Category: EDUCATIONAL NEWS

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Dive Brief: 

• New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a bill last week that establishes a $959 million fund to support free college tuition for state residents. 
• The trust fund will be the largest dedicated to higher education by a state, the governor’s office said in a March 8 announcement. Just seven other states, including Tennessee, New Jersey and Alaska, have trust funds for higher education.
• New Mexico’s fund will support two programs: the Lottery Scholarship, which provides free tuition for recent high school graduates, and the Opportunity Scholarship, which covers students who attend New Mexico public colleges later in life. Nearly $48 million will be distributed from the fund in fiscal 2025. 

Dive Insight: 

The new trust fund is just one of several actions that New Mexico lawmakers have taken in recent years to beef up the state’s free college programs. 

The Lottery Scholarship has existed for nearly three decades, and it supports around 10,000 students each year, according to the governor’s office. However, economic hardship led the state in 2016 to reduce the program to only covering an average of 60% of students’ tuition costs. 

In 2021, Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, used federal funding to return that coverage to 100% of tuition costs. The next year, the state launched the Opportunity Scholarship to support students who either didn’t attend college immediately after high school graduation or who left before they completed their credentials. 

Unlike many other free college programs, the Opportunity Scholarship is open to older adults and part-time students. 

Lujan Grisham has credited the Opportunity Scholarship with boosting college enrollment across the state. At the same time, the amount the state spends on college financial aid has increased dramatically over the past few years, jumping from under $90 million in fiscal 2022 to around $210 million in fiscal 2024, according to a recent legislative analysis. 

New Mexico’s general fund revenue has increased in recent years, and the state has taken steps to boost distributions to reserves, according to a recent government release. Its higher education trust will be funded by money from its tax stabilization reserve. 

Before lawmakers approved the new fund, however, they hadn’t allocated enough to the Opportunity Scholarship to fully support it, a separate analysis found. The $146 million appropriation for fiscal 2024 fell about $10.6 million lower than the program’s estimated cost. 

“By creating this fund, New Mexico is keeping our original promise of tuition-free college for residents and cementing our status as the nation’s leader for college equity and access,” Lujan Grisham said in signing the bill on March 5.

PARAMUS, N.J./PRNewswire/ — Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that it has been named to the 2024 edition of the GSV 150, an annual list of the top 150 private companies transforming digital learning and workforce skills. This is the second year in a row that Savvas has been named to the GSV 150.

“At Savvas, we are committed to developing innovative learning solutions that are powered by the most advanced technology to help educators meet the needs of all students,” said Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company. “Savvas is honored to be recognized among the exceptional companies on the GSV 150 who are champions of educational technology — including new AI-enabled systems — to make for a richer, more personalized teaching and learning experience for all.”

GSV is a global community and investment platform singularly focused on elevating the scope and scale of innovation in the $7 trillion education and workforce sector. It estimates that together these 150 companies reach roughly 3 billion people — almost half of the global population — and generate approximately $23 billion in revenue.

Savvas was chosen from more than 2,000+ global companies revolutionizing the world of education technology, from Pre-K-12 to workforce learning. GSV Ventures evaluated these companies on five criteria — revenue scale, revenue growth, active learner reach, international reach, and margin profile — to determine the global GSV 150 list.

With an innovation mindset and a focus on technology to personalize instruction at scale, Savvas empowers educators and engages students with high-quality, interactive PreK-12 learning solutions. It recently acquired Outlier.org and its portfolio of online, asynchronous college-level courses that combine cinematic videos and charismatic professors, enabling high school students to earn dual credit while never having to leave their school building. The acquisition will allow Savvas to offer an immersive, engaging college learning experience to millions of high school students and increase educational equity, access, and opportunity.

In 2023, Savvas acquired Whooo’s Reading and its cutting-edge AI-driven technology, which Savvas is thoughtfully integrating into its digital ecosystem of innovative learning solutions. Savvas believes that AI’s game-changing capabilities have the potential to take personalized learning to new heights while providing teachers time-saving tools to make their jobs easier, enabling them to spend more time interacting with students.

“The world is adapting to seismic shifts from generative AI,” said Luben Pampoulov, partner at GSV Ventures. “AI co-pilots, AI tutors, AI content generators — AI is ubiquitous, and differentiation is increasingly critical. The GSV 150 is an impressive group of edtech companies that are leveraging AI and driving positive outcomes for learners and society.”

Visit GSV 150 for the full list of 2024 winners.

In addition to Savvas being selected for inclusion on the GSV 150 list, Forsa has also been chosen to speak at the ASU+GSV Summit 2024 in San Diego, in panel discussions focusing on the AI Revolution in Digital Education as well as K-12 schools and content.

