100k Indians set for jobs abroad in next 2 years

India's Ambitious Skill Development Initiative

In a significant stride towards enhancing employment opportunities, India plans to place 100,000 workers annually in countries like Japan and Israel, among others, within the next two years. Furthermore, Germany has expressed willingness to welcome 90,000 skilled Indian workers each year. This initiative is part of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)'s newly unveiled roadmap for 2030.

The NSDC aims to position India as a global frontrunner in skill development, employment, and entrepreneurship. To achieve this, the organization plans to expand its influence by launching 50 future skill centers and 10 international academies, aligning with the objectives of the Skill India Mission, which operates under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

With an ambitious target to positively impact 50 million lives globally, the NSDC has already made remarkable strides, having trained 40.3 million individuals and successfully placed 9.4 million in various job roles. Their extensive network includes over 40,000 skilling centers across the country, catering to diverse demographics including 18.3 million women, 12.9 million individuals from socio-economically marginalized backgrounds, and 250,000 people with special abilities.

Looking ahead, NSDC plans to upskill or reskill an additional 25 million individuals. This initiative specifically targets 15 million individuals belonging to disadvantaged backgrounds while aiming to increase the number of training centers to a remarkable 50,000. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO and Managing Director of NSDC International, mentioned that the number of industry-aligned programs would exceed 300, highlighting 12 emerging technologies, with plans to train over 200,000 candidates and create 270,000 square feet of training infrastructure.

A critical aspect of this initiative is the digital transformation spearheaded by the newly launched Skill India Digital Hub, which has already registered over 13 million candidates and facilitated more than 1 million job and apprenticeship opportunities since its launch in September 2023.

Karnataka spent only 2.01% of GDP on higher education sector: NITI Aayog policy report

Karnataka has emerged as a leader in college density across India, boasting an impressive rate of 66 colleges per one lakh eligible population aged 18-23 years. However, this academic prowess comes with a significant caveat: the state ranks third lowest in spending on higher education, according to a recent NITI Aayog policy report titled 'Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities.' In the fiscal year of 2020-21, despite being a major educational hub, Karnataka allocated just 2.01% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to higher education, which is markedly lower compared to other states. Jammu and Kashmir topped the list with a staggering 8.11% allocation, followed by Manipur at 7.25% and Meghalaya at 6.64%.

The report highlights that Karnataka's total budget allocation for higher education stood at ₹5,129 crore, which is significantly less than Maharashtra's ₹11,421 crore. Alarmingly, the Karnataka government commits only 12% of its entire state budget to the education sector, out of which a substantial 70% is channeled towards school education while the remaining 30% supports higher education. This trend raises concerns among educational experts like Sripada Bhat, who argues that the funding model may hinder the development of higher education, which is already experiencing financial struggles.

Interestingly, despite the modest financial support, Karnataka leads the nation in the pupil-teacher ratio, achieving an impressive 15:1 against the national average of 23:1. Furthermore, it holds 11% of the nation's top 100 universities, showcasing its academic quality. In terms of Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), Karnataka’s score of 36.2% reflects an improvement, surpassing the national average of 28.4%. The state has also engaged in forward-thinking initiatives, such as the 'English Skills for Youth' program launched in 2024, aimed at elevating students' language abilities and employability through significant partnerships.

The recent NITI Aayog report indicates there is still a long way to go in uniform progress across states, yet recognizes Karnataka's commitment to enhancing education quality and accessibility. Initiatives promoting international exposure and digital resources at various universities mark significant steps towards achieving the National Education Policy goals for higher education.

Smell like an Egyptian: researchers sniff ancient mummies to study preservation

Exploring the Aromas of Ancient Egyptian Mummies

Spicy, woody, and sweet—these descriptors might initially evoke thoughts of an exotic air freshener. However, researchers have made fascinating discoveries that link these aromas to something far more intriguing: ancient Egyptian mummies. By employing both human olfactory senses and modern scientific instruments, they've initiated a study on the scents that emanate from these ancient remains today, which might help to gauge their preservation without physical sampling.

