Category: Education

VIT Bhopal University and Caucasus University, Georgia Sign MoU to Strengthen Academic and Research Collaboration

New Delhi, Aug 12: VIT Bhopal University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Caucasus University, Georgia, establishing a framework for academic cooperation between the two institutions.

Under the MoU, the collaboration will encompass student mobility across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, faculty and staff exchanges, joint research and consultancy initiatives, participation in seminars and academic meetings, exchange of academic resources, and the development of short-term academic programmes and collaborative projects.

Speaking on the collaboration, Ms. Kadhambari S. Viswanathan, Assistant Vice President, VIT Bhopal University, said: “Higher education today extends far beyond geographical boundaries, making international collaboration an essential part of preparing students for the future. At VIT Bhopal University, we are committed to creating a globally connected learning environment where students and faculty can benefit from diverse perspectives, ideas, and experiences. Our partnership with Caucasus University is another step in this direction, reflecting our vision of building meaningful global relationships that enrich education, inspire innovation, and create lasting academic value.”

Dr. T. B. Sridharan, Pro Vice Chancellor, VIT Bhopal University, said: “International collaborations are most valuable when they create sustained academic engagement rather than one-time exchanges. This partnership with Caucasus University provides a framework for faculty, researchers, and students to work together on initiatives that contribute to teaching excellence, research, and global learning.”

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to expanding international engagement in higher education through collaborative teaching, research, and student development initiatives. By enabling interdisciplinary collaboration and academic exchange, the partnership will create greater opportunities for students and faculty from both institutions to gain international exposure, engage in joint research, and exchange knowledge, while allowing the two universities to leverage each other’s academic expertise and resources.

Located in Tbilisi, Georgia, Caucasus University is one of the country’s leading private higher education institutions. With academic partnerships spanning more than 360 universities across 74 countries, the university is recognized for its strong international outlook and emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and industry engagement. Through this collaboration, both institutions aim to strengthen knowledge exchange and advance joint academic and research initiatives.

The MoU marks another step in VIT Bhopal University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international collaboration and provide its academic community with opportunities for global engagement.

Amity University Haryana’s Deeksharambh 2026 Empowers Students with Global Exposure, Governance Insights, Entrepreneurship and Campus Life Orientation

Gurugram, Aug 08:  Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ashok K. Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group, and Dr. Aseem Chauhan, Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, the University continued its flagship Deeksharambh 2026 – Student Induction Programme with an engaging and enriching Day 3, held under the theme “Discover, Aspire, Achieve.” The day’s sessions focused on familiarising students with the University’s academic and governance framework, global opportunities, entrepreneurship, student life, values, responsibilities, industry connect and mentoring support.

 Aligned with the University’s SAGE framework – Socializing, Associating, Governing and Experiencing, the day’s sessions were designed to help students familiarise themselves with the University’s academic and administrative structures while encouraging them to explore opportunities beyond the classroom.

Understanding University Governance and Academic Leadership

A significant session on University Governance and Code of Conduct was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) P. B. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, AUH. The session familiarised students with the principles of responsible conduct, institutional values, discipline, accountability and responsible citizenship, inspiring them to uphold high standards of ethical behaviour and contribute positively as responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected global world. Prof. Sharma emphasised that every student has a responsibility towards the University and society, while underlining the University’s zero-tolerance approach towards any form of misconduct or misbehaviour. Prof. Sharma remarked, “True education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about developing the responsibility, accountability and character to use that knowledge for the betterment of society.”

This was followed by an introduction to Academic Administration and the University’s academic leadership, led by Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Madhukar, Hon’ble Pro Vice Chancellor, Dean, FMS & Director, ABS, AUH. The session provided students with an overview of the University’s academic ecosystem and introduced them to the Deans, Heads of Institutions and Heads of Departments who play a vital role in shaping their academic journey.

