Category education

New Delhi, April 29, 2025: The entire campus of IILM Lodhi Road pulsed with energy and intellect this Thursday as students, faculty, and dignitaries gathered to witness a defining moment in the university’s calendar — the conferment of the IILM Distinguished Global Thinker Award to Professor Ranjay Gulati, renowned Harvard Business School professor and a globally acclaimed voice in the field of organisational leadership.

A scholar who comfortably bridges the worlds of academic precision and real-world transformation, Professor Gulati is known for challenging business orthodoxy and elevating conversations around what truly drives performance. From his dual undergraduate degrees at Washington State University and St. Stephen’s College, to a Master’s from MIT Sloan and a Ph.D. from Harvard, his journey is one of deep academic rigour and fearless curiosity.

As the 14th honouree in a celebrated line of global thinkers, Professor Gulati took the stage with a powerful keynote on his groundbreaking book “Deep Purpose: The Heart and Soul of High-Performance Organisations.” What followed was no ordinary academic session. It was a wake-up call; a rallying spark for leadership that dares to feel.

In a talk that felt more like an awakening than a lecture, Professor Gulati spoke candidly about the real purpose that is not just performative but profoundly embedded into the DNA of leadership. Students leaned in, faculty took notes, and minds visibly shifted gears. “Why do great companies fail?”. That question sparked an intense exploration. From denial to overconfidence, strategic drift to cultural inertia, he laid bare the importance of strategy that any great organisation should have. Drawing from his conversations with global changemakers, Gulati illustrated how purpose isn’t a poster on the wall, but a pulse that must start from within. “At Microsoft, they asked every employee to define their personal purpose before aligning with the company’s. Because how do you live a shared purpose if you’ve never sat with your own?”

Citing a quote that dates back to 1200 BC, he left the room with a lingering reflection: “You are what your deepest desire is. As your desire is, so is your intention. As your intention is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny.”

Setting the tone for the evening was a warm welcome address by Dr. Harivansh Chaturvedi, Director General of IILM. “We are proud to build not just professionals skilled in strategy, but leaders grounded in values and purpose. Through this award, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing institutions and individuals who touch minds, hearts, and souls”, he said. Adding gravitas to the event was the Chief Guest, Retd. Justice Hima Kohli who graced the occasion with her presence. Justice Kohli, known for her judicial leadership and advocacy of mediation, environmental stewardship, and family law, reminded attendees of the moral compass required in all fields of leadership.

The evening wasn’t just about honouring a thinker. It was about igniting a generation, one ready to lead with soul, not just strategy. From budding entrepreneurs to future policymakers, students left the session visibly inspired. As the evening proved, IILM continues to set the launchpad for leaders who are rewriting the rules with clarity, courage, and conviction. Beyond the award, the lecture reflected IILM’s core philosophy of preparing future leaders to drive with deep purpose and a strategic mindset to create lasting impact.

Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome, now available from Histria Books.

Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome. This novel is published by Histria SciFi & Fantasy, an imprint of Histria Books encompassing outstanding, innovative works in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.

A HOT TIME IN THE HAMPTONS

Graphic novelist and Visualizer Willow Tate can draw images of beings from the neighbouring realm of magic, possibly drawing them from their world to ours in the process. So why has she foolishly decided to make the hero of her next book a fire wizard?

Is that why the strange fire bugs suddenly appear at the East Hampton fire works display and then start heating things up in and around the little Long Island town of Paumanok Harbor? These miniature arsonists are causing a whole lot of trouble, and when a baby swallows one and begins to cry flames, Willy knows she needs professional help to put a damper on the situation.

This time, the Department of Unexplained Events sends a fire fighter, Piet, a man whose very presence prevents fires from starting. With a tabloid reporter focusing his attention on Willow’s activities and a science teacher determined to turn the fireflies into an energy source, Willow will be hard-pressed to keep the town’s secrets safe.

