Jayant Chaudhary Chairs ‘Skill Milan’; Five NSTIs Chosen as Centres of Excellence

Mumbai, May 16, 2025: The Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, chaired a high-level interaction titled Skill Milan with the heads of five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) selected for transformation into National Centres of Excellence under the National Scheme for ITI Upgradation approved by Union Cabinet of 07th May 2025. During the Skill Milan interaction with five(5) selected NSTIs focused on strategic alignment to guide India’s skilling ecosystem toward future-readiness and global relevance.

The discussion centered on the strategic upgradation of the five NSTIs, with the goal of increasing the availability of qualified instructors. These institutes will be strengthened for instructor training, offering standardized, high-quality. As National Centres of Excellence (NCoEs) for skilling, these NSTIs will also address sector-specific skilling needs. Positioned at the forefront of India’s skilling ecosystem, these institutions are a cornerstone of the ?60,000 crore scheme recently approved by the Union Cabinet.

Calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” the Minister emphasized the initiative’s potential to reshape the technical training landscape of India—creating institutions that not only meet today’s workforce demands but also anticipate and prepare for the needs of the future. “These NSTIs will set the pace of skill development in India,” said Shri Jayant Chaudhary. “We must move beyond infrastructure and focus on institutional excellence—by embedding work-based learning, training of high-quality instructors, and close industry collaboration. These Centres should become the anchors of innovation, employability, and global competitiveness in technical training.”

During the discussion, the Minister underlined the importance of building these institutions around real industry needs—through sectoral focus areas such as Automotive, Manufacturing, Textile and new age skills like Artificial Intelligence, EV and advanced manufacturing. The Centres will also aim to support entrepreneurship, research, and lifelong learning, while offering a full vertical pathway from certificate to advanced diploma levels in alignment with the National Credit Framework.

The Hon’ble Minister highlighted the need to maximize industry participation in the upgradation of NSTIs with strong coordination with State Governments to ensure that industry-institution partnerships are locally relevant, sustainable, and aligned with regional economic priorities.

Representatives from the five NSTIs—located in Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana—shared their vision for the upgradation process. They spoke about aligning the curriculum with local industrial clusters, enhancing instructor capabilities through global exposure, and creating Centres for Industrial Collaboration to facilitate on-the-job learning and recruitment partnerships. Several representatives emphasized the importance of residential campuses to attract top faculty and learners from across the country.

The upgraded NSTIs will be provided with academic, financial, and administrative autonomy and will operate under a strengthened governance framework. These institutions are envisioned to serve as hubs of excellence that support the broader ITI network with curriculum redesign, pedagogical innovation and multiple entry multiple exit options to the trainees.

Premia Academy Achieves 100 Percent CBSE Results and Launches Grade 11 Scholarship Test

Hyderabad: 16th May, 2025: The Premia Academy, a premium educational institution known for its resilience, responsibility, and love towards its students, achieved a 100% success rate in the 10th and 12th CBSE results.  This achievement is proof of holistic learning, passionate teaching, and the relentless spirit of the team Premia. They have announced a scholarship test for admission in the 11th grade, by which the school wants to provide a holistic learning environment to deserving students.

Grade 10 students of CBSE achieved an excellent milestone in history with a 100% pass rate. The highest percentage among everyone is 97.2%. 26 students achieved distinction. Seven students scored more than 90%. The subject-wise performance percentages are as follows: 96% in Telugu, 96% in English, 98% in Hindi, 99% in mathematics, 94% in science, 97% in social sciences, and 99% in Artificial Intelligence.

12th-grade students also achieved a 100% pass rate, with most among them scoring above 90% in all subjects. The subject-wise percentages are as follows: accountancy scored 90%, economics 90%, business studies 92%, physical education 93%, physics and English core 94%, mathematics 96%, mass media and psychology 97%, and entrepreneurship 98%.