Global Exposure and International Opportunities

The day commenced with a presentation on Internationalization and Study Abroad Programmes by Ms. Vanita Verma, Assistant Director, International Affairs, AUH, who introduced students to opportunities for international academic exposure, global learning and cross-cultural engagement.

Adding an international dimension to the programme, Dr. Ilya Kravchenko, Chief Specialist-Expert, Russian Centre of Science and Culture, and Ms. Evgeniia Kulman, Chief Specialist-Expert, Russian Centre of Science and Culture, addressed the students and highlighted avenues for international academic and cultural engagement.

 From Ideation to Execution: Encouraging Entrepreneurship

 The entrepreneurial spirit among students was further strengthened through a workshop titled “Ideation to Execution”, conducted by Mr. Satish Kumar (IES), Assistant Director, MSME, Government of India. The session encouraged students to transform innovative ideas into actionable ventures and familiarised them with the entrepreneurial mindset required to identify opportunities, overcome challenges and create value.

Building an Inclusive and Supportive Campus Community

Prof. (Dr.) Maj. Gen. J. S. Dhull (Retd.), Dean Student Welfare, AUH, addressed the students on student life, discipline, clubs and societies, and anti-ragging measures, emphasising the importance of responsible participation, mutual respect and adherence to University policies. He encouraged students to actively engage in campus activities while contributing to a safe, inclusive and vibrant campus environment. As part of the University’s commitment to promoting a healthy and responsible youth community, the students also took the pledge under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, reaffirming their resolve to stay away from substance abuse and contribute towards building a healthier and drug-free society.

Prof. (Dr.) Sanjna Vij, Dy. Dean Student Welfare, AUH, addressed the students on the Students Values and Responsibility Charter, highlighting the importance of integrity, respect, discipline, accountability, empathy and responsible behaviour. She encouraged students to understand and embrace their responsibilities as members of the Amity community and to uphold these values in their academic, personal and campus life. The session highlighted the diverse opportunities available to students beyond academics, including participation in clubs and societies, while emphasising mutual respect, responsible behaviour, discipline and a zero-tolerance approach towards ragging.

A brief session on HR, University Faculty Resources and their Accomplishments was conducted by Rear Admiral K. K. Pandey, Director HR, Hospitality & Hostel, AUH, helping students understand the University’s support systems and the achievements of its academic community.

Strengthening Industry Connect

Giving students a glimpse into the University’s strong industry interface, Mr. Manoj Sahani, Director, Corporate Resource Centre (CRC) and Head, Industry Integration, AUH, presented the University’s Corporate Resource Centre and Industry Integration initiatives. The session highlighted the importance of industry exposure, employability, internships, professional skills and career preparedness in shaping future-ready graduates.

Nukkad Natak by “Ek Aawaz” Student Club

Reinforcing the University’s commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive campus, the students of “Ek Aawaz” Club presented a powerful Nukkad Natak on “Say No to Ragging.” Through an engaging and impactful street play, the students highlighted the harmful consequences of ragging and conveyed a strong message of respect, dignity, empathy and responsible behaviour. The performance effectively sensitised the new students about the importance of creating a welcoming campus environment where every student feels safe, valued and respected.

 Through its carefully curated sessions, Day 3 of Deeksharambh 2026 provided students with a well-rounded understanding of the opportunities, responsibilities and support systems that define life at Amity University Haryana. From global exposure and entrepreneurship to governance, student welfare, industry integration and mentoring, the programme reinforced AUH’s commitment to developing confident, responsible, innovative and future-ready young professionals.

As Deeksharambh 2026 progresses, Amity University Haryana continues to provide its new students with meaningful experiences that enable them to Discover their potential, Aspire for excellence and Achieve their goals, while contributing to the larger vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Odisha Proud to Host BRICS Education Meetings, Says Governor at Ceremonial Dinner

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 7: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Thursday described the state’s hosting of key BRICS education meetings as a “matter of pride” while attending a ceremonial dinner organised ahead of the BRICS Education Ministerial Meeting under India’s BRICS Chairship.