As articulated by Professor Matija Strlič, co-author of the research from the University of Ljubljana and University College London (UCL), avoiding contact with historic artefacts and analyzing them non-invasively is considered the “holy grail” for heritage scientists. Beyond preservation evaluations, Strlič emphasized the potential of creating a synthetic 'mummy smell' for museum curators to engage and educate visitors in captivating new ways.

The findings, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, followed analyses conducted on nine mummies from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, spanning from the New Kingdom to Roman times, approximately between 1500 BC and AD 500. The research involved collecting air samples from around both wrapped and unwrapped mummies stored in various materials like stone, wood, or terracotta sarcophagi.

In an intricate process, the team used small tubes and pumps to extract air samples that were then evaluated by eight trained experts. The odors of the mummies varied, but an overall pleasant aroma was reported. Notably, seven out of nine exhibited a “woody” scent, while others showcased hints of spices, sweetness, or even incense-like notes. Conversely, some mummies presented less desirable smells such as stale or moldy odors.

Moreover, the researchers leveraged advanced methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry to dissect the individual volatile compounds present in the samples. The diverse aromas observed did not always correspond to these isolated compounds, underscoring the complexity of human olfactory perception. Four primary sources contributed to the fragrances: mummification materials, microbial byproducts, synthetic pesticides used in conservation, and plant oils. Interestingly, exhibited mummies showed a wider array of scents compared to those in storage, likely due to their display conditions.

Dr. Cecilia Bembibre from UCL, another co-author involved in the sniffing process, remarked on the surreal experience of inhaling scents that date back over 3,500 years. The surprise came when familiar aromas, including that of tea, surfaced from the ancient remains. Although Barbara Huber from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology highlighted that today's detected scents may not mirror those present during mummification, she acknowledged that the approach enhances our understanding of the mummification processes and the significance of fragrance in ancient customs.

In clip, Kerala college seniors laugh as junior writhes in pain

Shocking Ragging Incident at Govt College of Nursing, Kerala

KOTTAYAM: A startling episode of ragging has emerged from the Govt College of Nursing in Kottayam, Kerala, where five third-year students were arrested for subjecting their juniors to brutal hazing practices. The situation took a darker turn when a disturbing video surfaced, showing the seniors laughing as a first-year student writhes in agony from being poked with a geometry divider. The sheer cruelty displayed in the video underscores the severity of the situation.

In the footage, the junior student is depicted lying helplessly on a cot, with his hands and legs bound. His seniors sadistically pull line-dry clips from his chest and proceed to inflict harm by stabbing him with a sharp geometry divider, marking painful circles on his stomach as blood drips from his foot. Adding to the humiliation, they remove his spectacles and smear a creamy substance on his face while mocking him. Alarmingly, they even place dumbbells on his private parts, eliciting cries of distress from their victim.

The grotesque scene escalates as more frightened juniors are coerced into recording this horrifying act. The police have stated that they will investigate whether the college authorities or the hostel warden neglected their responsibilities in safeguarding the first-year students. Additionally, they aim to delve deeper into allegations suggesting that the seniors may have purchased narcotics using money extorted from juniors. One source indicates that the reason behind the juniors' reluctance to complain was tied to one of the accused being a member of a Left-leaning student body, who has reportedly been expelled from the organization.

Guardians, drivers held for Gujarat students' stunts

SURAT: On Thursday, the Pal police in Surat took significant action by registering six FIRs and arresting six individuals linked to a dangerous stunt display by a group of Class 12 students. These students made headlines when they performed reckless stunts and set off firecrackers during a convoy comprised of nearly 35 high-end cars, all while heading to their school's farewell event on the bustling Dandi Road in the city.

In the legal actions taken, three guardians of the involved students are facing charges for permitting their children to drive the family cars. Additionally, three adult drivers have been booked for rash and negligent driving, effectively allowing the students to perform stunts while behind the wheel. Notably, it was the police who filed complaints in all six FIRs, marking a serious response to this act of recklessness.

