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Tag: education

Major MoUs Signed with Samarkand State University, Uzbekistan

Samarkand, Uzbekistan – September 21, 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) and Samarkand State University (SamSU) have taken a significant step in Indo-Uzbek academic collaboration by signing two major agreements. These include a Letter of Intent to establish a Joint Master’s Degree Program (JMDP) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster research and collaboration in hydrology, environmental science, sustainable energy, and SDGs. The agreements were signed by Prof. Khalmuradov Rustam Ibragimovich, Rector of SamSU, and Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, alongside key faculty members from both universities.

The Joint Master’s Degree Program (JMDP) will be developed between IIT Roorkee’s Department of Hydrology and SAMSU’s Department of Hydrometeorology. It shall address critical global issues like water scarcity, climate change, and environmental degradation. This program shall equip students and faculties of SamSU with advanced expertise in water resource management modeling and sustainability. Through this partnership, IIT Roorkee will exploit the long-standing expertise and experience to provide actionable solutions to real-world problems in hydrology and related fields in Uzbekistan.

Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, noted that this collaboration will contribute to sustainable solutions for water and environmental issues, enhancing academic excellence and societal impact. Prof. Ibragimovich stated that the agreements underscore both institutions’ commitment to addressing pressing climate challenges and creating a platform for innovative research and education.

Prof. Vimal Chandra Srivastava, Dean of International Relations at IIT Roorkee, emphasized the partnership’s importance in expanding IIT Roorkee’s international footprint and fostering cross-cultural academic exchanges. Similarly, Dr. Muhtor Nasirov, Vice-Rector of International Relations at SAMSU, expressed excitement about the collaboration’s potential to drive global environmental sustainability and joint innovations. Prof. Naveen Navani, Dean of Academic Affairs, at IIT Roorkee emphasized that these MoUs will create new opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, research initiatives, and knowledge-sharing.

The partnership sets a benchmark for Indo-Uzbek educational collaborations and is expected to enhance the global standing of both institutions significantly. By addressing global water challenges and climate change, the IIT Roorkee-SAMSU partnership paves the way for innovative academic initiatives that will benefit future generations and foster deeper India-Uzbekistan relations. Prof. Sumit Sen, Head, of the Department of Hydrology and Prof. Ankit Agarwal, Faculty, Department of Hydrology, IIT Roorkee, Prof. Safarboy, Head of the Hydrology Department, and Dr. Arindam Banik, ICCR’s Chair of Indian Studies (Economics), SamSU were also present during signing of these MoUs.

September 22, 2024
Safari Kid Preschool Expands in Hyderabad with the Launch of Its Second Center at Banjara Hills

Hyderabad, 21st September 2024: Safari Kid Preschool and Daycare, an international brand in early childhood education, launches its second center in Hyderabad at Banjara Hills. This expansion marks a significant step in Safari Kid’s mission to provide world-class early childhood education across India. Founded in Silicon Valley in 2005, Safari Kid has grown into an international leader in the sector, boasting over 50 centers across the USA, Canada, and India.

Mr. Asaduddin Owaisi, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha at the centre launch of Safari Kid with Mr. Jitendra Karsan, Chairman, Safari Kid, India and Bushra Khan, Safari Kid Centre Head, Banjara Hills Branch

Asaduddin Owaisi, Member of Parliament for Hyderabad, came to support the launch of Safari Kid’s second center at Banjara Hills. His presence at the inauguration reflects his belief in the importance of quality early education and its role in shaping young minds in the city. As a resident, Owaisi’s support highlights the growing commitment to fostering better educational opportunities for children.

On the expansion, Jitendra Karsan, Chairman of Safari Kid, India, said, “We are excited to deepen our presence in Hyderabad with the opening of our second center. This expansion reflects our commitment to the region, and we are determined to make high-quality early childhood education accessible to more families. Hyderabad is a key part of our growth strategy as we see a growing demand from parents for innovative, well-rounded preschool education. By launching in Banjara Hills, we are further embedding ourselves in the community and offering children an enriching, transformative experience that will set the foundation for lifelong success.”

