Tag: edutech

  • Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute

    Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute

    20th December 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute – Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts – the leading institution in Chennai, renowned for its commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry, claimed the overall championship at the Budding Chef Challenge 2024. The landmark event, India’s first ‘Farm to Table Culinary’ competition, was organized by ACCASI at Hosur, Tamil Nadu, on the 27th and 28th of November, 2024. The two-day National competition featured participation of over 100 students from across 12 colleges, competing in seven diverse categories. The event showcased exceptional skills in Culinary Art, Food Preparation, Presentation, and Service, celebrating the immense talent of young chefs from across the country.

    Students from Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts, Chennai, successfully emerged as the undisputed champions, securing an impressive 3,000 points and earning 40 medals: 7 Gold, 13 Silver, 20 Bronze, and 2 Merit Certificates. Nitheesh Kumar T, Sahana K, Shazia R, Achu D, Hemapriya V, Joshwa R, Jothi K, Lingeshwaran D, Mohammed Meeran P, Nithish Kumar A V, Nithish L, Nivetha L, Prasanna Santhana Kumar M, Praveen Durai S, Rishikesavan G, Santhana Krishnan P, Tharun S, Varsha D and Yuvashree S stellar performances were particularly noteworthy in categories such as “Live Cake Decoration, Live Cooking, Live Pasta Cooking Challenge, Vegetable & Fruit Carving, and the Mystery Basket Challenge.”

    Prof. Chef M. Prabu, Joint Registrar (H&S-Ph-II) and Dean / Head of the Department said, “The remarkable achievement was possible with right planning to train the students spending number of days in Kitchen / Bakery Labs, with support of the dedicated trainers, with the spirt of good team work. This goal was achieved only with the contribution of Dr. MGR University.”

    Official Statement from the President of the University
    Commenting on this outstanding achievement, Honourable President Er. ACS Arunkumar, of Dr. M.G.R Educational and Research Institute added, “We are incredibly proud of our students for their exceptional performance at the Budding Chef Challenge 2024. Competitions like these are vital to the growth of aspiring chefs, testing their technical skills, critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability. These platforms provide invaluable opportunities for practical, hands-on learning, while fostering creativity and a spirit of excellence. We commend ACCASI for organizing this pioneering event and extend our heartfelt congratulations to our 19 young chefs, who showcased exemplary professionalism and skill, bringing immense pride to our university and department.”

    About Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts With a legacy spanning over 37 years, Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts has been a cornerstone of hospitality education in Chennai. The University is dedicated to producing industry-ready professionals equipped to excel in the dynamic and competitive hospitality sector.

    Event Jury and Accolades
    The event was judged by a distinguished panel of experts from the Culinary and Hospitality industries, whose insights added significant value to the competition.

    For more information about Dr. M.G.R Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts, visit our website at www.drmgrihmindia.com.

    This remarkable victory underscores the institution’s commitment to shaping the future of the Culinary and Hhospitality industries.

  • IFCCI and Pluxee India Release Comprehensive Total Rewards Study Report

    20th December 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI) in collaboration with Pluxee India released a report on “Redefining Total Rewards: Fueling Business Ambitions & Employee Aspirations” at an event in Mumbai that brought together HR leaders, industry experts, and thought leaders to explore innovative Total Rewards strategies that bridge employee expectations and organizational goals.

    The IFCCI & Pluxee Total Rewards Survey Report was unveiled by Mr. Suraj Chettri, Chairperson of the IFCCI HR Committee and VP, Head of HR for India & South Asia & Ms. Suvarna Mishra, HR Director, Pluxee India.

    This comprehensive study highlights trends in compensation, well-being programs, and workforce engagement strategies.

    The survey was shared with 140+ prominent companies, all members of the IFCCI HR Committee and of the respondents, 87% were Indian subsidiaries of French enterprises from diverse sizes and sectors of activities.