ABOUT SAVVAS LEARNING COMPANY
At Savvas, we believe learning should inspire. By combining new ideas, new ways of thinking, and new ways of interacting, we design engaging, next-generation K-12 learning solutions that give all students the best opportunity to succeed. Our award-winning, high-quality instructional materials span every grade level and discipline, from evidence-based, standards-aligned core curricula to supplemental and intervention programs to state-of-the art assessment tools — all designed to meet the needs of every learner. Savvas products are used by millions of students and educators in more than 90 percent of the 13,000+ public school districts across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as globally in more than 125 countries. To learn more, visit Savvas Learning Company. Savvas Learning Company’s products are also available for sale in Canada through its subsidiary, Rubicon.

ABOUT ASU+GSV SUMMIT
The ASU+GSV Summit is the premier global event focused on technology innovation in education and skills. We believe that ALL people deserve equal access to the future. Started in 2010 with a collaboration between Arizona State University (ASU) and Global Silicon Valley (GSV), the annual Summit connects leading minds focused on transforming society and business around learning and work. Educators, investors, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs from around the world come together to innovate the future of education for all.

eSchool Media staff cover education technology in all its aspects–from legislation and litigation, to best practices, to lessons learned and new products. First published in March of 1998 as a monthly print and digital newspaper, eSchool Media provides the news and information necessary to help K-20 decision-makers successfully use technology and innovation to transform schools and colleges and achieve their educational goals.

Latest posts by eSchool News Staff (see all)

SheRNI Database
The SheRNI Database Insights reveal a wealth of information. Presently, it features profiles of 81,818 women faculty members, highlighting their substantial impact on the realm of science. Moreover, it boasts an extensive compilation of 675,313 publications and 11,543 patents, emphasising the pivotal role women play in driving scientific progress and fostering innovation.
Direct Link: Official website of SheRNI – INFLIBNET
“SheRNI by UGC-INFLIBNET. She Research Network in India (#SheRNI) is an expert profile network system that connects more than 81000 women researchers & scientists who are active in knowledge generation in diverse disciplines,” posted UGC on X (formerly Twitter).
About SheRNI
She Research Network in India, also known as SheRNI, is like a big online club for women who know a lot about different things. It helps connect these women so they can share what they know and help each other out. The goal is to make sure women have opportunities to work together, learn from each other, and support each other. The main aims of this project are to make a big database of women who are experts in their fields and to make it easy for them to share their knowledge and experiences with each other.

In a rapidly advancing technological era and an ever-evolving business landscape, the pursuit of higher education has become not just a choice but a necessity. Online MBA programs, as offered by IBMSEDU, have emerged as a transformative force, breaking down geographical barriers and redefining how individuals can access quality education. These programs are not merely a means to an end but a personal and professional growth journey, offering many benefits beyond a degree certificate.

One of the most compelling advantages of pursuing an online MBA with IBMSEDU is its flexibility. In a reality where work and personal commitments often demand our attention around the clock, the ability to tailor your education to fit your schedule is invaluable. You can engage in your studies from the comfort of your home, during your lunch breaks, or even while travelling – all while receiving the same high-quality education as traditional on-campus programs.

Furthermore, the online MBA courses at IBMSEDU are not isolated endeavours. They are immersive experiences connecting you with a diverse community of fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals. Networking opportunities abound, allowing you to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and build lasting relationships that can open doors to exciting career prospects.

IBMSEDU’s commitment to staying at the cutting edge of industry trends represents another crucial aspect of its online MBA programs. The curriculum is dynamic; it evolves to reflect the latest business, technology, and management developments. It ensures that graduates are not merely well-versed but also adaptable, ready to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the dynamic global business landscape.

The Rise of MBA Courses

Over the past years, online MBA programs have experienced an unprecedented popularity surge driven by many factors. The need for flexible learning options, the rapid expansion of remote work, and employers’ increasing recognition of online degrees have all contributed to this remarkable growth. The demand for MBA courses is particularly pronounced in bustling metropolises like Bangalore and Pune, where the IT and business sectors thrive.

Online MBA Courses in Bangalore: Your Gateway to Excellence

Bangalore is India’s “Silicon Valley” due to its thriving technology and innovation industry. It is a city that constantly buzzes with opportunities, and as professionals within this dynamic environment seek to advance their careers, MBA online courses have emerged as the preferred choice. At IBMSEDU, we proudly offer a wide spectrum of online MBA courses Bangalore, each carefully crafted to cater to various specializations and career aspirations.

