Renowned Ocean Engineering Expert from IIT Madras Visits Matterlab, Commends World-Class Infrastructure & Vision

Chennai, May 30, 2025: Prof. R. Sundaravadivelu, Retired Senior Professor at the Department of Ocean Engineering, IIT Madras, and Director of the Centre for Innovative & Sustainable Technologies for Offshore Infrastructure (CISTOI), visited Matter – Material Testing and Research Laboratory – in Kozhikode on May 29, 2025.
Matterlab, a NABL-accredited initiative of the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS), is a cutting-edge facility offering comprehensive testing and research services across civil and construction domains. During his visit, Prof. Sundaravadivelu toured the lab’s infrastructure, reviewed its operations in detail, and expressed strong appreciation for the facility’s advanced technical capabilities.
He was particularly impressed by the copuler testing process and lauded the technicians for their meticulous safety practices. “Labs like Matterlab must evolve into research and knowledge hubs, addressing pressing infrastructural challenges,” he remarked. He emphasized that such facilities should play a larger role in shaping preventive strategies for infrastructure development.
Highlighting recent incidents like the Wayanad landslide and frequent highway failures in Kerala, Prof. Sundaravadivelu urged government bodies and the private sector to leverage  credible facilities like Matterlab to ensure structural integrity, safety, and long-term sustainability in construction projects.

Side Hustles That Don’t Risk Your Visa: Prodigy Finance’s Advice for International Students

Many international students dream of pursuing higher education in the US, but managing tuition and living expenses can be challenging. While side hustles may seem like a quick fix, students must stay within the legal limits of their visa status. Fortunately, there are several legitimate and rewarding ways to earn extra income while studying, without risking immigration status or academic progress.

“At Prodigy Finance, we believe that international students should have every opportunity to thrive, academically, professionally, and financially, without compromising their legal status,” said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance. “By choosing authorised side hustles, students not only support themselves but also build skills and connections that will serve them for a lifetime.”

Prodigy Finance plays a key role in helping international students bridge the financial gap by offering loans that cover the full cost of attendance, including tuition and living expenses. This financial support allows students to focus on their studies and future goals, without the need to seek alternative funding options. Prodigy Finance’s loans are available to students from over 150 countries and do not require collateral or a co-signer, making global education more accessible. Indian students can get a co-signer-based loan option, starting as low as 8.35%.

For those who still wish to gain work experience or supplement their budget legally, the US offers several student-friendly options. According to the US Citizen and Immigration Service, the most accessible is on-campus employment, allowing up to 20 hours per week during school terms. These jobs include:

  • Library or lab assistant roles

  • Bookstore staff

  • Teaching or research assistantships

  • Administrative support in university departments

For career-related experience, students can explore:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Internships or part-time jobs tied to their major, authorised by the university.

  • Optional Practical Training (OPT): Work opportunities during or after graduation, in fields related to their studies. STEM graduates may also qualify for a 24-month extension.

Some remote or online jobs are permitted under CPT, OPT, or on-campus authorisation, such as:

  • Virtual assistant for university departments

  • Online tutoring for campus programs

  • Content creation for university platforms

Students may also earn passive income, such as:

  • Interest from savings accounts

  • Dividends from investments

  • Royalties from published content

It’s critical to avoid unauthorised off-campus jobs or cash-based gigs, as these can lead to serious consequences, including visa revocation. Students should always check with their university’s Designated School Official (DSO) before accepting any form of work.

With responsible planning and the right support, like that offered by Prodigy Finance, international students can succeed academically while staying fully compliant with immigration laws.

Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET) Announces Nationwide Admissions for 2025-26

CIPET, Chennai, May 28, 2025: The Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET), a premier national institution under the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, has opened admissions for the academic year 2025-26 for its flagship Diploma and Post Diploma/Graduate Diploma programs.

CIPET has been at the forefront of technical education and skill development in the petrochemicals and plastics sectors for over five decades. With a strong legacy of excellence, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and industry-driven curriculum, CIPET continues to empower the next generation of professionals to meet the demands of India’s fast-growing manufacturing and polymer industries.

CIPET announces admissions for the academic year 2025-26, opening the doors to a dynamic future in the fields of polymers, plastics, and advanced manufacturing. The institute offers the following four industry-aligned technical programmes. These programmes are designed to build strong technical foundations and provide real-world industrial skills, enabling students to meet the evolving needs of the manufacturing and polymer sectors.