The students, attired in blazers to commemorate their last school day, set off in their luxury vehicles while capturing the entire event on video. However, the celebration took a turn as public backlash grew, with many citizens expressing outrage and holding the police accountable for their inaction in addressing the dangerous behavior.

Replace Urdu with Sanskrit: Rajasthan education department to govt school

JAIPUR: The Rajasthan education department has made a significant shift regarding language instruction in government schools. Recently, a directive was issued to Mahatma Gandhi Govt School in Jaipur, instructing them to suspend Urdu classes as a third language and replace it with Sanskrit. This decision stems from a letter sent to the education department from Jai Narayan Meena, special assistant to the education minister, Madan Dilawar.

The order, dated February 10, outlines that the education minister has mandated the establishment of positions for Sanskrit teachers while discontinuing Urdu classes. The directive explicitly requests the school to submit a comprehensive proposal for the introduction of Sanskrit as a third language. However, there has been a lack of response from Meena regarding queries about this order.

According to Satish Gupta, the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) for Dilawar, the decision to remove Urdu is largely due to insufficient student enrollment in the subject, which made it impractical to employ teachers full-time for Urdu instruction. Despite this, teachers at the school have raised their voices in protest against the decision. Interestingly, the education minister's media coordinator announced that no such order had been issued on Dilawar's instruction, adding confusion to the situation.

Poll duties for teachers only if no one else available: Allahabad HC

Allahabad High Court Issues Directive on Teacher Involvement in Elections

In a significant ruling by the Allahabad High Court, it has been decided that teachers should only be assigned to election duties when no other personnel, as specified by the Election Commission, are available. This decision underscores the importance of adhering to guidelines that promote the minimal engagement of teachers in electoral processes.

Justice Ajay Bhanot delivered this observation following a plea from Surya Pratap Singh, an assistant teacher at a primary school in Jhansi. He contested his involvement as a booth-level election officer, underscoring the potential disruption of educational responsibilities.

The court emphasized that the Election Commission's guidelines aim to balance several crucial aspects: the Right to Education, the vital role teachers play in society, and the essential function of conducting free and fair elections in a democracy. By minimizing the deployment of teachers in electoral duties, the court aims to ensure that education remains uninterrupted, aligning the interests of both the educational and electoral systems.

IIM-Mumbai, IIT-Mandi most influential Indian schools on social media

India's Leading HEIs Shine on Social Media

In a remarkable display of digital prowess, IIM-Mumbai and IIT-Mandi have emerged as the most influential higher education institutions in India, particularly through their success in the 'HEI Success Stories' and 'Know Your Institutions' campaigns. By effectively leveraging social media platforms, these institutions have garnered substantial global attention and engagement.

The 'HEI Success Stories' campaign, which launched in November 2024 and is set to continue into 2025, has already generated over 2.7 million impressions across various social media channels. This initiative not only highlights innovative achievements of Indian higher education institutions (HEIs) but also showcases the rising interest and dynamic growth within India's higher education landscape.

Among the notable achievers in this campaign, IIM-Mumbai stole the spotlight with an impressive 150,000 impressions, followed closely by IIM-Sirmaur, the School of Planning and Architecture in Vijayawada, IIT-Hyderabad, and NIT Goa. This success is especially notable as these institutions outperformed well-established names like IISc Bengaluru and IIT-Madras, demonstrating the transformative impact that digital engagement can have.

Additionally, the 'Know Your Institutions' campaign, which ran from April to June 2024, aimed to elevate public awareness of various higher education institutions, garnering an impressive total of 6 million impressions. This initiative highlighted the legacy and strengths of 69 institutions, promoting their distinct features and academic offerings.

According to officials from the Ministry of Education, the strategic use of digital storytelling, high-quality visuals, and narratives tailored to each institution has played a crucial role in maximizing engagement, thus drawing significant attention to the changing dynamics of India's educational landscape.