Not only does she need to find a way to send the fireflies back to their own dimension, but she and Piet—who are starting to generate some heat of their own—have to track down a real arsonist who seems determined to set the area ablaze…

Celia Jerome lived in Paumanok Harbor near the tip of Long Island, New York. She believed in magic, yard sales, and small dogs.

Fire Works in the Hamptons by Celia Jerome., 439 pp., ISBN 978-1-59211-917-9, is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. The book is also available in eBook. Titles published under the various imprints of Histria Books are distributed worldwide by the Independent Publishers Group (IPG). For information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com

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Mumbai, April 29, 2025 – Finland International School (FIS) Race Course marked a glorious year of its founding by hosting its inaugural annual concert, Ilo Utsav: Oni’s Great Journey. The event was a true celebration of joy, creativity and learning, and was held at the Sophia Bhabha Auditorium. The exuberance of the evening was witnessed by esteemed dignitaries including Erik af Hällström – Consul General and Head of Mission, Finland; Eva Nilsson – Deputy Head of Mission, Finland;  Tibor Kovacs – Trade Attaché, Hungary;  and Toshihiro Kaneko – Chief Consul, Japan. 

Since its inception, FIS has been making waves for its holistic ethos, inclusive environment, and emphasis on creating lifelong learners. The FIS Board comprises key visionaries including Shashank Goenka – Managing Director of FIS–Race Course, Nikke Keskinen – Founding Principle of FIS, and Fatema Agarkar – a renowned educationist and mentor,  who is also the wife of a former ace cricketer. 

Commenting on this momentous milestone, Fatema Agarkar said, “Thanks to Shashank’s vision, Mumbai has a beautiful legacy created in the form of Finland International School–Race Course, through the adoption of Finnish pedagogy.”

“We envisioned and began working on this school in 2017. It is a proud moment for us to see our dream come to life, and to create these exciting opportunities for the community in Mumbai,” added Shashank Goenka.

The evening’s vibrant and heartwarming narrative titled Ilo Utsav: Oni’s Great Journey, found resonance in the beautiful expressions of music, dance and drama showcased by the school’s students. Their performances embodied the school’s values of expression, collaboration, and life skills. The event included a sombre tribute to the lives lost to the recent tragedy in Kashmir, demonstrating the core principles of community and empathy. The glittering event was entirely conceptualised, planned and executed by the dedicated team at FIS–Race Course. 

The presence of eminent international dignitaries lent a special significance to the evening, reinforcing the global ethos that FIS represents. Their appreciation for the performances reflected the school’s commitment to nurturing global citizens with strong roots in creativity.

With Ilo Utsav, FIS Race Course has set a remarkable precedent, weaving cultural richness and educational depth into a memorable showcase of talent, while also fostering a truly global and yet deeply local community of young achievers. 

29 April 2025, Pune – In a commendable initiative to instill environmental awareness and appreciation for local heritage, students of Grades 6, 7, and 8 from Ryan International Academy-CBSE, Bavdhan visited Vetal Tekdi in Pashan, Pune.

The educational visit aimed to introduce students to the Miyawaki forest technique, highlight the importance of wetland ecosystems, and provide insight into the migratory birds that frequent the area. As part of the experience, students also actively participated in watering plants, fostering a hands-on understanding of ecological responsibility.

This enriching experience was made possible with the support of a group of like-minded citizens working tirelessly to preserve Vetal Tekdi, a vital part of Pune’s natural landscape. The students were guided through various ecological zones, observed several species of birds, and engaged in interactive discussions about Pune’s natural and cultural heritage.

The visit emphasized that today’s children are tomorrow’s conservationists—the flag bearers of our heritage. They were inspired to take responsibility for conserving nature and passing it on to future generations.

Ryan International Academy continues to uphold its commitment to holistic education by integrating environmental learning with real-world experiences that nurture responsible, conscious citizens.

