Education News – Monthly Newsletter December 2010

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

To put it bluntly, education sector dismal: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s education sector requires serious attention, a leading Pakistan daily said while labelling the situation “quite dismal”.

The Dawn said in an editorial that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani`s admission that the nationalisation of schools and colleges in the early 1970s by the Pakistan Peoples Party founder, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was a …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Now, schools in Tripura to charge only exam fee

AGARTALA – The Tripura government has asked all school authorities in the northeastern state not to charge students any payment except the examination fee, officials said here Sunday.

“No government, semi-government and government aided schools up to 12th standard are to be allowed to take any kind of fee except the examination charge from … Original article on : Now, schools in Tripura to charge only exam fee.

Meghalaya varsity students press for V-C’s ouster

SHILLONG – Students of Meghalaya’s North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) will resume their indefinite agitation from Monday to pressurise the central government to remove of A.N. Rai as vice-chancellor and appoint a local academician instead, a student leader said Sunday.

“As a mark of protest against the adamant attitude of the central government to … Read more »».

Number of jobless graduates in Britain on the rise

LONDON – The number of graduates who don’t have jobs in Britain has been increasing and is at its highest in nearly two decades, a study has found.

About 21,000 of last years graduates, 8.9 percent, still had no job after six months, Daily Express reported Monday.
The study by the Higher Education Careers Services … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Number of jobless graduates in Britain on the rise.

Health camp for municipal school students in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Spearheading the move to sensitise children on the importance of hygiene, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Global Hygiene Council (GHC) Monday organized a health camp at a MCD primary school in the capital.

The event saw a team of experts giving a health talk in the school, apart from holding … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Health camp for municipal school students in Delhi.

Students demand restoration of Allahabad University polls

LUCKNOW – Several students of Allahabad University blocked roads and clashed with the police Monday to demand restoration of the varsity’s student body polls.

The students assembled opposite the district magistrate’s office in Colonelganj area of Allahabad, some 200 km from Lucknow, and tried to force their way in.
“We tried our best to calm …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Health minister inaugurates hospital in Mumbai

MUMBAI – Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Monday inaugurated a 330-bed multi-specialty, tertiary-care hospital in the Mumbai suburb of Meera Road.

“Our primary focus would be on providing critical care across multiple specialties. Patient-centric care supported with state-of-the-art infrastructure will drive the spectrum of services at the hospital,” said Dr. Rajendra … Read more »».

Indian quiz contest for kids being held in Pakistan

BANGALORE – Around 10,000 people from Pakistan have in views posted on Facebook welcomed the holding of the ‘Horlicks Wizkids 2010′ quiz contest in three Pakistani cities, to select finalists for the Nov 25 South Asian finals involving India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, an official said.

The ‘Horlicks Wizkids 2010′ is being held in Lahore, … Read more >>>.

Students strike cripples varsity in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – Normal functioning of Meghalaya’s North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) was disrupted Monday, the first day of the indefinite strike called by students to pressurise the central government to remove A.N. Rai as vice-chancellor and appoint a local academician instead.

“We will continue with the strike till our demands are met,” Meghalaya Tribal Students …. Original source : Students strike cripples varsity in Meghalaya.

For St Xavier’s College, Obama visit ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’

MUMBAI – The excitement is palpable. The 130-year-old St Xavier’s College here is waiting with baited breath for US President Barack Obama to address 300 students on its premises Nov 7 and can’t help but feel a sense of pride for being the chosen one.

Obama’s visit is “a once in a lifetime opportunity”, … Original article on : For St Xavier’s College, Obama visit ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’.

Indian varsities powerhouses of knowledge, says Kalam

ALIGARH – Indian universities hold great potential, and are the powerhouses of knowledge, former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam said at a convocation here Tuesday.

“Our universities hold great potential for preparing India’s next generation to face the upcoming challenges. They are the powerhouses of knowledge,” Kalam, a Bharat Ratna awardee, said while addressing students at … Read more »»».

World Bank helps Meghalaya set up hospital

NEW DELHI – For addressing the shortage of medical staff and improving health services, the World Bank is supporting Meghalaya in India’s northeast to establish its first public-private partnership for a new hospital and medical college, a statement said Tuesday.

According to the statement, International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank group, …. Original source : World Bank helps Meghalaya set up hospital.

Jharkhand plans English schools in villages

RANCHI – The Jharkhand government will open English medium schools in 203 blocks of the state, Chief Minister Arjun Munda announced here Tuesday.

“In the current financial year, we will open English medium schools in 41 blocks while the rest will be opened in the next financial year,” Munda told reporters.
“The government plans … Read more : Jharkhand plans English schools in villages.

British parents bribe kids to read

LONDON – More than half of parents in Britain admit they have to bribe their children to read with incentives such as permission to watch television and use computer, a survey has found.

Both teachers and parents believe that increased access to technology is turning children off reading, with many youngsters bored by books, the …. Original source : British parents bribe kids to read.

Kendriya Vidyalayas to offer skill development

NEW DELHI – Kendriya Vidyalaya campuses will now be available for skill development courses after school hours, the human resource development ministry said Wednesday.

The decision was taken by the board of governors of Kendriya Vidyalayas Sangathan, chaired by Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, following the recommendations of the Academic Advisory Committee of the … Read more : Kendriya Vidyalayas to offer skill development.