Real learning happens outside classrooms: NSS State officer

Inauguration of NSS Unit at MI Training College

On February 13, the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit at MI Training College in Ponnani was officially inaugurated by NSS State Officer Anzer R.N. During this event, he made a compelling appeal to students and teachers, encouraging them to view NSS activities not as an additional burden but as an integral part of their education. He emphasized, “The real learning is happening outside the classrooms.”

Dr. Anzer further highlighted the need for a transformation in B.Ed colleges to align with the rapidly evolving educational landscape. He underscored the significance of empowering both teachers and students to leverage modern information technology trends within their educational journeys.

The event featured a keynote address by N.A. Shihab, Calicut University's NSS programme coordinator, who shared valuable insights on the importance of student engagement. Principal Naseerali M.K. presided over the function, while other speakers included A.M. Abdu Samad (General Secretary of MI Association), Asnath Mansoor (Secretary of College Alumni Association), Aswati T.S. (Chairperson of Student Council), and Safwa (University Union Councillor). The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by student coordinator Nandana M.

Learning fast and accurate absolute pitch judgment in adulthood

Understanding Absolute Pitch: Rarity and Learnability

Absolute pitch (AP), the ability to identify the name of a tone presented in isolation, is a fascinating yet uncommon skill. In Western music, individuals with AP can accurately name one of 12 possible pitches. Despite the seemingly uncomplicated nature of this task, AP is relatively rare, with occurrences ranging from 1 in 10,000 within the general population to 7-50% among highly trained musicians.

One reason behind its rarity is the belief that developing AP necessitates a genetic predisposition combined with early musical training during a critical developmental period. Evidence suggests that AP is often inherited and that those who possess the skill typically began musical training before the age of five. While some studies have indicated that learning AP may be achievable in children through practice, it has historically been regarded as nearly impossible for adults.

Challenges in Previous Research

Recent research, however, has begun to question the validity of the critical period hypothesis. Studies show that extensive perceptual training could significantly enhance pitch-naming abilities in adults. Participants have demonstrated remarkable improvements, accurately naming an average of 7 to 9 pitches after rigorous training. These findings imply that AP may not be restricted solely to childhood learning.

Despite encouraging results, the learnability of AP in adults remains uncertain due to several methodological issues in previous studies. Limitations included a restricted octave range and reliance on learning pitch height rather than the chroma of tones. Additionally, many studies gave participants hints during training, whether through feedback or trial samples, which may have distorted learning outcomes. Other factors, such as participants' pre-existing auditory skills, have also complicated conclusions.

A New Approach to Training

The current study aimed to clarify these issues through a robust training program lasting eight weeks, allowing adult musicians to focus on learning AP without external references. Participants underwent a structured program that challenged them to accurately identify pitches across three octaves while gradually minimizing response time.

Results from this comprehensive training showed a significant increase in accuracy and speed in pitch naming. On average, participants were able to name 7.08 pitches accurately without feedback. Notably, some participants achieved proficiency comparable to real-world AP possessors.

Conclusions and Implications

The findings reveal that the critical period for learning AP may not be as rigid as previously thought. Adults can potentially develop reliable AP through targeted training, which challenges the notion that such skills can only be acquired in childhood. Moreover, the study provides a basis for further investigation into the factors influencing AP learning, including genetic predispositions and language exposure.

The Human Alphabet

In Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel Little Women, we encounter an intriguing method of teaching the alphabet where Demi learns his letters through physical movement, where his grandfather creatively uses gymnastics to form them. This unique approach emphasizes the intrinsic relationship between the human body and the letters it creates.

Throughout history, typographical characters have shared a deep connection with human form. Influential figures like geometer Luca Pacioli and engraver Geoffroy Tory during the Renaissance sought to combine anatomy with letter formation, creating a blend of art and education. Notably, Peter Flötner’s woodcut Menschenalphabet (1534) embodies this fusion, with elegantly balanced letters crafted from the human body, showcasing the celebration of humanism.

