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Merck honors the Remarkable Merck Young Scientists Awards 2023
Merck, a leading science and technology company, has announced the winners of Merck Young Scientist Award 2023, season-3 to recognise young scientists in India.
Held at Bangalore, the annual awards recognise the work of young scientists who are driving positive change in the lives of millions across India through their cutting-edge research in life sciences. After an extensive selection process, the jury announced the winners at the award ceremony on November 24, 2023.
The third season of the Merck Young Scientist Award Program garnered an overwhelming response with over 1500 registrations from nearly 800 institutes across India, resulting in over 500 high-quality applications.
This year’s award program invited applications from three distinct categories, namely:
o Biological Sciences
o Chemical Sciences
o A special category dedicated to Sustainability Research (green chemistry, renewable/alternate energy, sustainable materials and manufacturing), reflecting the growing significance of environmental consciousness in scientific research
The committee selected 3 winners each from the biological and chemical sciences categories and 1 winner in the sustainability research category. Here are the winners and runners-up:
Merck Life Science participates in the prestigious Science Open Day
Merck Life Science recently took part in the prestigious Science Open Day, hosted by the Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc) in Bangalore.
As a part of their SPARK Curiosity Lab initiative, designed to nurture and educate aspiring scientists, Merck organized an engaging SPARK event onsite.
This occasion provided an invaluable platform for eager students, parents, and science enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a series of hands-on science demonstrations, led by trained personnel from Merck.
Merck Life Science participated in the prestigious Science Open Day organized by the Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc), Bangalore.
Saint Louis University (SLU) to Host FuturEd 2025 Symposium in Madrid
Saint Louis University (SLU), one of the eminent educational institutions across the globe is delighted to announce the FuturEd 2025 Symposium, set to take place on June 19-20, 2025, at the SLU Madrid campus.
The symposium will focus on the theme, “The Global Classroom: Building Bridges in Experiential Education,” fostering insightful dialogues and information exchange to shape the future of learning.
The remarkable event will witness the presence of 45 delegates and more than 40 prominent institutions from over 9 countries, making it an exceptional platform for education stakeholders to decipher the future of learning.
”The FuturEd 2025 symposium is a testament to Saint Louis University’s commitment to redefining education and offering a global learning experience. It will serve as a strategic platform to create an educational framework where diverse perspectives are valued, and innovative teaching methods are embraced. We look forward to inspiring discussions from preeminent experts to empower students for Industry 4.0,” said Mrs. Jean Marie Cox
Associate Vice President of Enrollment Dean of Admission, Saint Louis University.
The FuturEd Symposium is an annual event at SLU Madrid that brings together global education leaders to facilitate experiential learning and global collaboration in higher education. This year, it promises to deliver a transformative experience, featuring a series of panel sessions and workshops, designed to delve into the future of education and enable experiential learning worldwide.
The symposium will commence with a keynote address on “Conscious Collaboration: Ethics & Equity in Global Education Collaborations‘’ underlining the imperative need to facilitate ethical and equitable partnerships in the educational landscape.
Among the key sessions, the panel discussion on ‘’Blueprints for Belonging: Designing Purposeful Global Partnerships’’will lay emphasis on how high school and university partnerships can expand access to global experiential learning by fostering collaborative, mutually beneficial experiences.
Another noteworthy discussion, ‘’Changing Landscape of Higher Education in USA’’will witness the convergence of senior leaders from Saint Louis University and delegates from around the world to explore the evolving realities of studying in the United States.
The FuturEd symposium will also feature a comprehensive workshop titled ‘’Leveraging Technology for Global Experiential Learning.’’
In addition, school leaders and counselors from around the world will present detailed case studies showcasing innovative experiential learning models from their institutions. These will include ‘’The Courage to Change and Inspire: Daystar Academy’s Beijing Social Innovation Curriculum’’ and ‘’IDEAL: Shaping Future-Ready Learners in Tier 2/3 cities at Jaipuria.’’
The FuturEd Symposium is a remarkable opportunity to engage with renowned thought leaders, gain insights into the latest trends in experiential learning, and contribute to the development of an interconnected and innovative educational landscape.
Simplilearn Launches Product Management Professional Program in Partnership with UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies
Simplilearn, the world’s #1 online bootcamp for digital skills training, is excited to announce the launch of the Product Management Professional Program for learners globally. The program is curated in association with the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, renowned for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovation. This comprehensive program addresses the evolving industry landscape and growing demand for skilled product managers while equipping learners with the necessary skills to excel in these roles.