Indian Inc facing quality manpower crunch: Survey

NEW DELHI – India Inc is facing a severe shortage of skilled manpower as the undergraduates in the general stream of arts, commerce and science churned out by the country’s educational institutions are not up to the mark, reveals a survey.

“Employability quotient of the undergraduates in India reveals this unsettling reality that GenNext is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian Inc facing quality manpower crunch: Survey.

Obama, Michelle start Day 2 in Mumbai school

Mumbai, Nov. 7 (IANS) After a hectic first day in India’s financial capital, US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle kicked off their second day at the Holy Name School Sunday morning.

The couple went to the school in one of the quiet bylanes of Colaba, a hub of foreigners and close to the …. Source : Obama, Michelle start Day 2 in Mumbai school.

Mumbai school kids excited about Obama visit

MUMBAI – All pepped up and barely unable to contain their excitement, students of the Holy Name School eagerly awaited US President Barack Obama’s visit Sunday morning.

Dressed in her navy blue school uniform, a school student who will get an opportunity to meet Obama, said: “I am really excited to meet the US …. Read the original article : Mumbai school kids excited about Obama visit.

7th World Robot Olympiad kicks off in Philippines

MANILA – The 7th World Robot Olympiad (WRO) kicked off in Manila Saturday, attracting some 1,000 young contestants from over 30 countries, Xinhua reported.

Philippines is hosting the event for first time.
In the Regular Category of the competition, games like “Knock and Secure Bottles” and “Pole Climbing” were organised.
Elementary school contestants … Read more : 7th World Robot Olympiad kicks off in Philippines.

Obama for better ties in education sector

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama expressed the need for increased America-India partnership in the field of education, both in his speech at the Oberoi’s Trident Hotel here and at a private meeting with a select group of people from Mumbai Saturday evening.

Among those present at the meeting with the select group was the …. Original article : Obama for better ties in education sector.

Michigan, Jindal law schools sign pact

WASHINGTON – The Michigan Law School and the O.P. Jindal Global Law School have signed an agreement to establish a Joint Centre for Global Corporate and Financial Law and Policy.

The agreement will also open the door for future cooperative efforts between the two schools, a statement said. The memorandum of understanding was signed by … Read more >>.

Cooperation in education holds great promise: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said partnership between India and the US on education held “great promise” as no other countries were “better equipped to be partners in building the knowledge economy of the future”.

Cooperation in the field of education holds great promise because no two other countries are better equipped …. Original source : Cooperation in education holds great promise: PM.

Canadian universities coming to woo Indian students

TORONTO – Presidents of 15 Canadian universities embark on a seven-day mission to India Monday to woo students from the second fastest growing nation in the world.

It is the biggest mission to India by Canadian educational institutions after the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on higher education during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s …. Original article : Canadian universities coming to woo Indian students.

No guest teachers to be removed: Hooda

CHANDIGARH – Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda Sunday said none of the over 16,000 guest teachers would be removed in the wake of alleged lapses in their selection.

Hooda gave the assurance to a delegation of guest teachers who had called on him at his residence here Sunday under the banner of Haryana Atithi … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No guest teachers to be removed: Hooda.

Meghalaya varsity students call off protest

SHILLONG – Students of Meghalaya’s North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Monday called off their indefinite strike against the appointment of A.N Rai as the vice chancellor after Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said he would take up their demand with the central government.

The Meghalaya Tribal Students Coordination Committee (MTSCC) and NEHU Students Union (NEHUSU) … Read : Meghalaya varsity students call off protest.

Obama announces India-US education summit

NEW DELHI – Taking ties in the field of education to the next level, India and US will hold their first education summit next year.

According to government officials, the summit-level talks involving top leaders from the two countries, are also expected to include leading universities from both countries.
“Building on our successful … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama announces India-US education summit.

Oman, India to enhance relations, says envoy

NEW DELHI – Omani ambassador to India Humaid Ali Al-Maani Monday said India and Oman share a very special bond and their relationship will be “enhanced” further.

India is a very special partner for Oman and we are working to enhance this relationship further, not only in our cultural cooperation but in trade and political …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Oman, India to enhance relations, says envoy.

51 Canadian fellowships for Indian graduate students

NEW DELHI – Canada will give over 50 fellowships and funds worth more than $4 million to Indian graduate students and institutional partners as part of its steps to boost educational ties between the two countries.

Meeting their their Indian counterparts in New Delhi at a roundtable, 15 presidents of various Canadian universities, who are …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Kansas Senior Scores a Perfect ACT

KANSAS (GaeaTimes.com) — It’s not everyday you get to see a person getting a perfect score on a ACT test. But Charles Wolock, a senior from Kansas has achieved this by scoring a perfect 36 on the ACT.
The ACT is a test which evaluates a student’s academic level when entering college. The ACT test …. Original article : Kansas Senior Scores a Perfect ACT.

Patil to attend Ranchi University convocation Dec 10

RANCHI – President Pratibha Patil will attend Ranchi University’s silver jubilee convocation here Dec 10, a government statement said Tuesday.