Subsequently, this embodied alphabet evolved, exploring themes related to pedagogy. For instance, The Comical Hotch Potch, published in Britain in 1782, humorously depicts men attempting to mold their bodies into letters of the alphabet. As this transformation shifted into photography, the concept took on a new life, highlighted in a 1897 article by William G. FitzGerald, which remarked on the creativity of utilizing human bodies to construct letters.

Despite FitzGerald’s assertion of its uniqueness, evidence suggests the idea of an embodied alphabet is neither new nor exclusive. Nevertheless, the physical dimension of this “real” human alphabet adds a tangible and theatrical element that captively illustrates the letters. The struggles faced in achieving perfect representations, as noted by FitzGerald himself, highlight both the beauty and the challenges of blending art with education.

Government will cancel educational credentials of teachers accused of sexual assault: Minister

Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the Minister for School Education, reported on Thursday that the School Education Department has received a total of 238 complaints of sexual abuse, with approximately 50 still under investigation. These statistics were shared during a meeting with education officers, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing such grave issues.

Mahesh highlighted that 11 teachers have been acquitted and have since returned to their duties. In some unfortunate cases, 7 individuals have died in judicial custody, while 56 cases are anticipated to reach final orders by March 10. The Minister also assured that the educational credentials of teachers implicated in sexual assault cases would be revoked.

In recent events, the police apprehended three government teachers related to the sexual assault of a girl student within school premises. The NGO Hope India has urged the state government to ensure the prompt enforcement of a Government Order issued on May 17, 2012. This order mandates disciplinary actions, including compulsory retirement and dismissal, for teachers guilty of such misconduct.

P. Joseph Victor Raj from Hope India emphasized the necessity for clear protocols regarding the reporting, investigation, and prosecution of child sexual abuse cases in schools. He advocates for increased awareness of the Government Order, regular training for educational staff on child protection, and the establishment of confidential channels for students to report abuse safely.

In addition, Voice of the Voiceless, another organization, raised concerns about a 2024 incident at Chitlapakkam Government School, where a visually-impaired teacher was implicated. Follow-up actions included the teacher's transfer, but the complaints also prompted retaliation against the complainant, Mr. Jeeva M.K., indicating systemic issues regarding protection for those who dare to speak out.

Do you need permission from the government to do independent research?

In the realm of social experiments, many enthusiasts engage in community projects, like consuming potatoes to assess weight loss or taking supplements to evaluate anxiety reduction. However, the fun can be derailed by critics who claim such inquiries demand Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, leaving participants to wonder if these statements hold any truth. After a thorough investigation over a year, I've come to realize the guidelines surrounding IRB approval are nothing short of labyrinthine.

The quest to understand IRB approval led me to uncover numerous misconceptions. For instance, many believe that IRB approval applies strictly to medical research or federally funded studies, but this is not entirely accurate. While certain research involving human subjects may indeed require approval, it’s misleading to assert that all such endeavors require it. Adding to the complexity, the interpretations of IRB rules often feel arbitrary and convoluted, which raises significant questions about the practicality of the laws governing human subjects research.

Through my reflections, I recalled a personal experience living in an apartment with a notoriously steep driveway. Despite my warnings, visitors frequently underestimated its incline, leading to damaged vehicles. This anecdote illustrates a familiar cognitive bias where individuals disregard plausible rules due to disbelief in their legitimacy. It underscores the critical need for clarity regarding IRB regulations.

Moreover, the path to understanding these regulations revealed more layers of ambiguity. Federal laws aren't always clear-cut, often formulated as broad statements, allowing bureaucracies to impose sweeping regulations. While the Constitution outlines the government’s limits, agencies evade these restrictions under the pretext of regulating commerce, resulting in a complex regulatory environment. Historical events, notably the infamous Tuskegee Study, prompted significant reforms, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Common Rule, which governs human research.

Despite the stringent appearance of IRB requirements, compliance is often inconsistently enforced. For instance, while many institutions demand IRB review for all studies, in practice, the enforcement might be less rigid, particularly for small-scale or independent research. Moreover, muddled definitions surrounding terms like "research" or "human subjects" add to the confusion for those attempting to navigate these murky legal waters. This environment leads individuals to operate under a trial-and-error approach in research rather than adhering strictly to the supposed regulations.