Karsan further highlighted Safari Kid’s vision for the region, adding, “Our new center in Hyderabad is just the beginning of our broader expansion in the city. We are committed to establishing a strong presence here and ensuring that children in Hyderabad benefit from our global standards of education, which not only teach the basics but foster creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking.”

The state-of-the-art Banjara Hills center features an environment specifically designed to inspire learning and exploration, combining the best practices from Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf education philosophies. Safari Kid’s approach integrates academic rigor with holistic character development, offering a distinctive education model that nurtures every child’s unique potential.

Asaduddin Owaisi, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, added that, “Promoting high-quality education has always been a key priority for me, and I am thrilled to see an internationally respected brand like Safari Kid choose Hyderabad as a region for its growth. Their commitment to providing innovative, global-standard early education aligns with the values we want to foster in the city. As Hyderabad continues to develop as a hub for international talent and investment, I look forward to supporting and encouraging more global brands to bring their expertise to our region, further enhancing the educational opportunities available to our children.”

The launch event was graced by renowned influencers like Anam Mirza, Hana Rahman Baig, and Naushaba Farooqui, alongside distinguished guests such as Iran Consulate General Mohsin Moghadami, Venu Rachakonda (CEO of Sri Krishna Silks) and Aamer Javed (Vice President of IYCTelangana and Chairman of TPCC Research Department), who visited the new center to show their support.

Safari Kid India is on track to open 8 additional centers across the country in this academic year, driven by a growing demand for quality early childhood education in cities like Hyderabad, where parents are looking for well-rounded programs for their children.

With its unique blend of global curriculum, innovative learning environments, and a focus on holistic development, Safari Kid is poised to continue its journey of creating future-ready learners in India and beyond.

September 22, 2024
Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chairman Hindustan Group of Institutions honored with Excellence in Education Award from the World Malayalee Council, London

CHENNAI, 21 September 2024: The Hindustan Group of Institutions (HGI), a global leader in the field of education, is proud to announce that its Chairman, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, has been awarded the prestigious Excellence in Education Award by the World Malayalee Council, London. This esteemed recognition honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of education and have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to their students and the academic community.

Dr. Anand Verghese was honoured by former MP and Cllr Stuart Collins, Past Mayor of Croydon, UK in the presence of Kerala Congress Committee President MP Shri K.Sudhakaran. The World Malayalee Council is a global organization that aims to promote unity, friendship, and cultural exchange among Malayalees across the globe.

Speaking on the occasion, MP and Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President K. Sudhakaran said, “Dr. Anand Verghese is a progressive thinker and edupreneur whose dedication, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit have significantly impacted the field of education, not just in Tamil Nadu, but across the nation. Hailing from the vibrant state of Kerala, his deep-rooted passion for learning and business acumen have led him to become a leading figure in nurturing the next generation of leaders. Dr. Anand Verghese heads numerous prestigious educational institutions, shaping the futures of countless students and making a positive difference in the world”.

Dr. Anand expressed his gratitude to the committee for honoring him with the prestigious educational excellence award. He said, “I am privileged to lead institutions with such rich legacies and bright futures. My roots in Kerala have shaped my values and inspired me to strive for excellence in all that I do. The Hindustan Group of Institutions has always been committed to providing a world-class education to our students. We are proud of our accomplishments, but we know that there is always more to be done. We will continue to innovate, adapt, and evolve to meet the changing needs of our students and the world.”

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese is a visionary thinker, leader and a renowned figure in the field of education, serving as the Chairman of The Hindustan Group of Institutions that encompasses numerous educational institutions including Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS), KCG College of Technology, Hindustan College of Arts and Science, Hindustan Institute of Engineering Technology (HIET), Hindustan College, Mysuru, Orient Flights and HIS Schools. With a passion for nurturing young minds and a commitment to academic & research excellence, Dr. Anand Verghese has played a pivotal role in shaping the institution into a leading educational powerhouse.