The product management domain has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by digital transformation and changing consumer preferences. As organizations strive to innovate and deliver products that meet market needs, there is an increasing demand for competent product managers who can navigate complex challenges and drive business success. As per the latest study, the global market for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) was estimated at US$40.5 billion in the year 2020 and is projected to reach US$64.3 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.8 percent over the period from 2020-2027. The role of a product manager requires a unique combination of strategic thinking, technical expertise, and business acumen. The Product Management Professional Program addresses this need by offering a comprehensive curriculum covering the entire product lifecycle, from product design and analytics to business fundamentals, product marketing, and more.
The program provides a structured learning path, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiential learning, enabling learners to gain practical insights and real-world problem-solving abilities. “The partnership between Simplilearn and UC San Diego Extended Studies represents our commitment to bridging the skills gap in the product management domain,” said Mr. Anand Narayanan, Chief Product Officer of Simplilearn. “We believe that by offering a rigorous and industry-aligned program, we can empower aspiring product managers with the right skill set to excel in their careers.” The job market for product managers is highly promising, with over 100,000 open positions across industries. Professionals equipped with product management skills can explore roles starting from associate product manager, product manager, product owner, and senior product manager, to director of product management, among others.
“The Division of Extended Studies is thrilled to collaborate with Simplilearn as we enhance our global reach and meet the evolving needs of our students, businesses, and the larger community,” said Dean Hugo Villar, Dean of UC San Diego Extended Studies. “By combining the Division’s history of innovative education and academic excellence with Simplilearn’s industry expertise, we’re poised to empower learners worldwide to acquire the in-demand digital skills they need to excel in today’s job market, as we unlock promising opportunities for professionals in the product management domain.”
Stonehill International School Commemorates 15 Years of Excellence
Stonehill International School marked its 15th year anniversary in September, and the school commemorated this milestone with a mega celebration on the 1st of December 2023.
The school’s campus came alive as students, faculty, and parents gathered for an evening of festivities, games, delectable food, and an electrifying performance by a live band. Mr. Jitu Virwani, Founder, Stonehill International School and Chairman & MD, Embassy Group, along with his family, attended the event.
The anniversary celebration encapsulated the essence of community spirit. Participants engaged in a myriad of games, fostering camaraderie and a sense of belonging among attendees of all ages. “The energy and enthusiasm during our 15th year anniversary celebration were truly remarkable,” shared Mr.Joe Lumsden, Head of School, Stonehill International School. “It was a testament to the vibrant community that has been instrumental in shaping Stonehill’s success over the last 15 years.”
The celebratory atmosphere was heightened by the tantalising aromas wafting from food stalls, offering an array of culinary delights. The event reached its crescendo with the live band from Mumbai, A Class Apart, bringing high-energy entertainment. The event not only encapsulated the spirit of celebration but also served as a platform for students, faculty, parents and staff to connect and reinforce Stonehill’s rich legacy.
As Stonehill International School continues its 15th year anniversary celebrations throughout the year, it remains dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment that prepares its students for a globally connected world.
Students and teachers from Sweden enjoy visit to Seth Anandram Jaipuria School
Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Vasundhara, Ghaziabad had the honour of hosting a delegation from Affärsgymnasiet Helsingborg and Affärsgymnasiet Malmö, Sweden, as part of an enriching student exchange programme 2025. The visit began on a heartwarming note, with a gracious welcome extended to the guests.
The Swedish delegation attended the school’s morning assembly, where Mr. Jens Jording (Principal) introduced himself, along with Mr. Björn Svensson (Teacher) and the participating students. The assembly was followed by a welcome address and orientation by the school’s Director-Principal, Ms. Shalini Nambiar, who shared important guidelines and expectations for the visit.
The guests were taken on a comprehensive tour of the school campus. They were deeply impressed by the state-of-the-art infrastructure and the school’s well-organized, student-centric environment.
As part of their cultural immersion, the visiting students from Sweden were paired with Jaipurians and attended classes in Biology and Economics. They also attended a music class as well as a dance class. The Principal, Mr. Jens Jording, delivered an enriching session on leadership and entrepreneurship for the Grade 12 students, which was met with great appreciation.
The delegates experienced the creative side of Jaipuria by attending several activity-based sessions within the school, such as an art class, a pottery class, and a western music class. Some Swedish students also took an active part in a dance session and an Indian classical music session, embracing the vibrant diversity of Indian culture.
In the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship, the Swedish students also participated in a friendly football match with Jaipurians, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The Swedish delegates got an experience of Indian culture with a visit to local markets in Delhi in the evening.
