Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India August 20, 2024: IIT Roorkee, in collaboration with SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth), successfully hosted an enchanting evening dedicated to the Gotipua dance, a traditional and revered dance form from Odisha. The event was held at the MAC Auditorium and witnessed a remarkable turnout, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for preserving and celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.
The evening commenced with the traditional Deepshikha Lighting Ceremony, symbolizing an auspicious beginning. The ceremonial lamp was lit to invoke the blessings of Goddess Saraswati, setting a positive tone for the event.
The highlight of the event was the mesmerizing performance by the Gotipua dancers from the Dasabhuja Gotipua Odishi Nrutya Parisad, under the expert guidance of Guru Maguni Das. The young dancers, adorned in vibrant attire, captivated the audience with their intricate acrobatic figures and graceful movements, portraying scenes inspired by the divine love of Radha and Krishna. Their dedication to the art form was evident as they brought to life the rich traditions and cultural legacy of Odisha.
The performance was further enhanced by the soulful music provided by an ensemble of talented musicians, including Batakrishna Das on Mardala, Priyabrata Palai on Vocal and Harmonium, Chandan Sethi on Violin, DeenDayal Mohanta on Flute, and Bidyadhar Nayak on Majira. Together, they created an immersive experience that resonated deeply with the audience.
A special Q&A session followed the performance, allowing attendees to interact with the artists and gain deeper insights into the Gotipua dance form. The session provided a platform for meaningful exchange, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of this ancient art.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to the artists and distinguished guests, in recognition of their contribution to this cultural celebration. The audience left with a renewed sense of pride and a deeper connection to India’s diverse cultural heritage.
Talking of his experience Guru Maguni Das, Gotipua Dance Artist said, “Performing at IIT Roorkee has been an incredible experience. Sharing the ancient art of Gotipua with such an enthusiastic audience not only allows us to preserve this tradition but also helps us connect with the younger generation. We hope that through our performance, the students gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of Odisha and the timeless beauty of Indian classical dance.”
IIT Roorkee is deeply committed to fostering cultural awareness among our students. Events like the Gotipua dance performance enrich our campus by bringing the diverse artistic traditions of India to life. Such experiences are vital in connecting the youth with our country’s rich cultural heritage, and we are proud to host them.” – said Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee
San Antonio, TX, August 19, 2024 –“The Hidden Magic of Oz – An Untold Story of Courage, Truth, and Cheese”: A Magical Collaboration Across Generations by L. Frank Baum and Richard L. Baum
In a truly magical and unprecedented literary event, we are thrilled to announce the release of “The Hidden Magic of Oz – An Untold Story of Courage, Truth, and Cheese,” a captivating new children’s picture book co-authored by the legendary L. Frank Baum and his great-grandson Richard L. Baum. This enchanting tale, set in the magical world of Oz, is scheduled for release on August 15, 2024.
Synopsis: Young Jack Boothe lives on a dairy farm with his Ma, Pa, and his dearest friend, Imogene, a miniature cow whose milk makes the Boothe Brand of cottage cheese. One day, when Imogene’s milk isn’t quite right, Jack takes her for a walk to a neighbor’s garden. Imogene can’t resist the flowers and starts eating them, leaving Jack in a moral dilemma. With courage, Jack decides to tell the truth. To their surprise, Imogene begins to glow with rainbow colors, and her milk becomes magical.
Jack and his mother visit their neighbor to apologize and bring a gift of their finest cheese. Their neighbor, a gentleman with a tip of his hat, graciously accepts their apology and reveals that the flowers are magical and made Imogene’s milk extraordinary.
In a twist of fate, enchanted by the cheese, the fine gentleman decides to personally visit Mrs. Boothe and thank her for the cheese. This moment is captured by a real poem written by L. Frank Baum himself, thanking Mrs. Boothe for her cheese, a situation that happened in real life. This previously unpublished poem, filled with Baum’s characteristic charm and humor, is a highlight of the book.
A Unique Literary Collaboration: Over a century after L. Frank Baum enchanted the world with “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” his great-grandson Richard L. Baum has unearthed a hidden treasure—an original poem written by Baum in 1903. This discovery has led to a remarkable collaboration, bridging generations to bring new magic to the world of Oz. Richard L. Baum, alongside his wife Robin, has crafted a story that not only honors the legacy of his great-grandfather but also introduces new elements that will captivate both new readers and devoted fans of Oz.