HGI, established by the legendary Edupreneur Dr. K.C.G. Verghese in 1966, has a rich history of providing quality education, and Dr. Anand Verghese has been instrumental in carrying forward this legacy. Under his guidance, the institution has achieved numerous awards, accreditations and top rankings including NAAC A+, IET, NBA and AICTE and has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of programs, including Engineering, Aviation, Management, Law, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, Cambridge Education, Online Learning and more.

Dr. Anand Verghese has a clear vision for the future of HGI. He envisions the institution as a global leader in education, producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible and equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Dr. Anand’s dedication, vision, and leadership have made a significant impact on the lives of countless students. His unwavering commitment to education has earned him widespread respect and admiration. Under his guidance, HGI is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and innovation.

The Excellence in Education Award is a testament to his exceptional contributions and accomplishments. He joins a distinguished group of educators who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements.

September 21, 2024
Emmanuel Edouard, PhD’s New Book The Victimization of Public School Teachers in America

Smyrna, GA, September 21, 2024 –Fulton Books author Emmanuel Edouard, PhD, a lifelong educator who began his teaching journey through the Peace Corps, has completed his most recent book, “The Victimization of Public School Teachers in America”: an insightful work that offers a thorough analysis of the systemic challenges and escalating disrespect faced by public school teachers over the past decades.

After obtaining his doctorate in comparative literature in 1982 at the State University of New York at Binghamton, author Emmanuel Edouard received the Edward Weisband Distinguished Alumni Award for Public Service or Contribution to Public Affairs in 1991. He started his teaching journey in 1980 as a Peace Corps education volunteer serving in West Africa at the Ecole Normale Supérieure du Mali, which continued for twenty-five years as a Plan International representative directing, guiding, and training men and women serving poor communities in Africa, South America, and Central America. In 2005, through AmeriCorps, Dr. Edouard became a NYC-certified teacher assigned to serve in the Bronx, New York City. For twelve years until his retirement, he provided services to children with disabilities. The author is also a proud member of the United Federation of Teachers.

“The assault on public school teachers’ integrity, livelihood, and professionalism started in 1983 with the publication of ‘A Nation at Risk,’” writes Dr. Edouard. “Based on the results of our education system performance, they were indirectly accused of failing our children. Still, it peaked in 2004, when Rod Paige, then George W. Bush’s secretary of education, called the country’s leading teachers union a ‘terrorist organization.’ Teachers felt dehumanized then. In 2009, Barack Obama blamed them for ‘letting our grades slip, our schools crumble, our teacher quality fall short, and other nations outpace us.’ Teachers felt let down again. In 2017, President Donald Trump lamented how ‘beautiful’ students had been ‘deprived of all knowledge’ by our nation’s cash-guzzling public school system. Teachers felt humiliated and rejected. Currently, in states like Florida, public school teachers are besieged by politically motivated laws and unrealistic demands from parents, politicians, and noneducation experts. They have lost their freedom to teach as they see fit to meet the needs of their students.

“Teachers feel more disrespected, devalued, unappreciated, and under attack than ever. The bad news is that a recent NEA survey revealed that 55 percent of currently employed teachers are seriously considering leaving their jobs. If that rate of resignations continues to grow, the question is, will there be a public school system in America in the future?”

September 21, 2024
Seminar on Nasha Mukti at Amity University Haryana in Collaboration with District Red Cross, Gurugram

Manesar, September 21, 2024– Amity University Haryana (AUH) conducted a seminar on the theme of ‘Nasha Mukti’ (Freedom from Intoxicants) at its Manesar campus, in collaboration with the District Red Cross, Gurugram. It aimed at raising awareness about drug addiction and its prevention among students and staff. It also underscored the importance of avoiding drugs, distractions, and delinquency, while emphasizing the development of essential professional and personal skills.