The event, held in Bhubaneswar, brought together Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, state ministers, senior government officials and delegates representing BRICS member countries.

Sharing his thoughts on social media after the event, Governor Kambhampati said Odisha was honoured to host both the 3rd BRICS Senior Officials’ Meeting and the BRICS Education Ministerial Meeting, highlighting the state’s growing role in facilitating international cooperation.

“Joined the dinner hosted on the eve of the BRICS Education Ministerial Meeting under India’s BRICS Chairship in Bhubaneswar, in the presence of Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi Ji, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Hon’ble Ministers of the Government of Odisha and distinguished delegates from the BRICS Member Countries,” the Governor posted on X.

In another post, he said the meetings reflect Odisha’s emergence as an important venue for global engagement and provide an opportunity to strengthen collaboration among BRICS nations in education, research and innovation.

The BRICS Education Ministerial Meeting is expected to focus on expanding cooperation among member countries in areas such as higher education, academic mobility, research partnerships, digital learning and innovation-driven capacity building.

On the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi held a bilateral meeting with Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, H.E. Brian Yuliarto. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen collaboration in higher education through stronger institutional partnerships, student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, innovation and capacity-building efforts.

The BRICS meetings in Bhubaneswar have brought together education policymakers and senior officials from member countries to deliberate on strategies for strengthening academic cooperation and advancing shared educational priorities under India’s current BRICS Chairship.

Amity University Haryana Explores the Future of Work and Cyber Security at Deeksharambh 2026

Gurugram, Aug 07: Building on the inspiring inauguration of Deeksharambh 2026, Amity University Haryana (AUH) continued its flagship Orientation and Student Induction Programme with engaging sessions on the future of work, artificial intelligence, leadership, and cyber security, equipping students to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Guided by the visionary leadership of Dr. Ashok K. Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group, and Dr. Aseem Chauhan, Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, the University remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals, ethical leaders, and responsible global citizens who will contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Setting the context for the day’s deliberations, Prof. (Dr.) P. B. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, highlighted India’s extraordinary economic trajectory and the immense opportunities that lie ahead. Prof Sharma observed that as India aspires to emerge as a $40 trillion economy by 2047, the nation must embrace Artificial Intelligence as a powerful catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship and large-scale job creation, particularly across agriculture, manufacturing, green technologies and the service sector. Emphasizing that India’s greatest strength lies in its youthful demographic, Prof Sharma urged students to harness technology with creativity, compassion and purpose to transform the country’s demographic dividend into a global competitive advantage.

Panel Discussion: Reimagining the Future of Work

A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Reimagining the Future of Work: Embracing the Human–AI Partnership” brought together distinguished industry leaders to share valuable insights on the rapidly evolving world of work. The session was moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Madhukar, Pro Vice Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, and featured eminent panellists Ms. Anjali Dutta (Tech Mahindra), Ms. Megha Oberoi Sood (Accenture), and Ms. Madhurima Bhatia (Ipsos).

The panel was conceptualised and curated by Dr. Manoj Sahni, Director, Corporate Resource Centre, Amity University Haryana.

Highlighting the University’s strong focus on career readiness, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) P. B. Sharma informed that Amity University Haryana has achieved an impressive placement record of 98.5% for undergraduate students and 92% for postgraduate students for the 2025–26 batch, reaffirming the University’s commitment to academic excellence and exceptional employability outcomes.

The panelists unanimously emphasized that the future belongs not to Artificial Intelligence alone, but to the synergy between human intelligence and AI. They highlighted that while technology is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace, qualities such as creativity, empathy, ethical judgment, adaptability and continuous learning will remain the defining strengths of successful professionals.

