Education

Oxford International Redefines Pathway Programmes To Help Indian Students Begin Their Aspirational Journey To The UK

deccanwebtv Aug 21, 2024

Chennai, 20 th August, 2024: With an increase in the number of students from the state aspiring to pursue their
dream course abroad, the UK continues to be the preferred destination for higher education. Oxford
International Education Group (OIEG), a global leader in the international education space, today introduced
the redefined ‘Pathway Programme’ that will fulfill the aspirations of Indian students desiring to pursue their
higher education in the United Kingdom. This integrated Pathway Programme is designed to be a bridge that
offers students a strong academic and social foundation while achieving their career aspirations through
employability support.
Tamil Nadu has become the epicenter for engineering and technical and business programme, attracting a
significant number of students from rural cities who are eager to pursue courses like ITI and Diploma, often
viewing these Programmes as a gateway to better employment opportunities. Many of these students harbor
aspirations of studying abroad, but are required to compete on a global stage. Laying a strong foundation,
Oxford’s Pathway Programme is set to address these key challenges that Indian students often face when
aspiring to study in the UK. Spread across a period of 12 months with the opportunity of progression to a
degree on successful completion, the course provides comprehensive language training to elevate proficiency to
the necessary level. Students will benefit from subject-specific preparatory courses that enhance their academic
foundation, bridging any gaps and ensuring they are well integrated into universities to achieve both, personal
and professional growth. The students also gain from small classes (normally no more than 25 to a class), with
one-to-one support available, experienced teaching staff who are subject experts, Colleges are typically set in
the University campus and students have full University status from day 1 at the College, flexible academic and
English language entry requirements – typically lower than any direct to University options in the market,
flexible pathway scholarship provision and competitive progression scholarship options​.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Mohit Gambir, Managing Director – Oxford International Education Services
said, “We are truly delighted to be sharing insights on the benefits of our Pathway Programme in Tamil Nadu.
The state has been the breeding ground for many talented and skillful students, who have greater global
ambitions. Majority of the students from the state with global aspirations come from rural areas after
completing their higher secondary education and/or college degrees. While the aspirations are strong, there is a
lack of awareness around the right approach to higher education. Our Pathway Programme is specifically
designed to equip these students with the necessary qualifications and skills to succeed in an internationally
competitive landscape.”
Additionally, for students whose home country education system is not recognized for direct entry into UK
institutions, the Pathway Programme offers a recognized academic route that aligns with the UK’s educational
standards, enabling a smoother transition. For those who may feel unprepared or unsure about embarking on

university-level studies, the Programme provides a supportive environment that builds both academic
confidence and essential skills, ensuring that students are fully ready to succeed in their chosen courses.
Adding to this, the Group Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Andy Caldwell said, “We have observed a remarkable
increase in the number of students aspiring to pursue their higher education in the UK. This surge reflects a
growing recognition of the exceptional academic opportunities that UK institutions offer. As a global leader in
education services with a strong presence in the international arena, we are deeply committed to supporting
these students in achieving their academic goals. Our Pathway Programme is a testament to this commitment,
providing tailored guidance and resources that can truly make a difference in their educational journey. By
equipping students with the essential skills and knowledge, we aim to pave the way for their success in the UK
and beyond.”
Beyond academic preparation, the Pathway Programme offers significant logistical and practical benefits to
students. One key advantage is the provision of a single visa that covers the entire duration of both the pathway
and degree courses at the university of their choice. This simplifies the process and provides peace of mind for
students and their families. From day one, students are granted university student status, giving them full access
to all facilities and services, ensuring they can fully integrate into university life from the outset. Upon successful
completion of the Pathway Programme, students can seamlessly transition into their degree courses, allowing
them to maintain their academic momentum and stay on track to achieve their educational goals. This holistic
approach ensures that students not only meet the academic requirements but are also well-prepared to thrive
in their new academic environment.
Oxford International’s partner universities are widely spread across the UK, offering programmes in the field of
Art and Design, Business, Computing, Engineering, Law, Media, Nursing, Pharmacy, Psychology, Science and
Social Sciences which one can study at the following;Bangor University International College, University of
Bradford International College, De Montfort University International College, International College of Dundee,
Edinburgh Napier University International College, University of Greenwich International College and University
of Kent International College., In partnership with top universities, Oxford International offers students an
alternative route to higher education through an exciting range of programmes, at both undergraduate and
postgraduate level. Pathway programmes are designed to strengthen English language abilities and academic
level, introducing fundamental concepts required for success on one’s chosen degree course. For eligible
students, Oxford International also provides scholarship support.