Tamil Nadu, India | 29 April 2025: In a significant milestone, CavinKare patronized academic institution C.K. College of Engineering and Technology (CKCET) has been awarded Autonomous Status by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for 10 years from 2025 to 2035, marking a leap forward in its journey to redefine engineering education. Located in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, CKCET’s autonomy empowers the institution to independently design curriculum, introduce industry-aligned courses, emerging technology modules, and implement flexible real-world pedagogy through initiatives that empower students to take ownership of their learning journey.

Celebrating this milestone, CKCET also announced upcoming collaborations with over 15 leading industry partners to provide students with real-world, hands-on learning experiences. In addition to this, the college is also set to launch a blended program with specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI), preparing students for the evolving global job market. The conferment of autonomy was based on CKCET’s outstanding academic governance, consistent student success, and commitment to educational excellence.

Commenting on the occasion, Ms. Amudhavalli Ranganathan, Executive Director, CK Group of Educational Institutions, and Director, New Initiatives & E-Commerce, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd., said “This achievement is a proud moment for CKCET. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our principal and the dedicated faculty team whose relentless commitment has brought us to this milestone. Our journey to autonomy reflects years of focused effort, innovation, and student-centric growth. With this momentum, we believe CKCET will not only continue to excel but also transform Cuddalore into a thriving educational hub, fostering talent and innovation for the future.”

Building on its new autonomy, CKCET continues to offer a wide range of innovative and future-focused programs. As the No.1 Engineering College in Cuddalore District, the institution is recognized for its consistent academic results, high placement records, and emphasis on holistic student development. CKCET students have showcased innovation at national platforms such as Smart India Hackathon (SIH) and Road Safety Hackathon, with several venturing into entrepreneurship through on-campus incubation centers, developing prototypes, and filing patents. Faculty members actively contribute to the research ecosystem through publications, funded projects, and industry collaborations, further strengthening CKCET’s academic leadership. Signature initiatives like Invest in Yourself (IIY), Win@Life, CK Hackathon, and Life-Oriented Classes continue to empower students with technical prowess and life skills.

India, April 29^th, 2025: The University of Leeds is raising the bar in postgraduate education with the launch of a guaranteed industry consulting project for every taught postgraduate (Masters) student enrolling from the 2025/26 academic year. This exclusive opportunity is designed to equip students—including those from India—with real-world, global experience and the professional skills employers value most.

Building on successful pilot programmes involving over 400 students, the Leeds Global Industry Programme (GIP) ensures that each student will work in a small, diverse teams to tackle genuine industry challenges presented by UK or international organisations. These projects are delivered virtually, allowing students to collaborate across borders while solving real-world problems in areas such as business strategy, technology innovation, sustainability and social impact.

Talking about the University of Leeds GIP, Greg Miller, Deputy Director of Student Opportunity, University of Leeds said, “This is a game-changing initiative for students preparing for global careers. We’ve designed this programme to offer every student—regardless of subject studied, background or prior experience—the opportunity to work on high-impact, real-world projects that strengthen their CV and professional direction.”

Focussing on the impact of the programme on Indian students, in particular, “Indian students bring strong analytical and collaborative skills—this programme enhances their employability and professional confidence before they graduate.” added Greg.

The programme is open to students from all subject areas and is designed to fit around their studies. Participants will receive a live company brief, conduct research and analysis, and develop solutions before presenting their findings in a professional consultancy report. The experience is supported by dedicated staff, culminating in a certificate and digital badge to strengthen students’ professional portfolios.

As per the finding from the pilot programme, the impact is clear – 91% of students report greater confidence in their ability to contribute to future employers, 87% say they have increased career clarity and awareness, 89% note development of key skills including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, and 91% gain practical, relevant work experience.

Industry partners also find the projects valuable and rated 93% of student final reports being of high and outstanding quality.

“Fantastic, the platform and framework surrounding the programme is absolutely awesome. There is a real feel for the client/consultant relationship here. It also allows students to appreciate working with professionals and understanding the nuances of the professional world.” said one of the employers.

This initiative complements the University of Leeds’ comprehensive employability and careers support, which includes internships and paid work, leadership programmes, start-up and enterprise guidance, mentoring, careers fairs and employer events throughout the year as well as becoming part of a global network of over 312,000 alumni across 197 countries.