Sharing perspectives from consulting, technology, digital transformation and communications, the experts encouraged students to cultivate digital fluency, embrace lifelong learning and view change as an opportunity rather than a challenge. They stressed that innovation must always be guided by ethics, transparency and human values, enabling technology to create sustainable and inclusive growth.

The discussion concluded with a powerful message that the leaders of tomorrow will be those who can effectively combine technological expertise with emotional intelligence, collaboration and responsible decision-making in an AI-enabled world.

Expert Lecture: Cyber Security in a BANI World

The day also featured an insightful expert lecture by AVM (Dr.) Devesh Vatsa, VSM, Advisor – Cyber Security and Critical Technologies, Data Security Council of India (DSCI), on “BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear and Incomprehensible) in Cyber Security: Challenges & Safeguards.” He highlighted the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape and underscored the importance of cyber resilience in an increasingly interconnected digital ecosystem.

Explaining the relevance of the BANI framework, Dr. Vatsa observed that today’s world is characterized by unpredictability, complexity, and constant disruption, making cyber security an indispensable pillar of personal, organizational, and national resilience. He stressed that cyber threats are no longer confined to technology alone but have far-reaching implications for governance, businesses, critical infrastructure and everyday life.

Emphasizing that cyber security is a cornerstone of national security and economic growth, Dr. Vatsa urged students to develop a strong foundation in digital responsibility, ethical conduct, and technological competence. He encouraged them to remain vigilant against emerging cyber risks, adopt safe digital practices, and continuously upgrade their skills in an era driven by artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Calling upon the youth to become responsible digital citizens, he inspired them to contribute towards building a secure, resilient, and technologically empowered Digital India capable of addressing the challenges of the future.

Preparing Leaders for Tomorrow

Day 2 of Deeksharambh 2026 reaffirmed Amity University Haryana’s commitment to integrating academic excellence with industry engagement, technological innovation and value-based education. Through meaningful interactions with eminent academicians, policymakers, industry leaders and cyber security experts, the University continues to empower its students to become innovative thinkers, responsible professionals, and transformational leaders who will shape India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047.

Deeksharambh 2026 witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of newly admitted students, faculty members, Deans, Directors, Heads of Institutions, Heads of Departments and senior university officials. Several academic leaders and senior functionaries also actively participated in the program, including Prof Dr. Paras Chawla, Director, ASET;  Maj. Gen. J. S. Dhull, Dean of Students Welfare; Prof. Dr. Sanjna Vij, Deputy Dean of Students Welfare; Prof Dr. Monika Arora, Head, Amity Business School (ABS); Prof Dr Seema Pathak, Head, ASAS; Prof Dr Luxita Sharma, Dy Director, AMS and Prof. (Dr.) Vijay K. Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations.

Amity University Haryana Welcomes the Future with the Grand Inauguration of Deeksharambh 2026

Gurugram, August 5, 2026: Guided by the visionary leadership of Dr. Ashok K. Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group, and Dr. Aseem Chauhan, Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, the University grandly inaugurated Deeksharambh 2026, its flagship Orientation and Student Induction Programme, welcoming a new cohort of undergraduate and postgraduate students into the Amity family.

Inspired by their transformative vision and dynamic leadership, Amity University Haryana continues to set new benchmarks in higher education through academic excellence, innovation, research, sustainability, and holistic development. With an unwavering commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals, ethical leaders, and responsible global citizens, the University empowers its students to contribute meaningfully to society and to the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Held under the inspiring theme “Discover, Aspire, Achieve,” Deeksharambh 2026 marked the beginning of a transformative academic journey for hundreds of newly admitted students. Designed around the University’s SAGE Framework–Socializing, Associating, Governing and Experiencing-the induction programme commenced with a sacred Vedic Hawan, invoking blessings for wisdom and success, followed by the ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolising the illumination of knowledge, values and lifelong learning. The spiritually enriching ceremony warmly welcomed students, parents, faculty and distinguished guests into the vibrant Amity community.

