22, Feb 2024
Call for Papers and Performances: International Performing Arts Conference at World University of Design
Mumbai / DELHI-NCR/February 22, 2024: World University of Design invites submissions of papers and performances for its upcoming International Performing Arts Conference aimed at fostering thought-provoking discussions, academic presentations, and artistic expressions contributing to the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity within the Indian Knowledge System. The papers and the performances will be presented on the 9th and 10th of May at the Triveni Auditorium in Delhi, the event seeks to affirm the significance of academic endeavors in the realm of performing arts.
Under the banner of its first conference ANVESHA, the university endeavors to facilitate collaborations between artists and technologists. This initiative aims to push the boundaries of creativity while preserving the essence of cultural heritage. ANVESHA is poised to serve as a platform for discussion and idea exchange, facilitating networking opportunities among researchers, artists, technologists, choreographers, and enthusiasts, both nationally and internationally. The conference will also serve to inspire young scholars and students in the field.
The conference framework emphasizes the integration of dance and/or performing arts within various creative disciplines of design, including architecture, technology, visual arts, and fashion, as well as aspects of political and social activism, heritage creation and preservation, and international geopolitics.
In the long run, the organizers seek to contribute to the ongoing discourse on tradition and modernity within the Indian Knowledge System, propel dance into the future, and promote academic research on various facets of Indian classical dance. Accepted papers will be published in an ISBN book of proceedings, and individual E-Certificates will be awarded to registered authors.
Prof.(Dr.)Parul Purohit Vats (Dean, School of Performing Arts, WUD) remarked, “In today’s world, performing arts education is a beacon of creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation. Conferences like ANVESHANA blend tradition with innovation, showing how our heritage inspires modern expression. We aim to spark youth interest, showcasing diverse career paths in this dynamic field.”
The inaugural edition of the conference is organized by the Performing Arts department of the World University of Design under the guidance of an academic expert committee comprising heads of various international institutions and esteemed academicians from institutions such as the India International Performing Arts Centre Singapore, Pagrav Dance Company UK, Shoebox Arts Productions Inc. Calgary, Canada, and Center Mandapa, Paris, among others, indicating a high level of international involvement and collaboration.
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- By Rabindra
21, Feb 2024
Amrita AHEAD: Admissions Open for UG and PG Courses
New Delhi/Mumbai, 21 February 2024: Amrita AHEAD, the Online Program division of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, is pleased to announce the commencement of admissions for its undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Prospective students can now apply through the official website www.onlineamrita.com. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is ranked among the top 10 universities in India according to NIRF 2023.
Fueled by demand from across India and over 45 countries, Amrita AHEAD’s online courses are experiencing rapid growth, offering diverse educational opportunities to a global audience. Considering the demand and the limited number of seats available, early completion of application formalities is highly recommended to secure a spot. To qualify for the 10% merit scholarship, students must have scored above 60% in their qualifying exam. Accepted applicants receive early access to the Learning Management System, allowing them to begin their studies before the official program start date.
Admissions are open for the following Online courses:
Online Master of Business Administration (Online MBA) with electives in Marketing, Operations, Finance, HR, and General Management.
Online Master of Computer Applications with electives in AI and Cybersecurity.
Online Master of Commerce.
Online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Online Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA), Online Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM).
Amrita AHEAD Admissions: How to Register Online:
To apply for admission, follow these simple steps:
Visit www.onlineamrita.com
Browse program offerings and eligibility criteria.
Fill the application form and upload the required documents.
Apply online.
Instructions for Registration:
Provide accurate email ID and mobile number.
Carefully select courses after reviewing program details.
Exercise caution while making fee payments.
Avoid waiting until the last submission date.
Payment options include credit card, debit card, or net banking.
21, Feb 2024
Bhumi’s STEM FEST 2023-24 Concludes with Resounding Success
Chennai, 21 February 2024– Bhumi’s annual STEM Fest, held on 17th February 2024 at the Patrician College of Arts & Science, Adyar, Chennai, celebrated a remarkable convergence of innovation, education, and collaboration. The event, which aimed to promote and celebrate the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), successfully inspired and educated students aged 10-18 about the exciting possibilities within STEM disciplines, fostering a deep passion for innovation and discovery.