A Vibrant Hub for Online MBA Courses Pune

Pune, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and esteemed educational institutions, represents another thriving epicentre for online MBA programs. IBMSEDU’s online MBA courses in Pune are meticulously designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and acumen necessary to excel in the multifaceted business world. Whether you are a working professional or a recent graduate aspiring to make your mark, our programs are customized to cater to your unique needs.

Online MBA Courses in Nagpur: Nurturing Future Leaders

Nagpur, a city steeped in industrial heritage, is increasingly witnessing a surge in interest in MBA online courses. At IBMSEDU, we offer cutting-edge online MBA programs in Nagpur designed to prepare the next generation of leaders. Our curriculum is dynamic and constantly evolving to align with industry trends, ensuring our graduates are industry leaders.

Nashik: Unleashing Potential with Online MBA Courses

Nashik, with its diverse industrial base and entrepreneurial spirit, presents numerous opportunities for professionals seeking to elevate their careers. IBMSEDU’s online MBA courses in Nashik provide a transformative educational experience, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in today’s highly competitive business landscape.

Exploring Online MBA Degree Courses

Online MBA degree courses represent the epitome of convenience, enabling you to pursue advanced education anywhere, anytime. This flexibility empowers you to balance your professional commitments, personal life, and educational aspirations seamlessly. Our online MBA programs cover various subjects, including finance, marketing, human resources, entrepreneurship, and more. Whether you seek to advance within your current role or transition to an entirely new career path, an online MBA degree opens doors to endless possibilities.

Online MBA Courses in India: A Growing Trend

The burgeoning popularity of MBA online courses extends beyond the confines of specific cities; it is a nationwide phenomenon. As many prestigious universities and institutions embrace online education, students from every corner of India can now access top-quality MBA programs. IBMSEDU is at the forefront of this educational transformation, offering Online MBA Courses in India that meet & exceed the highest standards of quality and relevance.

IBMSEDU’s online courses are designed to cater to a wide range of interests & career aspirations. Whether you’re looking to specialize in finance, marketing, healthcare management, or any other field, we have the right program. Our commitment to excellence extends to the following specializations:

1. Finance:
   1. Financial Analysis: Develop a deep understanding of financial analysis techniques, including financial statement analysis, valuation methods, and risk assessment.
   1. Strategic Planning: Learn to formulate financial strategies that align with overall business goals and drive growth.
   1. Career Opportunities: Gain the skills needed for a successful career in finance, including roles in investment banking, corporate finance, asset management, & financial consulting.

• Marketing:
  • Marketing Strategies: Explore the latest marketing strategies, including digital marketing, market research, branding, and consumer behaviour analysis.
  • Campaign Management: Learn to design and manage effective marketing campaigns that target and engage customers.
  • Career Opportunities: Become a marketing expert ready to take on roles such as marketing manager, brand manager, digital marketing specialist, or market research analyst.

• Healthcare Management:
  • Healthcare Industry Dynamics: Understand the complexities and challenges of the healthcare sector, including healthcare policies, regulations, and emerging trends.
  • Leadership Skills: Develop leadership skills specific to healthcare management, including finance, quality management, and healthcare operations.
  • Career Opportunities: Prepare for leadership roles in healthcare institutions, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare consulting firms, and health insurance companies.

• Information Technology:
  • Business-IT Integration: Learn how to align IT strategies with organizational objectives, ensuring technology initiatives support business goals.
  • Technology Trends: Stay updated on the latest technology trends, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
  • Career Opportunities: Prepare for leadership roles in technology management, IT consulting, project management, and technology entrepreneurship.

• Human Resources:
  • Talent Management: Develop skills in recruiting, training, and retaining a talented workforce.
  • Organizational Development: Implement HR strategies that promote corporate growth and employee engagement.
  • Career Opportunities: Prepare for HR leadership roles such as HR manager, talent acquisition manager, organizational development specialist, or HR director.

Why IBMSEDU for Your Online MBA Journey?

Selecting the right institution is a pivotal decision when embarking on your online MBA journey, and IBMSEDU stands as a beacon of excellence for several compelling reasons:

1. Diverse Specializations: Our extensive range of MBA courses encompasses various specializations, ensuring you can tailor your education to align perfectly with your career goals.

• Experienced Faculty: At IBMSEDU, our faculty members are accomplished industry experts who blend real-world insights with academic rigour, providing a practical and relevant education.

• Flexibility: We understand that your daily schedule is demanding, so our online MBA programs are meticulously designed to accommodate your existing commitments while delivering a world-class education.