Distinguished Leaders Inspire the Next Generation

The inaugural ceremony featured eminent leaders, policymakers and educationists who shared powerful insights on leadership, nation-building, innovation and values.

Prof. (Dr.) P. B. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, emphasized the University’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible leaders equipped with knowledge, compassion and ethical values. Addressing the students, Prof Sharma encouraged them to pursue excellence with purpose and integrity. “Your education must empower you not merely to succeed in your careers but to contribute meaningfully to society. Think beyond excellence. Commit yourself to the pursuit of truth, sustainability, and service-this is the true hallmark of leadership,” Prof Sharma remarked.

The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Shri Akhilesh Mishra, Former Ambassador of India to Ireland, delivered an inspiring address on “Young Minds of India: Leadership, Innovation and India’s Journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047.” Calling upon students to become architects of India’s future, Mishra ji urged them to cultivate curiosity, courage, innovation and character. “India’s greatest strength lies in its young minds. Dream fearlessly, innovate relentlessly and lead with integrity. The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 will become a reality through your ideas, your leadership and your commitment to nation-building,” Mishra ji said, receiving an enthusiastic response from the audience.

Delivering the keynote address on “The Leadership Mindset: Learning, Values and Excellence,” Dr. Shashank Shah, Director, Higher Education and Viksit Bharat Planning, NITI Aayog, urged students to dedicate their university years to self-transformation, discovering their purpose, realizing their true potential and achieving excellence through sustained self-effort. Dr Shah emphasized that the journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047 will be led by young minds who combine knowledge with values, resilience, compassion and innovation. Encouraging students to become “Generation Green,” he called upon them to embrace responsible leadership and contribute meaningfully to nation-building through excellence in action.

Welcoming the new entrants, Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Madhukar, Pro Vice Chancellor, AUH encouraged students to embrace every opportunity for learning and personal growth. He emphasized resilience, adaptability, and lifelong learning as the defining qualities of successful professionals in an ever-changing world.

Adding a global perspective to the occasion, Ms. Jill Lai, Director, Education Division, Taipei Economic & Cultural Centre in India, attended as the Guest of Honour. She highlighted the importance of international collaboration, intercultural understanding, and global citizenship, encouraging students to develop an open mindset and prepare themselves for opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.

The inaugural ceremony concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Dr. Ravi Manuja, Registrar, Amity University Haryana, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished dignitaries, faculty members, parents, staff  and students for making the commencement of Deeksharambh 2026 a memorable celebration of learning, aspiration, and new beginnings.

As students embark on their academic journey at Amity University Haryana, Deeksharambh 2026 stands as a testament to the University’s unwavering commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals, compassionate leaders, responsible citizens and global changemakers who will contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Yogi Suri Urges Youth to Lead the Fight Against Drug Abuse, Administers ‘No Nasha Nation’ Pledge

Chandigarh | August 5, 2026

Arya Yuva Samaj National President Yogi Suri called on young people to play an active role in building a drug-free India, urging them to “become the sword of Swami Dayanand Saraswati and destroy the demon of addiction.” He delivered the message as the Chief Guest at the ‘No Nasha Nation’ awareness programme organised during Induction Week 2026 by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and the Victory Against Drug Abuse (VADA) Club at Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women (MCM), Chandigarh.

The programme aimed to make newly admitted students aware of the growing risks of substance abuse and digital addiction while encouraging them to lead disciplined, responsible and value-based lives. Mr Amanjeet Singh, IRS, Zonal Director, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chandigarh, attended as the Guest of Honour. Also present were Dr Anoop Kumar Vats, National Coordinator (Colleges), DAV College Managing Committee; Ms Mona Narang, Principal of MCM DAV College; and Mr Navdeep Singh, Deputy Director, Higher Education Department.

Welcoming the students, Yogi Suri said, “True freedom lies in learning to make the right and responsible choices.” He said drug abuse and digital addiction have become major challenges for young people, affecting their health, time, goals and future.

