Dr Birbal Jha to Deliver Seminar on Employability Skills at JNL College, Khagaul

Patna, July 31, 2025: Noted author and Managing Director of British Lingua, Dr Birbal Jha, is scheduled to address a seminar on employability skills at Jagat Narayan Lal College, Khagaul on August 1, 2025.

seminar

The seminar, organised by the college administration, aims to equip students with practical skills necessary for navigating today’s competitive job market. Dr Jha, known for his pioneering work in English language training and soft skills development, has been invited to speak on the growing relevance of communication skills, confidence-building, and workplace readiness among youth.

College officials said the initiative is part of a broader effort to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and job-oriented competencies.

“Dr Birbal Jha’s experience in the field of language education and life skills training makes him an ideal speaker for this event. His insights are expected to benefit our students immensely,” said a faculty member involved in the seminar planning.

Dr Jha, widely recognised for launching the “English for All” movement in the early 1990s, has authored several books and has been actively involved in youth development initiatives for over three decades. Through British Lingua, he has trained thousands of students in spoken English and personality development across India.

The event will feature an interactive session, providing students an opportunity to engage with Dr Jha and seek guidance on skill-building and career preparation.

The seminar is expected to witness participation from students, faculty members, and local educators.

EThames Business School’s BBA course ranks top in Telangana in the BBA Education Ranking Survey 2025

Hyderabad, July 29, 2025: The BBA program at Hyderabad-based EThames College has been ranked No. 1 in Placements and No. 2 among Top Private BBA Institutes in Hyderabad in the Times BBA Education Ranking Survey 2025 (TBERS). Nationally, EThames secured the 47th position among BBA colleges across India.

Conducted by TBERS, the survey was based on a robust three-phase methodology comprising Desk Research, Perceptual Survey, and Factual (Participatory) Analysis, aimed at identifying and ranking India’s most impactful BBA institutions. “This business school is turning students into startup-ready graduates,” observes an industry insider. Additionally, the BBA program is nurturing women business leaders in Telangana.

BBA IS THE NEW B.TECH

With India chasing a $5 trillion economy, the demand for skilled managers is exploding, and BBA is replacing BTech as the top choice for Gen Z. This shift in educational priorities reflects how India’s youth is gearing up not just to get jobs, but to create them.

“You can’t build a strong economy without strong managers,” said Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo.

According to YourDegree, India has approximately 3,729 BBA colleges, including 142 government and 3,261 private institutions. Shiksha.com puts the number even higher, estimating over 6,400 institutions offering BBA and related programs across various modes, including full-time, part-time, online, and distance. Varthana confirms that over 4,600 colleges offer full-time BBA programs, underscoring the course’s rising popularity nationwide.

As per Statista, nearly 100,000 students enroll in BBA programs annually, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13%. With India’s total higher education enrolment crossing 43 million, of which 79% are undergraduates, BBA is rapidly emerging as one of the most in-demand UG programs in India’s evolving academic landscape.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Kali Prasad Gadiraju, Chairman of EThames and former Regional Managing Partner at EY, said, “We operate on a simple principle: education must stay ahead of the curve. Students need more than theory; they need preparation for the dynamic, ever-evolving real world. Our campus is designed like a startup lab, and our TAP model – Theory, Application, Practice – ensures that learning is immersive, relevant, and industry-connected. The BBA program at EThames is built for the future.”

EThames College has a unique distinction, where industry becomes faculty. What sets EThames apart is its collaborative academic model. Through its partnership with KPMG in India, EThames integrates real-world business challenges, simulations, and practitioner-led sessions directly into the BBA classroom adds Mr. Gadiraju.

‘Curiosity Adda’ at Army Public School by United Way Bengaluru and Couchbase

'Curiosity Adda' at Army Public School by United Way Bengaluru and Couchbase
United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), in collaboration with Couchbase, inaugurated ‘Curiosity Adda’, an innovative STEAM-based learning initiative at Army Public School, ASC Centre and College, Bengaluru. The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Lieutenant General JK Gera, Commandant ASC Centre & College and Senior Patron APS ASC Centre & College; CSR partner Couchbase and UWBe team. As part of the flagship ‘spark’ program of UWBe, Curiosity Adda, with 17 models, 30+ concepts, aims to foster curiosity and creativity through hands-on learning and tinkering among students. It reimagines STEAM not as a subject but as an environment, empowering students to innovate and explore through learning experiences.

