Category education

Bangalore, 15th December 2023 To spread the message of joy and happiness in the Christmas season, IB students and teachers from Greenwood High, Bannerghatta, visited the Sakalavara Government School recently. The purpose of the visit was to spread cheer by distributing gifts and essentials as well as to share the spirit of Christmas with the students of the local government school. The initiative aimed to bring smiles to the faces of the children and contribute positively to the school community during this special time of the year.

A variety of essential items including hygiene kits, and non-perishable food items were provided to support the school and its students beyond the holiday season. A lively and pleasurable atmosphere was created by the students’ performance of a tableau, their singing of Christmas carols, and their engagement in games such as Football, Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Fire on the Mountain, Hop Scotch and dancing. The students’ sense of happiness and camaraderie was enhanced by this interaction.

Ms. Niru Agarwal, Trustee, Greenwood High International School, Bangalore, said: “Every year, we celebrate Christmas and the ‘Joy of Giving’ and this year too we celebrated the occasion. This initiative highlighted the importance of community engagement and also served as a reminder of the positive impact that small acts of kindness have on the lives of others, particularly during festive seasons. Our students as well as students of the government school were enthralled by the celebrations that witnessed many activities.”

It is important to integrate different sections of society and give the under-privileged space in the mainstream so that such students get to enjoy things that the better half of society enjoy. The ‘Joy of Giving’ is meant to fulfil the goal of an equal society.

Bhopal, 15 December, 23: Rabindranath Tagore University (RNTU) proudly announces its remarkable success at the 37th National Games held in Goa, where the university’s students showcased exceptional athletic prowess, securing an impressive total of 10 medals. This triumph not only reflects the individual excellence of RNTU athletes but also underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to nurturing champions.

Students representing Madhya Pradesh from Rabindranath Tagore University won 10 medals in six different and unique sports categories at the National Games. With a total of two Golds in Yachting by Shital Sendhav and Neha Thakur, one Gold in Judo by Himanshi Tokas, two Silvers in fencing by Shankar Pandey and Mohit Shrivas, one Silver in boxing by Malika More, two Bronze in rowing by Manisha Dangi and Jyoti Thakur, one Bronze in Taekwondo by Madhu Singh and one Bronze in Judo by Monika, the champions came back home in all their glory.

This achievement stands as a testament to the relentless dedication, hard work, and innate talent within the university. RNTU’s holistic approach to education extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness, sportsmanship, and overall well-being. The success at the National Games marks a proud chapter for RNTU, showcasing the institution’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in all endeavors.

Dr. Vijay Singh, Registrar at Rabindranath Tagore University, expressed immense pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “The success at the 37th National Games signifies the exceptional talent and dedication of our students. RNTU is not just an academic institution; it is a community that values holistic development. We congratulate our athletes on their outstanding performance, which reflects the spirit of excellence we strive to instil in every aspect of university life.”

The Rabindranath Tagore University, established by the AISECT Group, is India’s first skill-based private university that seeks to impart quality education by focusing on developing the soft skills of its students as well as including a mandatory skill development course in every semester across all its formal degree programs. The university extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes and coaches for this resounding success. As Rabindranath Tagore University continues to foster a culture of excellence, this achievement reinforces its commitment to producing well-rounded individuals who excel not only in academia but also in every spectrum of life.

BANGALORE – 14th December 2023- New Relic, the all-in-one observability platform for every engineer, announced findings from its State of Ecommerce in India report. The independent survey of more than 2,000 Indian online shoppers reveals that 60% of respondents said they would leave an app mid-engagement if they experienced buffering for longer than 10 seconds, and 20% said that they wouldn’t tolerate more than five seconds of buffering before they abandoned or switched apps. Apps freezing or crashing, as well as misleading app descriptions, were also primary concerns.

