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  • Claims of Fraud and Forgeries May Debunk 500 Years of Christopher Columbus History

    Claims of Fraud and Forgeries May Debunk 500 Years of Christopher Columbus History

    Jacksonville, FL, October 02, 2024 –Association Cristóvão Colón feels that this academic publication will assist greatly the world’s academics in uncovering the truth about Christopher Columbus, the putative discoverer of the Americas. The doctoral dissertation is the result of a 33-year-long investigation by Dr. Manuel da Silva Rosa (PhD in Insular and Atlantic History and long-time Columbus investigator) and deals meticulously with the original documents. The book is the first English edition and explains in great detail how 500 years of history related to Christopher Columbus was dubious at best.

    “The reader will not find an exercise of guesses here, or rejection of the sources that do not fit, nor any unfounded deductions. Doctor Manuel Rosa demonstrated, through a systematic analysis of all the documentation, that Don Cristóbal Colón was not born in a family of Genoese weavers,” wrote Professor João Paulo Oliveira e Costa in the books Foreword.

    It is more than just an esoteric quest for knowledge of the 15th century. Up to now the Christopher Columbus history was a devious labyrinth which Dr. Rosa claims was falsified by many different actors working in different centuries and for different reasons. Documents about some Cristoforo Colombo weaver from Genoa, included many forgeries, as Ulloa, Altolaguirre, Strahan and others declared and are well-sourced in the book. The Contemporary Review (1937) stated that “the forgery of documents referring to Columbus has not stopped, being more intensified after his death.”

    This newly published research places the blame for the prevailing falsified history clearly at the feet of the Italian academics from the late 1800s and early 1900s and their supporting government entities. All of them colluded to provide false and misleading documents to the world in the hopes that the doubts surrounding their Genoese peasant weaver Columbus could be erased.

    At any time, the Italian lobby could have opted for seeking truth and let the world know about their lack of documents. Instead, they opted to bluff the world with misleading publications and their manipulations succeeded in deceiving thousands of academics for over 100 years.

    What is presented in COLUMBUS versus COLÓN: The weaver from Italy was not the navigator from Spain, are the solid facts on which to anchor a new biography and a new and more accurate story.

  • AAFT Noida Hosts an Inspiring Orientation Program for the Class of 2024

    Noida: AAFT Noida, a premier media and arts institution in India, hosted the much-awaited AAFT Orientation 2024 from August 22nd to 31st at its Noida campus. The program, filled with inspiration, learning, and empowerment, featured distinguished speakers and veterans from various fields who shared their journeys, insights, and valuable advice. The event left a lasting impact on the aspiring creative professionals in attendance. From the importance of resilience to the fusion of art and technology, this year’s speakers offered a comprehensive outlook for the future leaders of creative industries.

    AAFT Noida Hosts an Inspiring Orientation Program for the Class of 2024

    The orientation kicked off on August 22, with the first three days dedicated to the School of Animation, Data Science, Fine Arts, and Digital Marketing. Opening the program, motivational speaker Simerjeet Singh addressed the incoming students, emphasizing the importance of resilience and creativity. His keynote set the tone for the following days, where students learned to view setbacks as opportunities for growth. Renowned artist and animator Charuvi P. Agrawal delved into the fusion of traditional art with modern technology. She highlighted the role of storytelling in animation, explaining how blending artistic techniques with digital tools can create compelling visual narratives that leave a lasting impact.

    Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder & President of AAFT Pvt Ltd., delivered a powerful message on leadership and personal growth. He encouraged students to embrace failures as part of their journey, urging them to learn from challenges rather than shy away from them. His address resonated with the institution’s ethos of fostering growth through experiential learning.

    Renowned artist Nawal Kishore shared his deep understanding of artistic expression, using color as a metaphor for self-discovery and individuality. He urged students to embrace their artistic voices, underscoring that every stroke of paint tells a story. AI expert Dipanjan Sarkar guided students from Data Science and Digital Marketing through the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. By introducing tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, Sarkar demonstrated how AI is revolutionizing industries and creating new pathways for creativity.

    From August 27 to 29, the spotlight shifted to the School of Cinema, Music, Still Photography, Journalism and Mass Communication, Advertising, PR, and Events. Acclaimed music director, guitarist, and musician Ehsaan Noorani shared his experiences composing for cinema, illuminating the intricate relationship between music and storytelling in films. Meanwhile, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and best-selling author Ankur Warikoo shared his insights on personal development and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the significance of understanding and learning from failures, providing a practical perspective on building a successful career.