Spark, conceptualized by United Way Bengaluru is an integrated classroom based approach to innovate, navigate, solve, practice. Invent, resilience and explore STEAM education in schools in India. STEAM learning is an integrated culture and experience focusing on making learning fun and a lifelong journey for students.

Galgotias University Celebrates Its Achievement in QS World University Rankings 2026

Greater Noida, 25th July 2025: Galgotias University marked a momentous occasion with a grand celebration commemorating its outstanding performance in the QS World University Rankings 2026. The event highlighted the university’s continued rise in the global academic landscape and its unwavering commitment to excellence. The celebration was graced by Hon’ble Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, Cabinet Minister for Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI and Investment Promotion, Government of Uttar Pradesh, as the Chief Guest.

Galgotias University on Friday celebrated its performance in the QS World University Rankings 2026. It has been ranked 15th among private universities in India and 43rd overall among all Indian institutions (public and private). The university’s global ranking in the 1201–1400 band is also a point of pride, affirming its growing international presence and academic reputation. The event began with the unveiling of the QS Rankings 2026 banner, followed by the arrival of esteemed dignitaries and the presentation of saplings as a symbol of growth and sustainability.

CEO Dr. Dhruv Galgotia delivered the welcome address, reflecting on the university’s strategic vision, academic accomplishments, and global collaborations. This was followed by an inspiring speech from Chancellor Shri Suneel Galgotia, who emphasized the institution’s transformative journey and future aspirations.

Chief Guest Hon’ble Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ praised Galgotias University’s achievements and its vision for higher education. In his address, he stated, “Galgotias University has emerged as a beacon of quality education, innovation, and global standards. Its inclusion in the QS World University Rankings is a proud moment for Uttar Pradesh and reflects the academic progress being driven by institutions in the state. The university’s contribution to skill development and global competitiveness is truly commendable. I extend my heartfelt wishes to Dr. Dhruv Galgotia for this achievement.”

Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, QS Executive Director for Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, addressed the gathering and highlighted India’s expanding presence in global rankings. He appreciated Galgotias University’s commitment to quality benchmarks and global academic standards.

Mr. Ajay Shekhar Sharma, Chief Business Officer of Paytm (One97 Communications) and a proud alumnus of Galgotias University, shared his perspective on innovation and the growing importance of industry-academia collaboration. He fondly recalled his student years and credited the university for shaping his early foundation.

Following the formal ceremony, Shri Nandi visited Galgotias University’s advanced Centres of Excellence, including the TATA Technologies Lab, HP AI Lab, Wipro Cybersecurity Lab, Cisco Lab, and the iOS Development Centre established in collaboration with Apple and Infosys. He appreciated the cutting-edge infrastructure and the university’s focus on building industry-aligned skills for the future.
Galgotias University’s recognition in the QS World University Rankings 2026 reinforces its stature as a world-class institution advancing academic excellence, research innovation, and industry readiness on a global scale.

AAFT’s Asian School of Business Heads to Hollywood with University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts

Noida, 26th July 2025: In a move that puts Indian creative education on the global map, the Asian School of Business (ASB) under the AAFT Group is taking its students right to the heart of Hollywood. ASB has partnered with the University of Southern California – School of Cinematic Arts (USC SCA) to launch a 10-day international immersion program, a first for any Indian institution.

From 27th July to 5th August 2025, a handpicked group of students and faculty will travel to Los Angeles for a hands-on deep dive into the global business of entertainment. Designed as a workshop-based residency, the experience blends academic learning with cultural discovery, all set on the iconic USC SCA campus, just minutes from the world’s biggest studios.

This isn’t just an academic visit, it’s a gateway to the global creative economy,” said Mr. Akshay Marwah, CEO of AAFT.

“Today’s world is driven by ideas, innovation, and culture-led commerce. Through this international collaboration, we are preparing our students to operate at the intersection of media, technology, and global storytelling. They aren’t just representing India, they’re shaping the narrative of a new, connected generation. At AAFT, our mission is to empower young talent with global exposure, practical industry skills, and the confidence to lead change in the creative industries of tomorrow.” He added.

What makes this experience truly special isn’t just where it takes place—it’s what it stands for.