Programmes Offered:

·         Post Graduate Diploma in Plastics Processing & Testing (PGD-PPT)

·         Post Diploma in Plastics Mould Design with CAD/CAM (PD-PMD with CAD/CAM)

·         Diploma in Plastics Mould Technology (DPMT)

·         Diploma in Plastics Technology (DPT)

Each centre is equipped with cutting-edge training infrastructure including modern laboratories, advanced mould design and CAD/CAM studios, and processing equipment, providing students with unmatched hands-on learning experiences. With a legacy of over five decades, CIPET has built a strong reputation for its placement support and industry partnerships, consistently producing highly employable graduates. The curriculum is meticulously aligned with national skilling frameworks, ensuring that students are prepared for the technological challenges of tomorrow.

These courses are being offered across 29 state-of-the-art CIPET centres across India, ensuring accessibility to quality technical education nationwide. The centres are located in:
Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Aurangabad, Baddi, Balasore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandrapur, Chennai, Dehradun, Guwahati, Hajipur, Haldia, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, Madurai, Murthal, Mysore, Raipur, Ranchi, Korba, Vijayawada, Agartala, Gwalior, Varanasi, and Bhagalpur.

Key Features:

·         Offered across 29 CIPET centres nationwide

·         Strong industry linkage and placement support

·         Hands-on training with cutting-edge technology

·         Curriculum aligned with national skilling standards

 Important Dates for Admission:

·         Start of Online Applications: February 7, 2025

·         Last Date for Submission: June 1, 2025

·         Admission Test: June 8, 2025

·         Results Declaration: June 13, 2025

·         Commencement of Classes: First Week of August 2025

TCG Crest Set to Start India’s First Research-Driven Private University

Kolkata, 28th May 2025: The Ministry of Education, Government of India, following an advisory from the University Grants Commission (UGC), has officially awarded the TCG Centres for Research and Education in Science and Technology (TCG CREST) the status of a Deemed to be University under the “Distinct Category.”

With this new status, TCG CREST is establishing a research university that emphasizes multi-disciplinary, fundamental and translational research. This initiative aims to leverage India’s talent pool, fostering capabilities and capacities that align with the national interest and contribute to the creation of new-age jobs in key sectors of the economy, including sustainable healthcare, climate change and energy, data-driven intelligence, food and agriculture, quantum technologies, and in emerging fields in the arts and humanities, including in economics.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr. Purnendu Chatterjee, Founding Chairman of TCG CREST, stated, “Scientific and technological advancement is essential for improving the human condition worldwide and for strengthening India’s national security, driving economic growth, and alleviating poverty. With this recognition, the Government of India has entrusted us with both a significant challenge and a profound opportunity to contribute to nation-building. At CREST, we are committed to pursuing this mission with dedication and integrity.”

TCG CREST distinguishes itself within the Indian academic and research landscape through its innovative “reverse trajectory” model. This unique approach establishes research centers as its foundation, subsequently introducing Ph.D., masters, and undergraduate programs. By prioritizing research from its inception, it cultivates a deeply immersive research environment that permeates all levels of study.

Admissions for the Ph.D. program will commence in August 2025, followed by the masters programs in August 2026.

The TCG CREST (Deemed to be University) will comprise five schools, including the School of Natural Sciences; School of Mathematical and Computer Science; School of Health, Environment & Sustainability Studies; School of Humanities & Social Sciences; and School of Economics. Located in Kolkata, which has emerged as the hub of scientific research in India according to the recent Nature Index, the institution’s unique research-based approach to higher educational pedagogy, coupled with close collaboration between the TCG CREST Research Centres, is expected to attract the highest quality of faculty and students from India and abroad. The Deemed University will also interconnect with TCG Institutions in other parts of the world.

Furthermore, TCG CREST (Deemed to be University) will actively contribute to the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) through a distinctive academic model that gives equal weight to cutting-edge research and career readiness. Its masters programs will combine Liberal Arts and Sciences with a strong emphasis on translational research, aligning academic inquiry with real-world application. This intentional design will shape both core and elective components of the curriculum, ensuring balanced attention to advanced research, practical skills, and diverse employment opportunities for its graduates.

Looking ahead, the institution aims to expand its global footprint by launching collaborative research initiatives in key international locations. Its commitment to cutting-edge research across fields such as neuroscience, artificial intelligence, quantum engineering, cancer research, sustainable energy, food technology, and STEM education has been instrumental in its recent designation as an Institution Deemed to be University.

Established in 2020 by The Chatterjee Group (TCG), TCG CREST was conceived as a dynamic force in the global science and technology innovation ecosystem. The institution has made rapid strides in advancing translational research and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration to address some of the world’s most pressing societal challenges.