Eventually, we arrive at the crux of my argument: the excessive oversight is misplaced. The regulations designed for medical research should not blanket all forms of inquiry, especially benign behavioral studies. The safety of research participants is indeed crucial, but imposing IRB review for every ounce of data gathering, like simple surveys or informal conversations, appears excessive. A reevaluation of what constitutes "exempt" research should simplify the process significantly, aligning it with more practical safety assessments akin to driving laws.

In summary, the convoluted nature of IRB rules reflects a regulatory system that often complicates rather than clarifies the landscape of human subjects research. It seems societies remain ensnared in a tangle of vague definitions and overlapping regulations, urging a reevaluation of how we approach research ethics in less hazardous contexts.

Model parliament organised

The National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Malayinkeezhu Madhavakavi Memorial Government Arts and Science College took a significant step towards enhancing civic awareness by organizing a model parliament on February 13. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Institute of Parliamentary Affairs, aimed to give students a firsthand experience of parliamentary procedures and roles.

During the event, MLA I.B. Satheesh inaugurated the program, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in fostering political engagement among the youth. The college principal, Priya P.S., led the inaugural session, with notable contributions from NSS programme officer Abhilash Solomon, superintendent D.R. Anil, and volunteer secretary Ananya B. Prasad, who all shared insights on the relevance of understanding governance.

The students actively participated, taking on roles such as the ‘president’, prime minister, leader of opposition, and other ministers, effectively simulating the functioning of a parliamentary system. This hands-on experience not only educated them about democratic processes but also encouraged critical thinking and leadership skills.

Higher secondary model exam timetable draws flak

The higher secondary model examination timetable has recently come under fire for its condensed schedule, with two examinations set to take place daily from February 17 to 21. Critics, specifically the Aided Higher Secondary Teachers’ Association (AHSTA), argue that this current structure does not adequately assess the students' performance.

According to the AHSTA’s statement released on Thursday, there are a staggering 46 different subject combinations in higher secondary classes, which can vary from school to school. The association claims that the needs of students were not taken into account when devising this timetable, resulting in an impractical framework in which examinations conclude in just five days.

For instance, Plus One students are scheduled to take their second language exam on Monday morning, followed by their English examination in the afternoon. Commerce students in Plus One will have to juggle multiple subjects like Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics, and Computer Applications across Tuesday and Wednesday, while their peers in Plus Two will also face double examinations on Wednesday and Thursday.

This layout puts students in a difficult position, as often four of them are crammed onto a single bench during examinations, hampering their ability to prepare or focus effectively. The AHSTA highlighted that during the public examinations held in March, only one exam per day was permitted, with sufficient gaps in between to allow for better preparation. They urge that the model examination timetable be revised to follow a similar strategy so that it can be beneficial for the students.

GIM: ‘KWIN City set to revolutionise higher education with global university partnerships’

On Wednesday, the Global Investors’ Meet in Bengaluru showcased promising developments for KWIN City, a burgeoning educational and industrial hub strategically located between Dabaspet and Doddaballapur. With the Karnataka government diligently working towards its vision, more than 30 renowned universities have expressed interest in establishing campuses in the city.

During the pivotal meeting, M.C. Sudhakar, Karnataka's Minister for Higher Education, revealed that discussions are already underway with 20 prestigious global universities. The meeting was led by Dr. Sudhakar alongside Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil, reinforcing the state government's commitment to enhancing the educational landscape.

Dr. Sudhakar stressed the necessity of an education system that is in tune with industry demands and global advancements. He stated, “The curriculum needs to evolve to suit industry requirements,” highlighting the plan to create a joint committee including education experts and industry leaders to steer this initiative.

As part of fostering global educational partnerships, the Karnataka government has successfully signed agreements with nine notable universities, such as St. John’s University and Liverpool University. Furthermore, esteemed institutions like the Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani are keenly exploring opportunities in KWIN City.