Jharkhand Governor M.O.H. Farook directed university Vice Chancellor A. Khan to make preparations for the convocation, it said.
The convocation is scheduled to be held in the Basic Science Bhavan of the university which …. Source : Patil to attend Ranchi University convocation Dec 10.

‘Steps taken to protect Indian students in Australia’

KOLKATA – Australia has taken the necessary steps and measures to provide a proper atmosphere for Indian students there, an Australian Trade Commission official said Tuesday in the

backdrop of recent attacks on Indian students Down Under.
The commission is planning educational roadshows across major cities in India to showcase Australian education and … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Steps taken to protect Indian students in Australia’.

Junk foods should be out of school canteens: NGO

NEW DELHI – Chips, burgers, pizzas, kathi rolls and other junk foods have become the preferred snack for children, and are even sold in school canteens, leading to lifestyle diseases among kids, said an NGO Tuesday stressing the need to set health standards for improving children’s nutrition.

There is need to improve children’s nutrition by …. Original article : Junk foods should be out of school canteens: NGO.

British Council to organise education meet

MUMBAI – The British Council will organise a two-day education exhibition here starting Saturday where students can meet representatives of various universities in the United Kingdom, an official said Thursday.

“Indian students represent the second largest number of international students in higher education in UK. Over 51,000 students are currently studying there and the number …. Source article on Gaea Times at : British Council to organise education meet.

Sibal for global partnership, private sector in education

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Thursday called for global partnership in the field of education and stressed on a greater role for the private sector.

Addressing a higher education summit organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Sibal said that private sector is needed to create … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sibal for global partnership, private sector in education.

Nearly 90 percent of tribals miss college education: BJP

RAIPUR – Up to 90 percent of students belonging to the tribal communities of the country never make it to college, a resolution passed by the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) tribal cell said here Thursday.

A three-day convention of the party’s tribal cell began Tuesday in the state capital of the BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh.
The resolution …. Source : Gaea News Network.

British graduates to remain in debt till mid-50s

LONDON – The British government’s economic reform plans which include hike in university tuition fees and higher taxes will leave many graduates in debt until their mid-50s, a study has found.

According to a study by Money Mail, graduates on modest incomes face an effective tax rate of 45 percent and crippling debts for most …. Source article : British graduates to remain in debt till mid-50s.

Protesting students storm government offices in London

LONDON – A mass demonstration by students in Britain descended into chaos and violence in the government quarter in central London Wednesday, when some of the students stormed the headquarters of the conservative governing party.

The group of protesters smashed windows and destroyed security cameras, pelted police and security staff with bottles and rocks, while …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Protest in Britain over tution fee hike turns violent

LONDON – Protests in Britain over the government’s plan to raise tution fees in universities turned violent Wednesday as demonstrators marched towards parliament, damaging buildings and clashing with security personnel.

A group barged into the lobby of Millbank Tower near the headquarters of Prime Minister David Cameron’s Tory party before being forced out by police, … Read more >>>.

Kalinga Trust sets up state-level prize

BHUBANESWAR – The city-based Kalinga Foundation Trust, which sponsors the prestigious Unesco Kalinga Prize, Wednesday announced the setting up of a state-level prize for popularising science.

Named as ‘Kalinga Samman for Popularization of Science”, the prize will be presented annually, beginning this year, to an eminent scientist or science populariser from Orissa, trust member and … Read more »»».

Youth readership survey to be unveiled Thursday

NEW DELHI – Findings from a nationwide survey on the reading habits of the youth will be unveiled Thursday on the occasion of National Education Day, a statement issued Wednesday said.

The National Youth Readership Survey was launched in 2009. The findings will be unveiled on National Education Day, celebrated in memory of the country’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Youth readership survey to be unveiled Thursday.

Bihar honours Super 30 founder with top award

PATNA – Anand Kumar, who founded Bihar’s free coaching centre Super 30 that has helped many to enter the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), was conferred Wednesday the state’s highest award in education.

Anand was given the ‘Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad Shiksha Puruskar’ by Governor Devanand Konwar at a function here to mark the education …. Read the original article : Bihar honours Super 30 founder with top award.

Student indiscipline rampant in Cambridge

LONDON – Cambridge University, an 800-year-old institution where 15 British prime ministers have been educated, has witnessed widespread student indiscipline, a media report said Wednesday.

The Daily Telegraph reported that a newly released dossier of student misdemeanours over the past five years showed that there had been hundreds of incidents of indiscipline.
While a college … Original source on Gaea Times at : Student indiscipline rampant in Cambridge.

Words that work: Jamia to hold etiquette workshop

NEW DELHI – Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) will organise a workshop on e-mail and telephone etiquettes, with the objective of teaching students the principle of “words that work”, an official said Wednesday.

The workshop, to be held Thursday, is a collaboration between the university and non-governmental organisation Youth Empowerment Services.
The purpose of the workshop …. Source article : Words that work: Jamia to hold etiquette workshop.

A teacher who lost her voice awarded 150,000 pounds

LONDON – A teacher, who lost her voice after regularly shouting in the class in a school in Britain, was paid over 150,000 pounds.

The amount was given to 50-year-old Joyce Walters who had to give up her job after years of making herself heard across noisy classrooms left her with painful nodules on her …. Read the original article : here.