Unique Elements:
Original Poem by L. Frank Baum: The book features a whimsical and previously unpublished poem by L. Frank Baum, written to thank Mrs. Boothe for her cheese. This historical gem adds significant literary value to the book.
Easter Eggs and References: The book is filled with hidden elements and references to “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” and L. Frank Baum’s life, making it a treasure trove for die-hard fans.
Legacy and Values: This collaboration aims to preserve the original values of the Oz series, introducing children to the magical world with themes of courage, truth, and friendship.
Illustrations: The book is beautifully illustrated by renowned German children’s book illustrator Leope. His colorful and creative artwork brings the story to life, making it a visual delight for both children and parents.
Launch and Availability: “The Hidden Magic of Oz – An Untold Story of Courage, Truth, and Cheese” will be available on Amazon.com starting August 15, 2024. A special hardcover edition is expected to be released in November 2024.
Praise for the Book: Early reviews have praised the book’s fun and beautiful illustrations, lovable characters, and the magic of the poem. Reviewers believe it will become a favorite among children and parents alike, with its continuous discovery of new elements and reinforcement of key values. Wizard of Oz fans appreciate the clever references and hidden elements that pay homage to L. Frank Baum’s life and work.
Quotes: “I wanted to create a story that not only entertains children but also teaches them important values such as honesty and courage,” says Richard L. Baum. “This book is a tribute to my great-grandfather’s legacy and an introduction to the world of Oz for a new generation.”
This enchanting new book brings together the timeless storytelling of L. Frank Baum and the contemporary insights of his great-grandson, Richard L. Baum. This unique collaboration across more than a century promises to become a cherished addition to children’s literature.
~ Partnership to focus on Research, Recruitment, Continuing Education, and Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives ~
Bengaluru, 19th August 2024: Titan Company Limited, India’s leading retail player, and the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on a broad spectrum of initiatives aimed at driving innovation and creating significant social impact. This partnership aims to leverage technology, research, and education for mutual benefit and societal advancement.
Venkataraman, N. E. Sridhar and Vasudha Narasimhan, VP of Corporate Relations- IIT Madras
Titan and IITM will engage in bilateral research and consultancy projects facilitated by IITM’s Center for Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research (IC&SR). Titan will recruit graduates and interns from IITM, facilitated by the Placement Office of IITM. Employees and faculty from both organizations will participate in research interaction visits, sabbaticals, and advisory roles, coordinated by the Office of Global Engagement at IITM.
Additionally, Titan employees can enrol in IITM’s degree programs, such as M. Tech., M.S., and Ph.D., facilitated by the Office of Dean (Academic Research) at IITM. Both parties will jointly offer short-term training programs for IITM students and Titan employees, facilitated by IITM’s Center for Continuing Education. Titan and IITM will collaborate on CSR activities, with Titan providing grants to support faculty research and student scholarships, coordinated by IITM’s Office of Alumni and Corporate Relations. Furthermore, Titan will engage with the IIT Madras Research Park and the IITM Incubation Cell to leverage the ecosystem and collaborate with start-ups.
This MoU, effective from 08th July 2024, will remain in force for five years, serving as a strategic framework to explore and execute mutually beneficial projects, research, and training initiatives.
C K Venkataraman, Managing Director, Titan Company Limited., remarked, “This MoU with IIT Madras marks a significant step in Titan’s journey towards innovation and excellence. By combining our industry expertise with IITM’s academic prowess, we aim to create a synergy that fosters ground-breaking research and development. This partnership not only aligns with our strategic vision of continuous improvement and technological advancement but also reinforces our commitment to corporate social responsibility. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will drive impactful outcomes for both organizations and contribute to the broader community.”
The collaboration between Titan and IITM is poised to set new benchmarks in industry-academia partnerships. With a clear roadmap and defined axes of engagement, both entities are committed to achieving excellence in research, education, and social impact. This MoU paves the way for a series of initiatives that will not only benefit the involved parties but also inspire future collaborations in the industry.