Prof. (Dr) P.B. Sharma, Vice Chancellor, AUH; Prof. (Dr) Vikas Madhukar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, AUH and Maj. Gen. J.S. Dhull (Retd.), Dean of Students Welfare (DSW), Prof Dr Sanjna Vij, Dy DSW, AUH felicitated the Chief Guest of the evening, Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal, General Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Haryana State Branch.

Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, AUH, Prof. Sharma during his welcome address, expressed his disdain for drugs and urged the students to not fall into its honey trap. “Drugs are destroying the youth of this country,” expressed Prof. Sharma. Amity University Haryana has been known for its ‘Zero Tolerance Policy’, within which the university ensures a strictly drug-free campus. Further, Prof Sharma shared his deep disappointment with the menace of intoxicants around the world, criticizing the glorification of drugs and alcohol in popular media and culture.

Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal also addressed the AUH dignitaries, faculty, and students, sharing his concerns about the rampant abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs in the country. Urging the young students to not give in to the pitfalls of drug abuse, he said – “Desh humein deta hai kuch, hum bhi desh ko kuch denge. Apne desh ko param vaibhav tak lejaane mei sabse aage aap sab yuva hain!” (The country provides for us, so we must also provide for our country. It’s you all, the youth, who will lead the nation to supreme glory!). The Indian Red Cross Society is a voluntary humanitarian organization, known to provide relief in times of disasters/emergencies and promote health & care to the vulnerable people and communities in India. IRCS has 100 Blood Centres all over India and regularly organizes numerous blood donation camps with one such camp organized at AUH.

Among other guests who graced the evening was Dr Ajay, a renowned psychiatrist who works in association with a Gurugram-based NGO called ‘Antarmanh Foundation.’ Dr Ajay interacted with the students, discussing common myths about drugs and drug abuse along with its adverse effects on the human body and mind. Motivating the students to lead more positive and healthier lives, he said, “Aapko nashe ki taraf nahi, life ki taraf badhna hai!” (You must move towards life, not addiction!) Mr. Nitin Shrivastav, another dedicated advocate in this field, further discussed the harmful impact of drug abuse, urging both adolescents and college-going students to exercise more caution due to mental vulnerabilities faced at this sensitive age.

AUH’s acclaimed drama society- ‘Ek Awaaz’ performed a compelling play to spread awareness about drug abuse and its effects. As a token of appreciation, the troupe was awarded a trophy by AUH dignitaries and IRCS.

Embracing a unanimous appeal to abstain from drug abuse, Mr. Jitin Sharma, a representative of IRCS, administered an oath to the gathering, comprised of AUH dignitaries, faculty, staff, and students. Mr. Vikas Kumar, Secretary, of District Red Cross Society, Gurugram, extended a Vote of Thanks, expressing his gratitude to the attendees and the Chief Guest of the evening, Dr Mukesh Kumar Aggarwal, thanking them for their patience, commitment, and resilience in the fight against illegal drugs.

The chief organizers of the event were Maj Gen Dhull, Dean of Student Welfare (DSW), and Prof. Dr Sanjna Vij, Deputy DSW. Their dedication and leadership ensured that the seminar not only raised awareness but also empowered students to reject the allure of drugs and embrace a path of purpose, resilience, and positivity.

September 21, 2024
Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences Hosts Successful 24-Hour Hackathon

September 20, 2024,Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India : Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences, Indore, recently concluded a dynamic 24-hour hackathon recently, showcasing the innovative talents of its students. The event brought together 28 teams from diverse departments, including B. Tech CSIT, SME, B. Sc DS, BBA BFSI, and DMM, all competing to develop cutting-edge solutions to real-world challenges.

Event Highlights: Participants engaged in an intense and collaborative environment, selecting problems from the Smart India Hackathon (SIH) Portal and working non-stop to create impactful solutions. The breadth of projects ranged from advanced technology implementations to practical applications designed to address pressing issues.