Students and teachers from Sweden enjoy visit to Seth Anandram Jaipuria School
Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Vasundhara, Ghaziabad had the honour of hosting a delegation from Affärsgymnasiet Helsingborg and Affärsgymnasiet Malmö, Sweden, as part of an enriching student exchange programme 2025. The visit began on a heartwarming note, with a gracious welcome extended to the guests.
The Swedish delegation attended the school’s morning assembly, where Mr. Jens Jording (Principal) introduced himself, along with Mr. Björn Svensson (Teacher) and the participating students. The assembly was followed by a welcome address and orientation by the school’s Director-Principal, Ms. Shalini Nambiar, who shared important guidelines and expectations for the visit.
The guests were taken on a comprehensive tour of the school campus. They were deeply impressed by the state-of-the-art infrastructure and the school’s well-organized, student-centric environment.
As part of their cultural immersion, the visiting students from Sweden were paired with Jaipurians and attended classes in Biology and Economics. They also attended a music class as well as a dance class. The Principal, Mr. Jens Jording, delivered an enriching session on leadership and entrepreneurship for the Grade 12 students, which was met with great appreciation.
The delegates experienced the creative side of Jaipuria by attending several activity-based sessions within the school, such as an art class, a pottery class, and a western music class. Some Swedish students also took an active part in a dance session and an Indian classical music session, embracing the vibrant diversity of Indian culture.
In the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship, the Swedish students also participated in a friendly football match with Jaipurians, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The Swedish delegates got an experience of Indian culture with a visit to local markets in Delhi in the evening.
TERI released Act4Earth Policy Briefs during COP28
On the Energy thematic day at COP28, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) launched two policy briefs on Green Budgeting and Internationalizing Lifestyles for Sustainable Development at its event on ‘Just Energy Transitions and SDGs: Tools and Enablers’ at COP28. The event was organized in collaboration with TERI School of Advanced Studies (TERI SAS), Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI), and the Center for International Climate Research (CICERO). The discussions focused on tools to achieve sustainable energy transitions as outlined in the Paris Agreement and 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, opened the session and emphasised that as countries enter a phase of strenuous negotiations at COP28, it is pertinent to focus on achieving inclusive transitions and move climate finance commitments from billions to trillions. At COP28, so far, we have not seen the needle move from billions to trillions. “We need development models that are built around sustainable development, just transition, circularity, and inclusivity. This means more climate finance for developing countries”, she added.
Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri, Former Diplomat and Distinguished Fellow, TERI, chaired the session and set the tone of the discussions by highlighting the complexity around defining just transitions and the need for it to be equitable and affordable. The other key speakers for the ‘High Level Segment’ included Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General, International Solar Alliance (ISA), Mr Ramesh Subramaniam, Director General, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Mr Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director, Institute for Essential Services Reform.
Dr Mathur remarked on the need for local ownership and investment in people at the ground level to achieve just transitions. Mr Subramaniam emphasized on just transition finance which needs to work in parallel to climate finance and address the socioeconomic challenges related to the climate transition. “Financial institutions have total assets of USD 486.6 trillion in 2021 and mere 1.4% of this amount could close the SDG financing gap of USD 7 trillion”, he added. Mr Tumiwa, spoke on Indonesia’s experience with energy transitions and argued that to implement JETP, it needed additional elements such as clean technology; investment capital at reasonable cost; and partnerships with other countries on technology and investment practices.
It was followed by the launch of Act4Earth policy briefs on – ‘Advancing Environmental and Climate Goals Through a Multidimensional Model of Green Budgeting’ and ‘Internationalizing Lifestyles for Sustainable Development’. On Green Budgeting, Dr Shailly Kedia, Senior Fellow, TERI, emphasised a multidimensional model of green budgeting to contribute to climate and green transitions planning, resource allocation, and implementation. Green budgeting is a self-assessment tool which has the potential to not just mobilize public finance for climate and sustainability actions but also identify gaps. This will then help in designing programmes that can be based in international climate finance mechanisms including those announced at COP28.
The University of Birmingham is offering the 125th Anniversary Scholarships for Indian students
Marking their 125th anniversary celebrations, the University of Birmingham is rolling out several special scholarships available to Indian students. One of the most prominent universities in the UK is now accepting applications for their 125th Anniversary Scholarships to promote international education and honour the academic achievements of outstanding students.
The scholarships allow Indian students to obtain funding for a variety of postgraduate taught (PGT) Master’s degrees, ranging from £4,000 to £5,000, for programs beginning in September 2025. The University’s dedication to promoting diversity, developing international talent, and establishing life-changing educational opportunities is demonstrated by this effort.