    Best-selling author Ravinder Singh, known for his romantic novels like I Too Had a Love Story, captivated the 2024 batch with an insightful session on the art of storytelling. Sharing his own journey from IT professional to literary star, he encouraged students to transform personal experiences into narratives that resonate with others. He highlighted the therapeutic and transformative power of writing, leaving students with the belief that their unique stories can forge meaningful connections.

    The final leg of the orientation, from August 29 to 31, focused on the School of Fashion Design, Interior Design, Hospitality and Tourism, and Health and Wellness. Celebrated chef and Guinness World Record holder Varun Inamdar, also known as ‘The Bombay Chef’, added a flavorful twist to the discussions by drawing parallels between culinary arts and storytelling. Like all art forms, he demonstrated how food can evoke emotions and tell a story. Actress and certified life coach Tannaz Irani brought a deeply personal touch to the program, speaking about the power of overcoming challenges. Her stories of navigating professional and personal hardships resonated with students, inspiring them to use adversity as a tool for growth and success.

    The AAFT Orientation 2024 stood as a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing creative talent and empowering students to achieve their full potential. The diverse range of speakers and their insightful sessions provided students with a well-rounded perspective on the creative industries and the skills required to thrive in them. As a leading media and arts education institution, AAFT continues to inspire and equip aspiring creative professionals to turn their passion into a thriving profession.

  • Arcil Joins Hands with Studeasy Bharat Foundation to Empower Students in Rural Government Schools Through Digital Classroom Initiative

    Arcil Joins Hands with Studeasy Bharat Foundation to Empower Students in Rural Government Schools Through Digital Classroom Initiative

    October 01, 2024,Mumbai, Maharashtra, India : Asset Reconstruction Company (India) Limited (Arcil) is pleased to announce its collaboration with Studeasy Bharat Foundation (SBF), Navi Mumbai, to provide digital classrooms to 30 government schools across Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Goa.

    This initiative is one of the key component of Arcil’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of education for underprivileged students and equipping them with the skills necessary for a future in the digital economy.

    Speaking on the initiative, Arcil MD & CEO Pallav Mohapatra said, “Arcil is proud to partner with Studeasy Bharat Foundation in this transformative initiative. By bringing modern educational technology to government schools, we are empowering students from under-privileged backgrounds with the tools they need to succeed in today’s increasingly digital world. Our goal is to empower these students to not only excel academically but to emerge as the next generation of IT professionals and leaders, equipped with the skills and confidence to drive tomorrow’s digital economy.”

    Speaking further on the initiative, Studeasy Co-founder & Director, Lehar Tawde said, “We are pleased to be supported by Arcil in our mission to provide Quality Education to Govt. school students. Our Blended Learning Program with Arcil benefits over 10,000 underprivileged students across 30 Govt. schools, spread over 3 States in India. The program brings to life the Government’s vision to leverage technology to provide Govt. school students with Quality Education; not only in classrooms, but also at home, during their self-study time. Our association with Arcil has just started and, in time to come, we hope to empower Govt. school students across every State in India, and enable them to contribute to the India growth story.”

    Through this partnership, Arcil is supporting the implementation of a digital Classroom infrastructure, a powerful integration of low-cost, hyper-scalable technologies, designed to offer students in government schools a better learning experience. The project, which includes the installation of 55” Smart TVs in classrooms with an access to customised software that allows for the seamless delivery of educational content both in school and at home through SBF’s Blended-Class Program. This unique model enables students from Classes 5-10 to access state-syllabi-based lectures, assessments, and educational videos in vernacular languages, ensuring an inclusive approach to learning.

    In the initial three phases during 2024, digital classrooms were set up in 10 schools each across Jhajjar and Bhiwani districts in Haryana, Dewas district in Madhya Pradesh, and schools in Goa. The program is designed to engage both students and teachers, with SBF sharing valuable learning insights based on students’ progress to them and to Arcil to monitor progress of students and overall benefits of the programme. This data helps teachers refine their lesson plans, resulting in improved learning outcomes and educational development.