The Premia Academy has announced a scholarship test for grade 11 students on May 17th, May 24th  & May 31st, 2025. They will cover science (MPC& BIPC). The test is going to be conducted at The Premia Academy campus.

The results are outstanding, and the management has received an overwhelming response from students and their parents. The school focuses on not only academic excellence but also instills values, knowledge, skills, builds self-confidence, and helps create wonderful opportunities for future growth.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sindhuri Reddy, Founder and Managing Director, The Premia Academy, said, it is heartening to receive an overwhelming achievement from the students. The achievement is not just about academic scores, but a reflection of our school’s ethos. Their hard work and perseverance have paid off, and we are too proud. These outcomes reflect the dedication of our students, the unwavering support of parents, and the relentless efforts of our teaching faculty.”

Adding to this, Ms. Trupti Rao, Principal, The Premia Academy, said, “The Premia Academy is standing firm and indomitable in imparting great education. We are extremely delighted with the performance of our students in both the 10th and 12th exams. We appeal to students to participate in the scholarship test and grab the wonderful opportunity.

Adding to this, Ms. Sunita Saripally, Head Mistress, The Premia Academy, said, “The remarkable success of our students in the CBSE 10th and 12th grade examinations is a testament to their hard work, the dedication of our experienced faculty, and the supportive learning environment at Premia Academy. We believe in explaining the full potential of every child, fostering both academic rigor and personal growth to ensure they excel in all their endeavors.”

LPU Ends MoUs with Türkiye, Azerbaijan Citing National Security

New Delhi, May 16, 2025 In a bold and principled move reflecting national solidarity, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has become the first private university in India to terminate all Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Türkiye and Azerbaijan. The university has formally ended six academic partnerships with institutions in Türkiye and Azerbaijan, citing recent geopolitical developments that it deems contrary to India’s national interest.

This unprecedented decision includes the immediate termination of student and faculty exchange programs, joint research projects, dual degree initiatives, and all other forms of academic collaboration with institutions from the two countries. The move comes in response to the pro-Pakistan stance of Türkiye and Azerbaijan during a recent period of heightened Indo-Pak tensions.

Announcing the decision, Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, stated, “When our brave armed forces are risking their lives—whether in covert operations, air defence, or patrolling our borders—we, as an institution, cannot remain indifferent. Dr. Mittal remarked, “LPU’s mission has always been aligned with the growth and integrity of India, and we will never associate with any institution that undermines India’s sovereignty.”

While diplomacy is the domain of governments, LPU’s action sends a powerful message: the academic world, too, bears a moral responsibility. National security is not safeguarded solely at the borders—it must be defended in every classroom, boardroom, and international collaboration.

LeapScholar Partners with the Duolingo English Test to Launch High-Quality DET Coaching to Support Study Abroad Aspirants

India, May 16, 2025: Leapscholar, a part of Leap, South Asia’s largest end-to-end study abroad platform, today announced a strategic partnership with the Duolingo English Test to provide Indian students with comprehensive preparation tools for the popular English proficiency test. This collaboration brings together LeapScholar’s deep expertise in test prep and student success with DET’s innovative and accessible approach to English language testing. The result is a suite of preparation tools aimed at making global education more achievable for Indian students no matter where they are in their journey.
 
Having trained over 6 lakh students across various test formats, LeapScholar brings its proven approach to DET prep with an offering that includes:
  • Free online masterclasses with expert counselling and personalised score evaluations
  • Live interactive classes led by Duolingo-certified trainers
  • Exclusive video lessons, practice tests, and study materials
  • Flexible class timings to accommodate busy schedules
With over 5,700 global institutions accepting the Duolingo English Test including top universities in the US, Canada, Ireland and emerging study destinations, Indian students are increasingly choosing DET for its convenience and user-friendly experience. Taken entirely online, the adaptive test costs only USD $70 (approx. ₹6000) and provides results within 48 hours, making it one of the most accessible, affordable and student-friendly English tests available. Each test is generated using AI, thus ensuring that there is no replication, and a combination of AI and human proctoring makes it a secure testing experience.
 
