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  • MAAC Hosts “Behind the Screens” Webinar for 5,000 Students on 3D Animation and Visual Effects

    Chennai, India, October 21, 2024 – Maya Academy of Advanced Creativity (MAAC), a premiere institute and a pioneer in high-end 3D animation Gaming & VFX training, organised a special webinar for its students, giving them an exclusive and in-depth behind the scene (BTS) access into the making of Kalki 2898 AD. Over 5000 students from MAAC’s centres across India attended the webinar online. The event, which is part of MAAC’s ongoing initiative called Behind the Screens, aims to provide real-world industry exposure to its students, setting a new benchmark by leveraging strong industry ties to prepare students for successful careers in the growing AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comic) industry.

    Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail, Aptech Limited said, “At MAAC we believe that initiatives & platforms such as Behind the Screens play a far crucial role in not just skilling the youth, but also preparing them for a successful career in the media & entertainment industry. These sessions offer a much-needed industry exposure for our students. Interactive sessions with industry experts play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic training and the dynamic demands of the industry. It is our constant endeavour to empower our students by connecting them with top industry professionals, giving them insights into the latest technologies and trends shaping the future of filmmaking,”

    The webinar, held in association with Phantom FX at their studio in Chennai, was presented by Asif Bhushan, Senior Creative Head, Phantom FX. It gave students an exclusive window into the world of VFX through Asif Bhushan’s expertise. He walked students through the creative and technical challenges of bringing Kalki’s ambitious visual universe to life. The live demonstration showcased the film’s complex VFX breakdowns, providing a rare look into the making of one of the most visually stunning films in recent Indian cinema.

    With the AVGC industry poised for significant growth, MAAC’s continued efforts to provide such platforms to students ensures they are well-prepared for future opportunities in the global media landscape. The webinar not only showcased MAAC’s commitment to skill-building but is also aligned with the government’s vision of fostering a self-reliant India (Viksit Bharat). The real-world exposure and professional insights shared during the event strengthened the trust in MAAC’s commitment to inspiring future industry leaders.

  • Educart Students Conclave in Delhi JLN Stadium creates history

    Historic Moments at Educart Students Conclave Held at JLN Stadium, DelhiNew Delhi: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium last Sunday witnessed Educart Students Conclave, which set a whole new benchmark for student support, guidance and motivation. This Conclave by Educart was a dream experience for CBSE Class 9 and 12 students.

    About 2200+ students from Delhi-NCR participated in the Educart Student Conclave. Educart MD Mr. Ripul Agarwal started the event with an important discussion on how to choose the right study material and why focus on game-changers mindset. Also, he highlighted the importance of right books at the right time of the academic year.

    Mrs. Ratna Viswanathan, a former civil servant spoke about the important of continuous learning. Mrs. Shivani Gupta vowed students with anecdotes and points that hold students behind in social skills, thus, giving theme cues on how they be more assertive and impactful with their personality. The electric Mr. Anubhav Rakheja, performed an extremely engaging and fun workshop on alternative career paths, busted some stream related myths and why to think outside JEE and NEET.

    Lastly, India’s biggest Educators and mentors, Mr. Prashant Kirad and Mr. Digraj Singh Rajput, literally set the auditorium on fire with their mere presence, as emotions went high and students cherished their story, their words and their smile for the first time in person. It is an important dose of support and self-belief that students wanted, and Educart made it possible. Along with the students, their parents also attended the Educart conclave and appreciated the initiative which had a free entry.

  • UTS and Veranda HigherEd Launch Innovative Courses for

    CHENNAI, 21st OCTOBER 2024: Veranda HigherEd, a Veranda Learning enterprise, has announced the launch of two cutting-edge short courses in partnership with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) based in Australia. The offerings include courses in Digital and Social Media Marketing and Business Analytics, designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.

    The Digital and Social Media Marketing course explores digital tools, channels, and opportunities shaping the marketing landscape. Students will learn to deploy these tools strategically at each stage of the customer journey, navigate changes in digital technologies, and leverage social media platforms to enrich the customer experience.

    The Business Analytics course introduces students to essential techniques for tackling practical problems, enabling them to initiate and manage small-scale projects and communicate findings effectively. Participants will learn how data collection and analysis enhance customer and stakeholder insights, and practice methods to improve data-driven predictions to achieve business success.