Judging and Evaluation: The hackathon featured a rigorous assessment process with two rounds of evaluations:

Initial Assessment: Conducted by an esteemed internal jury panel consisting of:
Dr. Durgesh Mishra, Campus Director & Director SCSIT
Brig A. Shridhar, Dean Academics
Dr. Vaishali Joshi, Associate Professor
Dr. Ankit Jain, Assistant Professor

Final Pitching: Judged by a distinguished external jury, including:
Mr. Vikas Choudhary, Regional Head Japan Ops, TCS
Mr. Ram Chug, Senior Developer, Impetus

Top Teams and Solutions: Four standout teams were recognized for their exceptional work:

Error_404: Developed a solution for enhancing the Permanently Shadowed Regions (PSR) of lunar craters using data from Chandrayaan-2.
CyberVanguard: Created a live location tracking system.
Vidya.ai: Designed a Smart Competency Diagnostic and Candidate Profile Score Calculator.
GEEKS: Addressed women’s safety with an innovative analytics solution.

These top teams will advance by uploading their projects to the SIH Portal for further evaluation and potential implementation.

Participating Teams: The event featured a diverse range of innovative projects, including:

Web-heads: Alumni association platform for universities/institutions.
CodeZords: Unique toys and games conceptualization.
Jarvis: A tourism enhancement platform for discovering hidden locations.
Tech Titans: Solar energy innovations.
Hackathoners: Smart Medical Prescription Assistant.
Hackhavoc: Smart bus stops and tourism infrastructure solutions.
WomenRise: Women safety analytics.

Organizers and Acknowledgements: The hackathon was expertly organized by the student committee under the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC). Dr. Neha Gupta, Deputy Director of SCSIT, served as the Single Point of Contact (SPOC). The event successfully fostered creativity, teamwork, and practical problem-solving skills among students, offering them valuable experience in tackling real-world challenges.

September 21, 2024
Ravensbourne University London Announces Admissions for MBA in Fashion Business & Entrepreneurship

Mumbai, 20th September 2024: Ravensbourne University, London announces the opening of admissions for its MBA in Fashion Business & Entrepreneurship, with the course set to begin in November 2024. This one-year course is designed to offer students the advanced knowledge and skills to navigate the ever-evolving world of fashion. Applicants to the MBA program should hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field, such as fashion, business, or a related discipline. Ravensbourne also offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages designed to support students from around the globe in achieving their academic and career aspirations.

Ravensbourne’s MBA in Fashion Business & Entrepreneurship is uniquely tailored for aspiring fashion professionals and entrepreneurs, offering a deep understanding of business landscapes within the fashion industry. Students will engage with industry experts, participate in live projects, and gain access to Ravensbourne’s extensive network of fashion and business professionals.

In addition to the MBA program, Ravensbourne University London offers a diverse range of other creative courses in design, media, and technology. These include BA (Hons) Interior Design Environment Architecture, BA (Hons) in Digital Photography, BA (Hons) in Music & Sound Production, among many others. Each program is designed to nurture creativity and innovation, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen fields.

Established in the year 1962, Ravensbourne University is a digital media & design University, with vocational courses in fashion, television & broadcasting, interactive product design, architecture, environment design, music production & sound design. Ravensbourne’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its esteemed alumni, who have gone on to become leaders and innovators in the fashion and creative industries globally.

OIEG has a long track record of successfully working to build universities’ reputations overseas, enabling more Indian students to access quality education. OIEG in partnership with Ravensbourne -delivers student recruitment, compliance, conversion, admissions, student support and enrolment services.

Oxford International Education Services (OIES), a division of OIEG in India, aids University partners scale and diversifying student enrolment. With over 50,000 successful admissions to-date, OIES facilitates connections for students with pathways, vocational training, language courses, and direct degree opportunities.