The festival featured thought-provoking displays and interactive demonstrations by students, designed to make STEM concepts accessible to a diverse audience. It provided a dynamic and inclusive platform for students to celebrate the wonders of science and technology, inspiring innovation and cultivating a lifelong passion for learning within the STEM fields.
Vaishnavi Srinivasan, Executive Director, shared her thoughts and said, “At Bhumi, we are thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and creativity displayed by the children participating in STEM FEST 2023-24. Their innovative projects and passionate engagement underscore the potential within each young mind to drive positive change and progress in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This event reaffirms our commitment to nurturing a generation of thinkers, innovators, and problem-solvers who will undoubtedly shape the future of STEM.”
Bhumi’s School Transformation Program, operating in 4 states and covering 55,000 students in 100+ schools, witnessed the fervent participation of around 850 students from 32 Government and Government-aided schools in Chennai. Pre-events conducted in schools showcased the talents of 1700 students in various competitions, including STEM real-life application models, innovations, science out of waste, STEM rangoli, drawing, and quiz.
In addition to focusing on STEM and innovations, the event emphasized environmental learning, career counseling, and menstrual hygiene awareness in various stalls, embodying a holistic approach to education and development.
The highlight of the STEM FEST was the interschool-level competition, which provided a valuable platform for school-level winners to compete and showcase their skills and knowledge.
Renowned nuclear scientists Dr. J. Daniel Chellappa and Dr. Srimathy Kesvan, Founder & CEO of Space Kidz India, graced the event as Chief Guests, inspiring and motivating the students with their presence and insights.
Bhumi’s STEM FEST 2023-24 was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the students and fostering a community dedicated to pursuing knowledge and innovation within the STEM fields.
21, Feb 2024
Subhash Ghai and Manoj Tiwari join hands for progressive education in film, media, and creative arts
Tata Institute of Social Sciences a Deemed University and India’s leading Brand in Social Sciences Education and Whistling Woods International, India’s leading Brand in Film and Media Education and located in Film City Mumbai, renewed their long-standing association to bring value education to students pursuing graduate and post graduate courses in Film Making, Media and Communication and related Creative Arts. A Memorandum of Agreement was signed between TISS and WWI on 19th February 2024 to take their association further.
Both parties working within the NEP and UGC framework are fully committed to achieve the objectives of meaningful storytelling rooted in Indian culture using State of the Art technology and developing a talent pool that communicates with audiences in India and overseas.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Manoj Tiwari, Vice Chancellor TISS said,
”I am impressed by the wonderful infrastructure at Whistling Woods International with State-of-Art Technologies and the leadership of Subhash Ghai who promotes the concept of Vidyadaan. Knowledge should lead to Wisdom and Wisdom should lead to Empathy and bonding among people. I am confident that our association will add value to Research and Education in a rapidly growing field and I am sure that we will see stories of our land and people, reaching the masses to catalyse social transformation we seek”.Speaking on the occasion Shri Subhash Ghai, Chairman WWI stated,
“I am delighted that our strong association with TISS has been renewed. Our growing networking with the Tech companies and industry networking clubbed with our wonderful teachers most of whom are industry professionals will help impart skill sets to students preparing them for the rapidly changing content creation and Management space. AR, VR, Metaverse and AI have thrown open new opportunities and with SORA showing us what lies ahead in production technologies we need good academic and research associations. We are working both with the State and Central Government on Media and Entertainment Skill development and the association with TISS will only ensure growth and quality benefitting students. The National Education policy and the approval of the AVGC report by the Cabinet can help make India a hub for content creation and we hope that our association will provide the leadership to achieve this goal”.
Present on the occasion were also Prof. Shankar Das, Pro VC of TISS; Madushree Sekar, Dean TISS-SVE; Naraendra Mishra, Registrar TISS, Ravi Gupta, Dean WWI; Meghna Ghai-Puri, President WWI; Rahul Puri, Director Academics WWI and Chaitanya Chinchalikar, CTO and VP Business Development WWI.
19, Feb 2024
Aditya School of Business Management Appoints New Director Dr A.S. Suresh Iyer
Mumbai, 19th February 2024: The Aditya School of Business Management is pleased to announce that Dr. A.S. Suresh Iyer has been appointed as its new director. Together with his 12 years of teaching experience, Dr. Iyer brings with him over 24 years of industrial expertise. Dr. Iyer is well-positioned to take the organization to new heights of success thanks to his extensive background in both academia and administration.