IGNOU launches diabetes training programme

NEW DELHI – The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a programme to train medical graduates in treating diabetes, it was announced here Wednesday.

The programme will be open to medical graduates looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the area of medical diabetology.
IGNOU’s School of Health Sciences (SOHS) signed a …. Original article on Gaea Times at : IGNOU launches diabetes training programme.

Students indiscipline hits Cambridge University

LONDON – Cambridge University, an 800-year-old university where 15 British prime ministers have been educated, has witnessed hundreds of incidents indiscipline from students who have got drunk, become nude, and even resorted to violence, a media report said Wednesday.

Daily Telegraph reported that a newly released dossier of student misdemeanours over the past five years … Read more >>.

‘Major talent for Indian IT industry untapped’

NEW DELHI – The majority of talent for the IT industry lies in tier-II colleges and cities which are partially or completely ignored by companies for fresher placements in India, according to a study.

The scientific assesment team, Aspiring Minds, which compiled the study, segregated the country’s colleges into a top 100 campus list and [..] Read the original article: here.

Sibal calls for paradigm shift in education

NEW DELHI – Calling for a paradigm shift in the education sector, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Thursday said a framework was needed for investment for expansion of higher education.

We need a policy framework to invest in education if we have to increase our gross enrolment ratio to 30 percent by 2020, … Read more : Sibal calls for paradigm shift in education.

Access to education a battle for many kids, despite RTE

NEW DELHI – Despite the Right to Education Act, access to education is an everyday struggle for many Indian kids because of challenges like inaccessibility to schools and unavailability of teachers.

At a conference organised by child rights group, CRY, in the capital Thursday, six children from rural areas of states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh … Read : Access to education a battle for many kids, despite RTE.

Panasonic India felicitates Country’s Best Talent

New Delhi, 11th November 2010: Panasonic, the Global Technology leader, today felicitated students from IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur and PEC University of Technology, by offering scholarship to study in the prestigious Universities of Japan as a part of Panasonic Scholarship Program 2011. This program offers financial assistance to promising students who have the potential to … Read more : Panasonic India felicitates Country’s Best Talent.

India-Britain sign education MoU

NEW DELHI – India and Britain Friday signed an MoU for the second phase of their Education Research Initiative.

The MoU, signed by Human Resoure Development Minister Kapil Sibal and Britain’s Universities Minister David Willetts, will take ahead the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI) that has already created almost 600 new partnerships between their [..] Read the original article: here.

Not in favour now of common entrance exam: Apex court told

NEW DELHI – The union health ministry Friday told the Supreme Court that “at this stage” it was not in favour of integrated entrance examination for medical and engineering streams.

The Directorate General of Health Service (DGHS) told the apex court that “it is constrained to submit that it does not support the Central Board … Read more : Not in favour now of common entrance exam: Apex court told.

Australian High Commission brings social change for slum kids

NEW DELHI – As many as 170 children from various slums in the city gathered here Friday to celebrate their joining of colleges after the Australian High Commission funded their school education and brought a social change in their lives.

Working in partnership with ‘Asha’, an NGO involved with these slum children, the Australian High … Read more »».

Punjab accepts agitating teachers’ demands

CHANDIGARH – Bowing to the pressure from agitating teahers who train elementary teachers in the state, the Punjab government Friday announced major concessions for them.

“The state government today (Friday) decided in principle to set up a separate directorate for elementary teachers training (ETT) teachers of zila parishads (district councils) working under the …. Source : Punjab accepts agitating teachers’ demands.

Many Delhi school kids drop out for work, marriage (Nov 14 is Children’s Day in India)

NEW DELHI – The right to education act might have made education compulsory for children in the 6-14 age group, but very few government schools in Delhi seem to be aware of this as they have been allowing students to drop out on grounds like work, marriage, long absences and non-payment of fees.

This was …. Source : Gaea News Network.

LSR students cheer release of alumni Suu Kyi

NEW DELHI – From calling it a landmark moment to one that will strengthen democracy in Myanmar, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi has been hailed by students of Delhi’s Lady Shri Ram College, the alma mater of the Nobel laureate.

The pro-democracy leader was Saturday released from house arrest to the cheers … Read more >>>.

US law school rents library for lingerie ad shoot

NEW YORK – A law school in the US has been facing criticism after its students found pictures of semi-naked male and female models in a clothing firm’s advertisements which were shot in the school’s library.

The Brooklyn Law School events director never told administrators about the racy photo shoot by Italian garment maker Diesel …. Original source : US law school rents library for lingerie ad shoot.

B-Schools syllabi must correspond to Indian challenges: Minister

KOLKATA – Management schools in India should improvise their syllabi to respond to the managerial challenges faced by the Indian companies, Minister of State for Human Resource Development D. Purandeswari said here Sunday.

“It is believed that management schools in India teach theories and practices that are relevant in the developed economies of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : B-Schools syllabi must correspond to Indian challenges: Minister.

Give one percent of earnings for education: Badal to Sikhs

CHANDIGARH – Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal Sunday urged established Sikhs all across the world to contribute one per cent of their earnings to provide free quality education to poor children in the state.

“We have called upon the Sikh intellectuals, representatives of social and religious organisations to jointly chalk out an action plan …. Read the original article : Give one percent of earnings for education: Badal to Sikhs.