“As attention spans continue to drop and app marketplaces become more crowded, buffering is a key consumer concern that must be addressed by ecommerce providers seeking to gain market share,” said New Relic Vice President Sales for India Prasad Rai. “Observability solves these challenges by providing insights into why particular systems are experiencing lag and pinpoints issues before they impact the digital customer experience. Observability is a game changer for engineering teams because it allows them to proactively analyse and optimise their systems based on logs, metrics, and traces to provide a real-time view of collated data.”

Key findings from the State of Ecommerce in India report include:

Multiple notifications lead to churn:

• Consumers faced various challenges with mobile apps, such as multiple notifications (41%), slow buffering/loading times (38%), and draining batteries (34%). Multiple notifications were particularly bothersome for Android users (41%) compared to iOS users (34%).

• Although 72% of survey respondents said they most often use mobile apps for online purchases, 59% used less than three mobile apps for their daily online shopping. This finding indicates that while consumers download and actively use shopping apps, they are selective about which apps they use.

Speedy apps and delivery times lead to greater customer satisfaction:

• A slow loading time was one of the biggest reasons for consumers to stop using an app mid-engagement (34%), or even delete it (25%), indicating that addressing delays and buffering is critical for technology teams. It becomes even more problematic during online sales such as Black Friday, with outages having the potential to impact reputation and revenue.

• Survey respondents expressed the importance of a speedy user experience, both in terms of app responsiveness and product delivery time. Nearly half (46%) of respondents noted that a key reason to download a shopping app was its ability to offer a better or faster user experience compared to the website equivalent.

• Consumers also expected product delivery times to be swift, which was reflected in their uptake of 15-minute delivery services. More than half (55%) said they use instant online grocery delivery apps that deliver in 15 minutes or less at least once per week.

Consumers seek a personalised experience and regular promotions:

• More than half (59%) of the survey respondents said they use less than three mobile apps for their daily online shopping, indicating that online retailers need to develop brand loyalty by finding new and innovative ways to capture consumer attention.

Consumers have a strong desire for secure online payments:

• Nearly half noted that instant updates and notifications (42%) and seamless payment functionality (41%) are desirable features of a mobile shopping app.

• When asked about their top three concerns regarding digital payment methods, survey respondents most frequently cited security and privacy (54%), followed by payment failure (50%) and problems processing refunds (45%).

Methodology

All report data is derived from a survey, which was conducted by YouGov India on behalf of New Relic in June 2023. The goal was to understand the online behaviours of customers shopping on ecommerce websites. The survey was self-administered via an 8 to 10-minute online interview in English. YouGov interviews were conducted with the YouGov panel of 2,008 respondents aged 18–45+, with 55% identifying as male and 45% identifying as female. The report defines online shopping as the purchase of clothing, groceries, and household items.

For more information, view the State of E-commerce in India report and create your New Relic account today.

14th December 2023: The Council of Architecture India, in a significant cultural endeavour, hosted the much-anticipated Student Biennale (Samunnati) at the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi. This event, part of the Ministry of Culture’s initiative under the India Art, Architecture, Design Biennale (IAADB) 2023, ran from 9th to 15th December 2023. The broader IAADB was held at the historic Red Fort, with the Student Biennale marking a key component of this grand festival.

Inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Student Biennale opened its doors to a rich tapestry of architectural brilliance, showcasing the talents and innovations of the nation’s future architects. This event served as a dynamic platform for architecture students from across the country to participate in design competitions, interact with eminent international architects, and exhibit their creative works.

The Student Biennale spotlighted the architectural accomplishments of students from renowned institutions, including the Manipal School of Architecture and Planning. The exhibition focused on the B. Arch Design Studio, themed “Architecture: Expressions in Housing.” It also featured scholarly works from the M. Arch, Urban Design Studio, with projects set in Kancheepuram and Ujjain. Assistant Professor Ar. Snigdha Roy, along with student ambassadors Shubhangi Garg, Shubhashri Biswas and others represented Manipal School of Architecture and Planning from Manipal, Karnataka. They played pivotal roles in bringing to light the institution’s innovative and scholarly endeavours. The Biennale also spotlighted the exemplary work of our Women Alumni Dr. Kankana showcasing the transformative power of sustainable architecture and the works of Ms. Sridevi and Rosie Paul focussing on people-centric design fusing sustainability, heritage, and social architecture. The Director, Dr. Nandineni Rama Devi divulged that Manipal School of Architecture and Planning has consistently been at the forefront of fostering visionary architects.