More than 3 million students worldwide have taken the Duolingo English Test and this partnership ensures that Indian aspirants are better prepared to join their ranks. Whether a student is just starting to explore options or is already applying to universities abroad, LeapScholar’s DET prep will equip them with the tools, skills and confidence they need to succeed as they take the next step toward their international education goals.
Commenting on the collaboration, Arnav Kumar, Founder, Leap, said: “We’re really excited to launch our comprehensive coaching for Duolingo English Test. This includes live classes with certified trainers, practice tests, exclusive study material, making top-tier preparation accessible to all students. With this test prep, we’ve built a solution that’s flexible, affordable, and designed for real outcomes. It’s one more step toward democratising access to world-class education.”
Tara Kapur, India Market Lead, Duolingo English Test, India, further added: “Given the high-stakes nature of the English proficiency exams, one of the most common things we hear from students is the need for additional test readiness material. Leap has done a tremendous job of scaling high-quality support for students across India and beyond. Given our commitment to access and reach, we are excited to see Leap build out material to help students feel more confident in their study abroad journeys.”

7 Ways Cut and Style Academy Courses Prepare You for Real-World Success

In the ever-evolving beauty and grooming industry, technical skills alone aren’t enough — you need real-world readiness, confidence, and a deep understanding of the market. That’s where Cut and Style Academy stands out. Here’s how their courses equip aspiring professionals for real-world success:

1. Hands-On Training with Real Clients

Cut and Style Academy emphasizes practical experience by allowing students to work directly with real clients under expert supervision. This builds confidence, hones precision, and prepares students for high-pressure professional environments.

2. Industry-Relevant Curriculum

The courses are constantly updated to reflect the latest trends, tools, and techniques in beauty, hair, and skincare. Whether it’s balayage, advanced facials, or nail extensions, students learn what’s in demand today.

3. Guidance from Industry Experts

The academy boasts seasoned instructors who bring years of experience from top salons, fashion shows, and film sets. Their mentorship provides not just technical instruction but also career guidance and networking tips.

4. Professional Etiquette & Client Handling

Success in beauty careers often depends on how you interact with clients. Students are trained in communication, consultation skills, and professional conduct — essential for building trust and a loyal clientele.

5. Certification with Industry Recognition

Cut and Style Academy offers accredited certifications that are well-recognized across the beauty industry. These credentials boost employability and open doors to both national and international job opportunities.

6. Portfolio Building Support

Students graduate with a professionally curated portfolio of their work — including photographs and client testimonials — which is crucial for freelancing, job interviews, or social media branding.

7. Career Placement & Business Skills

Whether you want to work in a salon or launch your own studio, Cut and Style Academy prepares you with business know-how, resume building, and job placement assistance to get you started.