An international outreach effort has also been underway, with Karnataka conducting roadshows in countries including Japan, South Korea, the U.S., and various European nations. This proactive engagement has led to an enthusiastic response from global educational institutions. Notably, new UGC guidelines allow the top 500 universities worldwide to open campuses in India, propelling KWIN City towards its goal of becoming a global educational hub.

The vision for KWIN City encompasses not only educational excellence but also extensive research, industrial growth, and innovation. With ambitious plans for research and development (R&D) centers, incubation hubs, and facilities tailored for deep-tech startups, the infrastructure aims to attract international corporations and act as a catalyst for innovation. Dr. Sudhakar affirmed, “We aim to reshape education to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced world while providing our students with unparalleled research experiences and career opportunities.”

In line with these advancements, Sharanprakash Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development, spoke on the state’s dedication to enhancing skill development across sectors like artificial intelligence, eco-friendly energy, data science, and cybersecurity. He emphasized the current framework of 70 medical colleges in Karnataka, aiming to bridge the industry-academia gap to bolster employment outcomes. Collaborations with industry frontrunners such as Wipro, Infosys, and Bosch are set to equip students for the challenges of the global job market.

Why is ICT not being taught as separate subject in schools, asks Annamalai

BJP State President K. Annamalai, on Thursday, raised important questions regarding the status of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) labs in government and government-aided schools across Tamil Nadu. He expressed concern over the absence of ICT as a standalone subject within the school's curriculum.

In a recent statement, Annamalai pointed out that according to the provisions set by the Samagra Shiksha scheme, students from Class VI to XII in these schools are expected to receive ICT education as an independent subject. Notably, the Union government had allocated a significant sum of ₹ 1,050 crore over the last three years for the establishment of ICT labs in Tamil Nadu’s schools.

However, instead of fulfilling this objective, ICT is currently being integrated into the Science curriculum. Annamalai argued that this method undermines the very goal of properly introducing ICT to students. He highlighted that states like Telangana, Rajasthan, and Delhi successfully implement ICT as a separate subject, which stands in contrast to Tamil Nadu's approach.

Furthermore, Annamalai voiced criticism over the state government’s decision to appoint individuals who are volunteers from the Illam Thedi Kalvi initiative as ICT tutors, instead of hiring qualified Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) professionals to teach computer science. He asserted that this practice breaches the guidelines established by the Supreme Court of India relating to educational standards.

Are PhDs losing lustre? Why fewer students are enrolling in doctoral degrees

The landscape of academia is facing a significant challenge as the number of students enrolling in doctoral programs declines alarmingly across several countries. According to policy experts, this trend poses a threat not only to educational institutions but also to the scientific community. Countries such as Australia, Japan, Brazil, and the United Kingdom are witnessing a decrease in PhD enrolments, attributed to various factors including high living costs, insufficient stipends, and a lack of job opportunities post-graduation.

Cláudia Sarrico, a project lead at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris, warns that the decreasing number of PhD candidates serves as a “wake-up call.” She emphasizes the urgency for these nations to reform working conditions and diversify career pathways for doctoral graduates to avoid a talent drain, which could ultimately hinder scientific advancement.

Recent statistics demonstrate this alarming trend; for instance, Universities Australia and the Australian Council of Graduate Research (ACGR) reported an 8% decline in domestic PhD enrolments from 2018 to 2023, despite the country's population growing by over 7% during the same period. Financial insecurity is a primary concern, particularly in Australia, where the average PhD stipend is only AU$32,000 (approximately US$20,000) – significantly below the minimum wage.

Japan reflects a similar narrative, with the number of domestic PhD students falling from a peak of 18,232 in 2003 to just 15,014 in 2023. The Japanese government is taking steps to address this through increased funding for doctoral students, yet the issues persist. In Brazil, a combination of economic pressure and stagnant funding for scientific research led to a dramatic reduction in PhD enrolments until recent policy changes increased grants by 40% in 2023, encouraging a slight rebound.