    SBF’s innovative approach aligns with Arcil’s commitment to promoting educational equity. By providing digital infrastructure, the initiative bridges the gap between urban and rural education, offering students the opportunity to enhance their learning experience both inside and outside the classroom using the same software on their own/family digital platforms viz mobiles, computers etc.

    With a strong focus on student engagement and teacher support, this program exemplifies Arcil’s long-term vision of fostering a future-ready workforce. As India’s digital economy continues to grow, Arcil’s CSR efforts will remain dedicated to ensuring that students in rural areas are not left behind in this transformation.

  • Veranda K-12 launches Avinya

    CHENNAI, 1st October 2024: Veranda K-12, part of Veranda Learning Solutions, is announcing the launch of Avinya, a nationwide event to identify and nurture the next generation of young innovators. Avinya is an innovation hub that empowers young entrepreneurs to develop groundbreaking ideas aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the goal of tackling real-world challenges. This exciting initiative is designed to unite students with a passion for creativity and problem-solving.

    Students from grades 8 to 12 across India are invited to participate , giving them an opportunity to not only showcase their innovative ideas but also make a lasting impact on society. Avinya, to be held across cities like Indore, Jaipur, Noida, Chandigarh, Gurgaon, Ludhiana, Kolkata, Mangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, Jammu, Guntur, Chennai, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Trichy this year, will provide a platform for these young minds to channel their creativity into practical solutions for global and local issues.

    Why Participate in Avinya?

    Create Change: Work on solutions for real-world problems and make a tangible difference.

    Nation-Wide Impact: The best ideas will be showcased across 100+ cities, and participants will get the opportunity to compete with some of the top 3 innovative minds of 2024.

    Expert Guidance: Benefit from mentorship by start-up founders and industry experts, helping you refine and perfect your ideas.

    Value to Schools:
    Avinya provides schools with a unique opportunity to foster innovation and entrepreneurial thinking among students, helping them develop problem-solving skills while addressing critical global challenges. Schools can gain recognition by showcasing their students’ innovative ideas on a national stage, making a real impact in communities across India.

    How to Be Part of Avinya?

    • Round 1: Register on the link provided and submit your entries by October 21, 2024.
    • Round 2: Selected participants/ teams from Round 1 will be invited to present their ideas to a distinguished jury at a host school close to their city. The top ideas will move forward to the Grand Finale.
    • Round 3: The National Level Grand Finale will be held on December 6 and 7, 2024, at IIIT Bangalore where the top 3 teams from the regional round will showcase their ideas.

    Participants who present the top 3 ideas will have the chance to win prizes worth Rs. 1,00,000. The jury panel includes distinguished personalities such as Mr. Bhavin Shah (CEO, Education World), Mr. Prateek Madhav (Co-founder, AssisTech Foundation), Mr. Sunil Acharya (India Lead, AWS), Ms. Gayatri Chauhan (CEO, BuzzOnEarth), and Mr. Rajesh Pankaj (CPO, Veranda Learning Solutions).

  • Consistent Spreads Happiness and Hope at Bal Sahyog, Brightening Children’s Lives

    New Delhi, 1st October 2024: In a heartwarming initiative to support children’s education and well-being, Consistent Infosystems better known as Consistent, one of India’s fastest-growing IT brands extended its hand of care by visiting Bal Sahyog, a prominent children’s welfare organization in New Delhi. The visit aimed to bring joy and foster learning by distributing essential study materials and delicious snacks to the children.

    Consistent @ Bal Sahyog (1)

    During the visit, the team from Consistent Infosystems engaged with the children and distributed a range of study materials, including drawing books, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, and scratch pens. These items were carefully selected to encourage creativity and assist the children in their educational journey.

    In addition to the study kits, the company provided an assortment of nutritious food items, including fruit juices, apples, chocolates, and chips. The children were overjoyed to receive these treats, making the day both educational and fun.

    Bal Sahyog, a well-known non-governmental organization, has been tirelessly working towards the welfare of underprivileged children, offering them shelter, education, and opportunities for a brighter future. The collaboration with Consistent Infosystems is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

    The event was a resounding success, with smiles, laughter, and a sense of connection filling the air. Consistent Infosystems remains dedicated to empowering the next generation, not just through cutting-edge technology but also by supporting meaningful causes that create a positive social impact.