Saveetha Engineering College Becomes First Affiliated HEI in India to Introduce Fully Flexible Choice-Based Credit System

deccanwebtv Aug 13, 2024

Chennai, August 13, 2024:* In a pioneering effort in the personalisation of engineering education in India, Saveetha Engineering College became the first among the affiliated Higher Education Institutions anywhere in the country to introduce choice-based credit system, a cornerstone of New Education Policy, 2019. The autonomous college, affiliated with Anna University, has also obtained a trade mark for Flexi Learn, its unique fully flexible credit system that enables students to fully customise their educational journey.

In an event organised here today to commemorate the securing of Flexi Learn trade mark, higher officials, including Prof. Rajive Kumar, Member Secretary, All India Council for Technical Education, New Delhi; Dr. S.K. Varshney, former head of the International Scientific Cooperation, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and Ms. Mahalakshmi, Assistant Registrar, Trade Marks & Geographical Indications, Indian Patent Office, Chennai took part and felicitated the pioneering efforts of the college in the personalisation of higher education in the country.

Flexi Learn innovative approach allows students to select their subjects, faculty, schedule, and domain from the first semester onwards. It is a self-directed learning that allows earning minor degrees or specialisations with ease, while still completing their majors. Another highlight of the program is that it provides the possibility to complete course requirements in six semesters (instead of eight), enabling extended paid internships and experiential learning. Flexi Learn is supported by a customised AI-enabled ERP and Learning Management System, positioning SEC at the forefront of educational innovation.

In his address, Dr. N. M. Veeraiyan, Founder President & Chancellor, Saveetha University said, “We are proud to announce that Saveetha Engineering College has officially received the SEC Flexi Learn trade mark from IP India. This milestone marks a significant achievement in our efforts to revolutionise education through our unique Flexi Learn system. We are the first and only affiliated college to have successfully implemented the National Education Policy 2019, as recommended by UGC and AICTE. Our Flexi Learn system offers a fully flexible Choice-Based Credit System that fosters holistic learning and empowers students to become lifelong learners. This aligns with our vision to be at the forefront of educational innovation, preparing learners for the 21st Century to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.”

Explaining the outcomes of Flexi Learn, Dr. S. Rajesh, Director, Saveetha Engineering College (Autonomous), said, “Saveetha Engineering College caters to about 6,000 students. With Flexi Learn, each one of them can create his or her own course and timetable. This system is an epitome of student-centric education that ensures that every learner receives a personalised educational experience, tailored to their interests and goals. Among the true benefits of this approach is the exposure the students get to interdisciplinary and trans disciplinary learning around projects. In addition to providing training students in core engineering subjects and Industry 5.0 technologies, we also let them gain knowledge and skills in finance, insurance, banking, manufacturing, logistics, business analytics, fintech, e-commerce, digital marketing, and languages (Japanese, German, and French), along with yoga, theatre, and design thinking. This results in a truly holistic education that boosts employability and entrepreneurship.”

Saveetha Engineering College is the only HEI in India to have NVIDIA, the world’s most advanced graphics processing unit (GPU) that enables high performance computing and edge AI. The college has centres of excellence in GenAI, AI Agents, Machine Learning, iIoT, collaborative robotics, self-driving vehicles, drone tech, and cybersecurity, among other emerging technologies.