He said ‘No Nasha Nation’ is not just an anti-drug campaign but a national movement that encourages young people to choose discipline over addiction, purpose over distraction and values over temptation. He added that a drug-free India can only be achieved through the combined efforts of students, parents, teachers and society.

Using a simple analogy, Yogi Suri said that just as people stay away from a poisonous snake to avoid its venom, the safest way to avoid addiction is to stay away from drugs altogether. He said social evils must be addressed at an early stage before they become larger challenges. Calling drug abuse a national concern, he urged young people to face it with courage, determination and self-confidence. He added that values, self-discipline and the teachings of the Vedas provide protection against addiction.

Appealing to the students, Yogi Suri said, “Become the sword of Swami Dayanand Saraswati that destroys the demon of addiction.” He also said women have an important role in bringing positive change to families, society and the nation, and can contribute significantly to the goal of a drug-free India.

At the end of his address, Yogi Suri administered the ‘No Nasha Nation’ pledge to hundreds of students. They pledged to lead a drug-free life, encourage others to do the same and spread the campaign’s message in society. Arya Yuva Samaj also screened a short film highlighting the importance of a disciplined and value-based life.

Guest of Honour Mr Amanjeet Singh, IRS, spoke about the growing problem of drug abuse and addressed common misconceptions. He cautioned students that even a single instance of drug use can have long-term consequences. He said timely treatment and counselling can help people recover from addiction and encouraged those in need to seek support through the Tele-MANAS mental health helpline.

Dr Anoop Kumar Vats said ‘No Nasha Nation’ has become a nationwide movement and urged students to take its message to their families, friends and communities and become ambassadors of the campaign.

During the programme, the college presented IQAC scholarships to students who performed well at Panjab University. Students also staged a street play on the impact of drug abuse. Acting Principal Ms Neena Sharma said such programmes help develop social responsibility, moral values and positive thinking among students. She expressed confidence that initiatives like ‘No Nasha Nation’ would continue to encourage young people to become responsible citizens and contribute to nation-building.

Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society Celebrates 26th Annual Day at University of Hyderabad

“Math Meets Movement”, an innovative dance presentation performed by Ms. P. B. Vaishnavi, Assistant Professor of Dance, GITAM, Hyderabad, and her team

Hyderabad, Aug 3: The Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society (KVRSS), a Hyderabad based 26 years old a non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering scientific inquiry and recognising young talent at school, college, and university levels which is now has become a national platform for promoting curiosity, innovation, and excellence in science celebrated its 26th Annual Day on Saturday at the School of Life Sciences Auditorium, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, stated Dr. K. Ratna, Secretary, Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society (KVRSS) in a press note issued in the city today.

The programme was graced by Prof. J. Anuradha, Vice Chancellor, University of Hyderabad, as the Chief Guest. A distinguished Kuchipudi exponent, scholar and educator, she has made significant contributions to dance education and research while leading one of India’s premier universities.

Established in 2001 in memory of Dr. K. V. Rao, a distinguished scientist of the Geological Survey of India and a passionate advocate of multidisciplinary research, KVRSS has spent the last 26 years nurturing scientific temper and promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) among students ranging from school children to young researchers below the age of 30.

One of the highlights of this year’s programme was “Math Meets Movement”, an innovative dance presentation by Ms. P. B. Vaishnavi, Assistant Professor of Dance, GITAM, Hyderabad, and her team. The performance was creatively demonstrated the relationship between mathematics and movement, illustrating how art can become a powerful medium for communicating scientific concepts.

Annual Awards

The Society presented awards to outstanding students for achievements during the academic year 2025–26.

The 26th Annual Research Awards recognised exceptional research in the fundamental sciences by students below the age of 30. This year, 12 awards—three each in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics—were presented. The awards attracted 167 applications from more than 100 institutions across several states.