TCG CREST has built a reputation for excellence through the establishment of specialized research centres, including the Centre for High Impact Neuroscience and Translational Applications (CHINTA), Research Institute for Sustainable Energy (RISE), Institute for Advancing Intelligence (IAI), Centre for Quantum Engineering, Research, and Education (CQuERE), Food Technology & Science Institute (FTSI), and Cancer-related Advanced Research and Education (CARE).

TCG Crest Set to Start India’s First Research-Driven Private University

Kolkata, 28th May 2025: The Ministry of Education, Government of India, following an advisory from the University Grants Commission (UGC), has officially awarded the TCG Centres for Research and Education in Science and Technology (TCG CREST) the status of a Deemed to be University under the “Distinct Category.”

With this new status, TCG CREST is establishing a research university that emphasizes multi-disciplinary, fundamental and translational research. This initiative aims to leverage India’s talent pool, fostering capabilities and capacities that align with the national interest and contribute to the creation of new-age jobs in key sectors of the economy, including sustainable healthcare, climate change and energy, data-driven intelligence, food and agriculture, quantum technologies, and in emerging fields in the arts and humanities, including in economics.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr. Purnendu Chatterjee, Founding Chairman of TCG CREST, stated, “Scientific and technological advancement is essential for improving the human condition worldwide and for strengthening India’s national security, driving economic growth, and alleviating poverty. With this recognition, the Government of India has entrusted us with both a significant challenge and a profound opportunity to contribute to nation-building. At CREST, we are committed to pursuing this mission with dedication and integrity.”

TCG CREST distinguishes itself within the Indian academic and research landscape through its innovative “reverse trajectory” model. This unique approach establishes research centers as its foundation, subsequently introducing Ph.D., masters, and undergraduate programs. By prioritizing research from its inception, it cultivates a deeply immersive research environment that permeates all levels of study.

Admissions for the Ph.D. program will commence in August 2025, followed by the masters programs in August 2026.

The TCG CREST (Deemed to be University) will comprise five schools, including the School of Natural Sciences; School of Mathematical and Computer Science; School of Health, Environment & Sustainability Studies; School of Humanities & Social Sciences; and School of Economics. Located in Kolkata, which has emerged as the hub of scientific research in India according to the recent Nature Index, the institution’s unique research-based approach to higher educational pedagogy, coupled with close collaboration between the TCG CREST Research Centres, is expected to attract the highest quality of faculty and students from India and abroad. The Deemed University will also interconnect with TCG Institutions in other parts of the world.

Furthermore, TCG CREST (Deemed to be University) will actively contribute to the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) through a distinctive academic model that gives equal weight to cutting-edge research and career readiness. Its masters programs will combine Liberal Arts and Sciences with a strong emphasis on translational research, aligning academic inquiry with real-world application. This intentional design will shape both core and elective components of the curriculum, ensuring balanced attention to advanced research, practical skills, and diverse employment opportunities for its graduates.

Looking ahead, the institution aims to expand its global footprint by launching collaborative research initiatives in key international locations. Its commitment to cutting-edge research across fields such as neuroscience, artificial intelligence, quantum engineering, cancer research, sustainable energy, food technology, and STEM education has been instrumental in its recent designation as an Institution Deemed to be University.

Established in 2020 by The Chatterjee Group (TCG), TCG CREST was conceived as a dynamic force in the global science and technology innovation ecosystem. The institution has made rapid strides in advancing translational research and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration to address some of the world’s most pressing societal challenges.

TCG CREST has built a reputation for excellence through the establishment of specialized research centres, including the Centre for High Impact Neuroscience and Translational Applications (CHINTA), Research Institute for Sustainable Energy (RISE), Institute for Advancing Intelligence (IAI), Centre for Quantum Engineering, Research, and Education (CQuERE), Food Technology & Science Institute (FTSI), and Cancer-related Advanced Research and Education (CARE).

Anmol Industries strengthens CSR commitment with Educational support to Sitapur Student

Delhi-NCR, 28th May 2024Anmol Industries Limited (Anmol), one of India’s leading packaged food companies, has consistently demonstrated its sincere dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The company has taken proactively a number of CSR initiatives under Baijnath Choudhary Charitable Trust.

Anmol contributes to social causes that empower the downtrodden and offers opportunities to the needy. The CSR initiatives being operated by Anmol are targeting areas such as education, healthcare and community welfare, etc. Precisely, Anmol identifies education as an effective tool of social change and empowerment. Education is therefore one of the fundamental pillars of Anmol’s CSR strategy.

As part of this ongoing effort, the Baijnath Choudhary Charitable Trust provided the much-needed financial assistance to Ms. Yashi Agarwal, a brilliant and resilient student from Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. Unfortunately Yashi’s education was jeopardised due to the sudden death of her father. As the only earning member of the family, his death put Yashi’s family in the growing financial constraint due to which continuing studying seemed almost impossible for her.