Among the dignitaries who took part in the commemoration function included Dr. N. Raja Rajeswari, Dean, Student Affairs, and Dr. V. Vijaya Chamundeeswari, Principal, Saveetha Engineering College.

Kalp Decentra Foundation and BIMTECH Announce Strategic Collaboration to Establish Blockchain Learning Centre

deccanwebtv Aug 12, 2024

Chennai, 9th August 2024 –Kalp Decentra Foundation, known by its brand name KALP, and the Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) are excited to announce the launch of a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to harness their combined expertise and resources to establish a state-of-the-art Blockchain Learning Centre at BIMTECH’s campus. This initiative marks a significant step towards advancing blockchain education and research, providing students and professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in this transformative technology.
According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global blockchain technology market size was valued at $17.57 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from $27.84 billion in 2024 to $825.93 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 52.8% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The market is set to expand largely at the back of increased adoption of blockchain for secure, along with significant investments already pouring in in the domain. The collaboration between Kalp Decentra Foundation and the BIMTECH will train & prepare next generation or any professional who wants to learn about the blockchain and make career in this industry. At the same time, the partnership will also provide practical experience and theoretical knowledge, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach blockchain technology.
Furthermore, the initiative also seeks to foster collaboration among students, faculty, and Kalp Blockchain, promoting innovative research and project development. Furthermore, the partnership will create pathways for students to access industry opportunities, internships, and practical experiences, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world applications in blockchain technology.
As per the terms of the agreement, both the parties share individual duties. KALP will handle course development, designing and providing comprehensive course materials and resources. In addition, they will conduct faculty training through workshops and training sessions and deliver lectures and hands-on workshops for students.
The establishment of the Blockchain Learning Centre is an initiative led by the Area of IT at BIMTECH, with the guidance and support of the Director. The MOU was formalized in a closed ceremony between both organizations. The key representatives from BIMTECH included Director, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Registrar Dr. A.V. Shukla, Deputy Director Dr. Pankaj Priya, IT Area Head Dr. Kapil Garg, IT Infrastructure Head Dr. Amarnath Bose and the Point of Contact for the Blockchain Learning Centre, Dr. Ruchi Garg. And the resource people from KALP were Mr. Tapan Sangal, Co-Founder; Mr. Gagan Singhal, Co-Founder; and Mr. Kapil Dev, Chief Business Officer, each bringing their vision and expertise to the partnership.

On the other hand, BIMTECH will be responsible for providing the necessary infrastructure and facilities to conduct the course. They will ensure the active participation of faculty members in training sessions and encourage student enrolment and participation in the program. BIMTECH will also provide administrative support for the smooth execution of the program.
Speaking on the collaboration, Tapan Sangal, Founder, Kalp Decentra Foundation said, ” We are thrilled to join forces with BIMTECH in nurturing a new wave of blockchain professionals. As the blockchain segment experiences exponential growth, this collaboration transcends mere knowledge-sharing; it is about equipping students and faculty with practical, hands-on skillsets. The Blockchain Learning Centre will immerse students in real-world applications, fostering innovative thinking and the development of novel blockchain solutions.
“Considering the rapid advancements in blockchain technology today, our involvement in this initiative is driven by a vision of the future where blockchain is ubiquitous, revolutionizing every facet of our daily lives. Through this partnership, we aim to significantly increase the pool of skilled professionals who can leverage blockchain’s potential to transform industries.”
This collaboration will develop an extensive blockchain course, equip BIMTECH faculty with blockchain teaching skills, and engage students through practical projects and interactive sessions. It will foster research collaboration between students, faculty, and KALP, and create pathways for students to gain practical industry experience in blockchain technology.
Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH, sharing her thoughts on the MoU signing said, “Positioning BIMTECH with industry leaders to drive meaningful advancements highlights our expertise and commitment to providing our students with the best academic environment.
“This partnership aims to blend KALP’s advanced technical capabilities and innovative approach with BIMTECH’s educational infrastructure, material resources, and academic prowess. Hence, establishing a framework for knowledge exchange and professional development. We are eager to explore the potential of mutual growth and development through the dynamic synergy created with this alliance. Together, we aim to empower our students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, preparing them to be leaders in the dynamic field of blockchain technology.”
Santhosh Malliah