  • Blending Hands-On Learning with Theory

    In the powerful field of engineering, the traditional approach to education, focused mostly on theoretical knowledge, is rapidly growing. Today, the integration of hands–on learning with theory has become a foundation of innovative engineering education. By embracing this approach, educators are preparing students not only with the technical skills but also with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration abilities essential for success in the modern era.

    Integrating Technology: Enhancing Engineering Education for the Modern Era

    One of the most significant innovations in engineering education is the integration of technology. With advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), simulation software, and online learning platforms, educators have powerful tools at their disposal to enhance the learning experience.

    1. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) simulations – These technologies offer immersive and interactive environments where students can explore complex engineering concepts. These technologies provide a hands–on approach to learning, allowing students to visualize and interact with systems and structures in ways that were previously impossible.

    1. Online learning platforms –  Including massive open online courses (MOOCs) and educational websites, provide students with access to a wealth of resources and learning materials. These platforms offer flexibility and convenience, allowing students to learn at their own pace and supplement their classroom instruction with multimedia content and interactive exercises.

    Industry Partnership: Empowering with Real-World Experience in Engineering Education

    Another key aspect of innovative engineering education is industry partnership. By collaborating with industry professionals, educators can provide students with real-world experience and insights into the engineering profession.

    1. Internships and Placements –  Co-operative education programs, and industry-sponsored projects offer students the opportunity to work alongside professionals in their chosen field. Through these experiences, students gain practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional networks that are invaluable as they transition from academia to the workforce.

    1. Industry partnerships – Enrich the curriculum by incorporating real-world challenges and case studies into the classroom. By contextualizing theoretical concepts within the framework of industry practice, educators can help students understand the relevance and applicability of their learning.

    1. Enhanced Learning Through Mentors – By attending guest lectures, site visits, and industry-sponsored workshops provide students with exposure to diverse perspectives and career pathways within the engineering profession. These experiences broaden students’ horizons and inspire them to pursue their passions and interests in their future careers.

    Inclusive Practices: Ensuring Diversity and Equity in Engineering Education.

    Outreach programs, mentorship initiatives, and diversity-focused scholarships aim to attract and retain underrepresented groups in engineering, including women, minorities, and individuals from low-income backgrounds. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive student body, educators can create a richer learning environment that reflects the diversity of the engineering profession.

    1. Gender Equality – Culturally responsive teaching practices acknowledge and respect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. By incorporating diverse perspectives and examples into the curriculum, educators can help students see themselves reflected in the material and feel valued and empowered in their learning journey.

    1. Strategies to Achieve Gender Equality – Flexible instructional methods, such as active learning strategies and project-based assignments, accommodate different learning styles and preferences, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. By providing multiple pathways to mastery, educators can create a more equitable learning experience for students with diverse needs and abilities.

    Collaborative Learning: Fostering Teamwork and Engagement in Engineering Education

    Finally, collaborative learning is a fundamental component of innovative engineering education. By encouraging teamwork and collaboration, educators can enhance student engagement, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

    1. Opportunity For Collaboration – Project-based courses, group assignments, and collaborative research projects provide students with opportunities to work together to solve real-world problems. By collaborating with their peers, students can leverage each other’s strengths, share ideas, and learn from one another’s perspectives.

    1. Peer Mentoring Programs –  Study groups, and team-building activities create a sense of community and belonging within the classroom, fostering a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and challenging themselves.

    1. Bridge Between Classrooms and Industry – Collaborative learning also prepares students for the collaborative nature of the engineering profession, where teamwork and communication are essential for success. By honing their collaborative skills in the classroom, students are better equipped to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and contribute to innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.

    Innovations in engineering education are transforming the way students learn and prepare for careers in the field. By integrating hands–on learning with theory, leveraging technology to enhance the learning experience, partnering with industry to provide real-world experience, promoting diversity and equity within the classroom, and fostering teamwork and collaboration, educators are preparing students to thrive in the modern era of engineering. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in engineering education, the future looks brighter than ever for aspiring engineers ready to make a difference in the world. Through these key innovations, engineering education is evolving to meet the demands of the modern era, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s world.