Mohit Gambir, Managing Director at OIES states “The MBA in Fashion Business & Entrepreneurship has been uniquely designed for all those who are interested in pursuing a career within the fashion industry. Students will study among the UK’s finest creatives in a design-led, technological and business environment and participate in a collaborative working environment. This is a fantastic opportunity for students from India who want to drive innovation and find solutions to global issues within the world of fashion.”

September 20, 2024
Inauguration of ‘Empowering Educators’ Workshop

Manipal, 20th September 2024: The third edition of the “Empowering Educators: Enhancing Counselling Skills for Student Support” workshop series was officially inaugurated today at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). This two-day workshop, organized by the Department of Student Affairs, aims to equip educators with advanced counseling techniques to better support students’ mental well-being and academic success.

The event commenced with a keynote address from Dr. E. Aravind Raj, Additional Professor of Psychiatric Social Work at NIMHANS, who delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking session. His insights set the tone for a productive workshop dedicated to fostering emotional support and effective student guidance.

Dr. Geetha Maiya, Director of Student Affairs at MAHE, welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the workshop’s goals, emphasizing the importance of enhancing faculty counseling skills to better support students. The event was compered by Ms. Shilpa Joshi, Senior Counselor at MAHE.

Deputy Directors, Dr. Roshan David Jathanna, Dr. Rashmi Yogesh Pai, and Dr. Aravind Kumar Pandey, also graced the occasion with their presence, further underscoring the importance of this initiative. The workshop is being led by Ms. Karuna Devadiga, Senior Counselor, with strong support from the dedicated team of counselors in the Department of Student Affairs.

Many faculty members from various MAHE institutions in Manipal and Mangalore participating, the workshop focuses on developing essential counseling skills. These skills will enhance faculty members’ ability to offer effective guidance and emotional support to students, contributing to a more supportive educational environment.

This initiative reaffirms MAHE’s commitment to prioritizing the mental well-being of its students and ensuring a nurturing atmosphere for their academic and personal growth.

September 20, 2024
BITS Design School Hosts Exclusive Event with Father of UX, Don Norman

Bengaluru, 20 September 2024: BITS Design School, Mumbai, in collaboration with Design Up, hosted an exclusive event in Bengaluru featuring the legendary Don Norman, widely regarded as the father of user experience (UX) design. Themed around exploring the synergy between design and technology, this event is part of Don Norman’s three-city tour across India, which also includes Pune on 22 Sep and Delhi on 30 Sep.

Don Norman’s visit to India comes at an opportune moment when the growth in design education is accompanied by a need for a focus on humanity-centered design. Known for having coined the term, User Experience or UX as far back as 1988, Don Norman has inspired generations of designers. The event provided a unique opportunity for today’s generation of designers to engage directly with him to gain from his insights on the latest trends and breakthroughs in the design world including the influence of AI or artificial intelligence.

Don Norman, who also serves on the advisory board of BITS Design School, Mumbai, has been instrumental in shaping the school’s design philosophy and guiding its educational direction. His vision continues to elevate global design thinking and influence the school’s drive towards of excellence. Don Norman spoke to designers on the need for a holistic understanding of the business. He said, “Designers have little power in companies. They must understand the language of business—spreadsheets, money, schedules—to make an impact. Showing good design work is not enough. Designers need to know finance, business models, supply chains, manufacturing, and even politics to create real change. We aren’t teaching this in design schools, where design is often grouped with art. Design is about people and technology, not just aesthetics. If we want to change the world, we must rethink how we educate designers and give them the tools to influence business decisions.”

During the session, Nandita Abraham, President of BITS Design School, shared her vision for transdisciplinary education, stating, “We are aiming to be transdisciplinary, meaning students will learn about technology, engineering, law, management, alongside design and how design plays a role in each. If you’re designing for the industry, you need to engage with it—ask what they need, what they want, and how they plan to support it. This is just the first step in that direction.”