On the other hand, Canada has not yet experienced a decline in PhD numbers, but discussions around the need for improved funding for doctoral students are ongoing. The Canadian government has initiated scholarship increases for the first time in over two decades, though worries remain about the inequitable nature of these funds. Additionally, financial strains due to downturns in MBA programs due to caps on international students echo around the common issues of job precarity faced by graduates.

'One, two, three': Shocking ragging video shows torture at Kerala medical college, NHRC takes cognisance

In a deeply disturbing incident of ragging that has emerged from the Government Nursing College in Kottayam, Kerala, a junior student was subjected to horrific abuse by senior students. Visuals circulating on social media depict the victim tied up on a cot, while his body was repeatedly poked with a compass, all amidst mocking taunts from his seniors. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has classified this act as not only "morally reprehensible" but also a severe infringement of human rights.

The NHRC has taken immediate action, demanding a comprehensive report from the Kerala Director General of Police (DGP) within ten days. Reports indicate that the victim endured not just the torment of the compass, but also had dumbbells placed on sensitive areas and faced further humiliation with facial cream being forced into his mouth.

According to allegations filed by the victim, students from multiple districts, including Wayanad, Malappuram, and Kottayam, were involved in coercive practices that subjected juniors to both mental and physical torture. There are claims of threats involving knives and inflictions of sharp weapon wounds on several students.

In response to the initial complaint, five senior students—Samuel Johnson, Rahul Raj, Jeev, Rijil Jith, and Vivek—have been arrested and placed in judicial custody. Authorities believe that more victims may be out there and are actively compiling statements to fully understand the scope of these abuses. The suspects have been charged under the Prohibition of Ragging Act and several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which pertain to causing harm with dangerous weapons, extortion, and criminal intimidation.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the educational landscape in Kerala. Various student organizations have united in condemning the actions. The Students' Federation of India (SFI) expressed their outrage, while the Kerala Students' Union (KSU) underscored that such brutal actions should not be overlooked. Complaints have also been lodged by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) with multiple authorities, including the Kerala Governor, NHRC, and the Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS), urging for a thorough investigation.

Acting Principal Dr. Sulekha A.T. stated that no complaints had been lodged prior to February 11, but once informed, prompt action was taken against the accused students, who have since been suspended from the college. The commitment from college officials to cooperate fully with ongoing legal proceedings signals a turning point in addressing the dire need for strict enforcement against ragging in educational institutions.

Kalyana Karnataka Literary Festival at Gulbarga University starting Monday

Kalyana Karnataka Literary Festival Set to Begin at Gulbarga University

The vibrant Kalyana Karnataka Literary Festival is all set to commence at Gulbarga University on Monday. This two-day event promises to be a hub of creative expression featuring a series of seminars and interactive sessions focusing on diverse aspects of literature.

During a media briefing held at the university guesthouse in Kalaburagi, Vice-Chancellor (Provisional) Gooru Sreeramulu and Director of the Institute of Kannada Studies H.T. Pote provided insights into the festival's agenda. The esteemed senior Kannada writer and critic Baraguru Ramachandrappa will inaugurate the event, setting the stage for a rich tapestry of discussions.

A plethora of renowned writers, scholars, and literary critics will be participating, including notable figures such as Rajendra Chenni, Amaresh Nugadoni, and H.S. Anupama, among others. The festival will feature 37 interactive sessions that delve deeply into various literary and cultural themes. Notably, Ja. Na. Tejashree will deliver the keynote address, with Prof. Gooru Sreeramulu presiding over the inaugural ceremony.

The event aims to bring together more than 150 scholars, including 92 from the Kalyana Karnataka region, who will present their research across different sessions. Additionally, the festival will incorporate multi-language sessions to broaden its reach. On the evening of the first day, attendees can enjoy a music presentation at the university's Theme Park, further enriching the cultural experience.

In anticipation of the festival's success, Prof. Sreeramulu announced a financial allocation of ₹3 lakh to support the event. With such an engaging lineup and support, the Kalyana Karnataka Literary Festival is poised to be a significant event for literature enthusiasts.