  • BML Munjal University Hosts 5th Leadership Summit Focused on Industry 5.0 and AI-Driven Innovations

    Gurugram, 30 September 2024: As the world transitions towards Industry 5.0, where human creativity integrates with AI to transform businesses and foster innovation. BML Munjal University (BMU) is set to host the 5th Leadership Summit on October 4, 2024, in partnership with the NHRDN Rewari Alwar Chapter. This exclusive event, themed “Embracing Industry 5.0: Leading the AI-Powered Organisations,” will focus on how Artificial Intelligence (AI), including Generative AI, is transforming industries, driving innovation, and paving the way for sustainable growth. The summit will bring together industry leaders, visionaries, and decision-makers to explore the collaborative potential between human creativity and AI, ushering in a new era of productivity and innovation.

    BMU Leadership Summit

    The summit will begin with a welcome address by Prof. Shyam Menon, Vice-Chancellor of BMU, followed by Prof. Pratik Modi, Dean of the School of Management, who will set the context for the event. Mr. Sunil Kant Munjal, Chancellor of BMU and Chairman of Hero Enterprise, will deliver the inaugural address, highlighting the vital role of leadership in navigating the complexities of this transformative era. Ms. Swati Munjal, President of BMU, will follow with the plenary address, focusing on the integration of human creativity and AI-driven innovation in leadership. The keynote address by Ms. Vinita Bali, Former CEO of Britannia Industries, will provide further explain how AI is reshaping industries.

    The summit will feature three plenary sessions. The first, focused on Human-AI Collaboration in Industry 5.0, will feature distinguished speakers such as Mr. Nikhil Malhotra, Chief Innovation Officer-Tech Mahindra, Mr. Ravindra Sharma, Chief of Brand, Corporate Communications & CSR, SBI Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Ms. Nishu Jain, Executive Director, Data & Analytics, PwC and Mr. Venkatesh Raman Prasad, JSA Legal Firm. They will discuss strategies for seamless collaboration between human workers and AI systems to improve productivity and drive innovation.

    The second session, AI-Driven Innovations and Disruptions, will showcase insights from experts like Mr. Nilanjan Chakravortty, GM-R&D at Hitachi, Mr. Saurav Bhaik, Founder & CEO-Tagbin & Stylin and Mr. Nitin Kalra, Founder & CEO at Blu Parrot. This session will explore the impact of AI on driving innovation and disrupting traditional business models across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, media, automotive, and agriculture.

    The third session, Ethical and Sociological Implications, will delve into the challenges of AI adoption, including bias, privacy, and the role of leadership in deployment of AI and maintaining ethical standards in the workplace. The panel for this session will include Ms. Rachna Kumar, CHRO-Hero MotoCorp and Ms. Lopamudra Banerjee, CHRO-Carrier Midea.

    Prof. Pratik Modi, Dean of the School of Management at BML Munjal University, commented on the significance of the event, ” Industry 5.0 is about merging human ingenuity with AI to unlock new levels of innovation.” This Leadership Summit, now in its 5th edition, is an annual flagship event organized by BML Munjal University. Dr. Richa Mishra & Dr. Jolly Masih, Chair & Co-Chair of the Summit quoted “Fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and students is essential for AI-powered growth.”

  • A Golden Opportunity for Students, Says Dr. Birbal Jha

    Madhubani, September 30, 2024 — The development of the English language has been significantly influenced by Sanskrit, with many English words tracing their roots back to Sanskrit. For instance, the English word “love” originates from the Sanskrit root “lavyante.” English has evolved due to its flexibility, making it a global language today.

    Dr. Birbal Jha (2)

    Renowned author and educator Dr. Birbal Jha, while speaking at an event in Madhubani, highlighted the importance of learning both English and Sanskrit. He emphasized that mastering both languages not only enhances personal growth but also paves the way for promising career opportunities. “Combining the knowledge of Sanskrit and English is like adding gold to success,” Dr. Jha remarked.

    Addressing the students of ‘Lakshmivati Gurukul’ in Sarisavpahi, Madhubani, Dr. Jha explained the significance of Sanskrit, often referred to as the “language of the gods,” believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. On the other hand, English has become the world’s lingua franca. It dominates fields ranging from business and diplomacy to science, technology, and entertainment. Dr. Jha stressed that learning English is now essential for securing better jobs both in India and abroad. He added that the combination of English and Sanskrit will provide students with a competitive edge.