    Mr. Iain Watt, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) of UTS, stated, “Our partnership with Veranda HigherEd marks an important milestone in our internationalisation engagement. We are proud to be collaborating with Veranda HigherEd to deliver two UTS programs that will empower learners in India to innovate and evolve global industries – where humans work together with advanced technology to improve business.”

    Mr. Aditya Malik, Group COO of Veranda Learning, remarked, “In today’s fast-paced digital world, the need for professionals who are adept in business analytics and digital marketing is greater than ever. Our partnership with UTS underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality education that empowers individuals to excel in their careers.”

  • CollegeDekho Unveils ‘Right To Refund’ Service, Simplifying College Fee Refund Process for Students

    21st October 2024  Gurugram, Haryana, India  CollegeDekho, India’s largest higher education platform, is taking a step toward addressing a significant challenge faced by students and parents: navigating the college fee refund process. With the launch of its “Right To Refund” service, CollegeDekho aims to educate and assist students by guiding them through the necessary steps to apply for refunds from colleges they no longer wish to attend.

    About 65 Lakh students are admitted to a private college every year in India. Many of these students, pressured by tight admission deadlines and peer influence, hastily accept offers from colleges that may not align with their true aspirations. Despite the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, awareness of fee refund policies and the processes involved in reclaiming fees is often limited or absent. Students and parents, uncertain of how to proceed, face unnecessary delays and frustrations. CollegeDekho seeks to fill this information gap and help them get educated about their Right to Refund by launching the College Fees Refund Facilitation Service, “Right To Refund”.

    CollegeDekho will help these students get to a better college that aligns with their interests and career goals in case they are looking for a college upgrade.

    “We recognize that students often make hasty decisions under the pressure of deadlines and limited information,” said Ruchir Arora, CEO & Co-founder of CollegeDekho. “Our Right To Refund’ service is designed to empower students by offering the knowledge and support they need to navigate the refund process and by facilitating this journey to make it easier and less stressful for millions of Indians nationwide.”

    One of the key-barriers students face is the lack of awareness about their refund rights and the college-specific steps required to initiate the process. CollegeDekho’s service focuses on educating students and parents about:

    Refund Policies: CollegeDekho provides detailed information about refund eligibility, timelines, and policies specific to each institution.

    Process Clarity: By breaking down the refund process into simple, actionable steps, CollegeDekho helps students and parents approach the process confidently and with clear expectations.

    Through the following services, CollegeDekho ensures students are equipped with the right tools to navigate the often-complex steps:

    Customized Counselling: CollegeDekho assigns dedicated counsellors who educate students on their rights and options, helping them explore better-fit colleges while guiding them through refund applications.

    Step-by-Step Assistance: From identifying the correct forms to submitting refund requests, CollegeDekho walks students through every phase, offering support but maintaining transparency about the process and potential outcomes.

    For many families, the emotional and financial strain of changing colleges is significant. By offering clarity and support, CollegeDekho aims to alleviate the stress surrounding the refund process. Parents, who are often unaware of the nuances involved, will benefit from the platform’s clear, well-structured guidance.

    This new service also augments CollegeDekho’s stated mission to be a trusted partner that helps students reach the right college. The platform’s goal is to ensure that students and parents across the country have the information and support they need, without creating false expectations.

    By serving as a trusted guide and facilitator through the process, CollegeDekho aims to help students reclaim their fees, transition to colleges that align with their career goals, and ultimately feel empowered in their educational journey.

  • LeapScholar Announces Pune’s Largest Study Abroad Fair: Gateway to Global Education

    Pune, India, 18th October 2024: LeapScholar, a leading platform offering comprehensive study abroad services, has announced its upcoming Study Abroad Fair in Pune. The event will provide an opportunity to aspiring students to connect directly with university representatives from 60+ international colleges. The event will take place on Saturday, 19th October 2024 from 10 am to 5 pm at JW Marriott Hotel, Pune.

    With more than 1500 students and parents expected to attend, the event will engage the attendees in one-on-one sessions with university representatives, gaining exclusive insights into courses, admission processes, scholarships, and student life in various countries. Some of the top countries from which the universities will be participating include the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, and Dubai.