• Robust Alumni Network: Throughout your online MBA journey, you’ll have opportunities to network with fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals, expanding your professional network and potential career opportunities.

• Industry-Centric Curriculum: Our curriculum is a living entity, consistently refreshed and updated to remain at the forefront of industry trends; this ensures you acquire the most current, relevant skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today’s complex business landscape.

• Global Perspective: An MBA from IBMSEDU isn’t just about local knowledge; it offers a global perspective, allowing you to understand and adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the worldwide business environment.

• Career Advancement: Whether you aim to climb the corporate ladder, start your own business, or enter a new industry, an MBA can provide the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed to advance your career.

• Personal Growth: Pursuing an online MBA is not just about professional development but also personal growth. It challenges you, broadens your horizons and instils leadership, adaptability, and critical thinking.

• Brighter Future: By enrolling in IBMSEDU’s online MBA program, you take the first step toward a brighter, more promising future. You’re investing in yourself and your potential for success.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Journey to Success

In conclusion, online MBA courses are the gateway to realizing your career aspirations, whether located in Bangalore, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, or anywhere else in India. IBMSEDU offers an expansive selection of online MBA degree courses that can equip you with the expertise and qualifications needed to excel professionally. In today’s competitive job market, obtaining an MBA can offer a significant advantage. It can unlock doors to new opportunities, higher earning potential, and the chance to make a real impact in your chosen field. Therefore, do not miss the opportunity to enhance your career prospects with a top-tier education from IBMSEDU. Start your first step towards a brighter and more promising future today!

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BajajCapital, one of India’s leading wealth management organizations offering need-based financial solutions to its clients, recently launched URJA, a holistic mind-body experience, in collaboration with UF Academy and Studios. URJA aims to revolutionize education by tapping into the latent potential of teachers and students through dynamic meditation practices. Driven by the transformational energy force, it combines ancient wisdom with modern methodologies to promote holistic development and growth in schools and communities.

The essence of URJA lies in its dedication to fostering happiness and vitality within the education community. Delve into an unparalleled rejuvenation, an experience that unfolds during the session. This exceptional programme opens up a realm of wellbeing for mind and body, leaving educators and students invigorated. Since its inception in March 2023, the URJA movement has grown rapidly, reaching out to countless schools and teachers in just a few months.

URJA, a ground-breaking initiative by UF Academy and Studios, extends beyond traditional programmes and ushers in a new era, shaping the future by enabling students to reach their full potential. With qualified coaches and creative methodologies, it integrates easily into schools nationwide, providing the groundwork for holistic and revolutionary teaching at the grassroots level. URJA for instructors began on August 12, 2023, and offers UFT L1 certification. Currently, 55 teachers are certified, paving the way for a more dynamic and effective learning environment. This unique programme opens up a world of wellness for the mind and body, revitalizing students.

Ravish Dhamija, Founder & Chairman of UF Academy & Studios, commented on the initiative:

Teachers face significant challenges, enduring long hours and navigating emotional stress. URJA by UF transcends traditional programmes- a movement empowering educators and students. URJA cultivates a calm and holistic energy experience using ancient wisdom with contemporary approaches. Validated by the UF Index, our impact is measured, fostering a culture of holistic wellness. Collaborating with Bajaj Capital, we’re elevating the quality of life in our communities, fostering abundance, and shaping a brighter tomorrow.

URJA’s impact expands beyond the classroom. The UF Index, a science-based assessment of energy and wellbeing, has emerged as a tool for improving community conversation and cultivating a culture of holistic wellness. It is more than a programme; it is a movement that enhances lives, promotes prosperity, and paves the path for a better future.

Rajiv Bajaj, Chairman & MD of BajajCapital, stated:

Bajaj Capital has always been driven by the purpose of Total wellbeing. URJA, in collaboration with UF Academy, is an extension of that commitment. It goes beyond conventional initiatives, pioneering a new era in transformative education. With certified coaches and innovative techniques, URJA seamlessly integrates into schools nationwide, laying the foundation for holistic learning at the grassroots level.

Established in 2014, UF Academy & Studios is at the forefront of rejuvenating communities through holistic wellness programmes led by a precise evaluation of the UF Index. World-class certified coaches combine old knowledge with current neuropsychology, instilling calm energy in specific fields such as law enforcement, education, and aviation. The programs are integrated into schools and police academies, equipping teams for agility and long-term impact.

CBSE Class 10 Mathematics (Standard) and Mathematics (Basic) papers held on March 11 were easy to moderate in terms of difficulty, as per teachers who analysed the papers after the examination. Most of them said it followed the pattern shared by the board in the sample papers.