This program at USC School of Cinematic Arts brings students face-to-face with the realities of the global entertainment industry, right at the heart of Hollywood. From understanding how stories become scalable businesses to exploring how marketing, production, and distribution actually work behind the scenes, the focus is on real-world insight over textbook theory.

More than just an academic immersion, it’s a cultural one—offering students the chance to expand their thinking, engage with new creative influences, and connect with an international network of professionals and peers.

Every participant will receive an official certificate from USC SCA—adding not just a line to the resume, but a milestone in their creative journey.

This isn’t just ASB’s first outbound cohort to the United States; it’s a step in AAFT’s ongoing vision to deliver education that prepares students for the world beyond the classroom.

IIM Rohtak at its Annual HR Summit 2025 delineates “The Strategic Role of HR in a Global Landscape”

Rohtak, Haryana: Indian Institute of Management Rohtak successfully hosted its annual HR Summit 2025, centered around the theme “Navigating New Horizons: HR’s Strategic Role in a Changing Global Environment.” The event brought together senior HR professionals from leading organizations, including GE Vernova India, Wipro, Paytm, Tata Technologies, ONGC Videsh, and Titan. With the participation of over 300 students and faculty members, the summit provided a dynamic platform for exploring the evolving role of HR to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape.

The summit commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director, IIM Rohtak, who highlighted the importance of continuous adaptation in a world marked by volatility and transformation. He emphasized the need for inclusive policies, evolving workplace roles, and a conscious effort to balance technological advancement with human values. He also emphasized how government policies have enabled India to transition from an economy of scarcity to one characterized by increased opportunity and abundance. Reflecting on this progress, he remarked, “We are no longer a nation defined by scarcity. The question now is, how do we keep people motivated and aligned in an age that offers comfort and presents choice while bringing new complexities?” This perspective set the tone for the day, encouraging participants to reflect deeply on the changing expectations of leaders and HR professionals.

The first panel, “Redefining Leadership: Navigating Complexity, Change & Collaboration,” examined how leadership is evolving beyond traditional hierarchies toward a more agile, emotionally intelligent model. One of the speakers remarked, “Leadership today thrives in uncertainty. It’s about fostering innovation, staying ethical, and uniting people behind a shared purpose.” The Panellists also emphasized that modern leadership is about enabling others to thrive in the face of ambiguity and constant change.

The second panel, “Distance, Diversity & Direction: The New Rules of Global People Management,” addressed the realities of managing distributed and diverse teams across geographies. From talent fluidity to cross-cultural engagement, speakers emphasized the importance of evolving people practices suiting global contexts. The conversation reflected the growing need for organizations to rethink people management through the dual lenses of empathy and agility.

The third panel, “Future-Ready Talent: Building Capacity for Disruption,” discussed the skills required to remain competitive amid rapid technological and organizational shifts. Panellists stressed the importance of internal mobility, adaptability, problem-solving, and a digital-first mindset. One speaker noted how leading firms are using AI-powered platforms to assess individual skill gaps and enable personalized learning journeys. The discussion emphasized that upskilling should be part of the company’s culture, helping employees solve problems and adapt to ongoing change.

The final session, “Leading with Why: Embedding Meaning into Metrics,” explored how purpose-driven frameworks can transform the way performance is measured and experienced across organizations. Panellists discussed how linking metrics to employee experience, culture, ESG goals, and sustainability can lead to stronger teams and better business outcomes. They emphasized the importance of redefining success not just by profits but by long-term impact and social responsibility. The panel concluded with a call for leaders to champion the metrics that not only track results but inspire them.

Throughout the summit, students engaged actively with a wide range of ideas spanning leadership, transformation, and workforce strategy. The discussions aligned closely with the discussion initiated by Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, reinforcing the urgency for HR to be adaptive, ethical, and forward-thinking in the face of global challenges. The summit proved to be a valuable learning experience, broadening participants’ perspectives on how HR can catalyze organizational success in a rapidly evolving world.

With a current enrolment of over 1800 students, IIM Rohtak, an Institute of National Importance and AMBA-accredited, is ranked among the top 2 percent of global management schools. The Institute has secured 12th in the NIRF India Rankings 2024 and achieved a position in the 151+ band of the QS World University Rankings, underscoring its rising prominence in academic and policy excellence.