IGNOU felicitates 41 South Asian students

NEW DELHI – Dressed in crisp school uniforms, as also traditional attire, winners of the IGNOU-UNESCO Science Olympiad had a gala of a time Sunday at their felicitation ceremony at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) campus here.

The Olympiad was held in August at 102 centres in South Asian Association for Regional … Original source on Gaea Times at : IGNOU felicitates 41 South Asian students.

Land acquisition for Vedanta University quashed

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa High Court Tuesday quashed the process of land acquisition for Vedanta University in Puri and directed the government to return the acquired land to its owners, a lawyer said.

The division bench of Chief Justice V. Gopal Gouda and Justice B.P. Das delivered their verdict in response to eight petitions, said … Read more »»».

IIMs want more girls, non-engineering students

KOLKATA – The Indian Institutes of Management are now looking to rope in more girl students and those with non-engineering background to get a more diversified variety on their rolls.

Directors of five IIMs from across the country Monday held a conference and felt the need to change the quantitative bias in the Common Admission …. Source article : IIMs want more girls, non-engineering students.

O’Brien, Bond cast spell at inter-school quiz

NEW DELHI – Derek O’Brien was back at his enthusiastic self amidst an enthralled audience as he fired questions at young contestants at the annual Puffin Quiz for school students in the capital Monday.

The ace quiz-master was accompanied by renowned author Ruskin Bond at the inter-school event where nearly 90 schools from the national …. Source article : O’Brien, Bond cast spell at inter-school quiz.

Chinese overtake Indians as largest student group in US

WASHINGTON – The Chinese with an over 18 percent student population have overtaken Indians as the largest group of foreigners pursuing higher education in the United States, according to a new report published Monday.

The number of international students at colleges and universities in the US increased by three per cent to a record 690,923 …. Source article : Chinese overtake Indians as largest student group in US.

We want to go to the moon, schoolkids tell Kalam

BHOPAL – Students of a city-based school had a field day Monday interacting with former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who too received a pleasant surprise when the children told him that they wanted to be astronauts.

Kalam addressed students at the Model Senior Secondary School here, and asked them about their career choices.
Most of … Read : We want to go to the moon, schoolkids tell Kalam.

Sufi university to be set up in Pakistan

KARACHI – A committee has been formed to set up the proposed Sufi university, a Pakistani official said.

The Sindh government Tuesday constituted the panel to suggest the line of action for the university to spread the message of poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, the News International reported Wednesday.
The Sindh government has been asked [..] Read the original article: here.

India-US education ties set for major expansion

WASHINGTON – India-US cooperation in the field of education is poised for major expansion with India engaged in massive expansion of the education infrastructure, said Indian ambassador Meera Shankar.

“India sees education as critical for achieving its goals to have inclusive growth and to realise the potential for taking the Indian economy to a higher …. Original article : India-US education ties set for major expansion.

African students throng Punjab’s private varsity

JALANDHAR – A private university here has seen a surge in the number of foreign pupils, especially from African countries like Nigeria, Tanzania and Congo who make up nearly one-fifth of its international students.

Currently, over 250 students from nearly 16 countries are studying at Lovely Professional University (LPU) – the region’s … Read : African students throng Punjab’s private varsity.

Sibal asks open school to provide vocational training

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal Tuesday urged the National Institute of Open Schooling to look at providing vocational training to students.

Chairing the 19th general body meeting of the NIOS Society here, he asked NIOS to look at starting a vocational degree in addition to their normal class XII degree. …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Sibal asks open school to provide vocational training.

IIM-Rohtak gets new director

ROHTAK – P. Rameshan, from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, Tuesday took over as director of the newly established IIM-Rohtak in Haryana.

A Ph.D. in Economics from IIT, Kharagpur, Rameshan was coordinating the activities of the Centre for Strategic WTO (World Trade Organisation) Research at IIM-Kozhikode. He had earlier served at IIM-Lucknow.
Interacting …. Original article on Gaea Times at : IIM-Rohtak gets new director.

Common exit exam for medical graduates soon

NEW DELHI – Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Tuesday said the central government is contemplating holding a common exit exam for medical graduates based upon the recommendations of the Medical Council of India.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Azad said the ‘common exit exam’ has been suggested by the task force constituted …. Read the original article : Common exit exam for medical graduates soon.

Mukherjee to lay foundation stone of Aligarh varsity centre

ALIGARH – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee will lay the foundation stone of the Aligarh Muslim University’s first outstation centre at Murshidabad in West Bengal Nov 20, an official statement said.

The AMU centre at Murshidabad, 182 km from the Kolkata, will be spread over 300 acres.
The proposed centre will focus on minority education, …. Source : Gaea News Network.

IGNOU launches programme in watershed development

NEW DELHI – A new programme on watershed management has been launched by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), an official said Tuesday.

The one-year diploma programme will commence Jan 1, 2011.
The objectives of the programme are to develop human resource in watershed development and management, introducing the principles of watershed management approach …. Source article : IGNOU launches programme in watershed development.

24 Gujarat law students assist Supreme Court judges

GANDHINAGAR – Twentyfour students of the Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) here are attached to Supreme Court judges as part of their internship, the university said here Wednesday.