    With offline branches in various cities across India including Bangalore, Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Nagpur, and Ludhiana, Leap Scholar is committed to making the study abroad experience accessible to aspiring students. The recently opened Pune branch at Fergusson College Road is already doing a tremendous job of guiding students through the complexities of applying for international universities.

    Additionally, the event will feature various partners to aid students. Firms like Leap Finance, Avanse, HDFC Credila, Auxilo, ICICI, IDFC, TATA Capital, Axis, Capital India Finance Ltd and UBI will be present to help students finance their study abroad dreams, while Casita will be present to assist with accommodation. Lastly, Easy Transfer will also be present for any payment gateway or Forex requirements students might have.

    Arnav Kumar, Co-founder, LeapScholar, stated that “We want to meet students, talk with them and understand their needs while giving them access to the best possible partners to assist them with everything needed in their study abroad journey. It’s a very exciting time for us. With Maharashtra being one of the top states where students opt to study abroad, this fair will not only connect students with international universities, but will also open doors to new opportunities. As we establish offline centers across multiple cities in India, our goal remains clear: to help students seize the right opportunity and navigate their global education journey.”

    University experts will provide personalized counseling to guide students and families in choosing the right path for their study abroad journey. This is complemented by value-added services such as IELTS preparation, financial counseling & education loans, accommodation, and more for all attendees.

    Students aspiring to build international careers, as well as parents interested in gaining deeper insights into overseas education, are welcome to attend the fair. Registration is free and can be done through the website or directly by walk-in.

  • Shell Launches New EdTech Initiatives to Enhance ST

    October 18, 2024: Shell India has announced the launch of new EdTech initiatives, aimed at providing the next generation a strong foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. The programmes use advanced digital learning tools and leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to identify individual learning gaps and provide customised learning interventions. Developed in collaboration with Pratham Infotech Foundation, Education Initiatives, and Khan Academy, the new initiatives build on the success of Shell’s global flagship programme, NXplorers, which is implemented by Learning Links Foundation and Smile Foundation and has benefitted over 3 lakh students across India.

    STEM education programs in India_ October 18_2024

    Introducing the new programmes, Latika Taneja, Head of Corporate Relations, Shell India added, “At Shell, we are more than just advocates for STEM education; we are its passionate champions! With these new innovative programmes, we are excited to harness the power of digital technology to design personalised learning curriculum and make learning more fun and interactive. Our new partnerships, coupled with our ongoing association with NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission for NXplorers, are pivotal to our mission of fostering inclusive growth and empowering the next generation.”

    Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director, AIM, NITI Aayog, said, “When systems thinking is harnessed effectively, it can spark transformative movements. Shell’s NXplorers programme demystifies complex systems thinking, transforming it into engaging workshops that empower students to become innovative problem solvers. As we are expanding our partnership with Shell India, we aim to reach more students, equipping them with the tools and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to India’s growing innovation ecosystem.”

    In the coming years, these programmes will be implemented in multiple schools across Delhi NCR, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Comprehensive teacher training will accompany these efforts to create a dynamic and personalised learning environment, enabling students to overcome foundational learning gaps and gain access to advanced STEM skills.

    Shell India will further expand its ongoing NXplorers programme, which aims to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. Building on the successful pilot in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, the programmes will now scale to more schools over the next three years.

  • A Successful Platform for Networking and Learning Opportunities

    19th October 2024 Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India Galgotias University, in collaboration with Simpled – Student Recruitment Tours, recently hosted the highly successful Global Partnership Conclave & Student Fair, attracting prestigious universities from around the world. The event welcomed delegates from esteemed institutions such as Wichita State University, Santa Ana College, Edmonds College, University of Washington Bothell, Citrus College, University of Dayton, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), San Jose State University, KEDGE Business School, Missouri University of Science and Technology, The George Washington University, Coastal Carolina University, Bangkok University, and GW Business, among many others.

    This remarkable event provided a unique platform for students to interact directly with international university representatives. Students received personalized guidance, including on-the-spot profile assessments, scholarship insights, and career planning advice, along with a wealth of opportunities for global academic advancement.

    A highlight of the event was the Global Partnership Conclave, where school principals, deans from Galgotias University, and representatives from various schools engaged in meaningful discussions with foreign university delegates. These discussions led to promising avenues for groundbreaking collaborations and global partnerships, paving the way for new academic exchanges and initiatives.