19th Aug 2024 Hyderabad, Telangana, India Faculty from Oakridge International School Bachupally (OISB) played a leading role in the groundbreaking Nord Anglia Education Teaching and Learning Conference held recently in Hanoi, Vietnam. This prestigious global event brought together over 200 educators from 15 countries, fostering collaboration and exploring innovative teaching methods to advance educational standards worldwide.
The conference featured esteemed educators, thought leaders and practitioners sharing valuable insights on personalized learning, technology integration, and fostering inquiry-based learning environments. Attendees participated in workshops exploring cutting-edge methodologies and the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives into the curriculum to prepare students for success in an interconnected world.
Ms. Baljeet Oberoi, Principal, Oakridge International School Bachupally took centre stage as a presenter on educational leadership and innovation. Her presentation underscored the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing teaching, learning, and even school administration. Ms. Oberoi highlighted how technology can empower educators and personalize learning pathways for students.
Ms. Oberoi’s quote, “The conference provided a platform to explore how technology is redefining the role of a teacher. It’s a journey towards building flexible academic structures that can adapt to the challenges of our rapidly evolving world. AI has the potential to personalize learning experiences and empower educators in ways we haven’t even imagined yet. At the same time with advancement of technology, the well-being of our stakeholders is becoming enough more imperative. Prioritizing well-being encompasses nurturing physical, mental, and emotional health to foster a balanced and fulfilling life.”
Special guest, Dr. Elise Ecoff, Nord Anglia Education’s Chief Education Officer, joined the conference virtually from the United Kingdom. Dr. Ecoff shared pioneering developments in Nord Anglia’s digital research and advancements, including the application of AI in education. Her insights focused on how these advancements will work together to create an enriching educational foundation for children.
Ms. Anuradha, Head of International Curriculum, emphasizes the power of innovation: “The conference was a dynamic space for innovative leaders ready to redefine education. The SEAMEl “Innovate” conference has set the stage for educators to lead the way in ensuring every learner thrives in this new landscape.”
Ms. Subha Laxmi, SI Unit Coordinator said, “As someone who represents well-being, the SEAMEl conference offered unexpected insights. It provided the opportunity to meet with people involved with student well-being programs. There was a lot of talk about inclusion and how to make schools more inclusive.”
Hyderabad, August 18, 2024 – In a rare move, Hyderabad-based Nelson Business School organized its first-ever Convocation Ceremony for its online business management graduates of 2024. The event was held at Hotel Taj Deccan on Saturday. Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments of the Telangana government was the Chief Guest. He presented graduation certificates to 75 students.
The graduates included both local students and those from countries such as Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, and Djibouti. A highlight of the ceremony was K. Pranathi and K. Saideep, a couple who are students of the PG Diploma in Management received their graduation certificate. Both work as Operations Managers in a major IT company. The attended the ceremony with their three-year-old daughter, Aathira.
“Convocation ceremonies are common for traditional courses, but such ceremonies for online courses are rare,” remarked Divya Jayaraman, Regional Head of Nelson Business School. She emphasized that online courses are ideally suited for working professionals.
“We used to have online classes on weekends for two days, three hours each day,” shared Pranathi and Saideep which are very convenient for working professionals.
Speaking on the occasion, Jayesh Ranjan expressed his delight at seeing working professionals pursuing further education to improve their qualifications, enhance job prospects, change designations, or even shift careers to pursue entrepreneurial journeys. He noted that management education provides the essential tools for handling various business and management-related challenges. “India, under PM Modi, is poised to become a $5 trillion economy soon. Similarly, Telangana’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, envisions making Telangana a $1 trillion economy in the next 10 years. To realize these dreams, we all need to contribute, especially the private sector, and your newly acquired management skills will be instrumental in finding strategies for the economic progress of our nation.”
“Today, Telangana is a hub not only for Indian companies but also for many global companies,” he added. “The strengths that make this possible include a highly professional workforce, a talent pool, and a large population of English-speaking individuals.”