Kiran Sharma TGT- Mathematics, Manav Rachna International School Sector-51 Mayfield Garden, Gurugram said that the paper was easy to comprehend and aligned well with the sample papers. Most of the students rated it as easy to moderate.

“The multiple-choice questions (MCQs) were notably straightforward and would likely result in high scores for students. The questions in Sections B, C, and D were easily practicable with a strong grasp of the NCERT material. However, providing detailed solutions would have been time-consuming,” Sharma said.

Also read: ICSE Chemistry exams 2024: Critical thinking, application-based questions but overall easy, say students after exams

As anticipated, the Basic Math paper was considerably simpler compared to the Standard paper, the teacher said.

Benasir PA, TGT Mathematics, JAIN International Residential School Bengaluru said the paper was well-designed to accommodate students with varying levels of proficiency.

“The overall difficulty of the question paper was moderate, offering a fair evaluation for all students. This allowed above-average students to showcase their skills while remaining accessible to those with a solid grasp of the concepts.”

Also read: SSC GD 2024 Answer Key: Direct link to check it when released

“It’s commendable that the paper-maintained consistency within question sets, ensuring fairness and preventing discrepancies in difficulty levels. However, Set 3 questions were slightly more challenging compared to Sets 1 and 2. Care should be taken to ensure that any increase in difficulty is reasonable and doesn’t unfairly disadvantage students,” the teacher said.

According to her, the distribution of weightage between textbook-based questions and multiple-choice questions (MCQs) were uneven in the Baisc Math paper.

“While it’s important to include textbook-aligned questions to assess understanding, MCQs should be designed with basic-level students in mind, ensuring clarity and accessibility,” she pointed out.

According to Ajay Pal Singh, Principal of Bhai Parmanand Vidya Mandir, the paper was moderate.

Also read: Bihar Board 10th Answer Key 2024: BSEB Matric exam answer keys released

“In the context of section-wise analysis, Section A presented an easy level. Section B was comparatively simpler, whereas Sections C and D posed an above-average challenge, demanding careful reading of the questions. Despite being sourced from NCERT, the questions proved to be of a challenging difficulty level. Section E attained a moderate difficulty level. The exam’s design, aimed at assessing students’ competency, was challenging. Overall, it encompassed various types and topics of Mathematics,” Singh said.

In Lucknow, students of GD Goenka School said the papers were NCERT-based.

As per Vyom and Varun, the paper was a bit difficult and tricky.

Vigyata, Ali, Arya, Neil and Darsh said they are expecting good marks as due to their excellent preparation, their paper went off really well.

Other students like Tahaam, Bharat, Soham stated that the paper was of moderate difficulty and tricky.

Anjani Rai, Coordinator, VidyaGyan School, Bulandshahr said the Standard Mathematics question paper was moderate and encompassed all the necessary skills outlined in the syllabus.

He said, “Questions were based on the NCERT textbooks, ensuring familiarity for students. Notably, there were no unexpected or unfamiliar questions that could unsettle examinees. Most questions followed a clear format, allowing students who had diligently practiced from NCERT and similar resources to attempt and answer them confidently,”

Rai further highlighted, “Students encountered difficulty with a case study question from the Real Number chapter, describing it as tricky. Compared to the previous year’s paper, this one was considered a little difficult, with focus on conceptual understanding rather than numeracy skills.

“In one case study question from areas related to circle some misprint in numbers were observed. The geometry questions were directly sourced from the NCERT book. It is expected that sincere students would have completed the paper well within the allotted time,” Rai added.

In Ludhiana too, students rated the exam to be easy to moderate. Manthan, a BCM student, who took the Standard Maths exam, claimed the exam to be “very easy.” He expected 75-80 marks in the 80 marks paper.

Satvik, a Basic Maths student from the same school, claimed his paper to be only moderately easy.

Manisha Malhotra, Director Principal of Satya School, said it was encouraging that most of the questions in the CBSE Mathematics paper were from the NCERT book, aligning well with what students have been taught throughout the year. She said, “While few students found the paper lengthy, it’s commendable that they were able to complete it within the allotted time. This suggests that students were well-prepared and managed their time effectively during the exam. Our students are confident about their performance and anticipate that most of them will score 90 percent and above.”

The CBSE matric exams began on 15 February and will end on 13 March. There are over 80 subjects in total.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore is all set to announce the results of the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) on March 16, 2024. Candidates who appeared in the examinations can check their results on the official website at gate2024.iisc.ac.in. Candidates can check their results on the Online Application Processing System (GOAPS) portal of GATE 2024.