13 th Convocation held at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology

deccanwebtv Feb 20, 2024

Chennai, 19 th February 2024 – B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology held its
13 th Convocation at its campus today. A total of 2404 graduands including 93 Ph.D., 599 PG and 1712 UG
received their degree at the Convocation ceremony.
53 Students were awarded Gold Medals for securing top ranks. Of this 32 students were from UG and 21
students were from PG. Based on the restrictions 671 students received their degrees in person and
1680 students attended the convocation online. The degrees were handed over to the students by Dr. N.
Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR & Secretary DSIR.
Also present on the occasion were dignitaries including BSACIST Chancellor Mrs.Qurrath Jameela, Pro
Chancellor Mr. Abdul Qadir A.Rahman Buhari, Vice Chancellor Dr. T. Murugesan, Registrar Dr.N.Raja
Hussain & Members of the Board of management.

Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR & Secretary DSIR., in her address congratulated the
graduands on receiving the degrees and remarked, “India, known for tradition & culture, is poised for a
spectacular 21st century. When an educational institute like BSA Crescent supports social responsibility
and socio-economic development, it’s a pivotal force. Let’s shape the future together!”
“Every country requires two things: the perfect and best way of planning, and the perfect and meticulous
way of implementation.” Wise words from Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary of DSIR & Director General CSIR.
Let’s strive for excellence in both planning and execution to create a brighter future for all.
The convocation was dissolved after Pledge was taken by the successful graduates followed by the
National Anthem.

HITS opens applications for academic year 2024-2025 and announces dates for online entrance examination (HITSEEE & HITSCAT)

deccanwebtv Dec 18, 2023

Chennai, 16 December 2023: Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS) has released the dates for HITSEEE, an online entrance examination for engineering programs and HITSCAT, an online entrance examination for Liberal Arts & Applied Sciences , Law, Management, Allied Health Sciences, Nursing and Pharmacy.

During the meet, Dr. S.N. Sridhara – Vice Chancellor, HITS announced the launch of HITS Admissions 2024 and opened up online applications to HITSEEE and HITSCAT 2024 on 16^th December 2023. While addressing the gathering, he enthused on our illustrious university which has been accredited by National and International Agencies including NAAC A+, IET, NBA and more. The university continues to grow by leaps and bounds and currently we have 8 academic divisions offering over 100+ programmes across various domains and has recently introduced pharmacy, nursing and MBA in Aviation safety management programmes.

Dr. Alexander Jesudasan, Pro Vice Chancellor, HITS talked about the salient features of our University and its programmes. He also fondly remembered our founder Dr. K.C.G. Verghese whose vision was slowly turning into a reality with the advent of such programs and blossoming of the group into a big edifice. He also thanked the chancellor, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese for being a pillar of strength and a force of support behind the successful launch of Admissions 2024.

HITSEEE (Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science Engineering Entrance Examination) aims to gauge the readiness of students for various engineering, architecture and design programmes at HITS. The HITSEEE online exams for the upcoming academic year will be held from 3^rd May 2024 to 10^th May 2024. The registration for the HITSEEE examinations commences from December 16^th 2023 and closes on 29^th April 2023.  Rank Holders at national level in both HITSEEE and HITSCAT 2024 will be awarded with a 100% tuition fee waiver.

HITSCAT (Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science Common Aptitude Test) 2024, that is used to assess and shortlist applicants for Non-Engineering programmes is scheduled from May 20^th and May 21^st 2024. The HITSCAT 2024 registrations open from December 16^th 2023 and closes on 13^th May 2024. Numerous scholarships have been introduced by HITS to attract meritorious students from different walks of life and the University has been consistently providing scholarships totaling over 5 crores to deserving and meritorious students every year.

