partnerships serve as a foundation for empowering youth, uplifting local economies, and strengthening the skilled workforce that will drive India’s future.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Teli Tada, Dealership Principal of Camdir Toyota said “At Camdir Toyota, we have always believed in the power of education and opportunity to transform communities. The North-East region, and Arunachal Pradesh in particular, is brimming with young talent that often lacks access to industry-relevant training.

Through this initiative, we aim to bridge that gap by nurturing practical skills and opening pathways for meaningful employment. We remain deeply committed to supporting this mission, both through infrastructure and scholarship support, and ensuring the success of every student who walks through the doors of this facility.”

TKM has consistently championed skill development through initiatives like the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) and T-TEP. These programs are designed to bridge the industry-academia gap by delivering practical, future-ready training to young talent, especially from underserved regions. Theses initiative reflects TKM’s ongoing efforts to contribute to the Government of India’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions and create a robust, future-ready workforce across the nation.

Guru Kashi University extends support to families affected by Pahalgam terror attack; announces free education for orphaned children

Delhi, 25 April 2025

Guru Kashi University (GKU), deeply moved by the recent tragedy in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has strongly condemned the heinous terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. In a compassionate and resolute response, the university has announced free education at GKU for children orphaned in the attack.

The announcement, made by Chancellor S. Gurlabh Singh Sidhu, aims to provide long-term educational support to the affected families and ensure that the children’s future is not derailed by this tragedy. In his statement, Chancellor Sidhu said:

“The loss of innocent lives in Pahalgam is not just a tragedy for Kashmir—it is a wound felt across the entire nation. As an institution dedicated to the values of service and learning, we at Guru Kashi University will stand by these children. Their education will be our responsibility. We are committed to ensuring they are not left behind in their hour of greatest need.”

Chancellor Sidhu also expressed the university’s firm support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India in their stance against terrorism:

“We unequivocally condemn this brutal act of terror perpetrated by men driven by hatred and fear. But they will never succeed in dividing our society. As educators and citizens, we must answer with unity, not division; with compassion, not hatred. Guru Kashi University fully supports the Indian government’s stand against terrorism and its efforts to ensure justice and restore peace in Kashmir.”

GKU also extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected and stands with the people of Kashmir during this painful time. The university recognizes the enduring strength and warmth of the Kashmiri community and rejects the attempts of violent forces to disturb the peace and unity of the region.

Guru Kashi University remains steadfast in its commitment to nation-building, community support, and education as a tool for healing and empowerment. The university calls upon educational institutions and civil society to join hands in supporting those affected and oppose forces that seek to divide