With a strong Indian student community and a growing focus on global, virtual opportunities, the University of Leeds remains a top destination for ambitious students looking to build international careers.

Bangalore, India – April 28, 2025: Knowledgeum Academy, one of Bengaluru’s leading IB World Schools, marked the Graduation Day of its IBDP cohort (2023–2025) with a grand ceremony in Jayanagar Called Transcendence 2025, the event represented not only the completion of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey—one where learners step forward as thinkers, leaders, and global citizens.

This year’s theme, ‘The Beginning of Becoming’, reflects Knowledgeum Academy’s belief that education is an ongoing journey of growth, curiosity, and purpose. It mirrors the core of the IB Diploma Programme, which encourages learners to explore deeply, think independently, and lead with confidence.

The ceremony welcomed Dr Ramya Sethuram, a distinguished astrophysicist and Project Senior Scientist at the India-TMT Centre, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru. With an illustrious career spanning India, China, and France, Dr Sethuram’s work in galaxy formation and astronomical instrumentation resonated deeply with the learners’ own journeys of exploration and discovery. Her presence and address inspired the graduating cohort to pursue their ambitions with curiosity, courage, and clarity.

The event was further enriched by the presence of the Academy’s founders, Dr Chenraj Roychand and Ms Aparna Prasad, whose vision has helped establish Knowledgeum Academy, backed by the JAIN Group, an educational leader with over 30 years of legacy as a forward-thinking, learner-centred international school. Sharing her thoughts at the ceremony, Ms Prasad stated:

“Transcendence is about more than academic success – it is about resilience, reinvention, and readiness for the unknown. Our learners have grown not just in knowledge, but in character, and today they stand ready to make meaningful contributions to the world. This is the beginning of who they are becoming.”

The event included a ceremonial procession, the lighting of the lamp, the transfer of leadership from the graduating cohort to their juniors, award felicitations, the yearbook reveal, and a surprise musical performance. Educators, families, and well-wishers joined in the celebration, capturing the pride and promise of the moment through heartfelt reflections.

While the graduating cohort was the focus, the Academy also celebrated its academic achievements from the previous year. In 2024, Knowledgeum Academy recorded an 81.25% pass rate, a top score of 39/45, and most learners performing above the global IB average. These results show the strength of the Academy’s academic framework, personalised learning environment, and the dedication of both learners and educators.

The graduating cohort, too, has much to celebrate. Several learners have secured early placements at prestigious institutions across the USA, UK, Italy, Switzerland, Europe, and India. From Ivy League universities to premier design, liberal arts, and technology schools, these pre-admissions affirm the Academy’s commitment to academic and career readiness. Knowledgeum’s dedicated University Guidance Programme and personalised mentorship have played a pivotal role in shaping this success.

Knowledgeum Academy continues to redefine accessibility in international education. Located in Jayanagar, Bengaluru, it offers a robust IBDP framework rooted in inquiry, interdisciplinary learning, and global citizenship. With small cohorts, experienced IB educators, and a values-driven approach, the Academy nurtures critical thinkers who are equipped not only with knowledge but with the empathy, adaptability, and leadership skills needed in the 21st century.

Transcendence 2025 was not only a celebration of what has been achieved – it also marked the beginning of what lies ahead. As the graduates step into the world, they carry forward the Knowledgeum Academy spirit: a love for learning, a sense of purpose, and the drive to help shape a better future.

New Delhi, April 28 2025 – ITM is thrilled to share that its internship placement drive turned out to be a huge success. The event witnessed the participation of 200 top companies that offered students different kinds of internships in various fields of study.

Time and again, ITM Business School has kept indicating its steadfast pledge to the gap-filling exercise of academia and industry. As a result, students can secure internship placements with relative ease. This time around, the institute not only went on to break its record but also marked a significant milestone by providing a more direct route to industry for 92% of the students, and the remaining 12% got internships in various fields through their initiatives.