The 15th SPARK Innovation Awards, designed to encourage scientific innovation among school students, received over 200 project entries. Forty projects were shortlisted for the finals held in Hyderabad, and eight awards—two each in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics—were presented.

The 6th SMART (Science Meets ART) Awards celebrate creativity at the intersection of science and art. This year’s challenge invited students to design board games based on scientific or mathematical concepts to make learning interactive and enjoyable. More than 250 entries were received, from which three winners were honoured.

Apart from these flagship programmes, KVRSS’s Science Innovation Centre and Mobile Science Lab, launched during 2021–22, have together reached over 23,000 students in just four years by taking hands-on science education directly into schools.

AIIMS Director Emphasises the Real-World Benefits of Mental Arithmetic

Mangalagiri, August 2, 2026: Over 1,200 children aged between 5 and 14 years showcased extraordinary mental arithmetic skills at SIP Regional Prodigy 2026, one of India’s largest mental arithmetic competitions for children, held at CK Conventions, Mangalagiri, on Sunday.

The competition was inaugurated by Col. Shashikanth Thumma, Director, AIIMS Mangalagiri, in the presence of Sibi Sekhar, Director, SIP Academy India; Uma Swaminathan, Head – New Franchisee Acquisition; Praveen E.G., Regional Business Head – South & Head, International Acquisition; and Jabeer Baig, State Head (Andhra Pradesh), SIP Academy India.

Addressing the gathering, Col. Shashikanth Thumma described the participants as “live supercomputers.”

“You are human calculators, solving sums faster than calculators. This programme develops skills to solve not only mathematics problems but also life’s challenges. My own children are participating in this competition. Practice makes perfect—keep practising, embrace challenges and strive for excellence,” he said.

He added that mental arithmetic builds skills for life beyond mathematics.

Speaking on the occasion, Sibi Sekhar, Director, SIP Academy India, said mental arithmetic is more relevant in the Artificial Intelligence era than ever before.

“While AI can provide answers, children still need strong cognitive abilities, logical thinking, concentration, memory and problem-solving skills. Mental arithmetic develops these foundational capabilities, enabling children to think independently and confidently.”

Announcing the organisation’s international expansion, Sibi Sekhar said SIP Academy India has entered the United States, marking a significant milestone for Indian education entrepreneurship.

The organisation will initially serve the Indian diaspora, including a large Telugu community, before expanding to the wider American market. The move positions SIP Academy among a select group of Indian education brands exporting home-grown learning methodologies to global markets.

Across India, SIP Academy currently operates over 1,100 centres, training nearly 1.9 lakh children. Over the next three years, the organisation aims to expand to 2,000 centres and increase enrolment to 3 lakh students.

The academy is also strengthening its international footprint following its entry into the United States while exploring expansion into other overseas markets. 

Uma Swaminathan, Head – New Franchisee Acquisition, said Andhra Pradesh is one of SIP Academy’s priority markets. “We currently operate 25 centres in Andhra Pradesh and plan to double this number to 50 in the coming years,” she said.

Innovation in Testing Concentration

One of the biggest attractions of the competition was the innovative ‘Concentration Round’. As loud music filled the venue, children solved mental arithmetic problems without losing focus. Despite the energetic atmosphere—with participants singing, dancing, cheering and clapping—they completed the calculations with remarkable speed and accuracy, demonstrating that true concentration is the ability to remain focused amid distractions.

About SIP Regional Prodigy

SIP Regional Prodigy is the regional championship of the annual SIP Prodigy competition and serves as a qualifying event for the national finals. Participants were tested in mental arithmetic, abacus calculations, multiplication, division, visual arithmetic, speed and accuracy through a series of time-bound challenges. In some categories, students solved up to 300 arithmetic problems in just 11 minutes, showcasing exceptional concentration, memory and calculation speed. The Andhra Pradesh regional winners will qualify for the National SIP Prodigy 2026, to be held in Kochi in November, where nearly 5,000 children from across the country will compete.