    Key Insights from the Survey:

    • Holistic Rewards: 72% of organizations prioritize wellness programs, while 94% have adopted flexible work arrangements to boost employee satisfaction.
    • Performance-driven Compensation: Companies are increasingly adopting pay-for-performance models, linking salary increments to skill growth and performance.
    • Personalized Benefits: Customized rewards such as hybrid work options and mental health support are gaining traction to meet diverse workforce needs.

    The launch event covered key themes such as:

    • Future-proofing Benefits: Exploring the role of preventive care, digital tools, and value-based benefits in enhancing employee well-being.
    • Proactive Rewards: How tailored rewards can help organizations navigate business challenges and retain top talent.

    Mr. Anish Sarkar, Managing Director – Pluxee India & Director – India/ Philippines/ Indonesia Cluster, emphasized, “We are committed to supporting organizations with insights that drive meaningful change. This report reflects our dedication to fostering workplaces where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered.”

    Ms Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, IFCCI, remarked, “We are proud to present this collaborative report with Pluxee India, which highlights the evolving dynamics of Total Rewards as a cornerstone of workforce management. The insights from this survey offer a valuable benchmark for companies to understand emerging trends and best practices, enabling employers to make informed decisions and optimize their employee offerings.

    ”The event concluded with a roundtable discussion, “Devil is in the Details,” where HR leaders shared actionable insights and strategies to implement forward-thinking Total Rewards frameworks.

  • Sancta Maria Students Wins Top Honour at ISP MUN Malaysia 2024

    21st December 2024 Hyderabad, Telangana, India Sancta Maria International School, Hyderabad, has brought home the prestigious Best Delegation Award at the first-ever in-person International Schools Partnership Model United Nations (ISP MUN), held at Tenby International School, Setia Eco Park, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    The grand event witnessed participation from over 250 students representing 70+ ISP schools across continents. Over five days of dynamic debate, cultural exchanges, and impactful intellectual collaboration, participants engaged with global leaders, tackled real-world challenges and honed essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and diplomacy.

    Sancta Maria’s stellar delegation comprised Harnidh, Aripra, and Sujaya, guided by teacher mentors Dr Rositta Joseph (ISP MUN Programme In-Charge) and Mr Neeraj Shankar (Department Lead, Languages). Demonstrating exceptional prowess, the team outperformed on all fronts to secure the highest honour – The Best Delegation Award.

    In addition to the Best Delegation Award, Sancta Maria students achieved remarkable individual accolades:

    • Sujaya – Award of Excellence, COP
    • Harnidh – Award of Excellence, UNHRC
    • Aripra – High Commendation, UNESCO

    The ISP MUN Malaysia 2024 provided students with an unparalleled platform to explore global issues, negotiate solutions, and build cross-cultural connections. The experience also included regional excursions, cultural celebrations, and meaningful engagements that fostered growth beyond the classroom.

    Ms Hemalatha Sanjay, Principal of Sancta Maria International School, congratulated the team, saying, “This is a proud moment for Sancta Maria. Our students have demonstrated exceptional skills and commitment, setting a benchmark on the global stage. Achievements like these reflect the progress we are making in preparing our learners to become confident global citizens equipped to lead and inspire.”

    This milestone achievement is a testament to Sancta Maria’s commitment to empowering students to excel as global citizens and thought leaders.

  • BML Munjal University Hosts 49th Sociology Conference on Development & Democracy

    BML Munjal University

    Gurugram, 21st December 2024: BML Munjal University (BMU), a Hero Group initiative, is set to host the 49th All India Sociological Conference (AISC) from December 22-24, 2024, bringing together a distinguished assembly of sociologists, researchers, and scholars to explore critical themes of sociology, development, and democracy. The conference, organized by the Indian Sociological Society (ISS), will be held at BMU’s campus in Gurugram, Haryana, under the relevant theme of “Sociology, Development, and Democracy.” Featuring Ms. Urvashi Butalia, renowned writer and publisher, as the chief guest for the inaugural session, the event aims to provide a comprehensive platform for discussing contemporary sociological challenges and emerging perspectives in the social sciences.