Before the convocation, a panel discussion was organized on the topic “Will Online Education Be the Future of Education?”. The panellists included Dr Usha Yanamandra, Founder and CEO of Katalyst and Social Intelligence Expert; Anuradha A, Executive Partner & HYD Location Leader at IBM; Shishir Bansal, Additional Director General at Central Public Works Dept, Govt of India; Thrimurthy Oduri, Faculty Member of Nelson Business School (an alumnus of IIT-Kharagpur); and Aditya Deendayal, Executive Director of Alankrita Resorts and VP-TCEI. The discussion was moderated by Saumik Pal, AVP of Cyber Security at an MNC.
The panellists largely favoured online education, with the majority agreeing that it would play a significant role in the future of education. However, Shishir Bansal expressed concerns, suggesting that online education may not be sustained long-term and that it might not be beneficial for society in all contexts. He posed a rhetorical question, asking the audience to consider whether they would prefer online doctors over offline doctors.
Addressing concerns about the social development of students and strategies to mitigate such issues, Aditya Deendayal highlighted the importance of interaction with instructors and peers. He suggested that active participation in online forums, group projects, and virtual study groups could help combat isolation. Additionally, utilizing social features of learning platforms and joining course-related online communities can foster a sense of belonging.
Other panellists observed that online education is cost-effective and allows for learning at one’s convenience. “Whether you like it or not, online education is going to be the mainline education in the future,” they remarked.
Moderator Saumik Pal added that the Government of India offers several online education programs, including SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds), which provides affordable, quality online courses across various disciplines.
“Today, you can earn a degree from the comfort of your home, at your own pace, and often at a fraction of the cost of traditional education. However, this shift does raise questions about employment prospects. Many students wonder if their online degrees will be accepted in the job market, particularly by multinational companies. The answer is yes – degrees completed online are recognized and valid for jobs in multinational companies and higher education opportunities,” Pal reassured the audience.
Kolkata, 18th August 2024: A one-of-a-kind dance academy, Mallhar Dance Academy proudly hosted its 15th Annual Cultural Program at the EZCC Auditorium in Saltlake. The event brought together a gathering of esteemed dignitaries, including Brahmachari Mural Bhai, General Secretary Cum Trustee of Dakshineswar Ramkrishna Sangha Adyapeath; Debashis Sen, Former IAS, CMD HIDCO & Founder Director & CEO of New Bengal Consulting; Kanchana Moitra, Renowned Actress; Lajbanti Roy, Renowned Singer; Anjan Bose, Managing Director, Aurora Film Corporation; Dr. Manoj Khanna, Renowned Hair Transplant Specialist; Ratan Jhawar, Entrepreneur and Sreetama Barik, Founder and Dance Teacher, Mallhar Dance Academy.
The evening was a vibrant celebration of dance and culture, featuring performances that ranged from the classical to the contemporary. Highlights of the evening included “Sangachhadwam,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Naboshakti,” as well as unique segments like “Story of Dev Anand,” “Juto Abishkar,” and “Gram Bangla.” The prestigious Kurnish Awards honoured individuals for their outstanding contributions to the arts. Padma Shri, Purna Das Baul, the revered Baul Samrat, received a special award in recognition of his illustrious career. Additionally, Saanjhbaati, an initiative by Bidhannagar Police for elderly citizens, was part of the event, offering them a chance to come together, meet, and enjoy a sense of community and harmony. Since many children today do not have the opportunity to meet or stay with their grandparents, and vice-versa this initiative provides a platform for them to interact, engage, and experience a sense of connection. Founded in 2010 under the guidance of Guru Sreetama Barik, Mallhar Dance Academy began with just ten children. Over the years, the academy has expanded to include children and adults from diverse backgrounds, all united by their shared passion for dance. The academy also offers dance classes for homemakers, providing them with an opportunity to break free from daily routines and enjoy recreational activities.
Sreetama Barik, Founder & Dance Teacher, Mallhar Dance Academy, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Our 15th Annual Cultural Program showcased the steadfast commitment to preserving and advancing our rich cultural heritage. The presence of such esteemed guests and the heartfelt performances by our students truly highlighted the significance of this milestone. I am deeply grateful for the continued support from the community over the years.”
Manipal, August 17th, 2024: The National Service Scheme (NSS) Units I & II of the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) were recently honored with the prestigious “Humanitarian Excellence Award 2024.” The award, presented by the I Care Foundation India under the aegis of NITI Aayog & MSME, Government of India, recognizes the outstanding social work initiatives undertaken by the NSS units. The award ceremony coincided with the 78th Independence Day and World Humanitarian Day and took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in New Delhi, Dwarka.