The Student Biennale provided an invaluable experience for budding architects to present their work, engage in meaningful discourse with their peers and industry professionals, and gain significant exposure within the architectural community. The event encompassed a range of activities, including design competitions, heritage displays, installation designs, and workshops, all contributing to a rich educational and cultural experience. The IAADB 23 and its associated Student Biennale marked a seminal moment for India, signalling its foray into the global Biennale landscape. This event not only showcased the vibrant architectural potential of India’s youth but also reinforced the country’s commitment to fostering cultural and educational exchanges in the field of architecture.

Pune, 14th December 2023: On the momentous occasion of World Water Day, Sayaji Hotels Pune took a resounding step towards environmental stewardship by spearheading a River Cleanliness Campaign at Pawna River, Chinchwad Gaon. Recognizing the pivotal role of clean rivers in fostering both human well-being and ecological balance, the event unfolded on the the world water day.

The campaign, a collaborative effort between Sayaji Hotels Pune Ltd, the esteemed PCMC Ex Corporator, Mrs. Ashwinitai Chinchawde, Municipal Corporation Division Head, Madhav Shinde, and the dedicated efforts of Area Head, Prakash Kashale, along with his team, aimed to raise awareness and take action towards preserving and restoring the Pawna River.

“We believe that a clean river is essential for both humans and nature to thrive,” expressed the team at Sayaji Pune, emphasizing their commitment to environmental conservation.

The event witnessed an enthusiastic team of 20 individuals who dedicated their time and efforts wholeheartedly to the cause. Together, they laboured diligently to address the pressing issue of garbage accumulation along the riverbanks. Their concerted efforts culminated in the collection of a significant amount of waste, tallying between 150-200 kilograms.

The commitment, dedication, and unwavering spirit displayed by each team member underscored the efficacy of teamwork in effecting positive change for the environment.

“Participating in the River Cleanliness Campaign on World Water Day was a humbling experience. Our team’s dedication exemplifies the power of collective action in safeguarding our environment. At Sayaji Pune, we’re committed to driving meaningful change and nurturing a sustainable future for generations to come,” expressed General Manager Mr. Ajay Kanojia.

Sayaji Pune extends heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Ashwinitai Chinchawde, Madhav Shinde, Prakash Kashale, and the entire team for their invaluable contribution and unwavering support during this endeavour. The success of this campaign exemplifies the potential for meaningful change when communities unite for a common cause.

This initiative aligns with Sayaji Pune’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The organization remains steadfast in its dedication to future endeavors aimed at preserving our precious water resources and fostering a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

BANGALORE, 13th December 2023: Syngene International Ltd, a leading integrated research, development, and manufacturing services organization, is proud to announce Happy Kumari, Nikitha A, Likitha S from Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde and Sharoon Bilal Hasan, Govinda Raj, Bharathi Muttappa Ari from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School – Katipalla, as the winners of the second edition of the annual Science Quiz from Bangalore and Mangalore respectively. This year, the initiative celebrates the company’s 30th anniversary. Themed “Think, Learn, Win! Enable, Amplify, Empower!” the quiz competition aimed to provide equal opportunities, motivation, and talent identification for students in government schools across Dakshin Karnataka. The announcement ceremony, graced by the esteemed Dr. Vasudev Aatre Former Head, Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) was the Chief Guest and Dr. Tessy Thomas Director General of Aeronautical Systems, Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) were the Guest of Honor, Ms Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Founder & Managing Trustee, Biocon Foundation, Dr. Anupama N Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, Dr. Jayashree Aiyer, Vice President, Biology, Discovery Services, Syngene International Limited, Mr K Thigarajan, Executive Vice Chairman, Agastya International Foundation, Ms Rakhi Advani Gautham, General Manager – Partner Relations, Agastya International Foundation in Bangalore.