    Many students at the Gurukul, according to Dr. Jha, have expressed interest in learning English alongside Sanskrit. Through online classes provided by British Lingua, they will soon begin mastering both languages, setting them on a path to greater career success.

    Dr. Birbal Jha (2)

    Known as the “Youngest Living Legend of Mithila,” Dr. Birbal Jha emphasized that a strong society is built by strong individuals. He encouraged students to become the best versions of themselves, which will, in turn, create a better society.

    Dr. Jha, who hails from a rural background himself, understands the challenges faced by children in remote areas. He has been running programs aimed at improving spoken English skills in rural children, equipping them with the tools needed for employment.

    Acharya Rupesh Jha, the director of the Gurukul, praised Dr. Birbal Jha’s efforts, stating that his initiatives have brought revolutionary changes to the employment landscape in Mithila. During the event, Dr. Jha was honored with traditional gifts, including the ceremonial “Pag” and “Dopta,” by the Gurukul students, who welcomed him with Vedic chants.

  • 5 data driven educational platforms empowering students to make informed career decisions

    The rapidly changing educational environment has made data-driven platforms essential tools for guiding students through their academic and career journeys. Utilizing artificial intelligence and data analytics, these platforms offer personalized insights and tailored recommendations, allowing students to make informed choices about their educational options. Whether it’s selecting the right courses and colleges, identifying scholarship opportunities, or planning study abroad experiences, these platforms empower students to pursue their educational and career aspirations with confidence.

    Edumilestone

    Edumilestones is a career counseling platform in India, with a presence in over 54 locations through a network of 1,500+ highly trained career counselors. Established in 2008, Edumilestones has set the industry benchmark with its comprehensive 5-dimensional career assessment. The platform extends beyond career assessment, featuring India’s first career lab with information on 50,000 colleges in India and abroad, 300+ exams, application processes for studying abroad, 20+ online courses, and a comprehensive career library. This integrated resource is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu. Edumilestones is committed to make the process of selecting the right academic path more simple and approachable, enabling students to confidently pursue their academic goals.

    Edupull

    Edupull is a cutting-edge data-driven educational platform designed to help students make informed decisions about their education. Founded in 2023, Edupull leverages AI and data analytics to provide personalized insights and recommendations based on each student’s profile, strengths, and interests. The platform aims to bridge information gaps in education through its AI-powered insights and extensive analytical capabilities. Edupull offers resources in over 10 vernacular Indian languages and boasts a comprehensive database covering more than 62,000 colleges, 5500+ courses, and 700+ scholarships across India. Additionally, Edupull provides free study-abroad counseling services, empowering students to make well-informed educational choices.

    Bodhami

    Bodhami is an online education platform providing personalized counseling and learning through a state-of-the-art digital learning platform. Developed with neuroscience and AI experts, Bodhami’s powerful Artificial Intelligence algorithms detail the 360-degree persona of an individual, utilizing over 2 million association rules to suggest the right career fit and address skill gaps. The algorithm also recommends learning paths, delivering a personalized learning journey for each individual. Bodhami helps students and professionals realize their potential through holistic and personalized education at an affordable price. By assessing skills and persona, Bodhami identifies interventions needed across different skill sets and enables upskilling using cutting-edge courses available on their marketplace. With over 40,000 students and 2,500 counselors from 250 cities in India, Bodhami is a leader in personalized education.

    The Big League

    TheBigLeague is a leading EdTech platform based in Noida, India, founded in 2018 by co-founders Piyush Bhartiya and Rachit Agrawal, with Priyanka Bhargava serving as the Head of Counselling. With a steadfast mission to empower students, TheBigLeague strives to nurture well-rounded personalities and impart essential life skills while guiding students toward admission into premier educational institutions. The brand’s visionary goal revolves around becoming a leading resource for comprehensive insights into the world’s top universities, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in higher education.

    Edumpus

    Edumpus is a new-age platform that provides a multilateral user-generated communication channel between educational institutions, students, and other stakeholders of this coveted industry. The platform was founded by entrepreneurs Ajesh Raj and Basil Ali in 2019. The startup aims to bridge the gap between institutions and students across the globe and wants to create a global outreach that will help students make informed decisions about their careers and provide an efficient way for institutions to leverage their resources to pursue good students without making it an exhaustive process. The platform offers over 50,000 courses, and around 500 universities are listed on the website. Edumpus uses artificial intelligence (AI) to suggest best-fit courses to students based on their criteria and university offerings.