The award was received by Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director of MIT Manipal, and Dr. Balakrishna S. Maddodi, MIT NSS Program Officer, alongside MIT Administrative Officer Sri Ratnakar Samanth. The award was presented by Honorable Sri Santosh Bagrodia, former Coal Minister of India and Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha. The event also featured the presence of veteran actor Sri Surendra Pal Singh, renowned for his role as Dronacharya in the Mahabharat series, who commended the remarkable efforts of the NSS units in uplifting communities.
The NSS units at MIT Manipal have consistently made a significant impact on society by promoting social responsibility among students, academics, and the community. During the academic year 2023–24, the units organized over 45 community-centric programs. These initiatives included blood donation camps to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation, environmental conservation programs such as rainwater harvesting, and plantation drives aimed at protecting and nurturing the environment.
Other notable initiatives included Swachh Bharat programs like beach cleaning and single-use plastic eradication, as well as a range of awareness campaigns covering crucial topics such as career guidance, first aid, CPR training, and cancer awareness. These efforts have positively influenced the lives of thousands in the community, leaving a lasting legacy of social responsibility.
Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director of MIT Manipal, expressed his gratitude for the recognition: “This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our NSS volunteers, who have tirelessly worked to make a difference in the lives of others. At MIT, we believe that education is not just about academic excellence but also about creating responsible citizens who contribute meaningfully to society. We are immensely proud of our NSS units for setting an example of how young minds can be agents of positive change.”
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) MD Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), also praised the achievement, stating, “The NSS units of MIT Manipal have demonstrated how academic institutions can play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges. Their commitment to humanitarian causes is inspiring and aligns with MAHE’s vision of fostering a culture of social responsibility. We are honored to receive this recognition, which will further motivate us to continue our efforts in serving the community.”
The award ceremony saw the participation of numerous distinguished guests, including former ONGC Director Dr. Jauhari Lal, Sri Vinay Choudhary, National Co-Incharge of Research & Policy at the Bharatiya Janata Party, and Sri Gaurav Gautham, Founder of the I Care Foundation. Over 85 individuals and institutions were honored for their remarkable contributions to the community and humanity at large.
The MIT NSS units remain committed to their mission of driving social change and continue to inspire others to join the movement for a better and more compassionate world.
Manipal, 17th August 2024: Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), hosted the 78th Independence Day celebration on 15th August 2024. The event was held in front of the Department of Basic Medical Sciences (formerly MMMC, Manipal).
Dr. H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE Manipal, was present as the chief guest, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE Manipal, was the guest of honour. Dr. P Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Manipal, and Dr. Somashekar Bhat, Joint Director, MIT, Manipal, graced the event with their presence along with other dignitaries.
The day commenced at 8:50 AM with an assembly in front of the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, followed by the welcome address by Dr. Somashekar Bhat, Joint Director, MIT, Manipal. The National flag was hoisted by the chief guest, followed by Parade Reporting, Inspection, and March Past. The Guest of Honour delivered the Independence Day message, and participation awards were then presented.
Dr. H S Ballal, said, “We honor not only our country’s independence on this Independence Day, but also the spirit of harmony, resiliency, and advancement that characterizes us as a people. While we honor the men and women who gave their lives defending our freedom, let’s also resolve to create a future where inclusivity, innovation, and education are at the forefront. Working together, we can make a positive effect on society and pursue greatness to uphold the legacy of our wonderful country.”
While delivering the Independence Day message, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, said, “On this Independence Day, we remember the sacrifices made by those who battled for our freedom and consider the principles that characterize our wonderful country: solidarity, tenacity, and the unwavering quest of progress. Let’s keep in mind that we have an obligation to defend these principles both within and outside of our academic community as we commemorate this day. Together, we can support innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in everything we do, which will aid in the growth and development of our country. A very happy Independence Day to all of you!”
Prof. Suhas Kowshik, Assistant Professor (Senior Scale), Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, MIT Manipal, and Dr. Shilpa Suresh, Assistant Professor, Mechatronics Engineering Department, MIT Manipal, were the masters of ceremony.