The quiz covered 125 schools in Bangalore and Dakshina Kannada, creating excitement in the academic community. The program is implemented in collaboration with Agastya International Foundation and Biocon Foundation, the charitable arm of the Biocon Group of companies. As a part of this initiative employees of Syngene volunteered to help run the program, conducting the preliminary rounds, evaluating the answers and mentoring the children during the course of this initiative.

Dr Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, commenting on the occasion stated, “Through initiatives like the science quiz, we believe in igniting the flame of curiosity and knowledge, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to explore the wonders of science and shape a brighter future. The purpose of the quiz is to make learning science an easily accessible and enriching experience for children, providing them with a better understanding of the world around them.”

The science quiz successfully provided students in government schools with an equal opportunity to engage in science education, and encouraged them to be curious about the subject and its impact on everyday life, irrespective of socioeconomic backgrounds. Serving as a motivational tool, the quiz inspired children in government schools to pursue scientific studies and consider future career paths. Moreover, the quizzes played a crucial role in identifying students with a natural aptitude for science.

“Beyond the competition, we’ve witnessed the transformative impact on students, fostering a deeper appreciation for science and cultivating critical thinking skills. This initiative has not only encouraged academic excellence but has also sparked a passion for discovery, paving the way for future scientists and innovators. By breaking barriers and making science enjoyable, we aim to create a lasting impact on these young minds, inspiring a lifelong love for learning and inquiry.” Dr Shetty, added.

A comprehensive question bank with interactive science questions based on real-life situations and appropriate to the curriculum was created. Schools were oriented about the initiative, and a 20-minute test with 20 questions in multiple-choice format was conducted. The top three students from the participating school [one from class 6 and two from class 7] selected for the final round, with Happy Kumari, Nikitha A, Likitha S from Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde and Sharoon Bilal Hasan, Govinda Raj, Bharathi Muttappa Ari from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Katipalla, winning the quiz from Bangalore and Mangalore respectively.

The students selected in the final round were also mentored during the course of a week to help them excel. After exciting rounds of semifinals and finals, Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde, Government Higher Primary School, Veerasandra, Government Higher Primary School, Marasuru and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Katipalla, emerged as the winning teams, followed by Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Pandeswara and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Madhya as a close second and third position in their respective cities. Medals and cash prizes of Rs. 15,000, Rs. 12,000 & Rs. 9,000 were bestowed upon the top three teams, along with consolation prizes of Rs. 4,500 being awarded to Abhijit, Dharshan R and Sirish from Government Higher Primary School, Devangapete and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School –Mannagudda, Hosabettu, Baikampady Fisharish. The top winning schools at each location will also receive smart classroom infrastructure. It will come with a furnished classroom and EdTech devices to harness technology and transform classroom into interactive and highly engaging digital classroom. Additionally, a rolling trophy was presented to the school that secured the top spot.

Students and teachers alike have praised the program for its impact on learning. Govinda Raj, Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Katipalla shared, “The science quiz has opened a new world of possibilities for me. It’s not just about winning a competition; it’s about discovering the joy of science and realizing that learning can be exciting. The hands-on experience and mentorship have fueled my curiosity, and I’m inspired to pursue a future in science, thanks to this incredible initiative.”

Reflecting on the program’s approach, Smt. Sumati, from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Parapaade, “As an educator, witnessing the impact of the Syngene Science Quiz on our students has been truly rewarding. It goes beyond textbooks and classrooms, creating an environment where learning becomes an adventure. The quiz has not only enhanced their academic understanding but has also instilled critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It’s a testament to the power of experiential learning in shaping young minds.”