Rhapsody joins Narayana school for PI Approximation Day

Chennai, July 21, 2025 – Rhapsody joins with Narayana school as an integration initiative for PI Approximation Day to hit a high note with a successful studio recording! This project was a beautiful blend of mathematics and art, brought to life by the incredible talent of Narayana school students from every Chennai branch.

Two shining stars from each branch were handpicked to perform a truly unique song. The words, so artfully crafted, came from the brilliant mind of renowned Indian lyricist and screenwriter Madhan Karky, and were beautifully sung by Vedanth. Adding to the magic, the exquisite music was composed by none other than Kalaimamani Shri Anil Srinivasan, the visionary founder of Rhapsody.

Our dedicated STARS vocal faculty members poured their hearts into training these young vocalists. They guided them through countless rehearsals, patiently refining their vocal techniques until every note was perfect. All that hard work paid off in a big way during the professional studio recording, where the students’ voices soared, making this distinguished composition truly unforgettable.

This initiative was more than just a performance; it was a vibrant testament to the talent and spirit of our students, showcasing the powerful and harmonious synergy between education and the arts. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in making this event such a resounding success. We couldn’t be prouder!

IIIT Hyderabad Plants 1,200 Saplings in large-scale campus plantation drive

Partners with sustainable green initiative, One Tree Planted USA, and FedEx USA

Hyderabad, 19 July 2025 — Demonstrating its commitment to sustainable and eco-conscious practices, the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIITH) carried out a large-scale plantation drive on Saturday, planting 1,200 saplings across its lush 66-acre campus in Gachibowli.

IIITH director and staff planting saplings

The initiative was undertaken in collaboration with Sustainable Green Initiative (SGI), supported by One Tree Planted USA and FedEx Corporation USA. The drive aligns with IIITH’s ongoing mission to foster a green, smart, and environmentally responsible campus.

Since its inception, IIITH has remained an environmentally conscious institution, home to over 2,000 trees, equipped with rainwater harvesting systems, Wi-SUN smart street lighting, and intelligent monitoring systems for water and electricity consumption. The campus is also proudly plastic-free, reflecting its broader ethos of sustainable living.

“Supporting Sustainable Green Initiative (SGI) was a natural extension of our values and annual plantation efforts,” said a spokesperson from IIITH. “This drive not only enhances biodiversity on campus but also inspires wider environmental action.”

SGI has been actively working to restore Hyderabad’s green cover, rebuild degraded ecosystems, and promote environmental stewardship. “As urban areas increasingly lose natural cover, partnerships like these between corporations, academic institutions, and civil society are key to creating long-term impact,” said a representative from SGI.

Both IIITH and SGI expressed hope that this initiative would act as a catalyst for similar green drives across Hyderabad and India, encouraging communities to reimagine sustainability as a shared responsibility.

IIM Bodh Gaya wins top CPWD Awards for Infrastructure Excellence

Two Director General Medals recognise its new Permanent Campus (Phase I) for Overall Best Project and Best MEP Services

IIM Bodhgaya

Bodh Gaya, July 19, 2025: In a testament to its exceptional infrastructure built for excellence in education, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya won two prestigious Director General Medals at the 171st Annual Day of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on July 12, 2025. Achieving a remarkable national milestone, sweeping two of only five prestigious awards given this year, IIM Bodh Gaya stood out among all public sector infrastructure projects executed across India by CPWD.

The institute was awarded the Certificate of Merit in the category of Overall Best Completed Project for its Permanent Campus (Phase I), honouring superior execution across planning, construction, and project management. In addition, it received the award for Best MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) Services in a New Completed Project, recognising the technical excellence of its infrastructure systems. These honours, among the highest given by CPWD, were conferred on the Superintending Engineer cum Project Director, Bodh Gaya, affirming the institute’s collaboration with CPWD in delivering world-class facilities in higher education.

Professor Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, remarked that the recognition speaks volumes about the institute’s ethos. “These awards are not just about buildings—they reflect our vision, our standards, and our belief that academic spaces should inspire and enable excellence. That this honour comes to Bihar is especially meaningful, and we are proud to contribute to reshaping perceptions through quality-driven execution,” she said.