Dr. Sriram K V, Associate Director, Industry Liaison, Placement & Practice School, MIT Manipal, concluded the day by delivering a vote of thanks, expressing his sincere appreciation to everyone who attended the auspicious occasion of Independence Day.
Contingent Prize Winners:
– 1st Place: Manipal Institute of Technology, (MIT) Manipal
– 2nd Place: Kasturba Medical College, (KMC) Manipal
– 3rd Place: Manipal College of Health Professionals, (MCHP) Manipal
At a time when the global community is evolving towards a happy, healthy, and blissful habitat on Mother planet Earth – we need to seriously examine the context as well as the purpose of development and the purpose of life. Long ago the cherished objective of a healthy and blissful life was examined from the point of view of the ‘science of life’, in fact, the ‘science of healthy life’ as enshrined in the ancient Vedic texts of Ayurveda. For the Ayurveda Acharyas medical science was not merely the treatment of disease, rather it was to create the vital immunity in man to resist the diseases, and the viruses that otherwise were prevalent because of the rich diversity and microbial ecosystem that planet Mother Earth supports serve the cause of all lives that includes all creatures, plants and vegetables, the greenery in the forest, and of course, the microorganisms that prevail around the globe, maybe even in the space about which we have begun to understand today with our most advanced scientific tools of exploration and analysis.
Anugyan Sharma
The science of healthy life revolved around looking after the mind, and body as well as the intrinsic strength that lies in the eternal soul that powers all existence. Daily exercises, meditation sessions, prayers to the divine, and above all, a healthy diet akin to healthy and happy living comprised the total package to create high levels of immunity that negated diseases and assured longevity to live a happy and blissful life for a good hundred years and even more. It was this happy and healthy living with longevity that was within the reach of every single individual on planet Mother Earth under the medical system of Ayurveda.
Our ancestors, especially here in India, the country of the origin of Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation did not build super specialty hospitals, nor did they create such an elaborate medical health care system that we are heavily dependent on today, both for the diagnostic as well as the treatment of ailments and diseases. Periodic attacks of viruses like dengue, malaria, and the variants of COVID-19 continue to scare humanity at large even today, despite all the advancements that we have made on the medical front.
Medical sciences undoubtedly have grown to great eminence and today with the support of the diagnostic tools and systems developed by advanced technologies can pinpoint and accurately diagnose diseases and ailments. The ability to treat diseases including deadly viruses today is far more advanced compared to a few decades ago, thanks to the advancement in life sciences and biomedical engineering. It is however revealing that the global burden of disease is equally frightening.
As per the WHO report “The Top 10 Causes of Death”, August 2024, “the world’s biggest killer is ischaemic heart disease, responsible for 13% of the world’s total deaths. As a newly emerged cause of death, COVID-19 was directly responsible for 8.8 million deaths in 2021. Stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease became the third and fourth in 2021, responsible for approximately 10% and 5% of total deaths, respectively. Lower respiratory infections remained the world’s most deadly communicable disease other than COVID-19, ranked as the fifth leading cause of death. Deaths from other noncommunicable diseases, such as trachea, bronchus, and lung cancers deaths have risen from 1.2 million in 2000 to 1.9 million in 2021 and are now ranked sixth among leading causes of death.In 2021, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia ranked as the seventh leading cause of death, killing 1.8 million lives. Diabetes was also among the top 10 causes of death, following a significant percentage increase of 95% since 2000.”
The point to ponder however is, that despite such phenomenal progress made by medical sciences and healthcare systems, the global burden of disease remains a major challenge. It is important to recognize that much of the progress that the medical sciences have made in the last few decades owes to its adaptation of advanced engineering and technology systems, both for the diagnostics as well as treatment of diseases and the advanced surgical procedures that include robotic surgery and administration of molecular medicine.
But think of a time when we are able to create a more profound and effective synergy between medical sciences on one hand and the advancement on the technological front including in the areas of nanoscience and technology, robotics and automation, image processing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning further supported by large data analytics and tomorrow’s health informatics – the medical profession would be far more advanced to reap the rich dividends from this vital synergy between medical sciences and advanced engineering and technology developments.