    Speaking about the significance of the event, Dr. Arindam Banerjee, Dean, of the School of Liberal Studies from BML Munjal University, remarked, “There is today an imperative need to revisit the relationship between Sociology, development and democracy. As we reach the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, societies face unprecedented challenges that question the very efficacy and legitimacy of sociological knowledge. Through critical dialogues and interdisciplinary approaches, we can develop more nuanced understandings that bridge theoretical insights with practical solutions, ultimately strengthening our ability to address complex social transformations and reinvigorate democratic processes”.

    The conference will feature three plenary sessions and technical sessions across 29 Research Committees and 5 Ad Hoc Groups of the Indian Sociological Society, addressing a diverse range of critical topics including democracy and knowledge, technological impacts on society, social movements, climate change, and development. The first panel will discuss ‘Debating Development and Democracy’. This discussion will bring together Prof. Surinder Singh Jodhka, Prof. Virginius Xaxa, Prof. Amites Mukhopadhyay, Prof. Uma Rani, and Prof. Rajesh Mishra to examine the interplay between development processes and democratic institutions, exploring how social structures influence and are influenced by these dynamics.

    The second panel will be discussing ‘Sociology, Democracy, and Development’. The panel discussion will feature Prof. Geoffrey Pleyers, Prof. Rajni Palriwala, Prof. Prahlad Gangaram Jogdand, Prof. Arvind Rajagopal, and Prof. Tanweer Fazal, who will analyze the intersections of sociological perspectives, democratic practices, and developmental challenges. The third-panel discussion will be focused on ‘Sociology of the Region’ with a focus on the politics and sociology of the NCR and the state of Haryana. The panel on NCR will feature Prof. Sanjay Srivastava, Dr. Jagmiti Sangwan, Dr. Shamsher Singh, and Prof. Ravinder Kaur, while the Haryana-specific panel will have Prof. Prem Kumar, Mr. Ravindra Singh Sheoran, Dr. Bhup Singh Gaur, and Prof. Desraj Sabharwal. These sessions promise a nuanced understanding of the everyday lives and the socio-political cultures that govern our urban and per-urban surroundings.

    The conference also integrates students as critical knowledge producers through a dedicated student panel titled “What does Sociology mean for us?” This innovative session brings together emerging scholars from diverse universities, including Azeem Ahmed from Delhi University, Esther Anne from UMass Amherst, Niki Rai from Ambedkar University, and Shilpi Shikha Phukan from JNU. Chaired by Dr. Deepali Aparajita Dungdun, the panel promises to offer fresh and provocative perspectives on the the state of the discipline in the contemporary period. Another highlight of the conference would be the three prestigious memorial lectures: the R.K. Mukherjee Memorial Lecture by Prof. Swapan Kumar Bhattacharyya, the M.N. Srinivas Memorial Lecture by Prof. Satish Deshpande, and the Yogendra Singh Memorial Lecture by Prof. Karuna Chanana.

    The conference promises to be a critical platform for academic discourse, bringing together minds from across India to examine the intricate relationships between social structures, development processes, and democratic institutions.

    BML Munjal University, located in Gurugram, continues to establish itself as a hub of innovative educational approaches. The School of Liberal Studies, which is hosting the conference, aims to produce and disseminate new knowledge, engaging in discourses on contemporary and future human challenges. Furthermore, it is an ideal platform to reflect on the discipline’s practices, concepts, methods and pedagogy.

  • Two-Day Extravaganza ‘Satluj Pride’ Held at Satluj Public School

    Public School

    21st December 2024 Panchkula, Haryana, India The two-day annual event, Satluj Pride, was held at Satluj Public School, Sector 4, Panchkula. This year marked the 48th edition of the program, celebrating the theme, “New India: Forging Futures, Celebrating Culture.”