CPWD, India’s premier government construction agency, undertakes projects nationwide for top-tier institutions, ministries, and public infrastructure. That IIM Bodh Gaya’s campus project was selected from among these for two of the five national awards is a testament to the institute’s uncompromising focus on quality and innovation. It is also a significant moment for the state of Bihar, as such recognition places the state’s educational infrastructure in the national spotlight for excellence and forward-thinking development.

The award-winning Permanent Campus (Phase I) of IIM Bodh Gaya was conceived following the foundation stone laid in 2015 and took shape after the Bihar Government allotted 118.82 acres of land in 2018. With a sanctioned budget of ₹411.72 crores approved by the Union Cabinet, the project was meticulously executed for the construction of Phase 1 of the permanent campus.
Inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on February 20, 2024, the campus reflects a bold and mindful architectural philosophy, combining sustainable design,energy-efficient systems, and integration of modernity with Bihar’s rich cultural heritage. Spanning nearly 73 acres, the design of the Permanent Campus reflects openness, inclusivity, and academic aspiration, aligning with IIM Bodh Gaya’s core ethos of excellence rooted in tradition.

With this national recognition from CPWD, IIM Bodh Gaya not only joins the ranks of India’s best-planned public institutions but also reaffirms its mission of building infrastructure that matches its academic ambitions—modern, inclusive, and enduring.

IIIT Hyderabad Launches Online Minor Program in Modern Machine Learning

Hyderabad, 18th July, 2025: The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH), through its Division of Flexible Learning and Outreach Division, announces the launch of a fully online Minor Program in Modern Machine Learning, aimed at empowering undergraduate students with cutting-edge skills in one of the most transformative fields in technology.

The program is open to students in their third year of undergraduate studies or beyond, in fields related to Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or Technology. Designed to run alongside the regular academic calendar, this one-year program follows a flexible, modular format featuring live interactive sessions, hands-on labs, real-world projects, and expert mentorship from IIIT-H faculty. Colleges may choose to recognize the Minor Certificate as a Minor Degree, based on their academic policies and interest in offering it to their students.

Prof. Venkatesh Choppella, Associate Dean of the Division of Flexible Learning at IIIT Hyderabad, emphasized the growing impact of Machine Learning across industries, stating, “Machine Learning is rapidly transforming every sector, and our aim is to equip students with a strong foundation and hands-on experience in this high-demand field”.

Highlighting the value of the program, Prof. Ramesh Loganathan, Head of the Outreach Division, added, “This Program offers students the opportunity to develop specialized expertise in Machine Learning while continuing their core degree programs”.

Welcoming the initiative, Prof. P. J. Narayanan, Director of IIIT Hyderabad, said, “As a research-led institution, we believe that foundational knowledge combined with practical application is key to nurturing future innovators. This Minor in Machine Learning reflects our commitment to broadening access to high-quality, research-driven learning.”

Prof. Kishore Kothapalli, Dean Academics at IIITH, remarked, “The Minor Program is structured to complement students’ ongoing studies while offering deep, application-oriented insights into machine learning. It aligns with our vision to integrate interdisciplinary learning, make advanced technical education accessible beyond traditional classrooms, and provide pathways for highly motivated students to suitable research programs at IIIT Hyderabad.”

Prof. K. S. Rajan, Registrar, IIIT Hyderabad, expressed strong support for the program’s academic structure and long-term impact: “We see this program as a step toward creating more opportunities for students across the country to access IIITH’s academic excellence. The flexible and credit-linked format ensures quality and scalability, while maintaining academic rigor and integrity.”

Key Highlights:

· Fully Online | One-Year Duration | Starts August 25, 2025

· Structured into five terms: Foundations of ML, Modern ML, Applied AI: Computer Vision, Applied AI: NLP, and Capstone Project

· Flexible credit structure leading to individual course certificates or Minor certificate in Modern Machine Learning

· Live sessions with IIIT-H faculty, project-based assessments, and continuous feedback

· Pathway to research at IIIT-H, especially when the Minor Program is followed by Advanced Certificate Programs offered by IIIT-H.

Important Dates:

· Applications Open: July 26, 2025

· Application Deadline: August 15, 2025

· Program Start Date: August 25, 2025

Application and Contact:

Interested students must submit basic academic details, a government-issued ID, and a recent photograph. The complete program details will be available at: https://dfl.iiit.ac.in/courses/minor/mml  from July 18, 2025.