“It is a matter of great pride and prestige for us that 24 students of GNLU are being trained while assisting the judges of the Supreme Court. … Read more : 24 Gujarat law students assist Supreme Court judges.

Air Force and Navy now in IGNOU’s community college scheme ambit

NEW DELHI – The community college scheme of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), which aims to empower individuals by providing educational certification, is being extended to the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy, a statement by the varsity said Wednesday.

According to the statement, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will soon be …. Original source : Air Force and Navy now in IGNOU’s community college scheme ambit.

Online students as good as classroom peers in studies

WASHINGTON – Online students perform as well as their regular classroom counterparts, says a new study.

A University of Nebraska study in US gauged students’ perception and performance in three undergraduate science courses having both online and classroom versions.
It found that online students did not feel a sense of cohesion, community spirit, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Online students as good as classroom peers in studies.

Sex query baffles candidates at civil service exam in China

BEIJING – Candidates taking the public service exam in a Chinese province were stumped by one question: “Are you satisfied with your sex life?”

Many said they couldn’t understand the purpose of the personal question and wondered why they had to answer it, People’s Daily reported Friday.
“What is the relationship between my sex [..] Read the original article: here.

Sex in New Zealand b-school syllabus for ‘ignorant’ Asians

AUCKLAND – Sex education will be part of the curriculum of a New Zealand business school because managers say many of its students from Asia are “sexually ignorant”.

From next year, the 450 students at Auckland’s Concordia Institute of Business will be required to attend sex education classes to help them “cope with the new-found …. Original article : Sex in New Zealand b-school syllabus for ‘ignorant’ Asians.

Kendriya Vidyalaya, US foundation sign accord

NEW DELHI – A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) and the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) to reinforce their relationship, a press release said Thursday.

This MOU was a part of the ongoing International Education Week (IEW) celebrations across India.
“USIEF executive director Adam J. Grotsky and KVS …. Read the original article : Kendriya Vidyalaya, US foundation sign accord.

First management aptitude test to be held Feb 20

CHANDIGARH – The All India Management Association (AIMA), the apex body for the management sector, has launched a Management Aptitude and Skills Test (MAST) to evaluate management students across the country, a senior AIMA official said here Saturday. The first test will be held Feb 20, 2011.

Punjab Technical University (PTU) vice chancellor Rajneesh Arora …. Original article on Gaea Times at : First management aptitude test to be held Feb 20.

From selling candles to helping students fulfil foreign dreams (Feature with images)

CHANDIGARH – From selling candles and fabric to teaching computers and from establishing an overseas student recruitment business to a software outsourcing company, Naresh Gulati has covered an enviable journey to entrepreneurial success.

With a clear dream of becoming an entrepreneur right from childhood, Gulati started his venture in candle retailing with just Rs.5,000. …. Read the original article : here.

Oxford students say they are worst behaved in Britain

LONDON – It seems like a long, long time when students at Britain’s top university bragged about their brains. Now, undergraduates at Oxford claim they are the “worst behaved” in Britain.

One in three among the university students said they got so “out of their heads” on beer and wine that they urinate or vomit … Read more : Oxford students say they are worst behaved in Britain.

Chhattisgarh tightlipped over security forces vacating schools

RAIPUR – A day after the apex court asked the state government to remove security forces from schools, Chhattisgarh Friday chose to remain tightlipped about when it will begin the process.

“It’s a very complex issue and I can’t comment on it… vacating these schools needs a lot of thought,” a senior official …. Read the original article : Chhattisgarh tightlipped over security forces vacating schools.

Government considering common entrance for central varsities

NEW DELHI – A common entrance test for central universities is on the cards of the government as vice chancellors of these varsities agree that modification is needed in the present system.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Human Resource Development D. Purandeswari Friday said there was a …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Dikshit stresses moral education in city schools

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Friday stressed the role of moral education in schools, and noted that society needs “honest and upright” citizens to take the country to greater heights.

Speaking after presenting the Indira Awards 2010 on the birth anniversary of late prime minister Indira Gandhi to best schools, teachers and …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Dikshit stresses moral education in city schools.

Helping slum children dream big – and go to college

NEW DELHI – Only 30 percent of Delhi’s slum children make it to school beyond the age of 14. But defying the statistics and the odds, a clutch of bright-eyed youngsters is now studying humanities and even engineering in well known colleges – with a little help from an NGO.

Eighteen-year-old Babita looks frail, but … Read : Helping slum children dream big – and go to college.

Super 30 founder to meet ‘Titanic’ director James Cameron

PATNA – Anand Kumar, who founded Bihar’s free coaching centre Super 30 and helped many students enter the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), will share his experience with Hollywood producer and director James Cameron next month.

“I will share the platform with James Cameron during the INK Conference next month,” Anand Kumar told IANS … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Super 30 founder to meet ‘Titanic’ director James Cameron.

British teachers can now frisk students

LONDON – Britain will lay out new rules soon which would allow school teachers to frisk pupils for mobile phones, electronic gadgets and even pornography and cigarettes in a bid to prevent disruption in classrooms.

An education White Paper to be published next week will outline the new rights for teachers to be able to …. Original article on Gaea Times at : British teachers can now frisk students.