The 20th century carved out its higher education system along the two separate streams. Those with physics, chemistry, and biology went toward medical sciences and those with physics chemistry and mathematics surged toward engineering and technology education and research. Carving out such two separate streams immediately after schooling may have done some good for the advancement of each other domain but it deprived both the engineering as well as medical sciences of creating a much more impactful integrative sciences and integrative and interdisciplinary engineering than the advancement of medical science and human excellence so well could have achieved.
Disciplines like biomedical engineering have begun with integrating electronics, communications, and computing for the design and development of medical diagnostic tools systems, and devices and have come to a great stage of advancement today. But they still are deprived of their direct and live connect and collaborative strength that otherwise could be created with the synergy of medical sciences and integration with engineering and technology. Likewise, newer disciplines like bioengineering are today opening up new grounds for the development of bioengineering devices and systems even paving the way for tomorrow’s bio-inspired engineering materials and systems including biochips that shall pave the way for the integration of AI into the biological systems of tomorrow to facilitate transplants of many vital human organs that will assure much greater longevity and efficacy of such like surgeries. “Imagine a world where damaged organs can be repaired or replaced without the need for organ donors. Biomedical engineers are creating this extraordinary future through pathbreaking research and advancement in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Their efforts hold the promise of growing human organs in the laboratory, offering hope to countless patients awaiting life-saving transplants”, says Tanya Pandhi in her October 20, 2023, editorial in PriMera Scientific Publications. The moot point is that with the advancement of medical science and engineering technologies, we are in a position of great advantage to create new opportunities of creating new horizons of higher education and research in areas that shall effectively integrate medical sciences and engineering and reap rich dividends from collaborative research and education that the new age of AI and machine learning so well demands today.
The world of education and research in the areas of medical sciences and engineering in particular and environmental sciences climate resilient technologies, new renewable energy sources, and our ability to process 380 trillion liters of wastewater that is currently generated globally every year. Above all our ability to maintain the rich biodiversity, and environmental sustainability alongside a happy and healthy habitat singularly rests on our commitment to fostering integrative sciences and integrative and interdisciplinary technologies that include biomedical engineering and bioengineering disciplines that are gaining great momentum today in the advanced universities both in the US, Europe as well as around the globe, including here in India.
During my (Anugyan Sharma) stay, at UC San Diego where I am pursuing my bachelor’s in bioengineering, I get immensely excited to have a bigger picture of biomedical engineering and bioengineering for creating a happy, healthy, and blissful habitat for the 8 billion plus people around the world. At UC San Diego our program places a big emphasis on interdisciplinary majors in which the principles of traditional engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, and chemical and applied to biomedical and biological problems. The overall mission of our program is to improve health and quality of life by applying engineering principles for scientific discovery and technology innovations and to train future leaders in bioengineering through inspiring education and innovative research. I see great opportunities for ushering in a new era of interdisciplinary and integrative engineering on one hand and a great synergy between engineering and medical sciences on the other. For a win-win situation for both the advancement of biomedical and engineering development.
The author Prof. PB Sharma is the champion of the cause of interdisciplinary sciences and integrative engineering, being the founder and President of the Society of Interdisciplinary Sciences and Engineering that was founded over two decades ago. He has nurtured a great interest in interdisciplinary and integrative approaches to science and engineering, during his long innings at IIT Delhi, Delhi College of Engineering, DTU, and also at Amity University Gurugram.In fact, Prof. Sharma firmly believes that the boundaries between science and engineering have long disappeared and that the new dawn and interdisciplinary engineering and integrative science is here to create new layers of advancement of medical sciences and medical technologies for creating a happy, healthy, and blissful life for the people around the world.
The purpose of this article is to reinstate the importance of integrative and interdisciplinary approach to all the disciplines of science and engineering and create an intense urge for the vital synergy between medical sciences and engineering to foster a new era of medical sciences and healthcare, in which the meaning and purpose of medical sciences and healthcare shall be redefined as creating wellness, a happy and healthy life, assuring longevity on the strength of immunity rather than running around for treatment of diseases and ailments, as at present.
The authors submit for consideration of the leadership of the universities and policymakers for the advancement of human health for the global community to create enabling policy reforms in higher education and research to facilitate the vital synergy between medical sciences and engineering, as we are in the age of integration and working together in areas that matter most for the wellbeing of humanity.