FORE School Launches ‘FOREver Connected’ to Bridge Industry-Academia Gap

New Delhi/Gurugram, May 16, 2025: The Corporate & Alumni Relations team of FORE School of Management successfully launched the ‘FOREver Connected’ event series, commencing with inaugural events at Gurugram and New Delhi. This initiative aims to significantly strengthen industry-academia relationships, with the overarching goal of collaboratively developing better industry-ready management graduates.
The opening event was held on May 8, 2025, at The Palms Town & Country Club, Sector-43, Gurugram, followed by a second gathering on May 9, 2025, at the Airports Authority of India Officers Institute, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi. The event witnessed the presence of senior Industry professionals, driven by their keen interest in contributing to the development of young students and helping them become industry-ready.
The event opened with a powerful message from industry leaders and alumni highlighting a shared vision: “The need for management education to nurture more entrepreneurs—job creators rather than job seekers.” This resonated strongly with the audience, emphasizing that the future demands a shift towards entrepreneurial mindsets.
The engaging discussions unfolded around the themes of future-ready management graduates who are empathetic and carry an emotional quotient. The FORE alumni, based on their experience, emphasized the importance of finding innovative ways to engage with students, advocating for a dynamic approach: teaching less and practicing more. The consensus was clear – transformation happens through experiential learning.
Dr. Subir Verma, Director, FORE School of Management, remarked, “At FSM, we cherish our deep engagement with the corporates. Through mentorship and shared experiences, our industry partners play an instrumental role in shaping our students’ professional outlook and helping us understand the ideal competencies contemporary organisations seek. ‘FOREver Connected’ allowed us to reconnect, express our appreciation, and discuss how we can co-create future opportunities to ensure our students are industry-ready.”
Prof. Shilpi Jain, Dean Corporate & Alumni Relations, added, “The active involvement and guidance of industry mentors are invaluable in shaping our students. Engaging platforms like ‘FOREver Connected’ are our way to reaffirm our commitment to building long-term, meaningful collaborations. Such partnerships are crucial as we strive to nurture talent that any company can confidently invest in—talent that truly reflects the rigour, capabilities, and potential of our students to meet industry demands.”
The enthusiastic participation of corporate leaders, alumni, and industry mentors in these initial events created a dynamic space to reflect on FSM’s journey and its path forward. Throughout the event, industry professionals and alumni enthusiastically expressed their desire to contribute to students’ learning journeys. They showed keen interest in conducting sessions, connecting through live projects, and mentoring students, reaffirming their commitment to shaping future leaders. The event concluded with a call for a balanced approach – combining formal education with hands-on practice, fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, and equipping students with certifications that not only validate knowledge but also enhance employability.
‘Forever Connected’ stands as a testament to FORE School of Management’s commitment to bridging academia and industry, preparing students to thrive in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

ITM Business School Achieves 96 Percent Placement Connects Students with Top Recruiters

Mumbai, 15 May 2025 – ITM Business School’s exceptional final placement achievements have set a new industry record of career success. This year, the institute has delivered an astonishing 96% placement rate, while 254 renowned companies have participated in the placement process, keeping it miles ahead  in their pursuit of  industry-linked education and results-triggered training .

ITM Logo (1)

Multitude of industries and top-notch brands such as Fintech, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) (26%), Manufacturing (17%), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) (12%), Retail Sector (9%), Real Estate (9%), Consultancy Services (7%) and others(20%). made a successful round in the placement season which clearly shows the multi-sectoral confidence of the employers in the institution’s students.

Piyush Lalwani from MBA-Marketing stated that, “The Structured Placement Preparation program by the Talewind Department was instrumental in helping me secure a role at Godrej & Boyce, enhancing my skills in communication, aptitude, and industry tools like Excel, Tableau, and Power BI. Comprehensive training and mock sessions boosted my confidence and preparedness for every stage of the placement process.”

The maximum remuneration of which ₹16 LPA was the highest offered package, and ₹8.5 LPA was the average package. These statistics not only reflect the institute’s seriousness in imparting quality education and grooming all-around students but also denote the preparation of students for corporate roles in different sectors. The leading hiring companies were Deloitte, Ernst & Young, TCS, Federal Bank, Flipkart, Vodafone Idea, MakeMyTrip, UltraTech Cement, Nykaa and several others.

“We are not just preparing students for jobs—we’re shaping professionals who are ready to lead with purpose and performance. This year’s placement success is a testament to our students’ resilience, our faculties’ dedication, and the deep-rooted partnerships we’ve built with leading recruiters.”- said Dr. Lakshmi Mohan, Pro Vice Chancellor- ITM Skills University.

Another student from MBA-Marketing, Sachi Jain stated that, “The industry-focused curriculum at ITM Business School, combined with guest lectures and mentoring sessions, sharpened my skills and real-world understanding. This holistic preparation helped me secure a role with the Federal Bank as a Probationary Officer – Sales & Client Acquisition.”