Acting quickly to her plight, Anmol Industries came forward to sponsor her education for the 2024-25 session. This timely intervention allowed Yashi to continue her studies in Grade 12 at Sacred Heart School. Not only did the help ensure she did not drop out of school but motivated her to study hard.

Exhibiting immense determination and concentration, Yashi achieved the 10th rank in the Sitapur district in her board exams. Apart from her intellectual successes, she is also a talented painter and has immense passion for paintings. Yashi also wants to take up professional courses such as Chartered Accountancy (CA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Her goal is to achieve financial independence to support her family in future. Yashi’s journey stands as a shining example of Anmol’s belief in the power of education and community empowerment.

Discussing the initiative, Mr. Gobind Ram Choudhary, Trustee, Baijnath Choudhary Charitable Trust and Managing Director of Anmol Industries Limited said, “At Anmol, we take it as our duty that no child is deprived of education due to financial constraints. We will continue extending our support to young and deserving talents like Yashi who despite all their challenges remain determined to achieve their dreams.”

As part of the CSR programs led by its CSR wing across India, Anmol Industries regularly engages in community development activities, focusing on health awareness drives, livelihood training, women’s empowerment and clean water projects. It is through all these initiatives, Anmol Industries remains dedicated to creating an inclusive growth environment where business success is shared with the society and the country.

Anmol Industries continues to expand its footprint in the packaged food market with a strong presence in biscuits, cookies, rusks, chocolate wafers and cakes. All throughout this journey, it is equally committed to its corporate social responsibility. Anmol Industries aims to ensure that every success story it helps create further contributes to building a stronger and better community.

Stonehill International School Celebrates the Achievements of the Class of 2025 at a heartfelt Graduation Ceremony

Bangalore, 28 May 2025 – Stonehill International School, Bangalore, hosted an unforgettable graduation ceremony on 24th May at the Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, honouring the remarkable accomplishments of its Class of 2025. The evening was a celebration of resilience, ambition, and community, as students, faculty, and families gathered to mark this pivotal milestone.

In a moving address, Mr. Jitu Virwani, Founder of Stonehill International School and Chairman & Managing Director of Embassy Group, reflected on the transformative journey of the graduates. He underscored the powerful support of the Stonehill community, the deep bonds forged through the years, and the enduring value of the IB curriculum. Encouraging students to embrace both triumphs and setbacks, he reminded them that every challenge offers a chance to grow stronger.

This year’s Valedictorian, Siddharth Pathak, captivated the audience with a touching speech that blended humour, nostalgia, and heartfelt gratitude. 

This cohort of graduates has much to be proud of. With a 100 % university placement rate, the Class of 2025 has earned admission to some of the world’s leading institutions, receiving offers from universities across 18 countries. Their chosen disciplines span – Engineering, Applied Physics, Computer Science, biomedical science, Food and nutrition, Anthropology, Design, Economics, Finance, Psychology and more.

Impressively, 89% of the class secured spots at top 100 global universities, including prestigious names such as University of Chicago, Emory University, Claremont McKenna University, Purdue University, University College London, London School of Economics, University of Toronto, The University of Melbourne, University of British Columbia, Boston University, Trinity College Dublin, University of Amsterdam, The University of Sydney, and UC San Diego. Collectively, the 64 graduates were awarded scholarships amounting to 1.93 million USD, which is a testament to their dedication and perseverance.

Joe Lumsden, Head of School, Stonehill International School, addressed the graduating class with an uplifting message that cleverly wove in remarkable moments from world history. His words encouraged students to face challenges, take bold decisions, nurture their relationships and be humble, and commit to lifelong learning and growth.

As the ceremony came to a close, it left the audience inspired, elated and hopeful. With strong values and an exceptional education behind them, the Class of 2025 now steps confidently into the next chapter of their journey.