    The event would not have been possible without the tremendous support of Simpled. A special note of gratitude goes to Mr. Yasir Ansari, CEO of Simpled, for his visionary leadership in bringing these global opportunities to our students.

    Together, we are shaping the future of global education and forging lasting partnerships that will benefit our students for years to come.

    Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, expressed his enthusiasm, “The Global Partnership Conclave & Student Fair represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide unparalleled global exposure and opportunities to our students. It is a testament to Galgotias University’s commitment to building strong international collaborations that empower our students to succeed on the global stage. We are immensely proud of the success of this event and look forward to forging even deeper connections with universities worldwide. This is just the beginning of many transformative partnerships that will shape the future of higher education at Galgotias University and in India.”

    Mr. Yasir Ansari, CEO of Simpled, shared his thoughts on the event’s success, “At Simpled, we believe that creating bridges between students and world-class educational institutions is crucial in shaping the next generation of global leaders. The Global Partnership Conclave & Student Fair was a fantastic initiative that showcased the power of collaboration and innovation in education. I am delighted to see the overwhelming response from students and the fruitful discussions that emerged from this event. This is a step towards empowering students with global opportunities, and I am proud to partner with Galgotias University in this shared vision for the future of education.”

  • Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Wins Prestigious International Green Gown Award 2024

    Hyderabad, 17 October 2024: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has won the prestigious International Green Gown Award 2024 under the Benefitting Society category for its transformative Live-in-LabsⓇ initiative. This recognition highlights the university’s multidisciplinary approach to experiential learning, addressing the challenges faced by rural communities and promoting sustainability. The award further cements Amrita’s leadership in environmental stewardship and social impact.

    Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham also received accolades in three other categories:

    ● Highly Commended in Creating Impact for the My Village, Our Water initiative.

    ● Finalist in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Sustainability for its E4Life PhD in Sustainable Development project.

    ● Finalist in Nature Positive for Nurturing Nature (Amma’s Sustainability Initiatives).

    With 95 finalists from 28 countries across 8 categories, the Green Gown Awards have become the most prestigious recognition of best practice in the further and higher education sector. This year’s awards spotlight universities and their efforts towards sustainability and global change.

    Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is ranked 81st globally by the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2024, reflecting its commitment to impactful education and research. The university operates across nine campuses in five states. Amrita’s Chancellor, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), launched Live-in-LabsⓇ in 2013. This initiative bridges the gap between academic learning and practical community engagement, enabling students to immerse themselves in rural life and tackle real-world problems. Through collaboration with local governments, communities, and subject matter experts, Live-in-LabsⓇ offers scalable, affordable solutions that drive sustainable development.

    Dr. Maneesha V Ramesh, Provost and Dean, Amrita School for Sustainable Futures, said, “We are immensely proud to receive the International Green Gown Award 2024 in the Benefitting Society Category, along with recognition in three additional categories. The Live-in-LabsⓇ initiative exemplifies our dedication to sustainable development through experiential learning. By empowering students to engage with rural communities, we address pressing challenges and cultivate a commitment to building resilient communities. This recognition reinforces our belief in education’s transformative power to create lasting societal change.”

    Judges praised Live-in-LabsⓇ for its deep community involvement: “It’s not just about finding solutions but truly understanding the community’s perspective. This is a win-win for both students and the communities they serve.”

    One such project, in the remote village of Guptapada, Odisha, tackled challenges related to water access, sanitation, and health risks due to unsustainable cooking practices. The initiative involved the development of modular water filtration systems, smokeless cookstoves, and skill-training centers, illustrating the profound impact of collaborative and sustainable solutions.

    Founded in 2004, the International Green Gown Awards recognize the outstanding sustainability initiatives in higher education. Endorsed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and supported by organizations like the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI), the awards celebrate universities leading the charge for sustainable development globally.

  • Corporations Propose Capacity Building and Digita

    Bengaluru, October 18, 2024 – Leading corporations have highlighted the need for CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives to intensify capacity building and scaling-up resources to sustain and improve quality of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in schools across India. CSR representatives of these corporations made the suggestions at a Roundtable conference organised by Prayoga that examined the influential role of CSR in effective STEM education. Prayoga is recognized as a Science and Industrial Research Organization by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Union Ministry of Science and Technology.