Siva Ravi Teja Vutukuri, a notable alumni, working as Global P&O Experience and Operations Manager at  Lipton Teas & Infusions said, “As someone working in HR, I look for candidates who excel in their studies, have real-world experience, and can adapt . ITM catches my eye with its extended internship program that gets students ready for the industry right away. The practical training helps connect classroom learning to actual work. ITM keeps its courses up-to-date, so students stay in tune with what’s happening in the field. This well-balanced approach makes ITM grads sought after in today’s job market.”

This final placement season emphasizes ITM’s steadfast promise of blending educational concepts with real market principles of business. Via expert guidance, practical projects, and professional interactions, students acquire the skills and self-assurance to excel in the chaotic atmospheres of work. This milestone marks that ITM moves the mission of developing competent and influential leaders throughout the sectors

Human library event at Stonehill Lit Fest 2025 – Books have voices too

15th May, 2025: In an inspiring initiative to foster empathy, dialogue, and deeper understanding, Stonehill International School organised a ‘Human Library’ as part of its annual Literature Festival – Stonehill Lit Fest 2025 that was a week-long celebration of books, literature and storytelling.

Drawing from a movement that started in 2000 at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark – The Human Library Organization, the Human Library in Stonehill invited staff members to become ‘human books’ sharing their personal stories with students in small group settings, aligning with the theme of the Lit Fest  – ‘I am a Story. You are a Story. We are a Story’.

This experience nurtured open-mindedness, communication skills, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse journeys that shape who we are, among students.

The event provided students with a rare opportunity to engage directly with the lived experiences of teachers and staff — from tales of overcoming adversity and navigating cultural shifts, to humorous anecdotes and reflections on life’s unexpected turns; from adopting an abandoned pet to being a motorbike enthusiast!

Each of the 12 sessions every day allowed students to ‘borrow’ one human book based on their interest.  Students asked questions, and learned not just through facts, but through feelings and firsthand accounts.

The event highlighted the power of storytelling as a bridge across generations and backgrounds. Aayaan (Grade III), said, “I liked the Human Library book which spoke about us being ourselves and overcoming our fear”.

What turned out to be one of the most impactful events of the Human Library, was the inclusion of the school’s support staff such as drivers and gardeners as storytellers. To bring out the richness of their experiences, the personal accounts were translated, allowing students to access stories in multiple languages. This emphasized not only inclusivity but also the value of communication beyond linguistic boundaries.

Vijay Kumar, a support staff at Stonehill, narrated his journey from being a farmer to becoming a gardener at the school. “I truly enjoyed telling my story to students. From farming to working at Stonehill, every step has taught me something valuable. I feel proud and happy to be where I am today,” he said.

I learnt what the Support staff do when they are here in school. I liked how the support staff had a chance to express themselves about how they feel. We often don’t see the support staff and without them the school wouldn’t be able to function,” said Jonathan (Grade III).

Himachal Pradesh Government to Conduct Statewide Scholarship Test in Over 3,500 Schools Across the state

Himachal Pradesh; 15th May 2025: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Government of Himachal Pradesh, in collaboration with Crack Academy, is set to conduct the state’s biggest scholarship examination – “Mere Shahar Ke 100 Ratan” – on May 20, 2025. The aim is to identify and reward academic brilliance among students from every corner of the state, creating equal opportunities for all.

Over 6 lakh students are expected to participate in this landmark exam, which will be conducted across 3,500+ examination centres, including 2,800 government schools. All Government Senior Secondary Schools, Government High Schools, and affiliated private schools are being designated as test centres, ensuring maximum accessibility and outreach across Himachal Pradesh.

This ambitious scholarship drive is being undertaken by the state government to democratize access to quality coaching and provide a platform for talented students—especially those from underrepresented or remote areas. The top 100 students from each of the 68 constituencies will be awarded full coaching scholarships by Crack Academy, amounting to a total of 6,800 full scholarships. Additionally, the next 200 students per constituency will receive a 75% concession, while the following 500 students will get a 50% concession.