The University is also marking the installation of its new Chancellor Sandie Okoro OBE with a series of special Chancellor’s Scholarships.
Only the eighth Chancellor since the University was established in 1900, Sandie succeeds Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea CBE and follows in the footsteps of founder the Rt Hon Joseph Chamberlain and former Prime Minister the Rt Hon Anthony Eden, the Earl of Avon.
Scholarships available for Indian Aspirants
Numerous unique scholarship possibilities are available to Indian students, such as:
· 125th Anniversary Scholarships
- £4,000 awards for all eligible Indian students enrolling in most postgraduate Master’s programs, excluding MSc Management, MSc International Business, MSc Marketing, or MBA.
- £5,000 awards for high-achieving students selected through the India Chancellor’s Scholarship program, applicable to all Master’s programs, including business disciplines.
- No cap on the number of £4,000 scholarships; for £5,000 awards, 50 scholarships will be granted based on academic merit.
- Deadline: End of May 2025 for formal acceptance of the offer.
· Chancellor’s Scholarships 2025
- 15 awards of £6,000 each, for postgraduate taught Master’s programs.
- Selection is based on academic merit and excellence demonstrated in the application process.
- Deadline: End of May 2025.
· MBA Scholarships
- Up to £15,000 for outstanding candidates applying for the Purposeful Leader MBA programme.
- Additional scholarships up to £10,000 for Responsible Business MBA applicants.
- Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
· India High Fliers Undergraduate Scholarships- (High Fliers Research 2024 ranks UoB as the most targeted university in the UK by the top employers)
- Limited scholarships for Indian students, applicable to undergraduate programmes.
- Based on academic merit and nominations from schools or agent partners.
- Deadline: End of May 2025.
Kicking off the year-long celebrations with these scholarships, Ms. Sandie Okoro OBE, Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, said, “As part of the University’s milestone celebrations, I am pleased to be a part of this significant occasion. I look forward to marking this momentous year with the staff and students who make the University of Birmingham such a wonderful place. Let’s highlight the university’s enduring commitment to diversity and high standards of education, as well as its enormous global impact.”
Professor Adam Tickell, the University of Birmingham’s Vice-Chancellor, stated, “I am proud to kickstart our 125th anniversary celebrations here in India specifically. I would want to draw attention to the institution’s dedication to globally advancing research and education, which is supported by its tradition of excellence and innovation. The university has always attempted to address global issues and promote a brighter future, and this milestone underscores that goal. We are proud to deepen our ties with India by offering these scholarships. They represent our long-standing commitment to empowering global talent and advancing knowledge to address the challenges of the future.
Applications for these scholarships are now open, with deadlines ranging from May 2025 for specific awards. Indian students are encouraged to explore these opportunities to be part of an institution with a rich legacy of research and academic impact.
TimBuckDo and Government of Karnataka Sign MoU to Empower Students
TimBuckDo, a pioneer in the student gig economy, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Collegiate and Technical Education (DCTE), Karnataka. This partnership aims to provide college students across the state with access to part-time jobs and internships, offering valuable work experience, skill enhancement, and financial independence during their academic years.
Founded by Mythri Kumar and Apoorv Sharma Prasad, TimBuckDo connects students with flexible gig opportunities, bridging the gap between students seeking part-time employment and businesses in need of support. The MoU signing event was attended by Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Minister of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka, who emphasized TimBuckDo’s role in nurturing future leaders. Also present were Shri Srikar Mysore Sridhar, Principal Secretary of Higher Education, and Sri Jagadeesha G, I.A.S., Commissioner of the Department of Collegiate and Technical Education, Karnataka.
The collaboration between TimBuckDo and the Karnataka Government is driven by a shared vision to empower students with real-world work experience and financial independence during their college years. With approximately 10 lakh students studying in government colleges across first grade, technical, and polytechnic institutions in Karnataka, there is a significant opportunity to ensure equal access to a variety of part-time jobs and internships for all students, regardless of their background. This initiative aims to build a robust ecosystem that supports the professional growth of these students, enhancing their prospects and creating lasting opportunities.
Founders Mythri Kumar & Apoorv Sharma Prasad of TimBuckDo, said, “At TimBuckDo, we believe in the transformative power of opportunity. By partnering with the Government of Karnataka, we aim to create access points that empower individuals to unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to the economy. This MoU is a testament to our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards progress.” They further added, “Our mission is to ensure that every student, irrespective of their background, has access to meaningful work experiences. We believe this partnership will create a positive impact on the lives of many students and contribute to the overall development of the state’s education system.”