    Students of Satluj Public School performing at the two-day annual event, Satluj Pride 2024 that was held at Satluj Public School, Sector 4, Panchkula

    On the inaugural day there were scintillating performances by students of classes 8-12, while on the second day students of classes 5 to 7 enthralled the audience.

    The Chief Guest for the first day event was Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Minister of School Education, Parliamentary Affairs, and Higher Education Archives, Government of Haryana. Special guests included Sh. Gian Chand Gupta, Former Speaker and MLA Panchkula; Banto Kataria; and Sh. Deepak Sharma (BJP District President, Panchkula), among others.

    The cultural performances by students were the main highlight of the event. Class 8 students delivered an inspiring presentation on the theme “World Peace: Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” Class 9 students presented on “Sustainability and a Greener Tomorrow,” emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. Class 11 and 12 students brought alive the spirit of New India through their performance titled “Panegyric.” These performances left the audience energized and filled with fresh ideas. The event concluded with a rendition of the National Anthem by Class 12 students, instilling a sense of patriotism and pride in everyone present.

    The second and the final day of the event witnessed the presence of the Chief Guest, Mr. Alok Kumar Roy, IPS, Director General of Police (DGP), Railways and Commando, and the Guest of Honour, Ms. Anjum Moudgil, an Olympian, Arjuna Awardee, former World No. 1, and the first Indian woman shooter to win medals at the World Championships and Commonwealth Games.

    The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a Saraswati Vandana, followed by a series of inspirational performances by the students. Class 5 students presented “The World Is Our Stage” while Class 6 showcased “Legends and Leaders.” Another notable performance focused on “Innovators of Tomorrow: A Celebration of Creativity, Technology, and Innovation.”

    Joining them on this occasion were Mr. Krit Serai, Co-Chair/ Director-Principal, Mr. Reekrit Serai, Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, Co-Principal Ms. Madhurima Serai, Mrs. Radhika Panickar Serai, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Mr. Gur K Serai, Co-Chairman/Director-Principal of Satluj Public School, Sector 2, Panchkula and Ms. Preet Mangat Serai.

    Mr. Reekrit Serai, Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, expressed his gratitude to students, teachers, and everyone who contributed to making the event a success. He remarked that such events not only encourage students’ creativity and performance but also help them recognize their cultural heritage and individual talents. Programs like these provide students with opportunities to hone their skills, preparing them for success in various fields of life.

    The event concluded with the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and school management presenting awards to students for their outstanding performances. The event also celebrated the achievements of Class 10 and 12 students, with awards presented to the CBSE toppers of 2023-24.

  • Study Abroad Trends – The Year-End Reflections and Outlook for 2025

    By Mr. Mohit Gambir, Indian Managing Director of Oxford International Education Services

    EDUCATION STUDY

    “This year has been marked by significant policy changes across key international study destinations—Canada, Australia, and the UK—bringing challenges and uncertainties to the sector. Despite these shifts, the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by stakeholders across the industry have ensured continued opportunities for students who aspire to study abroad.

    Amid the current geopolitical challenges affecting Canada, there has been a noticeable shift in student preferences, with the United Kingdom emerging as a favored destination. Additionally, the UK government’s efforts to strengthen this position, particularly through initiatives like the International Graduate Route allowing students to stay and work for up to two years after completing their degrees, increase confidence among students.

    We foresee 2025 as a year of resurgence for the UK with more students opting to pursue higher education there.”

  • Crack Academy to organize the Government Job Fair in Patiala

    Crack Academy, is set to host a Government Job Fair at Crack Academy Centre, Chhoti Baradari, Patiala on 22nd December from 10 AM onwards, bringing a golden opportunity for government job aspirants. The fair will feature renowned experts from Delhi who will provide valuable guidance, effective strategies, and actionable tips to help candidates prepare for government exams. This unique event aims to empower students and aspirants with the tools and insights they need to turn their dream of securing a government job into reality.

    crackecademy

    With limited seats available, participants are encouraged to register at the earliest, as this is a first-come, first-served opportunity for those eager to gain valuable insights. Students will get an opportunity to seek guidance from industry experts on the eligibility criteria for different government jobs and the best books and study materials to aid their preparation. Additionally, effective strategies to crack competitive exams will be shared, offering new direction and focus to the candidates. The primary aim of this fair is to provide proper guidance to aspirants and help them achieve their dream of landing a government job.