Launched in 2022 in Anekal, Karnataka, with 50 schools, the science quiz has expanded its reach this year, encompassing Anekal, Dakshin Karnataka, and Hyderabad. Through this initiative, Syngene aspires to create a positive impact, reaching 7,500 students across 150 government schools spread across the three locations.

The science quiz aligns with Syngene’s broader initiatives in supporting science education and research. Anupama highlighted the various other programs the company is involved in, including the Mobile Science Lab, and the Lab On Bike. This is in addition to the sponsorship of staff completing their PhDs, support for PhDs and postdocs at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, and collaborations with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) for research projects and the establishment of a not-for-profit, multi-specialty hospital.

12th December 2023, DELHI- NCR: Students of Pacific World School marked outstanding achievements at the District Level Gymnastics Championship held at Vijay Shri Academy, Sec 141, Noida, from December 9th to 10th, 2023. The championship, also serving as selection trials for the State Level, witnessed the commendable performance of 10 participants from the school in both Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics across various categories.

Among the exceptional achievers, Aanya Goel, from Grade 8, stole the limelight with an outstanding performance, winning 5 gold medals and standing as the all-around first position holder in the Rhythmic category for Under-15. Jazveen Kaur from Grade 8 showcased remarkable skills, bagging 5 silver medals and securing an all-around second position in the Under-15 rhythmic category.

Diya Jain of Grade 6 showcased her prowess by winning 1 gold and 4 bronze medals, securing an all-around 3rd position in the Under-12 Rhythmic category. Honnesha Choudhary, from Grade 6, clinched 2 gold and 2 silver medals, emerging as the all-around first position holder in the Under-12 category. The selected students will now represent Pacific World School at the upcoming UP State Level Gymnastics Championship scheduled for January 2024.

Sharing her delight at the achievements, Ms. Pooja Bose, Principal, Pacific World School, said, “I want to congratulate our brilliant gymnasts for their remarkable achievements at the District Level Gymnastics Championship. Their dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent have brought immense pride to Pacific World School. We look forward to their continued success as they move on to represent the school at the State Level Championship. This achievement reflects our faculty’s commitment to fostering excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities, creating well-rounded individuals.”

Bengaluru, 12th December 2023: Accelerating its focus on students’ holistic development through sports curriculum, one of India’s leading international K12 school chains, Orchids The International School conducts an exclusive Masterclass for students with Ajantha Mendis, the former Sri Lankan bowling wizard.

About 500 students participated in the two day masterclass sessions, which was held at Orchids The International School’s Haralur and Horamavu campus on December 9th and 10th. This is an extension of ‘Power Up With Legends’ series in which prominent personalities like Bhaichung Bhutia, Mary Kom, Shikhar Dhawan’s Da One Sports Academy, Geeta Phogat, Shiv Aroor, and Tanu Shree Singh from sports, arts and music domains conducted masterclasses with the students over the last couple of months across different campuses. The school chain aims to encourage students to look at education beyond the classroom, in terms of physical fitness, cultural expression, leadership, creativity and public speaking, thereby fostering life-long learning skills.

While talking about his cricketing experiences to students and teachers, Mendis shared valuable insights into sports discipline and physical fitness. The students had the privilege of meeting the celebrity sports icon, drawing inspiration from his exceptional journey in the game.

Ajantha Mendis also expressed his admiration for Orchids International School’s dedication to nurturing academic and athletic excellence among its students by conducting the Masterclass session with him. Ajantha said “It is an honor to be here and mentor these gifted young minds at Orchids. Sports and physical fitness are crucial for the overall development of a student. Sports discipline is not about blind obedience; it’s about cultivating self-control, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. It’s about embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and never giving up on your dreams.”

Addressing the press conference, Ajantha Mendis fondly recounted his memories in India. “I have been to India more than 120 times to play various tournaments, and I forged a strong bond with Indian cricketers. My wife Yoshini Mendis knows Hindi, and I have picked up a few words from her,” said the mystery spinner.