Jamia to confer Doctor of Letters degree to Dalai Lama

NEW DELHI – Jamia Millia Islamia will confer an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) degree to Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Tuesday.

The University will confer the Degree of Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) on His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama of Tibet, a statement by the university said Monday.
Human Resource … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jamia to confer Doctor of Letters degree to Dalai Lama.

British kids learn how to hack off thieves’ hands

LONDON – Children as young as six in Britain are being taught brutal Sharia law punishments, including how to hack off a criminal’s hand or foot, a media report said Monday.

The pupils in the so-called “weekend schools” for Muslim children were asked to list the “reprehensible” qualities of Jews, Daily Mail reported, citing a [..] Read the original article: here.

India can help transform Africa through education: AU official

NEW DELHI – India is poised to set up a string of higher education and training institutions in Africa – in areas ranging from diamond polishing to foreign trade – that differentiate its development-centric approach from that of China, says Jean-Pierre Ezin, a top African Union (AU) official.

“The AU looks to India … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India can help transform Africa through education: AU official.

At 64, ex-IAF man goes back to college

ROBERTSGANJ – He is a retired Indian Air Force (IAF) serviceman with two grown-up sons who are well settled. Yet, Meerut native Jaigopal Tiwari has gone back to college at the ripe old age of 64 – thanks to his passion for learning and for helping spread awareness of basic laws among poor people.

Tiwari …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Online entrance test planned for budding engineers

NEW DELHI – The All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE) will be conducted online on a limited scale next year for admission to technology institutes and deemed universities, the Central Board of Secondary Education said Monday.

The exam conducted by the CBSE will have the option for around one lakh candidates to appear in the … Original article on : Online entrance test planned for budding engineers.

Check school drop-out rate: Gurcharan Das

NEW DELHI – Author Gurcharan Das Monday said that the high drop-out rate in government schools needed to be addressed on a priority.

“Our record in primary education is dismal. The drop-out rate in government schools is very high at 90-94 percent,” he said at Indira Gandhi National Open University’s 12th and final silver …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Jamia students shouldn’t fall into communal trap: Najeeb Jung

NEW DELHI – Calling for caution after anonymous letters with communal overtones were distributed on campus, Najeeb Jung, vice chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, says he has taken a serious note of the incident as it had the potential to disturb peace in the entire country.

“If anything happens in Jamia, it may well have …. Read the original article : here.

Release nursery admission guidelines, Delhi government told

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) Monday issued a notice to the Delhi government to release guidelines for nursery admissions without any further delay. It added that as per the Right to Education Act, neighbourhood should be the sole criterion to admit children.

A DCPCR official said: “Taking suo …. Read the original article : here.

Dalai Lama honoured with doctorate at Jamia (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of six millions Tibetans and a global icon of peace and inter-faith harmony, was Tuesday conferred an honorary doctorate by Delhi’s Jamia Millia Islamia, a government-funded central university with a 90-year-old rich history. The Jamia is the first Indian university to confer an honorary degree on … Read : Dalai Lama honoured with doctorate at Jamia (Second Lead).

Dalai Lama honoured with doctorate at Jamia

The university vice …. Read the original article : here.

60 teams take part in IGNOU school quiz contest

KOCHI – Sixty teams from across the city took part in the multi-city inter school quiz organised by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Tuesday.

IGNOU vice-chancellor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai said the university was promoting school education in its silver jubilee year, with outreach events like a science olympiad and special awards.
The IGNOU … Original source on Gaea Times at : 60 teams take part in IGNOU school quiz contest.

60 South Asian students to take part in cultural fiesta

BANGALORE – About 60 students from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal will contest in the finals of the ‘Horlicks Wizkids South Asia 2010, an inter-school literary and cultural festival, beginning Thursday on the outskirts of Bangalore.

Organised by EduMedia India Ltd in association with GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, the maker of health food drink Horlicks, … Read more : 60 South Asian students to take part in cultural fiesta.

Expelled La Martiniere student yet to be re-admitted

KOLKATA – A Class 4 student expelled from the La Martiniere for Boys school for not complying with his teacher’s demand for a laptop is yet to be taken back into the school, despite the Calcutta High Court’s order.

The court gave the order Oct 4 that my son Srijan (Banerjee) be taken back into … Original article on : Expelled La Martiniere student yet to be re-admitted.

Dalai Lama conferred doctorate by Jamia

NEW DELHI – The Dalai Lama was Tuesday conferred an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Lit) degree by Delhi’s Jamia Millia Islamia university and the Tibetan spiritual leader said he was “highly honoured”.

The university vice chancellor, Najeeb Jung awarded the degree to the Dalai Lama in the presence of Human Resources Development Minister Kapil …. Source : Dalai Lama conferred doctorate by Jamia.

India’s future lies in primary education for all: Lapierre

BHANGAR – Famed French author Dominique Lapierre says the future of India lies not in improving facilities in the metro cities but in developing regions like the Sundarbans by ensuring primary education for all as a first step.

“The shining India can become a reality by developing these parts and not only going on developing … Read more »».

University employees to hold rally in Delhi

BHUBANESWAR – Thousands of employees from about 200 universities across the country will gather at New Delhi Dec 1 to press the government for hike in educational funds, a leader of the employees organisation said here Tuesday.