In response to a question on AI’s impact on designers, Prof. Norman emphasized the importance of collaboration between designers and AI: “Designers should work together with AI. It should be a collaborator that makes our jobs better, not takes over. AI is changing every month, but it has zero human intelligence. We should use AI, not completely trust it. You need to learn how to use it—if you don’t, it will replace you. If you use it and become an expert, you’ll be more valuable than ever before. Your work will be different.”

The event brought together 40 industry leaders and professionals, including Navneet Nair, Founder of Navneet Nair Designs; Hriday Bhatia, Product and Brand Designer at Ownpath; Parameswaran Venkataraman and Shalini R, Co-Founders of Studio 3 Big Things; and Hemanth Sharma, Design Director at Design Brained Studio. Esteemed leaders such as Naresh Narasimhan, Architect at VA, and Suresh Halarneker, Director of Product Design at ServiceNow, also joined the gathering.

September 20, 2024
Physics Wallah and Earth Care Foundation Unite t

India September 19’ 2024: Physics Wallah (PW), India’s leading EdTech platform, in its mission to democratise education across Bharat, has joined hands with Earth Care Foundation (ECF) under their flagship program, Project Udaan 2.0, with an aim to provide quality education to the poor and underprivileged students. This partnership is in-line with Physics Wallah’s (PW) aim to make education widely accessible for students across the country and Earth Care Foundation’s aim of bringing knowledge to the doorsteps of the disadvantaged youth at almost zero cost.

Dr. Ajit Kumar IAS (Retd.), Founder Chairman of Earth Care Foundation established the foundation in 2005 with a vision of establishing a sustainable society and lifestyle by empowering the poor and underprivileged sections of the society with knowledge, skills and resources. This partnership will empower students approved by ECF residing in villages and small towns who lack access to quality online education. Eligible students competing in recruitment and entrance examinations like NEET, JEE, Banking, Defence and SSC will be given access to the high-quality content and courses offered by Physics Wallah (PW). Along with the PW courses, the program also offers courses in English proficiency, PDP & Soft skills course & career counselling course through Know Thy Choice and Fastinfo. A meagre registration fee is charged from the students to ensure their willingness to learn and also to make them feel more invested in completing these courses.

Majority of these students are the primary bread earners of their families and hence prefer self-paced learning. Hence, Flexi-Time and Flexi-Location mode of online teaching and learning, which allows these students to complete the online course at their convenience from the comfort of their homes. The success of this way of teaching is further substantiated through the pilot run that witnessed a high completion rate of around 85-90%. For every 10 students, a mentor is assigned who connects with them each week to track progress and handhold them through their academic journey.

Conveying his thoughts on this partnership, Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO of Physics Wallah (PW) said, “Helping students from across the country regardless of their social or economical status, is the sole reason why we began this company. We are delighted to have partnered with ECF as our visions are aligned. In future, we aspire to partner with multiple NGOs to empower 10 lakh underprivileged students in the next 5 years, so that we can give them equal opportunities and access to top quality education.”

Sharing his thoughts Dr. Ajit Kumar IAS (Retd.), Founder Chairman of ECF said, “We are excited to expand Udaan 2.0 this financial year after the success of Udaan 1.0; which empowered students belonging to families of migrant labourers, dwelling in the slums of Delhi. Having Physics Wallah (PW) as our knowledge and technology partner will enable us to use their robust digital distribution network to reach students whose education is constrained due to socio-economic reasons. We aim to level the playing field when it comes to compete in recruitment and competitive exams by giving them access to quality online education.”

ECF has partnered with CSC (Common Service Centre) Academy, an undertaking of the Ministry of IT & Electronics, where students can register themselves for Udaan 2.0 by visiting their nearest CSC in the village (more than 5.5 lakh centres are there in the country). They are also required to submit their mark sheet and income certificate as part of the registration process. Know Thy Choice (KTC) is the technology and delivery partner for the project.

September 20, 2024