Anugyan Sharma is pursuing bioengineering at UC San Diego and Prof. PB Sharma is the Vice Chancellor of Amity University Gurugram and has been the founding Vice Chancellor of DTU Delhi.
India, August 17, 2024: Verizon India, a leading IT and Technology Global Capability Centre (GCC) in partnership with BHUMI, an Indian NGO has successfully established 77 STEM Labs and Smart classrooms across Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Karnataka with its School Transformation Program. This corporate social responsibility focused program aims to drive qualitative empowerment of school students which benefit over 40,000 students across select cities in Southern India.
The School Transformation Program is designed to equip students studying in Classes 6-12 in government schools with a robust STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education platform. A total of 77 government schools across Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Karnataka were furnished with STEM labs focused on diverse subjects including Mathematics, Robotics and powered by interactive smart boards, digital infrastructure like PCs as well as robust lab furniture. The STEM Labs and Digital infrastructure were established after thorough student baseline assessments, teacher awareness tests and feasibility studies to ensure the right infrastructure for each specific location and school.
Through the partnership with BHUMI, STEM sessions were also designed and conducted for students studying in Classes 6–9 providing them with dedicated hands-on experience to explore various facets of science. Necessary digital infrastructure was also set up to bridge the digital literacy gap in identified schools. To demonstrate their learnings from the sessions, STEM fests are conducted periodically in the schools. BHUMI also implements capacity-building sessions twice every quarter for teachers and once every quarter for trainers to equip them with the right tools and updated resources to facilitate seamless learning to the students.
“Verizon India understands its role in enabling and equipping young minds across various socio-economic backgrounds to solve complex challenges through technology. Reports from industry bodies suggest that GCCs like Verizon are becoming one of the most preferred employment avenues for the top STEM graduates in India. I am thus proud to note that we have successfully impacted the lives of 40,000+ students across India. By imparting digital learnings and high-quality training for both the trainers as well as young minds through the School Transformation Program we have successfully aided in enhancing the digital literacy quotient as well as created a strong talent pipeline for the nation. We are committed to bridging the digital divide and contributing to a more advanced and inclusive nation” said, Mr. Prasad V. Annadanam- Senior Director, Finance for Verizon India.
Ms. Vaishnavi Srinivasan- Executive Director, BHUMI, said, “Our collaboration with Verizon India has been instrumental in bringing quality STEM education to students. By providing essential resources and training, we are not only enhancing their academic experience but also preparing them for a future where digital literacy is crucial. We are proud to be part of this transformative initiative that truly makes a difference in the lives of these young learners.”
Barriers like outdated teaching methods, lack of digital and computing infrastructure as well as lack of training for the trainers impede the balanced growth of the young learners. Through the School Transformation Program, VERIZON and BHUMI encouraged diverse stakeholders to participate in comprehensive online and offline discussions on the effective implementation of pedagogical techniques, helping inculcate a child-centric educational approach. Students also received training in digital literacy and interpersonal skills to maximise the benefits of the digital infrastructure provided. India’s National Education Policy from 2020 indicates that focusing on quality STEM education is the key to embracing critical thinking. Igniting the passion for learning and experimenting in STEM sciences is critical to ensuring that India and its citizens transition to a knowledge based economy.
Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India August 20, 2024: IIT Roorkee, in collaboration with SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth), successfully hosted an enchanting evening dedicated to the Gotipua dance, a traditional and revered dance form from Odisha. The event was held at the MAC Auditorium and witnessed a remarkable turnout, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for preserving and celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.
Manipal, August 17th, 2024: The National Service Scheme (NSS) Units I & II of the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) were recently honored with the prestigious “Humanitarian Excellence Award 2024.” The award, presented by the I Care Foundation India under the aegis of NITI Aayog & MSME, Government of India, recognizes the outstanding social work initiatives undertaken by the NSS units. The award ceremony coincided with the 78th Independence Day and World Humanitarian Day and took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in New Delhi, Dwarka.
Manipal, 17th August 2024: Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), hosted the 78th Independence Day celebration on 15th August 2024. The event was held in front of the Department of Basic Medical Sciences (formerly MMMC, Manipal).