During the meet, Dr. Anand Jacob Varghese, Chancellor, HITS stated that “In recent years, HITS has experienced a significant increase in student enrollment, particularly in programmes related to emerging technologies. To meet the growing demands of technology, we continuously update our curriculum, resources, and enhance our facilities each academic year ensuring quality education to our students. We are also proud to share that our faculty includes globally recognized professors who have been ranked in the top 2% of scientists worldwide by Stanford University. He further highlighted the cutting edge infrastructure and research facilities available on the campus.

Mr. Ashok Verghese, Pro Chancellor of HITS, elaborated on the benefits of availing merit scholarships tailored for top-ranking candidates of HITSEEE and HITSCAT 2024. “These scholarships serve as a powerful incentive for students to excel, fostering both academic and personal growth. HITS,  as a world-class institution, is dedicated to not only academic and research excellence but also the holistic development of students by encouraging co-curricular activities and participation in global competitions”. He further emphasized, “Our commitment extends to developing state-of-the-art amenities and infrastructure, along with evolving the curriculum to align with developing trends and technologies. This ensures that our students receive an education that is not only cutting-edge but also relevant to the dynamic demands of the contemporary professional landscape.”

Orchids The International School hosted its Biggest Tech Carnival MECHATHLON ‘23 in Chennai

deccanwebtv Dec 8, 2023

The Fest rejoiced the Triumph of Innovation and Learning among students

Chennai, 5th December, 2023: Showcasing sparks of brilliance, innovation and creativity of its students from across India,Orchids The International School, a leading K12 school chain of India, today held its biggest nationwide tech Carnival, MECHATHLON 2023. The fest became a veritable exposition of talent as it provided a dynamic platform where innovation met inspiration, and students enthusiastically pushed the boundaries of their knowledge. The Fest was hosted in Chennai Orchids Schools recently.

The tech carnival offered a multifaceted learning journey, enabling students to enhance problem-solving skills, foster curiosity and originality, and apply mathematical and scientific concepts in practical settings. The students participated in a series of competitions thematically named Junior Einstein  and  Aryabhatta Model  Making, apart from a case study competition and an inquisitive quiz.  The tech carnival buzzed with excitement as students unveiled their working models, demonstrating their ability to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

Speaking about the participation of curious young minds, Mr. Shlok Srivathsava, VP Academic, Orchids The International School, said, “Our OCFP curriculum provides an early exposure to STEM that will motivate students and nourish their knowledge foundation in Maths, Physics, and Chemistry. MECHATHLON 2023 has been a celebration of intellect, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. This fest stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to holistic education. Our foremost objective is to develop scientific temperament, cultivate and develop critical evaluation, observation, skills, and knowledge of students in STEM. At Orchids, we aim to provide excellence in education by building an innovative learning space for students,  where they can explore, innovate, and grow.”

MECHATHLON 2023, was bigger, better, and more tech-tastic and ignited the competitive spirit to all the students who embraced the challenges. The Fest made learning engaging and enjoyable, equipping students with practical tech skills crucial for their future endeavors.  The Fest served as a remarkable platform for showcasing the exceptional abilities of young talents, offering inspiration, challenges, and recognition for their outstanding skills.

About Orchids The International School:

Orchids The International School is one of the leading international K12 school chains in India that started its journey in 2002. Redefining education for upcoming generations with smart classes, remodeled educational philosophy, top-notch infrastructure, and a technology-integrated curriculum, Orchids is one-of-a-kind institute where innovation and excellence work side by side. It follows the CBSE and ICSE curricula infused with international teaching methodologies to provide a strong emphasis on personality development along with academic excellence. Currently, it has over 75,000+ students and 7000+ teaching and non-teaching staff plus boarding schools. Orchids’ core anthem is “Shaping minds, Touching lives.”