The growth in the number of options available this year is a clear indication of a decisive change in the trends for hiring, which is influenced not only by the companies in sectors such as Manufacturing (17%), Real Estate (16%), NBFC (13%), Retail (11%), ITES (10%) but also by the skill set of ITM’s student talent pool who are being increasingly recognized and valued. The highest point of the internship season was one of the most competitive recruiters who very generously offered a record monthly stipend of ₹40,000, making an indelible new milestone in the program history of the institute.

Furthermore, the students were entrusted with the responsibilities of Marketing, Finance, Operations, Analytics, and General Management, and this hands-on experience not only allowed them to develop their skills but also laid the groundwork for their future careers. Some of the prestigious organizations participating included Deloitte, PWC, PepsiCo, Nomura, Ernst & Young, ICICI Bank, Aditya Birla Group, JSW, Zomato, Tata Communications, and UltraTech Cement. 

“At ITM, we believe in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. These internship opportunities are more than just industry exposure; they are stepping stones toward impactful careers,” said Dr. Lakshmi Mohan, Pro Vice Chancellor, ITM Business School. “We’re incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our industry partners for their continued trust and collaboration.”

With these Internship placements, ITM reaffirms its role as a premier institution dedicated to nurturing industry-ready professionals. The Institute continues strengthening its corporate collaborations and career support systems to help students thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Roing, 25 April 2025: Continuing its commitment to the nation’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in collaboration with the Skill Development & Entrepreneurship department instituted its 68^th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) and the “Scholarship program for Technical Education and Recognition” [STAR] initiative under T-TEP at Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Roing, Arunachal Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri. Nyato Dukam launched the T-TEP by inaugurating the state-of-the-art automotive training facility and launching the scholarship program today. The initiative aims to equip students, particularly from rural and under-served communities – with job-ready technical skills in the automotive domain. Commissioner Skill Development, Shri. Saugat Biswas; Smti. Soumya Saurabh – Deputy Commissioner, Lower Dibang Valley, Shri. Sibo Passing – Director, SDE, Shri. Ringu Ngupok – Superintendent of Police, Roing, Shri R C Dutta – Principal Government ITI Roing, Country Head and Executive Vice President Shri. Vikram Gulati, Toyota Kirloskar Motor were present on the occasion.

T-TEP is a comprehensive, year-long training program tailored for final-year ITI and diploma students, combining in-depth classroom learning with On-the-Job Training (OJT) at Toyota dealerships. This dual approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the latest in automotive service technologies. At ITI Roing, the program will focus on the General Technician Category, specifically catering to students in the Mechanic Motor Vehicle (MMV) and Diesel Mechanic trades.

Complementing this initiative is the STAR Scholarship Program, under T-TEP, introduced by TKM to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing technical education. Eligible students can receive scholarships of up to ₹51,000 per year, covering hostel fees, educational expenses, and family support—allowing them to focus on their learning without financial burden.

Established in 1971, Government ITI Roing is the oldest technical institute in Arunachal Pradesh operated under the Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The partnership with TKM marks a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a hub of high-quality vocational training in the region.

Camdir Toyota, a key partner in this endeavour, shares equal ownership in the T-TEP Roing initiative and is also contributing to the STAR Scholarship Program, reinforcing its commitment to community development and youth empowerment in the region.

Nationally, T-TEP has trained over 13,000 students, with more than 70% successfully placed across the automotive sector. T-TEP Roing’s workshop has been structurally remodelled, along with training aids from conventional engine, automobile components and multiple simulators which includes Toyota’s latest Hybrid technology. The newly inaugurated facility features a fully equipped workshop, modern classrooms, and trained faculty. The first batch includes 20 students, guided by two instructors, with three students selected as STAR Scholars based on academic performance and potential.