    Speaking about the event, Neeraj Kansal, Founder and CEO, Crack Academy, stated, “This fair will provide clear guidance and direction to candidates preparing for government exams. It will offer actionable suggestions for excelling in various subjects and competitive exams. Aspirants aiming for government jobs should seize this opportunity to take their preparation to the next level.”

    The fair promises to be a valuable opportunity for candidates to gain insights from experts, refine their preparation, and move closer to achieving their career goals.

  • Veranda XL partners with SRMIST to offer CA coaching classes on campus

    Chennai: Veranda XL, a Veranda Learning Solutions enterprise, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), based in Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, to deliver professional Chartered Accountancy (CA) coaching classes on campus under the renowned brand of JK Shah Classes (JKSC).

    dean

    This collaboration will provide SRM students with specialized CA coaching classes. The curriculum will combine JKSC’s over-four decades of expertise with SRM’s strong academic environment, empowering students to build successful careers in accounting, auditing, and finance. The partnership will enable aspiring CA professionals to receive end-to-end coaching, covering all levels of the CA course. Students will benefit from expert faculty, innovative teaching methods, and a proven track record of success, ensuring they are well-prepared to achieve their professional goals.

    SRM Institute of Science and Technology, a premier educational institution, has a long-standing reputation of delivering academic excellence and for its commitment to shaping the future of its students. Dr. A. Duraisamy, Dean of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology said, “Our collaboration with JK Shah Classes is a game-changer for our students aspiring to become Chartered Accountants. By bringing JKSC’s renowned expertise to our campus, we aim to provide unparalleled academic guidance and practical learning experiences that will prepare students to meet global industry standards.”

    JK Shah Classes shapes the careers of more than 70,000 students annually. Since 2001, JKSC has produced over 1,800 CA rankers, cementing its position as a leader in CA education in India. Mr. Vishal Shah, Chief Operating Officer of JK Shah Classes, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with SRM Institute of Science and Technology to deliver quality CA coaching. At JK Shah Classes, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of accounting professionals through a robust curriculum, experienced faculty, and proven teaching methodologies. This partnership reinforces our mission to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive finance and accounting world.”

  • NSDC partners with PhysicsWallah to Unlock Global Opportunities in Education

    December 19, 2024, New Delhi, India – National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDC International) and PhysicsWallah (PW), an Indian edtech company have jointly launched an initiative known as Bharat Innovation Global Private Limited (BIG). This initiative marks a step towards realizing the vision of transforming India into a global education hub. BIG focuses on aligning education with the demands of the workforce, bridging the gap between academics and employability through flexible, technology-driven learning pathways.

    nsdc

    BIG targets a diverse audience, starting with the formalization of skill training right from classes 11 and 12 in schools, with the aim of preparing students for industry-relevant careers at an early stage. This approach extends to Industrial Training Institute (ITI) and Polytechnic learners, university students, and working professionals, fostering learning across ages. BIG also prioritizes capacity building for government sector employees, aimed at enhancing their skills and knowledge to meet the evolving demands of modern governance. Through training and upskilling programs, its goal is to support employees in delivering public services and adapt to technological advancements. The initiative is in alignment with recent developments, such as UGC guidelines permitting courses online and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on flexibility in education.

    At the occasion, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO NSDC and MD NSDC International said ““Through our partnership with Physics Wallah, we are taking a transformative step towards bridging the gap between education and industry needs. The Bharat Innovation Global (BIG) initiative will empower millions of learners by equipping them with essential skills for the future job market. This collaboration not only reflects NSDC International’s commitment to enhancing employability but also aligns with our vision of fostering a skilled workforce that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. Together, we are paving the way for innovative learning pathways that ensures that every learner is job-ready and capable of contributing to India’s growth.”

    Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO of PhysicsWallah (PW), shared his thoughts, ““Education is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it’s a dynamic and evolving journey that requires collaboration, innovation, and adaptability. At PhysicsWallah (PW), we are aiming to provide support to learners with skills that prepare them for the everchanging world. Our partnership with NSDCI through BIG is a step towards making the educational landscape more inclusive. Through this initiative we aim to align education fostering growth at various stages of a learner’s life.”

    The foundation of BIG lies in digital education, leveraging technology to provide scalable, accessible, and personalized learning experiences. By integrating AI-driven career guidance, gamification, adaptive learning tools, and secure LMS platforms, BIG ensures that learners from various backgrounds can access industry-relevant content.

  • Strate School of Design Opens 2025-26 Admissions with Alliance University

    STRATE

    India, 19th of December: Strate School of Design is happy to announce the launch of its undergraduate design programs for the academic year 2025-26 in collaboration with Alliance University, Bangalore. Strate School of Design introduces its flagship Bachelor of Design (B.Des) degree featuring 6 specialized streams of study to cater to the evolving and creative requirements of the design industry.

    B.Des course of 4 years with specialization – Product Design, Transportation Design, Interaction Design, Visual Communication & Brand Identity, Game Design, Interior & Space Design. Now each specialization has been uniquely created to provide students with a comprehensive insight into the industry alongside the required knowledge to thrive in an increasingly globalized design arena. The curriculum of Strate is heavily inspired by the pedagogy and teaching methods followed by the top French schools, where the principles of problem-based learning, live projects, experiential learning, visits to international education institutions, and gamification are used. This methodology of classroom training followed by field experience makes students industry-ready at the time of graduation.

    One strong differentiator of the program is that it provides graduates with dual certification. Learners will receive a Bachelor of Design from Alliance University and an international certification from Strate Paris. This makes graduates distinctive in the international job market, so they will get enormous opportunities for jobs nationally and globally.

    Speaking about the association, Thomas Dal, Dean, of Strate School of Design said, “At Strate, our ambition is to nurture creativity and innovation to prepare the next generation of designers. The collaboration with AUI could not be more aligned with the vision to bring our world-class design learning expertise to India, allowing students the chance at a truly global education experience.”

    This partnership is bolstered by the status of Alliance University, a private university founded in 2010. With a NAAC A+ rating and UGC recognition, extensive academic expertise, and a strong institutional structure, Alliance University is a perfect partner with Strate’s thinking about the design.

    Ms. Srishti Bajaj Director – Alliance School of Design & Creative Arts, Alliance School of Design, “We are extremely happy to join hands with Strate School of Design to bring international standard design programs to Indian students. Our mutual vision of academic excellence and our commitment to nurturing global talent who can lead in a fast-changing industry is embodied in this partnership.”

    This program can be joined by those students who have scored a minimum of 50% marks in their 10th and 12th grade examinations. The application form can be submitted online at Strate’s official website; it allows submitting the documents online and gives the permission to give the Strate Admission Test (SAT). This test is a combination of a written exam and an interview meant to test creativity and aptitude among students. If selected, the candidates will receive an offer letter and they will have to reserve their seats by paying the registration fee followed by the first-semester fee prior to the beginning of the session.

    The number of seats available per specialization is 25 and the tution fee structure/year is INR 6.5 lakh. STRATE School of Design has now started applications for the academic year 2025-26, with the first entrance examination on December 13/14, 2024. Students who are interested in this program should hurry as seating is limited.

    The joint venture between Strate School of Design of France and Alliance University reflects a common pursuit of excellence in education and innovation. This program aims to equip future professionals with world-class design practices that empower them to take the lead in the global community of design space, meeting Strate’s global design program expertise with the academic capabilities of Alliance University.