  • Ashoka University calls for Inclusive Higher Education at 2nd Annual Conclave

    ahoka university

    New Delhi, 30 September 2024: Ashoka University, India’s premier interdisciplinary higher education and research institution today successfully concluded its second edition of “Building Foundations for Inclusive Higher Education” conclave at the India Habitat Center (IHC). The event brought together experts from leading universities, institutions, and NGOs from across India to advance conversations on creating more inclusive higher education systems for students with disabilities. Organized by Ashoka University’s Office of Learning Support (OLS), the event was built on the discussions held from last year’s inaugural conclave to explore critical areas that need attention to ensure equal access to education for all.

    A report titled “Access to Higher Education: An Unresolved Challenge for Students with Disabilities,” was unveiled by Ms. Reena Gupta, Director of the Office of Learning Support (OLS) at Ashoka University, and Ms. Neha Trivedi, Founder of Spandan. The report examines the barriers students with disabilities face and offers detailed recommendations to Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) on how to address these issues.

    The event saw participation from over 100 key stakeholders in government, academia, and industry, including Smt. Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary, Association of Indian University; Dr. Jagdish Arora, Advisor, National Board of Accreditation; Dr. R.K. Chadha, Ex-Additional Secretary at Parliament of India, Lok Sabha; Ms. Ipsita Mitra, Deputy Secretary, Policy, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities & Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ms. Neha Trivedi, Founder of Spandan: Inclusion and Accessibility Consultancy Services; Dr. Homiyar Mobedji, Disability Expert, Program Management – Asia & Africa, Benetech and Dr. Piyush Chanana, Head, National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies (NCAHT) at IIT Delhi amongst others.

    This year’s conclave builds on the foundations laid by the inaugural event in 2023 which featured conversations and a white paper on the “Future of Disability Inclusion in Higher Education.

    The Conclave featured four dedicated Idea Labs that explored critical themes, including building support structures and reasonable accommodation frameworks at HEIs, strengthening accessible library systems and educational content accessibility, facilitating access to assistive technology for students in higher education, and empowering faculty as agents of inclusive teaching. These sessions provided a comprehensive view of the challenges, addressing everything from policy frameworks to institutional support systems.

    In his welcome address, Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of Ashoka University, reiterated the institution’s commitment to making higher education accessible and added, “At Ashoka University, we believe that true excellence in education can only be achieved when it is accessible to all. This initiative represents our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can thrive. Today’s discussions mark another step toward creating a truly democratic higher education system, which will play a critical role in India’s overall success.”

    Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities addressed the concern of low participation of differently abled in India’s higher education system and said “The four key reasons for low participation are inadequate infrastructure in the higher education system, lack of support services like Ashoka’s Office of Learning Support (OLS), stigma attached to persons with disabilities and financial constraints. Out of which, the foremost reason is the stigma, and the mindset towards disability needs to be changed.”

    Dr. R.K. Chadha, former Additional Secretary of the Parliament of India (Lok Sabha), offered recommendations to enhance the accessibility of persons with disabilities and integrate them more effectively into the mainstream. He proposed that 10-15% of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) budget be allocated to initiatives supporting persons with disabilities, alongside the provision of disability pensions. For education sector, Dr. Chadha recommended proper implementation of UGC and AICTE norms and emphasized that greater weight should be given to a university’s social standards when assessing accreditation.

    In her remarks, Mrs Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education said, “As part of the mandate of the National Education Policy, we also support disadvantaged groups including those with invisible disabilities like mental health. The ministry has initiated a pilot scheme where we are sensitizing our faculty to understand what specific learning disability is all about and how the institutions should reach out to students to understand their requirements. Apart from initiatives to address disability challenges, we are also working on mental health capacity building programmes to build resilience in students.”

    “Conclave 2.0 has highlighted the importance of collaborative action across the education and policy sectors. By building on the frameworks discussed today, we will continue to create collective action plans to foster a truly inclusive learning ecosystem in higher education,” Ms. Reena Gupta commented.

    Ashoka University remains committed to working closely with its partners and stakeholders to turn these discussions into actionable strategies for inclusive education. The university has plans for future engagements, policy advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive academic environment in India.