Jabeer Baig, State Head (Andhra Pradesh), said around 7,000 children are currently undergoing SIP Abacus training across the state through centres in Vijayawada, Guntur, Mangalagiri, Tirupati, Chittoor, Anantapur, Hindupur, Kadiri, Tadepalli, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Kakinada.

Tamil Nadu Sets Benchmark in Digital School Infrastructure Across Southern India

Chennai, July 30: Tamil Nadu has achieved a significant milestone in strengthening digital education, emerging as the leading state in southern India for the implementation of ICT laboratories and smart classrooms under the Centre’s Samagra Shiksha programme.

The initiative has helped transform learning environments across government schools by introducing technology-enabled classrooms, digital learning resources, and improved access to modern educational tools. These facilities are supporting teachers in delivering more interactive lessons while helping students develop essential digital skills for the future.

The expansion of ICT infrastructure reflects Tamil Nadu’s continued commitment to improving the quality of school education and ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to technology-driven learning opportunities. By integrating digital tools into classrooms, the state is working towards creating a more inclusive, engaging, and future-ready education system.

The progress under the programme highlights the growing importance of technology in education and demonstrates how investments in digital infrastructure can enhance teaching methods, encourage student participation, and prepare young learners for a rapidly changing world.

ETS Launches an App in India to Help Students & Professionals Build English Speaking Confidence

India, July 30: ETS, a global education and talent solutions organization, announced today the launch of TOEIC Pal in India, the official TOEIC Speaking preparation app designed to give learners a more flexible and personalized way to practice spoken English.

Following its pilot launch in select key legacy markets, TOEIC Pal is now available in India for TOEIC Speaking test takers, university students, professionals, and learners. It provides flexible, mobile-first English–speaking practice to fit any learner’s daily routine. The app also lets users practice anytime, anywhere, while helping them better understand how spoken responses are structured, scored, and improved. 

“Strong English communication skills are increasingly connected to career mobility, workplace readiness and global opportunity,” said Ratnesh Jha, Global General Manager of Institutional Language Products at ETS. “TOEIC Pal gives learners an official, accessible way to strengthen their speaking skills, prepare for the TOEIC Speaking test and build confidence for real-world workplace settings.” 

“As AI reshapes the workplace, English communication is becoming one of the clearest differentiators between employees who simply have technical skills and those who can turn that skill into real career growth,” said Ajay Pratap Singh, Regional Director – South Asia, ETS. “TOEIC Pal gives learners across India a practical, accessible way to build the speaking confidence they need to stand out in this environment.”

Built with official TOEIC content, TOEIC Pal includes authentic TOEIC Speaking questions, model answers, TOEIC-aligned scoring and AI-powered guidance. Learners can practice task types including Read Aloud, Describe a Picture, Respond to Questions and Express an Opinion. The app also includes timed simulations and instant scoring to track progress.

The launch comes as employers in India continue to place high value on practical English communication skills. According to India findings from the 2026 TOEIC Global English Skills Report, 97% of HR decision-makers in India say English proficiency is more important today than it was five years ago (compared to 92% globally), and 87% say the growing use of AI has increased the need for strong English skills (compared to 81% globally).

This growing emphasis on English communication mirrors India‘s broader education priorities, including the National Education Policy (NEP) and the evolving CBSE curriculum, both of which place increasing focus on communication and employability skills, positioning TOEIC Pal within India‘s evolving higher education and employability landscape.

TOEIC Pal builds on ETS‘s continued investment in digital TOEIC solutions, including TOEIC Link, ETS‘s next-generation, modular English communication assessment, offering flexible, customizable testing experiences that meet the evolving needs of employers, educators, and learners. ETS continues to build a complementary suite of official preparation products to help learners strengthen their real-world communication skills and succeed on the test.

TOEIC Pal is available for download in the App Store and Google Play in India.