Hon’ble Minister Shri. Nyato Dukam on the occasion expressed his appreciation to the department for having partnered with Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Camdir Toyota and bringing the T-TEP Activity to Arunachal Pradesh. “This program brings global standards of training, industry exposure, and career opportunities closer to our students—many of whom come from remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh. The STAR Scholarship program, introduced under T-TEP, further strengthens this support by easing the financial burden on deserving students and enabling them to focus entirely on their learning journey. We believe this initiative will serve as a model for industry-academia partnerships and inspire many more such efforts to uplift skill education across the region. We are thankful to Toyota for their vision and commitment to empowering the youth of the North-East” he added.

While appreciating the speed of execution of the Project by Toyota and Camdir Toyota, Commissioner, Skill Development Shri. Saugat Biswas also highlighted the future plans of the department to expand the program to other ITIs. Biswas further informed that the department is collaborating with various top of the line companies in addition to Toyota such as Tata, L&T, Honda, NHPC to bring in collaboration in skilling and technology partnership for enhancing sustainable employment from Arunachal Pradesh. “We will also send the Principals of the ITIs and senior faculty members of ITIs to Toyota Plant in Bangalore soon for capacity building & exposure” he added.  

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs and Governance – Toyota Kirloskar Motor said “Toyota Kirloskar Motor has long recognised that true progress lies in inclusive growth—where every region, every community, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The launch of the T-TEP facility at ITI Roing marks another meaningful step in that direction. This initiative is not just about automotive skills; it’s about building aspirations, enabling self-reliance, and preparing young minds for a future shaped by innovation and mobility. Through such efforts, we hope to create a lasting impact—one where industry-academia partnerships serve as a foundation for empowering youth, uplifting local economies, and strengthening the skilled workforce that will drive India’s future.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Teli Tada, Dealership Principal of Camdir Toyota said “At Camdir Toyota, we have always believed in the power of education and opportunity to transform communities. The North-East region, and Arunachal Pradesh in particular, is brimming with young talent that often lacks access to industry-relevant training.

Through this initiative, we aim to bridge that gap by nurturing practical skills and opening pathways for meaningful employment. We remain deeply committed to supporting this mission, both through infrastructure and scholarship support, and ensuring the success of every student who walks through the doors of this facility.”

TKM has consistently championed skill development through initiatives like the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) and T-TEP. These programs are designed to bridge the industry-academia gap by delivering practical, future-ready training to young talent, especially from underserved regions. Theses initiative reflects TKM’s ongoing efforts to contribute to the Government of India’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions and create a robust, future-ready workforce across the nation.

Delhi, 25 April 2025

Guru Kashi University (GKU), deeply moved by the recent tragedy in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has strongly condemned the heinous terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. In a compassionate and resolute response, the university has announced free education at GKU for children orphaned in the attack.

The announcement, made by Chancellor S. Gurlabh Singh Sidhu, aims to provide long-term educational support to the affected families and ensure that the children’s future is not derailed by this tragedy. In his statement, Chancellor Sidhu said:

“The loss of innocent lives in Pahalgam is not just a tragedy for Kashmir—it is a wound felt across the entire nation. As an institution dedicated to the values of service and learning, we at Guru Kashi University will stand by these children. Their education will be our responsibility. We are committed to ensuring they are not left behind in their hour of greatest need.”

Chancellor Sidhu also expressed the university’s firm support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India in their stance against terrorism:

“We unequivocally condemn this brutal act of terror perpetrated by men driven by hatred and fear. But they will never succeed in dividing our society. As educators and citizens, we must answer with unity, not division; with compassion, not hatred. Guru Kashi University fully supports the Indian government’s stand against terrorism and its efforts to ensure justice and restore peace in Kashmir.”

GKU also extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected and stands with the people of Kashmir during this painful time. The university recognizes the enduring strength and warmth of the Kashmiri community and rejects the attempts of violent forces to disturb the peace and unity of the region.

Guru Kashi University remains steadfast in its commitment to nation-building, community support, and education as a tool for healing and empowerment. The university calls upon educational institutions and civil society to join hands in supporting those affected and oppose forces that seek to divide