The employees will gather in a rally at the Ramlila Ground and march to the Parliament Street where … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : University employees to hold rally in Delhi.

IGNOU launches programmes in agriculture

NEW DELHI – The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Tuesday launched diploma and certificate programmes in agriculture and allied sectors, an official said.

“Diploma programme is of a year’s duration, while certificate courses would be of six months. The university is offering 50 percent fee concession for students from rural areas and those below …. Source article on Gaea Times at : IGNOU launches programmes in agriculture.

Turin official asks school board to ban burqa-wearing mothers

Rome, Nov 25 (IANS/AKI) A government official in industrial northern Italian city of Turin has asked the local school board to stop fully-veiled women from picking up their children at school because it makes it difficult to identify them as the students’ true parents.

The request by Maurizio Marrone – a member of Prime Minister …. Source article : Turin official asks school board to ban burqa-wearing mothers.

MCD unsure about recognition of 35 primary schools

NEW DELHI – The fate of 35 primary schools in the national capital is hanging in balance as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is not sure if they fulfil the criteria for acquiring recognition.

“There are about 35 primary schools in Delhi which are functioning within an area of 200 sq metre each and … Read more »»».

Cambridge University newspaper runs topless photo of pupil

LONDON – The Cambridge University’s newspaper has published for the first time in 63 years the picture of one of its female students posing topless to promote a fashion brand of a fellow student.

In a photoshoot the King’s College undergraduate, Charlotte, appears wearing nothing but a strategically placed woolly scarf.
Another picture shows …. Original article : Cambridge University newspaper runs topless photo of pupil.

Scuffles at large British student protest in London

LONDON – Thousands of students took to the streets in London Wednesday to protest against government plans to raise tuition fees as police were out in force to prevent a repeat of violent clashes two weeks ago.

The students, from all over Britain, gathered at London’s central Trafalgar Square for a march that took them … Read more : Scuffles at large British student protest in London.

Kurukshetra varsity issues notices to eight colleges

CHANDIGARH – Haryana’s Kurukshetra University Wednesday slapped notices on eight affiliated self-financed colleges for their inadequate infrastructure, an official said.

Vice chancellor D.D.S. Sandhu said these colleges were issued temporary affiliations, but the university’s inspection team found deficiencies in the faculty and student facilities in these colleges, which offered B.Tech, M.Tech, M.Sc. courses, besides …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Kurukshetra varsity issues notices to eight colleges.

Indian institutions ink pact with Spanish varsities

NEW DELHI – Six Indian educational institutions have signed an agreement with Spanish universities for internationalisation of higher education.

“Indian and Spanish institutions have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on internationalisation of higher education and develop programs that benefit student and faculty exchange between the two countries, Alliance 4 Universities (A-4U), a grouping … Read more >>.

IGNOU offers management course in corporate governance

NEW DELHI – The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Wednesday announced it was starting a management course in corporate governance. The first session will begin in January next year, a statement said.

“The programme will develop professionals with in-depth knowledge of management principles, governance processes and other important aspects of corporate governance. It will … Read more »».

School admission procedure should be rational, transparent

NEW DELHI – The human resource development (HRD) ministry Thursday said the admission procedure under the right to education (RTE) act should be “non-discriminatory, rational and transparent”.

“With regard to admissions in class 1 (or pre-primary class as the case may be) under section 12(1) of the RTE Act in unaided and ’specified category’ schools, …. Read the original article : School admission procedure should be rational, transparent.

Delhi schools asked to furnish admission process details

NEW DELHI – In order to monitor the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) has issued a circular to all schools in the city to furnish details of admissions in the academic session next year.

The circular, an official of DCPCR said …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Delhi schools asked to furnish admission process details.

Horlicks Wizkids’ contest winners to visit New Zealand

BANGALORE – Four school students, including three from India and one from Sri Lanka, were declared winners of the ‘Horlicks Wizkids South Asia 2010′ inter-school literary and cultural festival Thursday. They will visit New Zealand on an international exchange programme.

About 60 students from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal participated in the final contest, … Original article on : Horlicks Wizkids’ contest winners to visit New Zealand.

No Panjab University hostel for freshers using cars

CHANDIGARH – Freshers wanting hostel room in the Panjab University here will have to give up the comfort of their cars. Pitching in for eco-friendly bicycles, the university administration has decided new students with cars will not be given accommodation on the sprawling campus.

Panjab University (PU) Vice-Chancellor R.C. Sobti said here Thursday that the …. Source article : No Panjab University hostel for freshers using cars.

30,000 Indian students have left Australia: Student federation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – A spate of attacks, tough visa norms and denial of permanent residency have caused around 30,000 Indian students, mostly based in Melbourne, to leave Australia in the past year, claims the Federation of Indian Students in Australia (FISA).

The figure is quoted in the latest issue of Indian Student, published from Melbourne, a … Read more >>.

IIT Rajasthan’s New Effort

JODHPUR, RAJASTHAN (GaeaTimes.com)- The IIT Rajasthan has stepped up its endeavor to build three centers of excellence in Jodhpur for energy (solar), medicine & health and education. The reason of setting up these centers is the development of rural regions with low-cost technological innovations and research. In this context information and communication technology will …. Source : IIT Rajasthan’s New Effort.