Arjunaa Academy for Achievers Shines in 2nd PUC Board May Results

Bengaluru, May 27, 2025* Arjunaa Academy for Achievers,  Bangalore has yet again produced outstanding results in 2nd PU May board examination  results during May 2025. A whooping 62%  of its students secured distinction with several centums. Lakshmi Pooshan secured State Rank 14 with centums in Maths, chemistry and Sanskrit. She was also Arjunaa Academy’s topper in JEE Mains scoring 99.38%ile Achieving big in both boards and competitive exams simultaneously is often a challenge for the students.  Arjunaa Academy’s structured approach and expert faculty made it possible for all JEE toppers of Arjunaa to succeed in PU board examination too.
Top Performers
– Lakshmi Pooshan –  97.17%  (centum in maths, chemestry and Sanskrit)
– Pratheek –  95.8% (centum in maths and cs)
– Thamayi – 95.5%  (centum in Sanskrit)
– Shreesha Rao – 94.84%
– Aditya Shastri – 94%
– Mithil – 92.84%
– Nabeeha – 90.67%
– Milind – 90.17%
– Amogh – 90%
“Our students’ success is a testament to their hard work and dedication. We’re proud of their achievements and confident they’ll excel in their future endeavors.,” said Hareesh PK, Founder, Arjunaa Academy for Achievers.
“The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our teaching methods and the commitment of our faculty. We’re committed to helping students achieve their goals,” he added
“I’m thrilled with my score and grateful to Arjunaa Academy for their guidance and support. Their faculty and resources helped me stay focused and motivated,” said student Lakshmi Pooshan.

IIM Calcutta, TimesPro Launch 31st Executive Business Management Batch to Boost Strategic Leadership

Calcutta: The Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta), in collaboration with TimesPro, has announced the launch of the 31st batch of its flagship Executive Programme in Business Management (EPBM). The 12-month blended learning programme enables experienced professionals to transition from operational roles to strategic leadership by combining contemporary business theory with real-world application.

The EPBM equips learners with the ability to analyse complex business models within economic, regulatory and socio-political contexts. It challenges learners to question conventional assumptions, adopt innovative thinking and cultivate a forward-looking mindset. The programme aims to develop critical thinking, agile leadership and strategic decision-making while enhancing the skills required to manage teams, optimise resources and lead organisational transformation.

As industries across the globe continue to undergo rapid transformation, the need for versatile, well-rounded leaders has become increasingly evident. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 highlights analytical thinking, leadership and adaptability among the top skills that will define employability in the next five years. Simultaneously, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects robust growth in management roles between now and 2033, emphasising the relevance and urgency of leadership-focused programmes like the EPBM.

Speaking at the announcement, Professor Megha Sharma, Programme Director, IIM Calcutta said, “At IIM Calcutta, our goal has always been to nurture leadership that is future-ready and rooted in deep strategic understanding. The Executive Programme in Business Management reflects this vision. It enables professionals to move beyond their current domains and build the capabilities needed to succeed in a rapidly changing business environment.”

Professor Ritu Mehta, Programme Director, IIM Calcutta added, “In today’s volatile and competitive environment, the ability to pivot with agility and lead with clarity has become paramount. We are proud to offer a programme that not only addresses these industry imperatives but also empowers professionals with future-focused capabilities to lead with impact and drive business transformation.”

The EPBM empowers learners to build a multidisciplinary understanding of contemporary business frameworks and includes a robust exploration of foundational and advanced subjects such as financial and marketing management, strategic decision-making, people management in digital workplaces, digital transformation, business analytics, design thinking and innovation. A highlight of the programme is the capstone project, where learners collaborate on solving real-world business problems and apply the theories and frameworks learned during the course. Guided by faculty mentors, this project helps consolidate the learning experience and instil practical decision-making abilities.

Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious executive education offerings from IIM Calcutta, the EPBM provides a uniquely crafted curriculum that blends academic rigour with real-world application. The programme is delivered through TimesPro’s Direct-to-Device learning platform and includes two five-day immersive campus modules at the IIM Calcutta campus, which are designed to facilitate deeper peer learning, faculty interaction and professional networking. Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks, along with at least five years of full-time work experience after graduation. 

EDII to Launch 48th National Summer Camp to Foster Entrepreneurial Skills in Youth

Ahmedabad, 27 May 2025: Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) Ahmedabad, announces the launch of its 48th National Summer Camp on Entrepreneurial Adventures for Youth and Children. Scheduled from 01 June 2025 to 10 June 2025, it is organised at the campus of EDII in Ahmedabad. 

Tailored for youth aged between 16 and 22 years, it is a 10-day residential summer camp designed to shape and develop entrepreneurial skills and competencies, of the children and youth. The 48th National Summer Camp will help foster participants with creativity, problem solving, leadership, goal setting skills, etc. through activities and interaction with successful entrepreneurs. The curriculum of the summer camp will allow students to improve their entrepreneurial skills ranging from finance to communication to design thinking. 

Pankaj Bharti, Camp Leader, EDII, said,Our summer camp is designed to unlock potential of ambitious youth by nurturing entrepreneurial traits and life skills in a vibrant, interactive setting. The 48th camp will continue our tradition of empowering youth to take charge of their future with confidence and clarity.”