    CSR Representatives with Prayoga's team at Prayoga's Round table Conference

    The roundtable delved into the challenges of the current education system, emphasising the importance of transitioning from traditional, theory-heavy teaching methods to interactive, experiential learning approaches. A key objective was to explore the dimensions of capacity building for teachers, especially in under-resourced and rural areas, where the education gap is most pronounced, ensuring that the students actively engage and understand the information they receive, while ensuring the social and emotional well-being of students.

    “We have received highly positive feedback from participants,” said Dr. H. S. Nagaraja, Founder and Chief Mentor, Prayoga. “It was inspiring to see CSR stakeholders unite to discuss ways to enhance STEM education across India. One crucial missing element in our education system is research. Integrating research and inquiry-based learning into classrooms is essential to prepare a future-ready workforce. At Prayoga, we are dedicated to advancing this initiative, understanding that reaching our objective requires collective engagement. We are eager to leverage the momentum generated by this event to further our mission of enhancing STEM education in rural schools.”

    The event underscored the significance of continuous professional development for educators, highlighting their dual role as knowledge providers and drivers of innovation. Participants stressed the necessity of investing in educational infrastructure, including STEM labs and digital resources, to enhance teaching effectiveness. Such investments, along with sustained teacher training programs, are deemed vital for the growth of STEM initiatives.

    “Critical and creative thinking skills are essential in 21st-century education, particularly within STEM fields. Without fostering the ability to question, challenge, and innovate, we risk inadequately preparing students for their future. If students cannot seek, question, or innovate, then perhaps we are not preparing them for anything at all. Today, assessments must go beyond teaching methods and rote learning to assessing these very basic but powerful skills. Enhancing teacher capabilities and capacities is crucial, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives should significantly contribute to this effort. By implementing experiential learning and other such modern methods of teaching, to bridge the gap that continues to linger between mainstream education and the skills that students need to develop. Scaling up through CSR partnerships allows this model of effectiveness to be replicated in more schools, opening doors to sustainable improvement in STEM education,” noted Dr M Pundaleeka Kamath, Lead – Integrated Community Development Programs – Bosch India Foundation.

    “STEM education extends beyond the four walls of a classroom, thriving within a community where students can actively apply their learning. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives play a key role in fostering such a culture by engaging schools, families, and other key stakeholders to provide essential support to students, providing materials that can help sustain this creative flow of knowledge. By collaborating with key stakeholders, CSR can improve the scale and impact of STEM programs. It is also essential to focus on the communication skills of the student as many have great knowledge but cannot present it well. It is thereby important for the school leadership and supportive households to empower students to advance and effectively utilise their educational experiences,” highlighted Mr. Nagabhushana K, Head- IR, SEG Automotive.

    The need for creating a supportive ecosystem—where parents, teachers, and students are engaged in the learning process—is essential for fostering a mindset of lifelong learning and innovation. CSR programs were seen as instrumental in bridging the gap between theory and practice by providing schools with the resources and expertise needed to integrate STEM into everyday learning.

    Looking ahead, Prayoga plans to strengthen collaborations with corporate partners to build sustainable, scalable solutions that transform STEM education at the grassroots level. These efforts will ensure that students not only receive quality education but are also equipped with the skills and competencies necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Through such initiatives, Prayoga continues to achieve its vision of nurturing scientific curiosity and developing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

  • Prayatna Conducts Early Identification Training for Anganwadi Teachers

    Anganwadi Teachers Benefit from Early Identification Training Conducted by PrayatnaKochi, October 18th, 2024: As part of Occupational Therapy Month, Prayatna, a leading multidisciplinary center providing specialized rehabilitation therapy services for both children and adults, conducted early identification training for 101 Anganwadi teachers under the Kochi Urban III ICDS Project. The training, which was held at the Priyadarshini Municipality Hall in Maradu, focused on equipping teachers with the skills necessary to identify early developmental delays in children.

    Occupational therapists Anakha Pisharody and Beyona Rachel from Prayatna led the session, providing the participants with practical knowledge.

    Being among the first educators in a child’s life, Anganwadi teachers are uniquely positioned to observe early signs, making them crucial to timely intervention. The training emphasized that early detection of delays allows for more effective interventions, ensuring that children receive the support they need to reach their full potential.