In his new role as Director at the Aditya School of Business Management, Dr. Iyer will play a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s academic direction and fostering a collaborative culture of innovation and excellence. With his prior experience in curriculum development, faculty and student mentorship, and strategic planning, he is committed to nurturing new talent and equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive business environment.
Dr. Harishchandra Mishra, Chairman of Aditya Group of Institutions said, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. A.S Suresh Iyer to the leadership team at Aditya School of Business Management. His exceptional track record and prior knowledge will be integral in establishing our institution as visionary leaders in the education sector, and will steer us towards greater achievements and delivering the best possible education to our students.”
Dr. Iyer quote expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity by stating, “I am honored to be joining the leadership team at Aditya School of Business Management. ASBM is already doing yeoman service under the visionary founder honorable Dr Harishchandra Mishra and the able hands of next-generation Shri. Ashish Mishra in the realm of higher education. I look forward to contributing my skills and knowledge to take ASBM to greater heights in the years to come.”
Dr. Iyer’s passion lies in mentoring the students of the next generation to become industry-ready in this VUCA and BANI world, through teaching and research. He has established his position as an industry leader through his 35 published research papers in the realm of retail, distribution, consumer behavior, and branding. Eight of these papers are now being incorporated as part of the curriculum of various courses in the marketing specialization. He has also mentored over 100 Master’s students in their theses, which have culminated in a few publications.
19, Feb 2024
KL Deemed to be University Signs MoU with INGV, Italy, for Scientific and Educational Cooperation
Hyderabad, February 19th 2024:– KL Deemed to be University, Vijayawada, India, has formalized a MoU with the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy. The understanding establishes a framework for scientific and educational cooperation with a focus on Ionospheric Physics and Space Weather. The MoU was signed with the aim of creating a closer alliance between the University and INGV, facilitating joint scientific and technological activities.
The INGV is renowned as one of the largest European research institutions specializing in Earth Sciences, conducting cutting-edge research in geophysics, geochemistry, seismology, volcanology, and space meteorology. This collaboration is seen as a shared commitment of both institutions to advancing scientific knowledge in these critical fields.
Dr. G. Pardha Saradhi Varma, Vice Chancellor, KL Deemed to be University stated, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of advancing scientific knowledge in the areas of ionospheric physics and space weather. The GISTM equipment, now part of the eSWua portal, will enable us to contribute to global efforts in understanding and monitoring the complexities of the ionosphere. Our joint efforts will endeavor addressing the challenges posed by space weather and its impact on communication and navigation systems. We aspire to contribute valuable insights to the scientific community and promote collaborative research on a global scale.”
Dr. Emanuele Pica from INGV and Dr. Sampad Kumar Panda from KL Deemed to be University led the respective teams, overseeing the implementation of collaborative projects and initiatives arising from this partnership. As part of this collaboration, a state-of-the-art Multi-frequency, Multi-constellation GNSS Ionospheric Scintillation and TEC monitor (GISTM) equipment, established at KL Deemed to be University under a Government of India sponsored research project. This equipment is poised to contribute as a host participant in the “electronic Space Weather upper atmosphere (eSWua)” portal initiated by INGV. The portal serves as a global platform for studying and monitoring ionospheric irregularities in collaboration with other international institutions worldwide.
19, Feb 2024
Career Counseling Sessions by NIU Empower Students in Muzaffarpur
Noida International University- Noida International University is established by U.P. LEGISLATURE ACT NO. 27 OF 2010 and under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956—a World Class University sponsored by the Maruti Educational Trust. The lush green campus of 75 acres with its uniquely designed architecture stands out as an infrastructure. The campus is strategically located near the Yamuna Expressway educational hub in Gautam Budh Nagar, Greater Noida. The University through its 12 schools is offering various multi-disciplinary programs in varied streams of Engineering, Management, Law, Medical, and Social Sciences. The students from more than 54 Nations place faith in the educational curriculum of the University. The Petals leading toward a star are an embodiment of the University’s cherished mission to provide education beyond the boundaries and to felicitate the students and faculty to achieve pinnacles of success throughout the world.
NIU also has a 350+ bedded Hospital and a Medical College named Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences (NIIMS). NIIMS is a Centre of Excellence that endeavors to develop a unique pedagogy for medical education. NIIMS’s greater focus lies on the pragmatic approach to learning that lets a student explore the deeper nuances of medical education.