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed how this initiative will benefit talented students across the State. He launched the ‘Mere Shahar Ke 100 Ratna’ programme in March 2025, which aims to provide free coaching for various competitive examinations to 6,800 students across Himachal Pradesh.

“This initiative is a massive step toward educational upliftment and social inclusion,” said Neeraj Kansal, Founder and CEO, Crack Academy. “We are honoured to support the Government of Himachal Pradesh in its mission to unlock the academic potential of students across the state. This exam isn’t just about ranks—it’s about recognising dreams, regardless of background.”

With its scale and intent, “Mere Shahar Ke 100 Ratan” is set to become a milestone in the educational journey of Himachal Pradesh. It is a testament to the government’s commitment to making quality education accessible and equitable for every aspiring student in the state.

Apply by May 26 for Top Programs in Engineering, Law, Commerce and More

NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies), one of India’s top-ranked universities, is inviting final applications for its undergraduate programs for the academic year 2025. Students who have recently completed their Class 12 exams and are exploring career options in Engineering, Law, Commerce, Pharmacy, Management, or Analytics can apply through the university’s dedicated entrance exams.

The NPAT, NCET, NLAT, and MST entrance exam registration closes on May 26, 2025.

The NMIMS NPAT (National Test for Programs After Twelfth) is the entrance exam for admissions to undergraduate programs in Commerce, Economics, Liberal Arts, Branding & Advertising, International Studies, and Marketing. These programs are offered across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Indore, Hyderabad, and Chandigarh campuses.

Programs in Liberal Arts, Branding & Advertising, International Studies, and Management are available exclusively at the Mumbai campus.

The NCET (NMIMS Common Entrance Test) is the gateway to Pharmacy and Engineering programs at NMIMS. The five-year dual degree B Pharm + MBA (Pharma Tech) program offered in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Shirpur, combines pharmaceutical sciences with essential business management fundamentals. The School of Technology Management and Engineering offers B.Tech and MBA Tech degrees with specialisations in AI, Cybersecurity, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Civil, and Computer Engineering.

Placement outcomes for Engineering and Pharmacy graduates have been strong. Engineering students have received packages up to ₹30 LPA, with an average of ₹11 LPA, and are placed at companies such as EY, Deloitte, KPMG, PWC, and Goldman Sachs. Pharmacy students have received offers up to ₹21 LPA, with an average package of ₹10 LPA, from companies such as Sun Pharma, Zydus Life, Merck, Cipla, and Glenmark.

The MST (Mathematics and Statistics Test) is the entrance exam for students interested in careers in data science, statistics, and analytics. It is the gateway to programs offered by the Nilkamal School of Mathematics, Applied Statistics & Analytics (NSOMASA), Mumbai. Graduates have been placed at companies such as Amazon, KPMG, Unilever, HDFC, and CRISIL, with top offers up to ₹22 LPA and average packages at ₹19 LPA.

The NLAT (NMIMS Law Aptitude Test) is for admissions to the School of Law. The school offers a five-year integrated Law and Management program, covering core subjects such as Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contract Law, and business subjects like Finance and Management. Graduates have been placed at leading firms such as Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Khaitan & Co, Trilegal, and HDFC Bank, with average packages at ₹10 LPA and top offers at ₹19 LPA.

How to Apply

To register for the NMIMS entrance exams (NPAT, NCET, MST, NLAT), follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official NMIMS application portal: https://apply.nmims.edu/
  2. Fill out the application form with the required details.
  3. Verify your email ID and mobile number.
  4. Log in again using your registered email ID and password.
  5. Select your entrance exam (NPAT, CET, LAT, MST), preferred school(s), program(s), and campus(es). You may apply to multiple programs and exams.
  6. Pay the registration fee.
  7. Schedule your exam based on your preferred date and centre. Please note: Slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.