In response to the question of which IPL team he would choose to play for, Ajantha Mendis declared the Kolkata Knight Riders as his favorite. He expressed admiration for the leadership and management style of the franchise owner, Shah Rukh Khan.

Sharing her thoughts, Manjula, VP – Academics, Orchids The International School, Bengaluru, said, “We at Orchids strive to encourage sportsmanship and promote sporting talents among the students. We have always focused on giving our students the best in every field, from academia to sports and all the other extracurriculars as well. This masterclass and sports training camps stand as a testament to our unwavering dedication to holistic education. We are truly honored to have hosted an icon of the caliber of Ajantha Mendis, whose presence has left an enduring impact on our young participants.”

The success of this masterclass highlights the role of The Orchids International School in shaping future generations. Orchids The International School remains dedicated to providing its students with vast learning experiences in all fields ranging from STEM innovation, sports, and technology to arts education and more.

—

Bengaluru, 12th December 2023: JAIN College, a part of JAIN (Deemed to be University) recently hosted the much-awaited “LitFest” organized by the Department of Humanities and powered by Knowledgeum. This event took place on December 10th, 2023 and brought together literature enthusiasts, students, and esteemed guests. The festival showcased the landscape that characterises the college’s dedication to fostering creativity and intellectual exploration.

LitFest 2023 was a full-day celebration featuring a range of competitions, panel thought-provoking discussions and engaging workshops. These interactive sessions provided students with opportunities to exhibit their literary flair and gain insights from the esteemed guests. The festival aimed to deepen students’ understanding and appreciation for literature while offering a platform for interaction with figures such as Dr. Indira Chandrasekhar, Ms. Kirtana Kumar, and Mr. Kalyanaraman Durgadas.

“We are delighted by the success of LitFest 2023. It was truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm, passion, and love for literature among both students and the wider community. The LitFest stands as a testament to our commitment to nurturing curiosity and fostering creative expression among young minds.” expressed Mr. Jagadish Chandra, Head of Department in the Department of Humanities at JAIN College, in VV Puram.

Mumbai, 9th December 2023: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service recently released a crime drama – Hack Crimes Online which has been bagging positive reviews from the viewers. The impactful narrative illustrates how technology empowers law enforcement to enhance safety in cities by tracing the experiences of individuals engaged in cybercrime. Directed by Parmeet Sethi, the series stars Vipul Gupta and Riddhi Kumar in lead roles. The series narrates the story of escalating cybercrime cases that include bank fraud, corporate espionage, honeytraps, and cyberbullying.

Riddhi Kumar, who essays the role of Shakti, an aspiring investigator and computer prodigy, revealed her experience shooting for the show where she said, “There is a particular scene where I have a very long chunk of monologue and it holds a lot of technical terminologies and aspects that need to be spoken as it is or it won’t make sense. It was a monologue of almost 2 – 3 pages and there was a movement that I had to do while saying the monologue. I had to keep the movement the same for every single take. Shakti is a person who comes up with technical solutions and unique ideas to solve problems, so every time she speaks, she speaks with her knowledge of cybercrime and coding. I am not knowledgeable about these terms so I had to learn them in a short period of time. That one monologue was quite stressful. I woke up at around 3 am and was studying it and thankfully it went well and I am really grateful to the team of Hack Crimes Online who gave me the confidence to portray this role”.

Further to that, the director of Hack Crimes Online, Parmeet Sethi candidly speaks about the rising cybercrime scenario in India. He said, “India has seen a sharp increase in cyber crime, which has surpassed all other forms of criminality in the country today. Cyber crime impacts everyone and everything, including the government, big businesses, and the private lives and bank accounts of ordinary citizens. Not only is it frightening, but it demands all of our attention. Stronger legislation is required and action must be taken right away”.

Hack Crimes Online illustrates constant tracking in the digital realm, portraying the vast expanse of knowledge available on the internet and depicting hackers as mighty sharks. Hack Crimes Online is currently streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV, and on Play Store.