19, Feb 2024
L&T Technology Services and The National Institute of Engineering’s illuminate 2.0 Highlights New Frontiers of Technology
Mysuru/Bangalore, February 19, 2024: illuminate 2.0, an initiative by L&T Technology Services Limited (BSE: 540115, NSE: LTTS), and The National Institute of Engineering (NIE) in Mysuru, brought together industry leaders and innovators to share invaluable insights and perspectives in the vibrant city of Mysuru. Distinguished speakers Shri Ramesh KS, Senior Vice President of Ather Energy, and Thiyagarajan. A, Project Specialist – Statue of Unity, L&T Construction, inspired the audience with their diverse and deep experiences from the world of technology, innovation, and engineering excellence.
The event featured immersive and interactive sessions that explored the latest frontiers of technological advancements across industries and domains. Ramesh KS highlighted the growing impact and sustainability benefits of electric vehicles, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize the global mobility industry. Thiagarajan A shared the story behind the design and construction of the world’s tallest statue – The Statue of Unity, shedding light on the transformative technologies and initiatives adopted during its in-record-time construction.
The audience, comprising scientists, engineers, industry leaders, government dignitaries, academia, students, and members of the media, was deeply engrossed in the compelling narratives that unveiled the extraordinary stories behind today’s monumental creations. In a subsequent fireside chat, moderated by Rajeev Gupta, CFO of L&T Technology Services Limited, the speakers further delved into the role of engineering in designing, developing, and optimizing processes for significant growth without compromising performance, quality, or reliability. Their message to the youth and the Engineers at Heart was clear – follow your passion for achieving new heights.
Abhishek Sinha, Chief Operating Officer and Board Member at L&T Technology Services commented on the occasion, “Through illuminate, our flagship industry-academia interface initiative, LTTS aspires to fulfill its commitment toward promoting unmatched excellence and a spirit of innovation among young engineers, aspiring technologists, and the public. The first-hand experiences, connections, and insights into the groundbreaking developments – from electric vehicles to construction engineering – in the vibrant city of Mysuru, reaffirm our belief that sustainable growth paradigms can only be achieved through all-round and continuing stakeholder engagement for driving the next frontiers of success.”
Expressing her thoughts, Dr Rohini Nagapadma, Principal, NIE – Mysore, observed, “We are pleased to be a part of the second edition of Illuminate with L&T Technology Services. Through meaningful engagements around the role of science and engineering in our society, our speakers this year inspired us with firsthand accounts of ingenuity and innovation that is shaping India’s growth story. An important takeaway, I feel, is the need for synergizing talent development and problem-solving approach within our academic and skill-development initiatives.”
The inaugural edition of Illuminate was graced by Dr Mylaswami Annadurai, popularly known as the “Moon Man of India” and Shri Sudhanshu Mani, the mind behind the Vande Bharat Express trains. Illuminate will continue to drive the passion of engineering excellence among the youth and technology enthusiasts in the coming days.
19, Feb 2024
Empowering Voices: P. Sainath’s Engagement at MAHE Bengaluru
Bengaluru, 19th February 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru invited the renowned journalist Palagummi Sainath to convene two media workshops for their undergraduate and postgraduate cohorts. Palagummi is known for his groundbreaking work in rural journalism and was invited by the Department of Liberal Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (DLHS) of MAHE.
Out of his three-day visit, for the first day, on the 8th of February, the author of the acclaimed 1996 book, ‘The Great Indian Drought: Stories from India’s Poorest Districts’, Sainath engaged with undergraduate media and political science majors, in a deeply invigorating conversation on, “Journalism for Empowerment: Understanding the Role of Alternative Media”. Young students embarked on a day-long workshop that primed them for the rise of alternative media and the discourse around its relevancy in today’s mediascape. The founding editor of the People’s Archive of Rural India (PARI) posed some pertinent questions to students that urged them to critically evaluate their role as learning media practitioners in a deeply polarised and competitive media environment. Ankita Sahoo, a second-year student who is majoring in political science and history from the department describes the discourse as, “Sainath’s insightful analysis unveiled the intricate workings of media politics, exposing how dominant narratives obscure reality. His call for ethical journalism resonated deeply, urging a commitment to truth and amplifying marginalized perspectives”.
The second and third days with the 2007 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Journalism, Literature, and Creative Communication Arts saw him delve into a vivid conversation on the idea of journalism with the hope of empowering the marginalised. His experience on the field in unravelling narratives of poverty, structural and historic inequities, caste-based discrimination and violence, and the rights of farmers was reflected in tracing the topic, “Reporting Development: A Subaltern Approach.” Christopher Miltus, a second-year MA in Multimedia and communication student notes his learnings from the two-day-long conversation spearheaded by the former Rural Affairs Editor of The Hindu. Miltus explains, “The workshop was an eye-opening experience, delving deep into narratives of poverty and discrimination with a focus on empowering marginalized communities. His insights challenged us to rethink traditional journalistic approaches and strive for more inclusive storytelling.”
For the department, this set of workshops with P. Sainath comes at a time when they are focusing on exposing their students to various natures of journalism. These workshops further the department’s efforts in preparing future media practitioners to target their work toward ushering in change by highlighting the voices of communities on the peripheries. Dr. Shilpa Kalyan, HoD, DLHS, explains, “We are pleased to host Sainath. We believe his nuanced understanding of bringing stories from the ground would enable our students to be responsible journalists who will strive to bring about stories that usually go unheard.”
Sunayan, associate professor of media at the department, PG coordinator, and the facilitator of the workshops notes, “Sainath’s interaction with our students was a promising sight for us. The enthusiasm they showed in not just learning from him but also contributing to the conversation over the three days imbibed a sense of hope in us. The workshops imbibed a sense of critical elevation among the students regarding the kind of journalism they would want to do.”
The learnings students take home after interacting with P. Sainath over these three days underscores the essence of responsible journalism in amplifying marginalized voices. Through engaging discussions on alternative media and subaltern approaches to reporting, Sainath inspires budding journalists to empower communities on the peripheries, echoing the ethos of his pioneering work in rural journalism.
19, Feb 2024
The Foundation for the Idea of Transparency: The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024
By- Prof. (Dr.) Amit Gaurav, Controller of Examination at Noida International University
By enacting the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, of 2024, the government has shown remarkable initiative. This measure guarantees the consequences and punishments for the victims who use unfair methods during the public examination, endangering the people’s ability to have a credible and equitable ecosystem for the nation. The following are included in the measure that was presented to the parliament:
The scope of the bill is tests administered by several government bodies, such as the UPSC, SSC, Railway Recruitment Boards, and others; some of the well-known tests included by the bill are NEET, JEE, UGC NET, and UPSC CSE.
– Possible Extension: To increase the reach of the provision, the Central Government may inform additional authorities.
– Investigative Authority: Under the Act, officials holding positions equal to or higher than Assistant Commissioner of Police or Deputy Superintendent of Police shall investigate offenses.
– Penalties for Offenders: Unfair methods of operation can result in fines of up to ten lakh rupees
and sentences of three to five years in prison.
-Character of Offenses: All offenses covered by the Bill are cognizance-based, bail-free, and cannot be compounded.
– Service Provider Liability: Service providers that support unfair tactics run the risk of a four-year ban from conducting open tests in addition to fines of up to one crore rupees.
– Penalties for Officers and Institutions: Directors, senior management, or people in control of service provider organizations may face fines of up to one crore rupees and a three-to-ten-year prison sentence if they are found to be complicit in the crime. Criminal action carried out by individuals or organizations planning to falsify or influence public tests to obtain unfair advantage is referred to as organized crime.
– Covered Offenses: These include tampering with response sheets, assisting candidates without permission, disclosing private information, and interfering with test administration.
– Use of Premises: It is illegal to hide the use of unfair techniques, and public exams may only be conducted on licensed testing grounds.
Unjust measures at the college or school level can be stopped by educating the students about the possible implications and how they may impact their lives. Strict policies should be established and enforced, as this will help pupils avoid bad behavior and do well on
assessments.
With the largest population in the world, India is a major country with high stakes due to the intense pressure that can lead to bribery, inadequate oversight, insufficient monitoring, and a lack of ethical training. Additionally, and this is quite troubling, technological advancements make it easier for papers to be leaked electronically. These concerns highlight the need for increased monitoring and security during exams, as well as the encouragement of ethical education, to address socioeconomic disparities in education. Strictly prohibiting malpractices through law may also be advantageous.
